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Café the StarCMixed Bag

Name: Café the Star
Address: Martelaarsgracht 20-22, 1012 TR Amsterdam, Netherlands, 1012 TR Amsterdam
Rating: 4.4

Martelaarsgracht 20-22, 1012 TR Amsterdam, Netherlands · Cafe, Pub · 4.4/5 Google (1227 reviews)

Outdoor seating

Lively old-school cafe-bar by Centraal for beers and Dutch bar snacks; service can be brusque to hostile, so go for drinks, not cosseting hospitality.

Why it gets a C for overall quality

Café the Star delivers efficient drinks and classic Dutch snacks in a characterful station-side location, but inconsistent and often hostile service significantly undermines the experience. Quality variation—particularly dirty glassware and variable food prep—prevents reliable execution, while the unwelcoming atmosphere toward non-regulars and families limits broader appeal. Best suited for seasoned travelers seeking a quick, no-frills pit stop rather than hospitality-focused dining.

Restaurant Summary

Steps from the station, this place feels old-school and bustling—a perch for people-watching with quick rounds and classic bar snacks. Some love the dry Amsterdam humor, others report outright hostility. One guest put it simply: "The beers landed fast, but the welcome was rough." Given the split, brace for no-frills service over smiles. The cooking leans traditional Dutch bar fare—think bitterballen and toasties—made to match pints rather than star on their own. That suits travelers seeking a swift pit stop by Centraal more than seekers of elaborate meals. Expect efficient pours and hearty snacks, not a culinary showcase or extensive hot drinks menu at all hours. Families should note mixed reports: several reviewers describe staff as unwelcoming to kids, and there is no kids menu. Safer bets for younger eaters are cheese toasties or cheese sticks, but if you need warmth and patience, consider a more family-oriented cafe nearby.

At a Glance

Prime location across from Centraal with great people-watching
Classic Dutch snacks like bitterballen pair well with beers
Reports of rude to hostile service, especially toward non-regulars
Limited hot drinks availability and rigid policies
Not kid-friendly per multiple accounts

What Sets It Apart

steps_from_central_station
classic_dutch_bar_snacks
sidewalk_people_watching

What People Love

Convenience right by the station
Speedy drink service even when crowded
Simple, satisfying bar snacks
Sidewalk seating with heaters

Points of Concern

Service can be brusque or hostile, with multiple accounts of rudeness
Hot drinks availability limited or time-restricted
Occasional dirty or smelly glassware reported
Child-unfriendly interactions reported by several guests

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost€14-20 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Pair bitterballen or kaasstengels with a local lager; for vegetarians, choose cheese items or spring rolls.

Perfect For

Pre-train beers and a snack
Casual curbside people-watching
Low-effort meetup near Centraal
Quick solo pit stop

Location Insights

Area: High-traffic transit hub steps from Amsterdam Centraal; tourist-heavy with steady commuter flow.

Safety: Busy, well-lit, heavy footfall; typical station-area nuisances but generally safe.

Nearby: Opposite station trams, tour pickups, hotels and souvenir shops; people-watching hotspot.

JordaanThe Jordaan is a trendy and picturesque neighborhood known for its narrow streets, boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés. It has a relaxed yet lively dining scene with a mix of traditional Dutch eateries and contemporary restaurants, attracting a diverse crowd seeking both casual and refined dining experiences.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday10:00–00:00 Tuesday10:00–00:00 Wednesday10:00–00:00 Thursday10:00–00:00 Friday10:00–00:00 Saturday10:00–00:00 Sunday10:00–22:00

Available: Outdoor seating

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