Off of Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal (on a side street- towards the left), just above Dam Square towards Centraal station, is a gorgeous little Belgian Beer bar aptly named Cafe Belgique. Cafe Belgique was once described to me by the Swedish friend who introduced me to it as a real 'gem'. Indeed it is. I bring all my beer-appreciating friends there, and although it is normally crowded, we always find a seat. The music is nice, the atmosphere is nice. What is great are the beers. I know that Amsterdam has Gollem, also a Belgian beer bar. But Cafe Belgique is more unique and with better character. My favorite choice is whatever is on special, and when I've tried that, I will take a random pick off the list. When I am not feeling very experimental, I will go for my alltime favourite beer in the universe, Leffe Blonde.

If you go with a novice, advise them to choose Kwak, a beer known for its very intriguing glass and holder, and one that makes the sound Kwak! once it is nearly finished. The beer, tipped to the right degree, catches in the narrow neck, breaks through and splashes the consumer on the face, a funny trick. Also good are La Chouffe and Lucifer.

This is a friend of mine who loves her Framboise Belgian beer (available here). In this picture she is taking a Kwak.. but she knew the beer so wasn't fooled.