What you need to know about Delft coffeeshops

Rules

Contrary to popular belief, selling cannabis is not legal in the Netherlands. However, retail sales in so-called coffeeshops are tolerated so long as they stick to the rules. What are the coffeeshop rules?

1. No “hard drugs” like heroin, cocaine, ecstasy and amphetamines.
2. No causing a nuisance in the neighbourhood.
3. They may not sell their products to minors.
4. No sales of more than five grams at a time.
5. No advertising.

Being in possession of five grams or less is not policed. As a result of the tolerance, cannabis is readily available and reasonably priced. There are four coffeeshops in Delft to choose from:

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  The Game

As well as selling weed and hash, The Game also offers space to sit and smoke it, and serves drinks and snacks too. When you enter there’s one counter with a glass window for quick purchases, with the menu displayed on a screen. The door to the café behind is to the left of the counter. It’s generally pretty busy with locals. “This place is efficient and organised with very friendly and helpful staff. You can also PIN which is handy,” said John Smith*, a coffeeshop regular.

Address: Breestraat 30

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  The Future

“It’s very professional, like visiting the bank. Glass protects the staff and you pass money via a tray. There are always two people serving. It’s strictly buy and fly here, there’s no seating or drinks. It’s quieter and therefore service is faster than at The Game. A big advantage is the snack bar next door,” said Smith. With the same management as The Game, they’re pretty similar. “White widow is the most popular item on our menu,” said Jane Smith*, “but you must live here in the Netherlands to buy anything.” So be prepared to prove it if asked.

Address: Peperstraat 8

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  De Vlouw

For those for whom discretion is important, this coffeeshop is in the centre of town but on a quiet side street. There’s a themed interior in keeping with its name, including painted palm trees on the wall. “There’s a bar, but not one that sells alcohol. The menu changes regularly, and the staff are helpful and happy to make recommendations. There are plenty of tables and chairs where you can sit and smoke your joint, with room to move around,” said Bob Jones*, another regular cannabis user. The pool tables, pinball and slot machines guarantee some extra fun. Free table games like backgammon will keep you occupied too.

Address: De Vlouw 48

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  De Boeddha

“It’s a small but cozy coffeeshop. You can buy coffee or tea at the bar and there are a few tables where you can sit. They sell weed and hash, including their house weed Boeddha XL. They’re strict on checking ID if you look underage. I think they’re a bit cheaper than De Vlouw,” said Jones. Accessories like pipes and vaporisers are also available.

Address: Achterom 19A

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  Alternative

Delft based company E-njoint introduced their electronic joint in 2014 which they claim is 100% legal. They contain no nicotine, tar, toxins or THC (the chemical responsible for most of the psychological effects of cannabis) but instead contain a liquid made from propylene glycol, vegetarian glycerine and a biological flavour that is then vaporised. Products include the disposable cannabis and shisha flavoured electronic joints, and the mood changers.

Above all else: be careful using drugs!

*Due to the nature of this article, the participant’s names have been changed at their request.

This is an updated version of a previous Delft Survival Guide article.