Bimhuis

No longer in the traditional Dutch Canal House it began in, this landmark in Dutch Jazz music began in 1974, organized by the Dutch Jazz Foundation and the union of improvising musicians, BIM. They convinced the Dutch government to provide grants for improvised music which led to the establishment of the Bimhuis. Such jazz legends as Charles Mingus, Max Roach, Dexter Gordon, Sun Ra, Art Blakey all played here. More than a hundred LP’s and CD’s have come out of sessions at the Bimhuis.

Moved to a new place recently, now a striking black box, part of the Muziekgebouw complex, a great new home to this veteran venue for jazz concerts.

De Engelbewaarder

de Engelbewarder (The Guardian Angel) Jazz Club and Bar

The name of this bar/cafe means “Guardian Angel”. Popular with the literati since the 70s it now serves up food and cool jazz music (on Sunday) to compliment the booze. The menu offers a good choice of items including appetizers like deep-fried calamari (recommended) and cheese fondue.

The canalside seating in nice weather is very popular, although you can’t really hear the music well from outside. Inside it’s usually very crowded, standing room only, and very smoky, especially on Sundays.
Good mix of people, Dutch regulars, expats, and some tourists. Sunday is the most popular day when jazz musicians jam from around 4pm to 7pm.