Taboo in Grachtengordel-Zuid

Can I change in a room or something? And can I come with a loose bag? And walk around in boxer shorts?

Johan was a sweetie and allowed us to grab a drink and hang before they even opened, which was exactly what we needed! the espresso martinis were hitting and we were able to get all the photos we wanted since it was empty! Best service in amsterdam!

Despite a lot of criticism, it remains a fun bar, and it's not for nothing that it has been around for quite a few years. Bartender Daniel is a cutie...

Very welcoming and helpful, highly recommend, great staff and friendly

One of the bartenders charged me too much and wanted to let me to pay additionally for a tip. Like, what the hell? I just got in, and the bartender asked already for a tip.. That kind of stuff you don't do whatsoever from the very start. If you did well, then maybe I'll provide a tip on top of what I owe the bar. Another thing was this; I tried to get this bartender his attention, but he told me that he was serving other guests. Okay, so I waited till he was done. And then the audacity of this bartender to walk away. I SHOWED him my expense from the bar (during the time he helped the other customers), yet he evaded the situation to not having to deal with this, and he was nowhere to be found. It is a small establishment, but he was really not a nice bartender. More like bar offender... The other people seemed to have a good time, so I won't say anything about the athmosphere or anything, because the experience that I had with this bartender shouldn't affect my opinion on this place. I could recommend this place, but I prefer to warn other people, whether drunk or not, to count their money after buying drinks.

Great atmosphere!! Superb place!

Nice little gay bar with friendly staff, a diverse crowd, and just your average pop music! And they have little lockers for valuables, which I think is a great idea. There was a bit too much ice in my long drink; next time I'd probably order beer.

I went with the best intentions in the world, but my day was ruined. Upon arriving at this (gay-friendly) establishment, I was denied entry. Since my English isn't very good, I asked for an explanation. The security guard, who was on duty on August 13, 2026, at 11:30 PM, replied, "It's because I don't want you inside." I tried to ask a woman who claimed to be the manager for an explanation, but she completely ignored me. So much for World Pride, so much for progress, but this doesn't happen in Spain: no gay person is ever denied entry to an LGBTQ+ area. I DEEPLY REGRET THE ATTITUDE OF THE STAFF RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS ESTABLISHMENT. I will try to extend this complaint as far as possible, as I consider the denial an act of discrimination. Sometimes homophobia finds very subtle disguises to camouflage its hatred.

Bad service, very unfriendly and incompetent. They only take orders from people they like, the rest are simply skipped.

here for world pride from overseas. I have never experienced such rude service. Why so angry? You are showcasing the Netherlands to the world. Avoid unless you are ok with the attitude.

I'd give 3 stars for the good service, but the waiter who was coordinating the music, the one with the curly black hair, really made me hate the place because of his strange looks.

The place has very poppy music and is passable for a while.

Wonderful place that felt like home to me as a lesbian visiting Amsterdam, amazing drinks, delightful music and everyone was really friendly and warm<333 would love to come back here for longer!

actually the best borrel snacks I have ever had (amazing onion rings) and the waiter was so lovely

Great night out. Didn't order food but cocktails were excellent

The atmosphere is fantastic. It's right on the famous Reguliersdwarsstraat, a bustling street with lots of people passing by. So, if you like a lively and sociable atmosphere, this is the place for you. The staff is very friendly, kind, and helpful. A guest wasn't feeling well outside, and instead of asking him to leave, the staff kindly brought him a glass of water. Very commendable and considerate. You feel truly welcome here, no matter who you are. If it gets a bit chilly outside, there are also small patio heaters, and if it's warmer, small fans at the tables. I'll definitely be back.

Friendly staff, delicious Aperol Spritz, free snacks like ice cream ♥️

I had a delayed flight and had to wait until the next morning to catch my train. Once I arrived at Taboo, the bouncer indicated that I could put my suitcase behind the bar, provided I discussed it with the manager. The manager thought otherwise. I indicated that I found his treatment unfriendly, after which he called the bouncer to kick me out. I walked upstairs to place my suitcase above the lockers (on the bouncer's advice, in case I couldn't fit it behind the bar). Afterwards, I spoke with the bouncer and explained that I had told the bar manager that I found him unfriendly and was immediately asked to leave the bar. Eventually, I talked it out with the bar manager outside, during which he clearly indicated that he was the one who decided how things were done. I complied and apologized, and then I was allowed back inside after all (I had to wait out my time until the first train anyway). Otherwise, I had a fine evening, and the bar manager simply came to provide me with beer. However, at the end of the evening at 3:00 AM, everyone was ordered to leave within a minute (I am not exaggerating). Drinks could be poured into plastic cups (though you had to arrange these yourself from behind the bar). A woman who indicated she wanted to use the restroom because she was getting her period was refused entry because the bouncer 'wanted to go home'. I experienced all of this because I just needed to pack my suitcase. When I pointed out that I found it strange that people were ordered outside so quickly, the answer I received was: 'I want to go home.' All in all, I found the staff absolutely not hospitable and would rather recommend spending an evening at the other gay bars in the Reguliers.

I've been coming here for years and it used to feel like a genuine LGBTQ+ space where I felt comfortable and at home. Lately, I've noticed that the atmosphere has changed. I see more and more straight couples, and while everyone should be welcome, I no longer feel the same sense of belonging that I used to. For me, it's not about excluding anyone, but about preserving the feeling of a space that was created primarily for the LGBTQ+ community. Because of that, I find myself coming here less often than before. It's a shame, because this used to be one of my favorite places in Amsterdam.

Try the Negroni without the straw and a Aperol sprits with a splash of Tabasco. Shhh pro tips only.

Really bad services, i feel me so discriminatie Just for be latino All for the part of team of the bar Bar services For the Batenders Prices expensive

Nice cozy place in Reguliers Friendly staff and reasonable prices Cozy terrace

Small but very cozy atmosphere. There was a drag show. There's an upstairs area with a sofa to relax or cuddle!

I’ve been here before and I’ve always thought it’s a lovely place. The atmosphere is great, fun, lively, and a nice spot to enjoy a night out. However, this time I had a disappointing experience. One of the bartenders charged me €48 for two Long Island cocktails, which felt unusually high. When I asked about the price, he didn’t really explain, he just smiled and moved on. I don’t mind paying or even tipping, but transparency is important, and this didn’t feel right. Overall: Still a great venue with a good vibe, but this experience left a bit of a negative impression. Hopefully just a one-off situation.

The music is great wish it was much bigger

Can someone please explain to me why the waiter was so irritated and aggressive? Despite us being polite, both their facial expressions and the way their spoke were unnecessarily rude. I genuinely find that kind of behavior unacceptable. Would this be considered social discrimination, or is it simply someone who clearly doesn’t want to be working?

Great vibe. Nice staff. Can’t wait to go back.

It was nice but too crowded as it’s famous bar in Amsterdam. But small place but music is great!

The bartender needs to be a little friendlier when serving people who don't speak his language 6/10, The DJ behaved kindly 10/10 for him.

Always fun especially wheb we're there

Incredible bar and amazing vibes, Sam was so kind and lovely!!!

Great small but very vibey and always busy gay bar. Attracts a lot of tourist as well, but it is worth a visit for the great energies and fun people

I liked it; it's a small place but it has a great atmosphere, a good vibe for dancing and having a few beers. There are some small tables where you can sit.

Perfect place to have a amazing night

One of the best gay bars in Amsterdam! Friendly staff, and straights and women are also very welcome. Always fun, and Wednesdays are hysterical!!!

Actually everything was perfect until the security guard threw me out because I wasn't feeling well and said "go puke outside" where I also fell over because he just put me there at night near a planter. It was also antisocial towards the city of Amsterdam if I would puke in there.

Had a great night at Taboo - staff were very friendly, service was as quick as the busyness of the place would allow and there was a good, varied selection of music. The name of the bar made me concerned my partner and I were going into a cruise bar but that's not the case, it's a regular camp gay bar where everyone was having a good time, the Cosmopolitans were excellent!

I am from Adelaide Australia and had two nights in Amsterdam and spent them both here!!! Best place to visit ever the atmosphere is amazing just bring your best vibes and the staff are so friendly highly recommend!

A really nice place with a great atmosphere. It's a shame about the bar staff; they're so quick to charge you for tips. Be careful when paying, because one of them (a tall guy) will quickly add the highest tip without asking. It didn't inspire confidence, and I wouldn't go back just for that reason.

Small cute gay bar with good cocktails and service.

Packed on Saturday night, nice staff and great vibes

Cozy bar, a bar where you feel at home. Very friendly service.

Always enough visitors and regular customers for a few atmospheric drinks

Usually quite crowded both indoors and out.

Expert bar staff who know how to pour! Fast, delicious, and above all, very friendly! We'll be back!!

Staff is awesome and the music was amazing!

amazing bar amazing bartenders shoutout sam!!!!!

Yeahhhh! Amazing!! Always good musics!

Huge shout-out to Andrea, Kert, and Stan for making this bar the best spot in town! Their energy, kindness, and flawless service keep the vibe fun, welcoming, and unforgettable every time. Thank you for always taking such great care of us — you three are the heart of this place!

Best bartenders. Strong drinks. Great atmosphere. 10/10. Ask for Stan, Andrea and Kert! 💯

By now full of toxic straight men. No longer a safe nor enjoyable place.

A huge thank you to the team at Taboo Bar for your amazing hospitality and care! You made our experience truly unforgettable. We’ll definitely be back next year with friends! A special shout-out to Stan, Andy, and Kert for showing me such a great time during my first visit to the Netherlands. Your warmth and attention made all the difference. Looking forward to more good times at Taboo Bar!

Amazing place, super nice to dance the night away, service is excellent especially” Stan”

Kurt is an amazing bartender and the vibes are immaculate!!

Sam, Andrea, Kert and Stan are amazing! Such a good vibe! Will definitely be coming back. Would give more stars if possible!

best place to stop in amsterdam! u don’t wanna miss it

The staff at the bar is really nice they always welcome us with open arms and are very friendly. My favorite bar in Amsterdam ❤️

Great people behind the bar Nicky is amazing but Nordin is the best Greetz to Aryan

Nice bar, cozy and relaxed. Friendly staff.

Went here 3 times, out of which 2 times something was stolen from me. Once a hoodie and the other time sun glasses. If you come here better keep good watch of your belongings!

Rude waiter… pity… but atmosphere is good

A place where I normally enjoy sitting on the terrace. Unfortunately, last time it was different! A pleasant drink on a Tuesday evening ended in a hangover. Not because we'd had too much to drink, but because of the downright antisocial treatment by one of the staff members. Honestly, this was the first time, and by one staff member! But it was one time too many.

For a Thursday night which was deemed one of the slower nights, we were able to stumble upon the gayborhood and dance the night away with new friends and great music!! Must go!

This place is busy busy busy fun!

Nice .. but you never find a seat in a weekend

A beautiful atmosphere forms around midnight, and the service is very good. They play a wide variety of music from all genres; you never stop dancing.

Toilets for €1.50 super dirty and no paper

A small beer 5,90 euro…It’s horrible. I’m curious what the answer will be. New excuses and lies?

Lovely atmosphere, friendly staff, decent bar food

My partner and I emailed in April to reserve taboo kantine for a private party after our wedding. A day after the email has been sent, Brendan, who is I think the owner of the place, responded with an email for more details. After we responded to him with our details and wishes we were completely ghosted. Even after sending another email to verify if our messages were delivered properly, we did not receive any reaction. Very unprofessional. If you’re looking for a gay bar in Amsterdam to organize a private party, I would absolutely not recommend taboo and its other premises.

I stay and enjoy my time with Nordin and Nikki a lot. I love the service and the atmosphere a lot. I frequent this place a lot. It is easy to just relax and enjoy life here. Sit, chill and have a good time here.

Worst place in the world. My friend’s bag was stolen and when we told the bartender he was more interested in greeting his friends and could not care less. When we told the bouncer he was more interested in telling us to leave, because we were looking for my friend’s bag instead of being cheerful. Avoid! Thieves den and horrible staff!

Man the music is great. Stuff that you can actually dance to.💃🏼🕺🏼🪩 Bar staff were nice and efficient. Prices are reasonable for wine and beer. I didn't order cocktails. I wish it had entry fee so it was a bit less cramped.

Title: Very disappointing and rude welcome I visited this bar with two friends during my trip to Amsterdam as a tourist. Unfortunately, I’ve never been treated this rudely at the entrance of a gay bar before. Two of my friends were let in, but I was stopped at the door by security guy, blue eyes and around 60s. The inside was jam-packed. I tried to explain him that they were my friends and that I wouldn’t be able to find them inside if we got separated—especially since I’m a tourist and unable to use my phone here. Before I could even finish my sentence, he aggressively stepped toward me, stared me down, and very rudely told me to “go somewhere else.” I wasn’t drunk or causing any trouble at all—just politely trying to stay with my group. This kind of treatment was extremely unprofessional and unwelcoming. As an LGBTQ+ venue, I expected a more respectful and inclusive attitude, not judgment and hostility.

We were from Finland, it is nice surprise to see our brother from Estonia behind the bar making our night special! One of the highlights of Amsterdam! Definitely recommend but bit expensive:)

Long Island Iced Tea is delicious, sweet and strong, I like it💕 The signature Taboo is also delicious, it feels a little sweeter, Cherry Girl Wine

June 13 just before 2:00 at night, danced a lot nice music, I was a bit overheated and sweaty afterwards, felt very hot, so I decided to take off my t-shirt upstairs at the tap and even wet my chest to even catch my breath, there was no one there at that time, was done after 1 minute put shirt back on and then security came upstairs and told me to leave the tent, I asked security what I had done wrong and what the rules were, security said they didn't know either. Not a bad security but told me he didn't know why he took me out. I do blame the person from the staff who watched the camera footage and went to security. I didn't stand there for a minute... no warning no explanation.. my first visit to the bar

16:00 we arrived. found a spot on the terrace. the staff however did not welcome us, other tables around us did. Eventually we walked towards the bar ourselves. With difficulty we got something. And how do you grab glasses. Hygiene is bad.

It’s the worst cheapest place Don’t go there The security are aggressive and he can attack you , I don’t know how they can higher such a homophobic person in place like this Don’t go there and if you wanna go just be careful coz you will not be safe ..

This place is not safe at all! Racist security guard! With an aggressive attitude! I witnessed an attack on someone were he did nothing wrong! Very disappointing! Plus the management of the bar were not helpful at all!

Always nice and fun , the staff are superstar !!

Please do not waste your time going to this bar. I’m sober as I’m writing this review and I’m not so high to please. These ppl don’t check on their capacity and one of the bartender told the guy at the front that I was done I didn’t have any alcohol in my systems. Just because I was at the stair because I couldn’t be at the floor. I would like to give 0 star but I can’t

Really nice bar, nice music and nice staff!! Can be pricey, but then you shouldn't go to Amsterdam. The people were also nice, and again really great music (mainly 00's). Didn't eat just drank 🥴🤪

We ordered a caipirinha, a limoncello Spritz and a capuccino with oat milk. The limoncello tasted very chemical and the capuccino had a "gone bad" taste. We complained about the limoncello and they offered to replace it with another drink but one way or another it had to be paid. To the complaint they said: we always do it like this and no one has ever complained 😐. Well...we were complaining because it was not good. After that they stopped being as nice as before. At least the caipi was good. Just order a beer, nothing can go wrong with that.

The security guard is a jerk, he didn’t study math How do they get people like that into a bar????

Bad service. Rude bar staff. In good community the bar is nice. But please don't come for the service and hospitality.

Good service, everything was excellent! Very professional and kind manager. Always amazed by the kindness of the Moroccan people, wherever I meet them.

I think €5.20 for mineral water is very daring

Terrible, paid 2 small beers for 9.20. Also small plastic cups. Grabbing bar at its best. The owner laughs a lot about the stupid tourists. I'll never go to this place again. They're driving all the gays away, they'll probably go bankrupt one day. Abnormally expensive. Evidence see pictures.

Fun, unpretentious bar with a great vibe and friendly atmosphere and staff. Must check it out!

I would like to praise this place, which has great and honest employees! I lost my wallet at the bar, came back almost a week later and they kept it with everything inside and saved my life. Thank you all!!! I highly recommend it.

Good vibes for a night out, fun and lively crowd.

please avoid taboo amsterdam .it was an ugly experience on the 15 Feb 2025 I was racially profiled and accused by the security who falsely accused me of smoking inside the club and refused me entry for the second time . I went to taboo with my friends visiting from the US to show them around when this painful incident occurred At we went inside bought some drink ,danced then left soho while coming back again this white security guy told me he went let me in . I asked why because I see other going in he accused me of smoking inside which never happen . I tried to explain to him that I wasn’t the one but he wouldn’t listen me while standing there seeing other people getting in so I tried to get in myself to inform the manager then he immediately held my neck start hitting my balls I almost lost my breath . Then when the manager came I explained to him but he couldn’t even address the issue no empathy no justice . I even I ask him to check his camera to prove my innocent , he promised to do that but till now nothing has been done . It was so sad , racial profiling false accusation and terrible . I Will no recommend it for people of colour.

Fast serving. Kind waiters and a very cool place to party at night. The music is so energic and in the day time while they serve food it was sooo delicious. Their soups are homemade recipees and the place is very clean. Recommend it 🤗❤️. Thanm you Taboo!

Was looking for another place ... Stayed there for one beer ... It's like a quick stop

Amazing place in the gay district of Amsterdam. Service is excellent & some great beers with good looking bartenders. Excellent vibes !!!

very bad service from the staff, they are really vulgar, I do not recommend it at all

It's fine to go have a drink, good atmosphere, although they should pay a little more attention to who they let in. There are very unpleasant men bothering the women.

A great night here highly recommend, the bar staff were friendly although it was extremely busy and relatively difficult to get served quickly, great music and room to dance. There's also a great spot upstairs with sofas where you can still enjoy the music but without so many people knocking into you!

Nice and quick service. Good drinks and snacks👍🏼