What to Order at an
Amsterdam Coffeeshop

The Two Main Sides of the Menu: Weed and Hash

Almost every coffeeshop menu is split into two families.

Weed (also called flower or bud) is the dried flower of the cannabis plant. It is the green, leafy option most people picture, and it is what you will usually roll into a joint or use in a pipe or vaporiser.

Hash is made from the resin of the same plant, pressed into a firmer block. It tends to be smoother and more traditional, and it has been part of Dutch coffeeshop culture for decades. You will often see imported types (Moroccan hash is a classic) alongside locally made ones. Hash is usually a little stronger by weight than flower, so a small amount goes a long way.

Both are sold by the gram, and you will see a price per gram on the menu. If you are not sure which suits you, this is exactly the kind of thing the staff are there to help with.

Making Sense of the Weed Side

You will often see strains grouped as indica, sativa, or hybrid. As a rough guide, indica is described as more relaxing and body-heavy, sativa as more uplifting and heady, and hybrids as a blend of the two. Keep in mind this is a loose shorthand rather than an exact science, and the effect varies from person to person.

Strain names (things like "Amnesia" or "White Widow") simply refer to different varieties, each with its own aroma, flavour and strength. If a menu lists THC percentages, that is a measure of potency. A quick heads-up worth knowing: Dutch cannabis is often stronger than visitors expect, which is why first-timers sometimes overdo it. We wrote a whole piece on that in How Strong Is Amsterdam Weed Compared to US Cannabis?, and the short version is simple: start small.

Making Sense of the Hash Side

Hash ranges from softer, pliable types to firmer blocks, and from imported classics to local specialities. The differences come down to how and where it is made, which affects the texture, flavour and strength. If you have only ever tried flower, hash is worth asking about, just go gently, as it is easy to underestimate.

Pre-Rolled Joints, and the "Pure" Question

If you would rather not roll your own, many coffeeshops sell pre-rolled joints, which are the easiest option for a first visit.

Here is the one tip that saves visitors the most surprises: in the Netherlands, joints are traditionally rolled with tobacco mixed in. If you would prefer yours without tobacco, simply ask for it "pure." At Carmona there is also free herbal mix on every table as a tobacco-free alternative, so you are never stuck.

What About Edibles?

Some shops offer edibles, such as space cakes. They can be enjoyable, but they behave very differently from smoking: the effect can take up to two hours to arrive, and it tends to be stronger and longer-lasting. The classic mistake is having more because "nothing is happening yet." Take a small amount, wait properly, and give it time.

How Much Should You Buy?

Not much. The tolerated limit is 5 grams per person, per day, but you rarely need anywhere near that. A gram or two is plenty to enjoy, especially if you are still getting a feel for the strength. You can always come back.

The Easiest Way to Choose: Just Ask

If you take one thing from this guide, let it be this. You do not need to memorise strains or decode the menu on your own. Tell the person behind the counter that it is your first time, roughly what you are after (something relaxing, something social, something mild), and they will point you to a good match. A good coffeeshop does this all day and is happy to help.

That is the heart of how we do things at Carmona. Our staff take the time to listen and help you find something that fits, with no pressure and no rush, and our live menu is checked daily for quality. You will find us on the Tweede Jan van der Heijdenstraat in De Pijp, open every day from 9:00 until 01:00, a calm and welcoming place to take your time and get it right.

New here? It is also worth a quick read of the Amsterdam coffeeshop rules and our first-timer's guide before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between weed and hash?

Weed is the dried flower of the cannabis plant; hash is made from its pressed resin. Hash is usually smoother and a little stronger by weight, so you need less of it.

Which is stronger, hash or weed?

It varies by product, but hash is generally more potent gram for gram. Whichever you choose, start with a small amount.

What does ordering it "pure" mean?

It means without tobacco. Dutch joints are often rolled with tobacco mixed in, so ask for "pure" if you would like yours without it.

How much cannabis can I buy?

Up to 5 grams per person, per day. In practice, a gram or two is usually plenty.

How long do edibles take to work?

Up to about two hours. They are stronger and last longer than smoking, so take a little and wait before having more.

I do not know what to choose. What should I do?

Just ask the staff. Tell them it is your first time and what kind of experience you want, and they will recommend something that suits you.