Jopenkerk Haarlem
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Jopenkerk Haarlem

4.4
·7k reviews·Haarlem, Netherlands

A historic church transformed into a vibrant brewery and restaurant, offering exceptional craft beers and a unique atmosphere in Haarlem.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, great vibe

CrowdMedium
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Jopenkerk Haarlem

Jopenkerk Haarlem

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, great vibe

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic church transformed into a vibrant brewery and restaurant, offering exceptional craft beers and a unique atmosphere in Haarlem.

4.4
(7k reviews)

"This place oozes Cool! Located in a former church maintains stained glass windows, plenty of brews to keep you comin’."

Vertical photo
TIP

🍻 Beer Lover's Paradise

Explore a vast selection of Jopen beers, including unique brews like the 'What about a 2nd breakfast' stout.

⛪ Admire the Architecture

Soak in the unique ambiance of a former church, complete with original stained glass windows.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Brewery Itself

The Brewery Itself

Main hall

A stunning former church transformed into a bustling brewery, complete with original stained glass windows.

Extensive Beer Selection

Extensive Beer Selection

Bar and shop

Sample a wide array of Jopen beers, from fresh drafts to bottled and canned specialties. Try the 'What about a 2nd breakfast' stout!

Delicious Food Offerings

Delicious Food Offerings

Restaurant/Brasserie

Enjoy simple yet good food, from thick potato fries to well-prepared dishes like the Dorade. Great for a meal with your beer.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Church Atmosphere

Jopenkerk Haarlem is a unique brewery housed in a former church. Expect stunning architecture, stained glass, and a vibrant atmosphere. It's more than just a brewery; it's an experience!

Book Ahead for Groups & Peak Times

While walk-ins are welcome, larger groups might want to book ahead, especially on busy evenings. Some reviews mention it being one of the few places that can host groups on a Monday.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, great vibe
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

sun 🤝🏼 iced lattes at JUULZ #cafe #coffee #icedlatte #matcha #haarlem #lunch #startingacafe #workvlog
@juulzhaarlem
184.5K likes • 1.7M views

🍻 Beer Lover's Paradise

Explore a vast selection of Jopen beers, including unique brews like the 'What about a 2nd breakfast' stout. Reddit

⛪ Admire the Architecture

Soak in the unique ambiance of a former church, complete with original stained glass windows. Instagram

#barbershop #haarlem🇳🇱 #💈✂️ #following #maak #sneel #sneel#jij #afspraak 🤛🏻
@barbershophaarlem
73.9K likes • 3.9M views
Wéér een propvolle DailyRun Social Run. En we zijn pas net in de stad. 🙌 Samen met Jopen en Craft Beer Run vierden we wat Haarlem zo sterk maakt: kwaliteit, ambacht en lokale trots. Voor ons als DailyRun voelt het bijzonder om samen te werken met zo’n iconisch Haarlems merk — hardlopen, bier en community, precies zoals het hoort. Dank aan iedereen die meeliep, meegenoot en meebierde ❤️ 👉 Kom g...
dailyrunhaarlem
36 likes • 1K views

🍟 Don't Skip the Fries

Many visitors rave about the thick, delicious potato fries – a perfect accompaniment to your beer. Instagram

🍽️ Group Friendly Dining

A good spot for groups, especially on Mondays when other places might be closed. Reddit

But that’s exactly what you can do at this brewery in The Netherlands! Jopenkerk Brewery is located in Haarlem, about 30 minutes outside of Amsterdam and you can enjoy not only beers but even stay for a snack or full meal at their restaurant. The church was transformed into a brewery back in 2010 but the Jopen brand dates back to the 1400s! In our most recent vlog, we wanted to find out if Haa...
nateandkatrina
167 likes • 16.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🍻 Beer Lover's Paradise

Explore a vast selection of Jopen beers, including unique brews like the 'What about a 2nd breakfast' stout. Reddit

⛪ Admire the Architecture

Soak in the unique ambiance of a former church, complete with original stained glass windows. Instagram

🍟 Don't Skip the Fries

Many visitors rave about the thick, delicious potato fries – a perfect accompaniment to your beer. Instagram

🍽️ Group Friendly Dining

A good spot for groups, especially on Mondays when other places might be closed. Reddit

🛍️ Grab Some Merch

Check out the shop for merchandise, including limited edition festival shirts. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Jopenkerk Haarlem is widely praised for its unique atmosphere within a former church, extensive craft beer selection, and good food. Visitors love the blend of history and modern brewery culture. Some find it a bit pricey, and vegan food options could be improved, but overall it's considered a must-visit for its distinctive charm and quality offerings.

"This place oozes Cool! Located in a former church maintains stained glass windows, plenty of brews to keep you comin’, food, entertainment and lots more. Down side? A bit pricey.. never had me a fancier G&T with all the frills! My partner got a flight with recommendations. Must visit at least once."

Lisa Young

"Nice brewery in old church. Downstairs you can get your own seats and order with QR code at the table or can just order with staffs. Upstairs is shop for merchandise and beer. Also has Brasserie that you can eat and drink there too.
Food were simple, beer were nice and fresh. Good place to hang out."

onsiri netisak

"A fantastic place to go for a beer. Loads of choice, beer on draft and also in bottles and cans. Draft beer is sold in 15, 25 and 50Cl. The "What about a 2nd breakfast" was especially lovely, rich, dark coffee/liquorice flavoured 11%ABV stout, beers are brewed in the repurposed church. This is well worth a visit."

matthew foulger

What People Like

Unique church setting
Great beer selection
Vibrant atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be pricey
Limited vegan options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Jopenkerk Haarlem is located in Haarlem, about a 30-minute train ride from Amsterdam. Trains run frequently from Amsterdam Centraal to Haarlem Station. From the station, it's a pleasant walk or a short bus ride to the city center where Jopenkerk is situated. Instagram

Yes, Haarlem city center is well-served by public transport. Jopenkerk is within walking distance of many bus routes and the train station, making it easy to reach. Reddit

There are several parking garages in Haarlem city center, such as the Stationspark or De Raaks parking garage, which are a short walk from Jopenkerk. Street parking is also available but can be limited and more expensive. TikTok

Absolutely! Jopenkerk Haarlem is a fantastic destination for a day trip from Amsterdam. You can easily combine a visit with exploring the charming city of Haarlem. Instagram

Many visitors enjoy walking through Haarlem's historic streets, visiting the Grote Markt, and exploring the canals before heading to Jopenkerk for a drink. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the main brewery area and restaurant is generally free. You only pay for the food and drinks you consume. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but Jopenkerk is typically open daily. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, especially for the restaurant and shop. Instagram

Yes, booking a table is recommended, especially for dinner or if you're visiting with a group. You can usually book through their website or by calling them. Reddit

The shop is part of the Jopenkerk complex and is free to enter. You can browse merchandise and purchase Jopen beers. Instagram

Jopenkerk sometimes hosts events, like the Haarlem Vinyl Festival. While formal brewery tours might not be a daily offering, the unique setting itself is a highlight. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The atmosphere is described as 'cool' and vibrant, blending the historic church setting with a lively brewery and restaurant. It's a unique place to hang out. Reddit

Yes, you can order at your table using a QR code or by interacting with the staff. The downstairs area offers seating with these options. Reddit

Jopenkerk brews its own beer and offers a wide selection, including drafts, bottles, and cans. They have around 50 different beers to choose from. Instagram+1

Yes, there are different seating areas. Downstairs is where you can order food and drinks, while upstairs often houses the shop and sometimes additional seating or event spaces. Reddit

While Jopenkerk is a brewery, they typically offer some non-alcoholic beverages. It's always a good idea to ask the staff about their current selection. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

They serve simple but good food, with popular items including thick potato fries and dishes like the Dorade. The menu aims to complement their beers. InstagramReddit

The vegan options might be limited. One reviewer found the vegan cauliflower steak dish uninspired, suggesting it might not be the best choice for strict vegans. Reddit

Some reviewers mention that it can be a bit pricey, especially for drinks like a 'fancier G&T'. However, the quality of the food and beer is generally well-regarded. Reddit

You can order snacks like fries or opt for a full meal. The menu offers a range of options to suit different appetites. Reddit

While not specifically highlighted for kids' menus, the fries and simpler dishes could be appealing. It's a good place for families to enjoy a meal together. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! The unique setting of a church converted into a brewery, with its stained glass and architecture, makes for stunning photo opportunities. Instagram+1

The main hall with the brewing equipment and stained glass windows is a prime spot. Don't forget to capture the details of the church's original features. Instagram

Drone usage might be restricted due to it being a public venue and potentially a historical building. It's best to check with the venue directly before flying a drone. Instagram

The exterior of the church building itself is impressive, and the surrounding streets of Haarlem offer charming Dutch architecture for complementary photos. Instagram

Daytime visits will allow you to capture the stained glass windows with natural light. Evenings offer a cozy, atmospheric glow from the interior lighting. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Jopenkerk Haarlem can be a fun outing for families, especially during the day. While it's a brewery, the unique church setting can be fascinating for children. The availability of fries and simpler food options makes it easier to please younger palates. Reddit

Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience. While the focus is on beer, the spacious interior and interesting architecture can keep kids engaged. It's a great spot to enjoy a meal and a drink together in a memorable location. Instagram

🍻 Beer Enthusiasts

This is your ultimate destination! Jopenkerk Haarlem offers an unparalleled selection of craft beers brewed on-site. Explore their extensive tap list, featuring everything from light Goses to rich stouts like the highly-rated 'What about a 2nd breakfast.' InstagramReddit

Take advantage of beer flights to sample a variety of their creations. The knowledgeable staff can offer recommendations, and the unique church setting elevates the tasting experience. Don't miss the opportunity to purchase bottles or cans to take home. Reddit

✈️ Day-Trippers from Amsterdam

Jopenkerk Haarlem is an ideal stop for a day trip from Amsterdam. It's easily accessible by a short train ride and offers a distinct experience from the capital. Instagram

Combine your visit with exploring the charming streets and canals of Haarlem. Enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner with a tasting of local craft beers in a truly unique setting before heading back to Amsterdam. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Transformation of Jopenkerk

Jopenkerk Haarlem is not just a brewery; it's a testament to creative reuse and historical preservation. The building itself is the former Jacobskerk (St. James' Church), a significant landmark in Haarlem. The transformation into a brewery began in 2010, breathing new life into the historic structure while respecting its heritage. The Jopen beer brand, however, has a much longer history, dating back to the 1400s, making the brewery a modern chapter in a centuries-old story of brewing in Haarlem. Instagram+1

The preservation of the church's original features is a key aspect of the Jopenkerk experience. Visitors can still admire the beautiful stained glass windows, the high ceilings, and the overall architectural grandeur of the sacred space. This unique blend of historical ambiance and modern brewery operations creates an unforgettable atmosphere, where the past and present coexist harmoniously. It's this distinctive setting that draws many visitors, offering a visual feast alongside the sensory pleasure of tasting their craft beers. Instagram+1

The success of Jopenkerk lies in its ability to offer a multi-faceted experience. Beyond just beer tasting, it functions as a restaurant, a shop for merchandise, and a venue for events like the Haarlem Vinyl Festival. This versatility makes it a dynamic hub for locals and tourists alike, ensuring there's always something happening within its historic walls. The community engagement, highlighted by collaborations like the one with DailyRun, further solidifies its place as a beloved local institution. Instagram+1

Exploring the Jopen Beer Experience

Jopenkerk Haarlem is renowned for its extensive selection of craft beers, brewed on-site. Visitors can choose from a wide variety of styles, available on tap in different sizes (15cl, 25cl, 50cl) or in bottles and cans. The brewery takes pride in its innovative brewing, with unique offerings like the 'What about a 2nd breakfast,' an 11% ABV stout with coffee and liquorice notes, which has been particularly praised. InstagramReddit

For those who want to sample multiple brews, ordering a beer flight is a popular option, allowing you to taste a curated selection based on recommendations. The staff are knowledgeable and can guide you through the diverse range of flavors. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or a casual drinker, there's likely a Jopen beer to suit your palate. Reddit

Beyond the beer itself, the Jopenkerk experience extends to its food menu, designed to complement the brews. While some vegan options have received mixed reviews, the general consensus is that the food is good, with the thick potato fries being a standout. The combination of excellent beer and satisfying food in such a unique setting makes Jopenkerk a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. InstagramReddit

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