Café 't Mandje

Nestled on the vibrant Zeedijk street in Amsterdam, Café 't Mandje is not just a bar but a landmark of LGBTQ+ history and Dutch culture. Since its inception in 1927 by the spirited Bet van Beeren, a lesbian icon in her own right, the café has been a sanctuary of inclusivity and fun. Known for its welcoming atmosphere to a diverse crowd of tourists and locals alike, 't Mandje blends a rich historical essence with a lively, contemporary vibe​​. After a temporary closure, the café was passionately restored and reopened in 2008 by Bet's niece, Diana van Laar, ensuring that its legacy as a cornerstone of Amsterdam's gay community continued. The interior, a repository of memories and artifacts, was even replicated in the Amsterdam Museum, emphasizing its significance in the city's social fabric​​. Café 't Mandje's ambiance is characterized by its eclectic mix of patrons, from sailors and artists to tourists exploring the old city. The bar offers a variety of drinks and often features nights with singing bartenders and disco tunes, creating an environment where everyone can feel free to be themselves​. The café also holds a unique position in the heart of Amsterdam’s (little) China Town on Zeedijk, making it an ideal spot to start or end an evening after dining at nearby Asian restaurants​. For those interested in the convergence of history, culture, and nightlife, Café 't Mandje offers a quintessential Amsterdam experience that celebrates diversity and history in one of Europe's most free-spirited cities.