Winkel 43

From Working-Class Roots to Cultural Icon

The building housing Winkel 43 represents the Jordaan’s fascinating evolution. Dating back to the 17th century, this area began as a working-class district built to accommodate the influx of laborers and immigrants during Amsterdam’s Golden Age. What was once characterized by overcrowded housing and basic living conditions has transformed over centuries into one of the city’s most picturesque and sought-after neighborhoods.

While Winkel 43 B.V. was formally established in 1983, its location on the Noordermarkt square places it at the heart of an area steeped in Dutch history. Every Monday and Saturday, this square buzzes with market activity—the Monday “Lapjesmarkt” (fabric market) and Saturday “Boerenmarkt” (farmers market)—continuing traditions that have defined this neighborhood for generations. This connection between café and community creates an experience that transcends simply enjoying a piece of pie; it offers a taste of Amsterdam’s living heritage.

The Apple Pie That Captivates a City

What elevates Winkel 43 from a pleasant neighborhood café to a must-visit Amsterdam destination is undoubtedly its legendary Dutch apple pie (appeltaart). This isn’t merely a dessert; it’s a cultural experience that draws people from across the city and around the world.

Unlike typical thin, flaky American-style apple pies, Winkel 43’s appeltaart features:

• A thick, cake-like crust with a delightful cookie-like consistency
• Generous chunks of fresh apples, perfectly spiced with cinnamon
• Sweet bursts from occasional raisins
• Layers of carefully arranged apples, neither too firm nor too soft
• The perfect balance between structure and tenderness

The traditional way to enjoy this masterpiece is warm, topped with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream (slagroom). This combination creates a harmonious contrast—the cool, airy cream melting slightly against the warm, spiced apples and substantial crust—that has earned this treat countless accolades as the best apple pie in Amsterdam, if not the entire Netherlands.

Beyond the Famous Pie: A Complete Amsterdam Experience

While the apple pie rightfully takes center stage, Winkel 43 offers far more than a single famous dessert. Their diverse menu changes monthly, ensuring fresh and seasonal offerings throughout the year:

The atmosphere within Winkel 43 captures that distinctive Dutch concept of “gezelligheid”—a cozy, convivial environment that feels both comfortable and special. The traditional Amsterdam house setting, often featuring wooden floors and exposed beams, creates a warm ambiance that welcomes lingering conversations and people-watching. The terrace overlooking the Noordermarkt offers prime seats for observing the rhythm of Amsterdam life, especially on bustling market days when the square fills with vendors and shoppers.

What makes Winkel 43 particularly special is its authentic appeal to tourists and locals. While many popular destinations eventually lose their local clientele to tourism, Winkel 43 maintains its position as a genuine neighborhood fixture. Amsterdam residents continue to choose it for casual meetups, weekend breakfasts, and yes—that incomparable apple pie—a testament to its consistent quality and welcoming atmosphere.

When to Visit: Insider Tips for the Perfect Experience

Planning your visit to Winkel 43 requires some insider knowledge to maximize the experience. Here’s what you need to know:

Opening Hours

• Monday (Market Day): 7:00 AM – 1:00 AM
• Tuesday-Thursday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 AM
• Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 AM
• Saturday (Market Day): 7:00 AM – 3:00 AM
• Sunday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM

Best Times to Visit

• For the freshest apple pie: Early morning (7:00-9:00 AM), especially on market days
• For a quieter experience: Weekday afternoons (3:00-5:00 PM)
• For the market experience: Saturday mornings for the organic farmers market
• For atmosphere: Early evenings when locals gather after work

What to Know Before You Go

• Winkel 43 does not accept reservations
• During peak tourist season (July-August), expect potential queues
• The café accepts most major credit cards
• For a whole apple pie (€35), call ahead to 020-6230223 or email [email protected]

For the ultimate Amsterdam experience, arrive around 8:00 AM on Saturday to enjoy your apple pie and coffee before exploring the organic farmers market, where local producers sell everything from artisanal cheeses to seasonal produce. This creates a comprehensive Amsterdam morning ritual that engages all your senses—the taste of exceptional apple pie, market vendors’ sounds, historic architecture’s visual delight, and the tactile experience of exploring market goods.

How to Get There: Finding Your Way to Apple Pie Paradise

Address: Noordermarkt 43, 1015 NA Amsterdam

Winkel 43 is positioned ideally for visitors exploring the city’s historic center. The café’s Jordaan location is within easy walking distance of several major Amsterdam attractions, including the Anne Frank House and the picturesque Prinsengracht canal.

Transportation Options

Cycling, Amsterdam’s preferred mode of transportation, offers perhaps the most authentic approach. Numerous bike rental shops throughout the city provide daily rentals, and the ride through Jordaan’s charming streets delivers a truly local experience.

Why Locals and Tourists Keep Coming Back

What makes Winkel 43 special isn’t just the famous apple pie—it’s the complete experience that keeps both Amsterdam residents and visitors returning:

• Authentic atmosphere that hasn’t been compromised by tourism
• Consistent quality maintained over decades
• Prime location at the heart of one of Amsterdam’s most beautiful neighborhoods
• Seasonal menu that highlights Dutch culinary traditions
• Friendly service that welcomes everyone equally
• Cultural significance as a neighborhood institution
• The perfect blend of traditional and contemporary Amsterdam

Winkel 43 represents the beautiful intersection of history, community, and culinary excellence that makes Amsterdam special. More than just a café serving exceptional apple pie, it offers a window into authentic Amsterdam life—where locals and visitors come together in a historic setting to enjoy simple pleasures executed to perfection.