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Smeer ’em remains your go-to spot for coffee and lunch in the P.C. Hoofthuis

Smeer ’em remains your go-to spot for coffee and lunch in the P.C. Hoofthuis

Published on 12-12-2025 15:21
Anyone coming to the PCH to study or work knows they can always rely on Smeer ’em for fresh coffee, fresh sandwiches and a friendly chat. And that will remain the case, even now that the University Library has moved. 
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The number of visitors to the PCH has decreased since the relocation of the University Library. Smeer ’em has adjusted its operations and continues to serve the regular students and staff of the faculty. From January, entrepreneur Ricardo will take a step back and Linda will run the place independently. With Linda, a familiar face remains, along with her commitment to making it a warm and welcoming spot:

“I want everyone to feel welcome in my place. Please come and speak to me, have a chat. We have many international students here who sometimes ask questions about housing or insurance, and occasionally someone comes in feeling sad or homesick. I try to help them, offer a shoulder or a listening ear. That is what makes this work so valuable to me.”

Alongside taking good care of her customers, she is also committed to reducing food waste as much as possible. For example, she uses leftover grilled vegetables from the hummus to make a Spanish tortilla, and turns small pieces of tomato into a delicious chutney.

Lin’s tip: come and try the favourites!

In addition to fresh coffee, tea and a variety of fresh sandwiches, Smeer ’em also offers paninis, soup (a daily surprise) and a selection of sweet treats. A favourite of both Linda and many customers is the pita with vegan falafel: “It’s amazing! It comes from the oven, not the fryer and is gluten free.” The Tuna Melt also remains, in her view, unbeatable: a truly filling lunch.

Fun fact: in the latest UvA survey, the coffee at Smeer ’em was frequently mentioned as a favourite. Customers even described it as ‘perfect’. A lovely compliment for Smeer ’em and the small Dutch brand that Linda uses.

Opening hours 

Mon, Tue, Thu: 09.00 – 16.00
Wed, Fri: 09.00 – 14.00             
During exam weeks: 10.00 – 14.00
Week without teaching after the exam week: closed

In short: Smeer ’em is here to stay for now and Linda is ready to welcome all students and staff of the faculty. Feel free to drop by for coffee, lunch or a friendly chat.