Table des matières:
Your Guide to Dairy-Free Cafe Hopping in Amsterdam in 2026
Amsterdam’s cafe scene has evolved rapidly. By 2026, dairy-free is no longer an afterthought—it’s a standard offering. Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply curious, finding a cafe that serves oat milk lattes, coconut cappuccinos, or almond milk matcha is easier than ever. But which Amsterdam cafes truly excel at dairy-free options? This guide covers the best spots, what to order, and what to avoid.
We’ve scoured the city—from the Nine Streets to De Pijp—to bring you a curated list of cafes that go beyond just swapping milk. You’ll find places with house-made nut milks, vegan pastries, and baristas who understand cross-contamination. Let’s dive in.
Why Dairy-Free Options Have Exploded in Amsterdam Cafes
Amsterdam has always been progressive, and its food scene reflects that. By 2026, the demand for plant-based alternatives has surged. According to recent surveys, over 40% of Amsterdammers regularly choose non-dairy milk in their coffee. Cafes have responded by stocking multiple milk alternatives, training staff, and creating dairy-free menus.
But not all cafes are equal. Some still offer only one brand of soy milk, while others have dedicated dairy-free sections. We’ll help you separate the wheat from the chaff.
The Rise of Oat Milk and Beyond
Oat milk dominates Amsterdam’s cafes, with brands like Oatly Barista Edition being the gold standard. But you’ll also find barista blends of almond, soy, and even hemp milk. Many cafes now make their own nut milk, offering a fresher, creamier texture. Look for terms like “plantaardige melk” (plant-based milk) on menus.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Dairy-Free
- Assuming all syrups are vegan—some contain honey or dairy.
- Forgetting to check pastries—many are made with butter or milk.
- Not asking about cross-contamination if you have severe allergies.
- Expecting dairy-free whipped cream—it’s rare but available at specialty spots.
Top Amsterdam Cafes for Dairy-Free Options in 2026
We’ve categorized the best cafes by neighborhood and specialty. Each one has been vetted for dairy-free quality.
De Pijp: Plant-Based Paradise
De Pijp is home to several vegan-friendly cafes. Pluk offers a full dairy-free menu, including oat milk lattes and vegan cakes. Their banana bread is legendary and entirely plant-based. Another gem is Beter & Leuk, a zero-waste cafe with house-made almond milk and seasonal vegan pastries.
Centrum: Historic Vibes, Modern Milk
In the heart of Amsterdam, Screaming Beans has multiple locations and offers oat, soy, and coconut milk. Their baristas are trained in dairy-free latte art. For a cozy spot, try Back to Black, where you can get a flat white with oat milk and a vegan croissant.
Oud-West: Trendy and Inclusive
Lot Sixty One is a must-visit for specialty coffee lovers. They use Oatly and offer a rotating selection of vegan pastries from local bakeries. Staring at Jacob is another favorite, with a dedicated dairy-free section on their menu and oat milk as standard.
Noord: Hidden Gems
Cross the IJ for Pllek, a waterfront cafe with a fully vegan menu. Their matcha latte with coconut milk is a standout. De Ceuvel is a sustainable cafe with house-made hemp milk and dairy-free sandwiches.
What to Order: Dairy-Free Drinks and Food
Beyond the standard latte, Amsterdam cafes offer creative dairy-free options. Here’s what to look for:
- Oat Milk Cappuccino – Creamy and frothy, perfect for a morning pick-me-up.
- Coconut Milk Mocha – Rich and tropical, often with dark chocolate.
- Almond Milk Chai Latte – Spiced and nutty, a cozy afternoon drink.
- Vegan Pastries – Croissants, muffins, and cookies made without butter or milk.
- Dairy-Free Smoothie Bowls – Often made with coconut yogurt or banana base.
Checklist for a Successful Dairy-Free Cafe Visit
- Check the cafe’s Instagram or website for dairy-free mentions.
- Ask the barista about milk alternatives—they often have hidden options.
- Look for vegan certification or labels on pastries.
- Bring your own reusable cup—many cafes offer a discount.
- If you’re allergic, inform staff clearly and ask about cross-contamination.
Comparison: Best Milk Alternatives at Amsterdam Cafes
| Milk Type | Best For | Common Brands | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oat Milk | Lattes, cappuccinos, flat whites | Oatly, Minor Figures | Widely available |
| Soy Milk | Matcha, chai, iced coffee | Alpro, Sojade | Common |
| Almond Milk | Cold brew, smoothies | Blue Diamond, local brands | Moderate |
| Coconut Milk | Mochas, hot chocolate | Kara, homemade | Less common |
| Hemp Milk | Specialty drinks | Good Hemp, local | Rare |
How to Find Dairy-Free Cafes on the Go
Use these apps and websites to locate dairy-free options:
- HappyCow – Filters for vegan and dairy-free cafes.
- Vanuit de Stad – Local blog with updated dairy-free listings.
- Google Maps – Search “dairy-free cafe Amsterdam” and read recent reviews.
- Instagram – Follow hashtags like #dairyfreeams or #veganamsterdam.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dairy-Free Options in Amsterdam Cafes
Do Amsterdam cafes charge extra for dairy-free milk?
Yes, most cafes charge €0.30–€0.60 extra for plant-based milk. Some specialty cafes include it in the drink price.
Are all oat milk options vegan?
Most are, but check for added honey or vitamin D3 from lanolin. Oatly Barista Edition is vegan.
Can I find dairy-free whipped cream in Amsterdam?
Rarely. Some vegan cafes offer coconut-based whipped cream. Ask at the counter.
What about dairy-free pastries?
Many cafes now stock vegan pastries from local bakeries like Vegan Bakery Amsterdam or De Pindakaaswinkel.
Are Amsterdam’s famous stroopwafels dairy-free?
Traditional stroopwafels contain butter. However, some brands like Vegan Stroopwafel are dairy-free. Look for them at specialty stores.
How do I ask for dairy-free milk in Dutch?
Say: “Mag ik een latte met havermelk?” (Can I have a latte with oat milk?) or “Hebt u plantaardige melk?” (Do you have plant-based milk?)
Final Tips for Enjoying Dairy-Free Amsterdam in 2026
The dairy-free scene in Amsterdam is thriving. With a little planning, you can enjoy world-class coffee and pastries without compromise. Remember to check menus online, ask questions, and explore neighborhoods beyond the tourist trail. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the city’s cafes are ready to welcome you with open arms—and oat milk lattes.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with a friend who’s planning a dairy-free trip to Amsterdam. And don’t forget to tag your favorite cafe in the comments below!
Photo by Prateek Keshari on Unsplash
Great guide! I’m planning a trip in 2026 and was worried about finding dairy-free options. Do you know if any of these cafes offer oat milk for free or is there an extra charge?
Most cafes in Amsterdam charge a small surcharge (usually €0.50–€1) for plant-based milks like oat, but some specialty spots like Pluk and Lot Sixty One include it in the drink price. It’s always best to check the menu or ask the barista.
I have a severe dairy allergy, so cross-contamination is a big concern. Which cafes are the safest for someone like me?
For severe allergies, we recommend Pluk (dedicated dairy-free menu) and Beter & Leuk (zero-waste, often vegan-only). Always inform the barista of your allergy; they can clean equipment or suggest the safest option.
What about the Nine Streets area? I’ll be staying there and would love a nearby spot with good dairy-free pastries.
In the Nine Streets, try Back to Black—they offer vegan croissants and oat milk flat whites. Another option is Screaming Beans on Haarlemmerdijk, which has dairy-free pastries from local bakeries.
Thanks for the tips! I’m surprised more cafes don’t list dairy-free options on their English menus. Any advice for ordering in Dutch?
Yes! You can say: ‘Ik wil graag een latte met havermelk’ (oat milk) or ‘amandelmelk’ (almond milk). For pastries, ask: ‘Zijn deze vegan?’ (Are these vegan?). Most baristas speak English, but knowing a few Dutch phrases helps.
I appreciate the note about syrups—I never thought about honey or dairy in flavored syrups. Are there any cafes that use only vegan syrups?
Yes, many specialty cafes use brands like Monin or 1883, which offer vegan syrups. Lot Sixty One and Staring at Jacob are known for their vegan-friendly syrup selection. Always ask the barista to confirm.
Is there a cafe that makes its own nut milk? I find store-bought ones too watery.
Absolutely! Beter & Leuk in De Pijp makes their own almond milk, and Pluk also offers house-made nut milks. They’re much creamier and fresher than packaged versions.
This is super helpful! I’m lactose-intolerant but love cappuccinos. Which cafe has the best oat milk cappuccino in Centrum?
For a top-notch oat milk cappuccino in Centrum, try Screaming Beans—their baristas are trained in dairy-free latte art. Back to Black also does a great one with a perfect foam.
Do any of these cafes offer dairy-free whipped cream? I miss having that on my hot chocolate.
Dairy-free whipped cream is still rare, but Pluk sometimes offers coconut whipped cream on seasonal drinks. Lot Sixty One also has it occasionally. It’s best to ask when you visit.