The Butcher

Words by Simon Difford

Address: 129 Albert Cuypstraat, Amsterdam, 1072CS, Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0)20 470 7875
Email: info@the-butcher.com
Website: view The Butcher’s website
Door: Make reservation
Style: Speakeasy
Food: Set menu
Established: 2012

Review

Lying smack in the middle of Holland's most famous market street, De Albert Cuyp, to the casual, non-informed observer The Butcher is a modern high-end burger joint open till late. However, while a great place to have a burger it's also the front for Amsterdam's most hidden bar. Like Manhattan's PDT I here you cry. Well, let's say inspired by.

New York also offered inspiration for the Butcher's name and logo. William Poole, AKA 'Bill the Butcher', took over the running of his family's butcher shop in the early 1800s. He was also a member of the Bowery Boys gang, a bare-knuckle boxer and a leader of the Know Nothing political movement. He also inspired the 2002 'Gangs of New York' film. It's an appropriate name as the burgers are prepared on the spot using Aberdeen Angus beef with vegetables and other ingredients sourced from the market out front.

Head to the back of the shop and press the intercom. Give the right name and password and the wall should slide open and you'll be steered away from the white titled burger shop and into a dark steel clad room dominated by an island bar. The darkness and steel walls make it feel somewhat submarine-like and the stark look prevents Butcher being described as a 'Prohibition-style bar'. This is more a spaceship-styled bar.

The whole operation is owned and run by Yossi Eliyahoo (owner of Momo Restaurant Amsterdam) and Ricardo Sporkslede. Ricardo has recruited a crack team of bartenders so expect great cocktails. Try the Jenever Old Fashioned. Oh, and be sure to call and make a reservation. No exceptions.