Smokey

Smokey is one of those old-school coffee shops where regulars, students and the odd tourist end up chatting over a quick break. It sits by Spui, so trams rumble past and there's a steady stream of people from nearby faculties and the shops. The street leans studenty rather than touristy — bookshops and small cafés cluster nearby and you’ll hear snippets of Dutch and English. Inside, it’s low-key rather than flashy; people come for a quick purchase or to linger with a paper. On sunny days the windows open and you can watch the city move by from a stool. The place keeps things straightforward and unpretentious, no fuss. Handy if you want something before heading to the Binnenhof, a lecture, or a gallery. If you’re learning your way around Den Haag, Smokey gives a proper local feel.