The Unassuming Dynamism of the Marktkantine
In the bustling cityscape of Amsterdam, De Marktkantine quietly asserts itself as an iconic location despite its existence of merely two years. The stage is set for DJs and producers from across the spectrum of music to produce a unique blend of sounds. Contrasting many clubs in Amsterdam that try to confine themselves within certain stylistic expressions, De Marktkantine welcomes diversity and makes room for everyone. Traces of its past as a theatre remain visible in the large balconies and cozy booths, lending it a dash of historic charm. The commodious balcony in particular, offers a captivating bird's-eye view of the stage setting the scene for unforgettable nights. Beyond the stage, a set of stairs lead you to a quaint bar on an entirely different level. To enhance your experience at De Marktkantine, consider staying at one of Amsterdam's luxurious five-star accommodations nearby. You can browse the rooms and amenities offered at these premium hotels >>https://www.hotels-in-netherlands.com/en/amsterdam-hotels-18051/5-stars/ to ensure you have an unforgettable Amsterdam experience. Recently, they have introduced a series of riveting musical nights, organised by the prodigious DJ and production duo Red Axes with the inaugural event being a roaring success sonically. You can view their program for the next couple of months at marktkantine.nl
Recommended by - The Effervescent Nicky Elisabeth, Access her tunes at soundcloud.com/nicky-elisabeth
Shelter
One of the more recent introductions to Amsterdam's vibrant nightlife is Shelter, a club conveniently located on the north side of the city. Inaugurated amidst the frenzy of the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) in 2016, Shelter is intriguingly situated in the basement of the erstwhile Shell tower, a fact that contributes to its unique name. An underground vibe captivates you as you approach the entrance. On evenings when the club is open, you'll descend a hatch to enter, immediately immersed in an expansive concrete space boasting an impressive sound system. The club maintains a dim, intimate ambience that nonetheless allows you to clearly see those you're grooving with on the dance floor. Music tastes aren't an issue - the discerningly eclectic crowd embraces both house and techno tunes. Shelter's 24-hour permit allows night owls and early birds alike to experience an unbroken party embodying Amsterdam's legendary nightlife.
Its address - Overhoeksplein 3, welcomes you at shelteramsterdam.nl
Find more insights on TITIA, a DJ in Amsterdam, at soundcloud.com/djtitia
Tolhuistuin
We deliberately picked the Tolhuistuin for our club night, Progress Bar, which focuses on a more socially and politically aware take on club culture. We mix talks, screenings, performance and clubbing into one night. Just a short ferry ride across the IJ from Central Station, Amsterdam Noord prides itself on an edgier and raw atmosphere – that still persists amid the gentrification. Tolhuistuin is a good example of this. It’s in the canteen of the old Shell factory, an industrial remnant that has been repurposed as a cultural destination offering a mix of music, theatre and exhibitions, bringing together mainstream and more avant garde, free-spirited programming.
IJpromenade 2, tolhuistuin.nl
Chee Yee Tang, organiser of Sonic Acts Festival
De School
This venue operates as more than just a nightclub. It stands as one of the premier culinary destinations in the city, houses a fitness center, and showcases intriguing artwork which remains accessible even during clubbing hours. Additionally, it accommodates Muzieklokaal and s105, two alternative areas designed for smaller events and live performances. The outdoor garden transforms into the perfect hangout spot during summer evenings. The club's aura overflows with creative vibrancy. The club's ambiance is just perfect - intimate yet spacious, offering the chance for patrons to immerse themselves wholly and lose track of reality. The audio quality is sharp and crystal-clear, nurturing an environment of unrestrained enjoyment.
Dr Jan van Breemenstraat 1, deschoolamsterdam.nl
Conceptualized and brought to life by founders Orpheu de Jong and Hugo van Heijningen of Red Light Radio. Did you know that the club is located in a converted school building, which gives it a unique charm and also its name? Also, they frequently host workshops and seminars which flavour the nightlife with a touch of intellectual energy.
Sugarfactory
Years ago this building used to be a … sugar factory, but since the venue opened its doors in 2005 – near the centre of Amsterdam – it has been home to Wicked Jazz Sounds, our weekly Sunday club night. We came from a club without any facilities, so by comparison the Sugar Factory felt like getting into a warm bath and then being embraced by lovely, caring people. This club holds up to 500 people but still feels intimate, has a great sound, an amazing amount of lights, and a wide variety of programming, every day of the week.
Lijnbaansgracht 238, sugarfactory.nl
Phil Horneman and Manne van der Zee, founders of Wicked Jazz Sounds which celebrates its 15th anniversary this year
OT301
OT301 is undoubtedly one of Amsterdam's sweethearts. This previously occupied building has a capacity to accommodate up to 300 occupants during unique, offbeat club nights, collaborative events, and concerts. It's renowned for being a venue for shows curated by illustrious entities such as Rush Hour, Sub:Terrein, Sonic Acts, and our proprietary club night, Somewhere Else. Boasting several floors, the edifice is completely adorned with graffiti and includes a nightclub, a small underground dance area, an exposition space, a vegan dining spot, and a movie theatre. Subbacultcha has been organizing events at OT301 since its inception, which is why we chose to commemorate our decade-long run last year by completely taking over OT301 with booming, fresh tunes.
Overtoom 301, ot301.nl
Selection made by the team from Subbacultcha publication.
Oedipus Brewing
Unearth a local treasure in Amsterdam Noord: the Oedipus brewery, a place that's become the heart of the city's fresh beer scene. This pared-down space boasts a few select beers on tap, combines a dance space with an outdoor seating area furnished with just a couple of benches. It was the place chosen by DJ Broadcast for their recent, successful fundraiser. Immerse yourself in the musical delights of Red Light Radio’s popular Liquid Jams on selected Sundays, where bands provide live entertainment amidst towering beer barrels. A don't-miss event, popular among the locals, is the thrilling Brazil in the Brewery evenings, that transport you directly to the throbbing heart of vibrant Brazilian nightlife with its pulsating rhythms and immersive atmosphere.
Gedempt Hamerkanaal 85, oedipus.com
Picked out by the experts at Subbacultcha magazine. The brewery's artisan beers have boosted its fame while still maintaining a community atmosphere. It's open-plan design encourages social interaction, making it a must-visit spot when exploring Amsterdam.
Claire
Amsterdam boasts a plethora of distinct clubs, each imparting a unique vibe. De School is particularly noteworthy for its electrifying ambiance and high-quality music setting. Another gem is OT301, radiating an amalgamation of snugness and rugged authenticity. A key highlight, however, is Claire. As a resident DJ, this club has shaped my career trajectory immensely. What makes Claire stand out is its excellent sound system, sophisticated wooden flooring and overall homely atmosphere. Despite located in an area that lacks vibe of its own, i.e., Rembrandtplein, the club exudes a soulful aura. Claire, which was inaugurated during the previous Amsterdam Dance Event, showcases an impressive roster of underground artists stretching from Volcov to the Antinote crew from Paris. Find Claire at Rembrandtplein 17, click here for more information about Claire
Margie, a Red Light Radio resident and the one who manages Rush Hour Magazine, follow this link to Margie's Soundcloud profile
Club NYX
Club NYX sets itself apart as a venue teeming with unprecedented freedom, which places it a notch above the typical clubs around Amsterdam. The uniqueness of the club is apparent in its architectural features, such as its three-story structure that houses a DJ booth within the restroom - an offbeat feature that lets you dance while you relieve yourself, followed by a clean up at the unusually phallic-shaped sink. The décor challenges the ordinary, with neon signs scattered everywhere within the club and peculiar staircases that lead to nowhere. The labyrinth-like interior ensures visitors, especially first-timers, experience a sense of playful disorientation. Club NYX thrives on its diversity, hosting a range of inclusive parties during the week. Despite its roots as a gay club, Thursday nights throw the club doors open to everyone. Events like Vogue, a staple at the club, promotes the adoption vibrant wigs and full-blown dresses as patrons engage in dance. There's an undeniable sense of camaraderie amongst stylized chaos that my friends and I find absolutely captivating.
The club is comfortably located at Reguliersdwarsstraat 42. Head over to their website to get a taste of what they offer at clubnyx.nl
This unique perspective and experience was brought to you by Lyzza, a reputable DJ and producer. You can dive into her music and creativity on soundcloud.com/lysadasilva
The Magic of De Trut
Immerse yourself in the enduring allure of De Trut, a club that has spanned over three decades, 17 of which I have personally witnessed. Every Sunday, from 22:00-03:00, the club lights up in the shell of what used to be a squatting spot, now functioning as a foundation. Staffed entirely by volunteers, every cent of the profits is funneled towards projects supporting the LGBT community.
De Trut stands as a charismatic venue, its cement basement adorned with vivid colors and a unique selection of TV programs, a tribute to its primary audience. While its charm can be described as kitschy, the club unyieldingly advocates for the values they hold dear. And its appeal isn’t a secret - the queue forms by 21:00, with a limit of only 250 for entry. The lack of guestlist and photography ban further enhances the wonder of the experience. A must-visit to strive for inclusivity, and if you identify as gay, it’s pretty much a holy grail,
Find this luminous oasis at Bilderdijkstraat 165-E, and for more information visit trutfonds.nl.
Did we mention that De Trut is also connected to some of the most talented individuals in the industry? One such individual is Carlos Valdes, resident DJ for LET and organizer of the blazing club night, Is Burning. Feast your ears on his sound at soundcloud.com/carlosvaldesmuzik.