De Waag, Alkmaar, North Holland Travel Guide

Name: De Waag, Alkmaar
Address: Houttil 14, Alkmaar, 1811 JM, NL
Telephone: +31725117197
Price range: 2
Rating: 4.3

4.3 (882)

Historic grand café on Alkmaar's Waagplein: savor Dutch classics, cocktails, and terrace vibes from breakfast to late-night revelry in the cheese market's lively heart.

De Waag is a historic grand café and restaurant on Alkmaar's vibrant Waagplein, offering Dutch and international cuisine from breakfast through late-night drinks. Housed in a landmark building near the famous cheese market, it features a cozy interior, heated terrace, extensive cocktails, and vegetarian options in a lively atmosphere perfect for meals or evenings out.

A brief summary to De Waag, Alkmaar

Houttil 14, Alkmaar, 1811 JM, NL
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Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Mixed
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 9:30 am-11 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-11 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-11 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-12 am
Friday 9:30 am-2 am
Saturday 9 am-2 am
Sunday 9:30 am-12 am

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring De Waag, Alkmaar.

Reserve ahead for terrace seating during cheese market Fridays (late March to September) when Waagplein buzzes with activity.
Opt for the extensive cocktail menu or local Dutch spirits for an authentic evening borrel with small plates.
Visit early morning for pastries and coffee, ideal before exploring Alkmaar's historic center and nearby attractions.

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Explore De Waag, Alkmaar on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near De Waag, Alkmaar, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Alkmaar Centraal station, 10-minute walk (800m) via pedestrian-friendly streets; free, no constraints.
Cycling

Bike from station in 5 minutes (2km); bike racks nearby, free public bikes available, €2-3/hour rental.
Bus

Bus 156 or N88 from station to Waagplein stop, 5 minutes, €2-4 one-way, frequent service every 15 minutes.

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Discover more about De Waag, Alkmaar

History and Setting

Nestled on Houttil 14 in the heart of Alkmaar, De Waag occupies a prime spot on Waagplein, the bustling square renowned for the Netherlands' oldest cheese market. This grand café-restaurant blends historic charm with modern hospitality, drawing visitors with its central location amid the city's medieval architecture and lively street scene. Open daily from morning till late, it serves as a versatile venue for locals and tourists alike.

Cuisine and Menu

The menu spans breakfast pastries with coffee, hearty lunches, dinners featuring Dutch, international, and European dishes, plus small plates and an extensive cocktail selection. Vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free options cater to diverse preferences, while the full bar offers Dutch spirits alongside global beverages. Brunch, lunch, and dinner transitions seamlessly into evening borrelhapjes for casual snacking.

Ambiance and Features

Inside, warm decor creates a sfeervolle ambiance ideal for relaxed gatherings, complemented by a large heated terrace in summer overlooking the square. Family-friendly with high chairs and kids' menu, it accommodates various groups. Wheelchair accessible, with credit card payments, reservations, and free WiFi enhancing convenience. Great cocktails and spirits highlight the bar scene.

Practicalities and Surroundings

Extended hours—9:30 AM to midnight weekdays, until 2 AM weekends—align with Alkmaar's rhythm, especially during cheese market season. Paid street parking nearby, with easy pedestrian access from the city center. As a women-owned spot and transgender safe space, it fosters inclusivity amid the cheese city's cultural buzz.

Visitor Experience

Whether starting the day with sweets and tea or unwinding with drinks, De Waag embodies Alkmaar's hospitable spirit. Its position near shops, the Alkmaar Store, and attractions makes it a perfect base for exploring Noord-Holland's gem.