Where to Find the Best Cocktail Bars in Rotterdam
Rotterdam is a city built on trade, movement and late nights , so it makes sense that it drinks well. Beyond beer halls and brown cafés, a confident cocktail scene has taken shape. From discreet speakeasies to skyline hotel bars, the city’s bartenders balance structure and creativity without unnecessary theatrics. These are the cocktail bars in Rotterdam worth seeking out.
Hidden & Speakeasy Bars
Rotterdam has a soft spot for places that don’t announce themselves. Speakeasies, a term dating back to the Prohibition era when bars operated discreetly behind unmarked doors, are built around that same sense of discovery. Often tucked away below street level or hidden behind subtle entrances, these bars favour atmosphere, intention and a degree of mystery.
Behind Closed Doors:
La Flamant Bleu near City Hall is reservation-only, accessed by password and built around balance and quiet precision.
La Soirée, tucked into the Marinekwartier, leans theatrical, velvet booths, candlelight and film-inspired signatures crafted with technical care.
At the Kunstfabriek , art and drinks meet in a low-lit gallery setting. While natural wine takes centre stage, the cocktails are far from an afterthought, balanced, considered and confidently executed.
Underground, OX offers a concept-driven menu inspired by the Chinese zodiac, translating symbolism into thoughtful, contemporary drinks.
Where to Go for a Fun Night Out
Elvy Gastrobar
Located on the seventh floor of nhow Rotterdam, Elvy Gastrobar pairs skyline views with colourful, easy-drinking cocktails. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the Erasmus Bridge, making it a popular spot at sunset. The menu leans bright and playful, with tropical notes, citrus-forward combinations and modern twists on classics, plus a strong alcohol-free selection. On weekends, DJ sets shift the mood from relaxed drinks to a lively night out above the city.
Supermercado
Supermercado brings Latin-American energy to Rotterdam’s cocktail scene. Expect Margaritas, Palomas and rum-laced signatures alongside house-made limonades and bold flavour twists. Fruity, fresh and made for sharing, the cocktails pair perfectly with tacos and ceviche in this lively, street-food-inspired setting.
Botanero
Botanero brings Latin-American energy to Rotterdam’s cocktail scene. Part cantina, part restaurant, it’s a lively space where bold flavours and strong drinks go hand in hand. Classics like Margaritas and Negronis sit alongside house-made infusions and fresh citrus combinations. The warm, social setting makes it easy for cocktails to turn into dinner, and dinner into another round.
Bar Bù
Set in a townhouse by the marina, Bar Bù combines modern Cantonese cuisine with a polished cocktail bar. The space includes an elegant restaurant upstairs and a darker lounge below. Cocktails often feature Asian infusions and unexpected pairings designed to complement dim sum and bolder plates. It works well for an evening that starts with dinner and continues with drinks.
Bars for Intimate Evenings
Not every night calls for volume. These cocktail bars favour candlelight, conversation and well-made classics in settings designed for lingering.
The Rumah on Oude Binnenweg describes itself as a neighbourhood cocktail pub built on rum and hospitality. The candlelit interior and compact bar make it easy to settle in, while the menu balances tropical influences with properly executed classics.
NY Basement, set beneath Hotel New York, channels a polished supper club atmosphere with dark wood and leather banquettes. The focus is on well-structured classics like Negronis and Manhattans, making it a strong choice for an unhurried evening drink.
More Bars Worth Knowing
aRC Drinks - Station Bergweg
aRC Drinks sits in the arches of Station Bergweg and balances trusted classics with inventive house signatures. Owner Maurits crafts cocktails and mocktails using homemade syrups, shrubs and kombucha, with a strong alcohol-free selection available from midday. Pull up a seat at the bar and watch the action unfold.
Savor&Nosh
Savor & Nosh brings global influences to the glass, just as it does to the plate. Expect well-balanced classics alongside creative signatures inspired by flavours from around the world. Whether you drop in for an afternoon cocktail or ease into the evening with friends, this is a relaxed, stylish spot where drinks are made to linger over.
Pillars Bar & Kitchen
Pillars Bar & Kitchen is located inside the Rotterdam Marriott Hotel, directly opposite Central Station. This classy bar offers comfortable lounge seating and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Expect well-made classic cocktails alongside house twists, all served in an elegant setting that’s easy to reach for visitors and locals alike.
Keep Exploring Rotterdam’s Bar Scene
Looking for a natural wine bar, a buzzing craft beer spot or a traditional Dutch brown café? Our complete bars and pubs guide brings together every kind of drinking address in Rotterdam.
