As our new best friend and the most hospitable bartender in Amsterdam said to me, Yelp is for the Americans - which means unfortunately he's not going to hear me brag about how great his bar is. So this one's for you, American traveler! If you're in Amsterdam, do yourself a huge favor and visit Vesper - especially if you're a real fan of real gin, or genever, or jenever. Or whatever! The menu is delicious. I visited Vesper twice during my trip to Amsterdam. Each night, a very different experience. Both were met with a hospitable warm welcome, a cozy atmosphere, and fine craft cocktails where gin is supreme. Food: (drinks!) On my 1st visit, I enjoyed Vesper's Negroni. Smooth. Easy to drink more than one. While the small space was standing room only when we arrived, once a seat cleared up they brought us a small bowl of bar snacks, common at respectable craft bars in Amsterdam. During the second visit, it started off with us saying, "just one drink" and ended up with us shutting the place down with the bartenders over patron shots. It started off gently with their signature, Vesper - sweet and refreshing, and espresso martini - bold. Then I opened my mouth and we were there until until 2 trying whatever bartender Airto recommended, and you're in good hands when the bartender takes over! Service: On both occasions the bartender's made us feel at home with Joop greeting us at the door with a warm welcome as if we met before and we just stepped into his home. He cares about his customers as much as his neighbors in his quaint, quiet neighborhood. On the second night, our drinks were in the safe hands of Airto. He took great care of us, explaining each drink he crafted. Expanding our knowledge and taste of gin with not one, but two variations of jenever, and old style genever. Ambiance: You never know what you're going to get when you visit Vesper-hospitality and fine cocktails aside. Sure it's cute and quaint with a surprise basement in the floor. I implore you to make nice with your bartenders, explore off menu, be ready to stand, stay awhile to soak up the space, good music, and smooth drinks. I cannot wait for the next opportunity to return and enjoy more of Vesper. Thank you for the generous hospitality and warm welcome by the Vesper staff on the Friday & Saturday of November 11, 2023 of this last visit. read more