Annabel

Note: Annabel in the summer and Annabel in the winter are two completely different experiences. In the winter, you’re going to Annabel to drink and dance in a club. In the summer, Annabel transforms into a beer garden where everyone drinks and talks. I’ve been to both. Club Annabel is a nice club, nothing too special. In this review, I’m talking about Annabel in the summer.
I’ve been here a few times now, feeling compelled to write about it. The name is quite clever because when people talk about the place the name Annabel gives it a familiar, informal vibe.
Because Annabel is one of the only beer gardens in Rotterdam in the summer, this place is heavily crowded on warm days. On a good summer night, being able to sit outside with a cold drink in your hand is amazing (no matter where you are).
Other than providing places to sit outside, an okay house DJ (maybe I’m wrong and I just had bad luck on the few times I’ve been here, but with the great artists coming to Rotterdam I’m spoiled), the drinks are quite expensive. Think 3,50 euro for a beer, over 4 euros for anything else. Of course, you’re not paying for just the drink, you’re paying rent for a seat and a chance to sit outside. Still, I have a feeling Annabel could be more than what it is now on regular evenings.
All in all a good place to meet up with friends, but as with most of the nightlife in Northwest-​Europe, don’t arrive sober unless you don’t mind paying through the nose to drink.

Looking for a little for a lot? In the business of paying € 3.50 to piss out that royal urine? Like to get strip searched on your way into the club? Well then Annabel is the place for you. If I could give half a start I would. I have been to many a club and have had many a dance but I must say this was my least enjoyable. I have only ever felt moved enough to write a review once before and that was for the most godly and tastefully garnished kebab to have ever touched my royal lips. And now here I am. When i asked for a glass of tap water the barkeep refused and when i asked why she leaned in close to me and whispered «this is the season», carved a pentagram into the beer mat and then no one would acknowledge i was there? ²⁄₁₀ would not bang Annabel again.