The Rough Guide To Amsterdam Part 9

[image]Wildschut Roelof Hartplein 1. Five-minute walk from the Concertgebouw. Just around the corner from the Roelof Hartplein 1. Five-minute walk from the Concertgebouw. Just around the corner from the College Hotel College Hotel, this busy bar-cafe is famous for its congenial, s.p.a.cious Art Deco interior and outdoor seating in summer. By far the nicest place to drink in the area, with a decent menu too.

Eating and drinking Bars Bars The outer districts Bazar Albert Cuypstraat 182. This cavernous converted synagogue is usually buzzing with activity long after the market traders have packed up. A lively place to share a bottle of wine or eat dinner; choose from the Middle Eastern- and South African-influenced menu. MonFri 11am1/2am, Sat & Sun 9ammidnight/2am. Albert Cuypstraat 182. This cavernous converted synagogue is usually buzzing with activity long after the market traders have packed up. A lively place to share a bottle of wine or eat dinner; choose from the Middle Eastern- and South African-influenced menu. MonFri 11am1/2am, Sat & Sun 9ammidnight/2am.

Cafe Krull Sarphatipark 2. On the corner of 1e van der Helststraat, a few metres from the Albert Cuypstraat, this is an atmospheric and lively place. Drinks and snacks all day long from 11am. Sarphatipark 2. On the corner of 1e van der Helststraat, a few metres from the Albert Cuypstraat, this is an atmospheric and lively place. Drinks and snacks all day long from 11am.

Chocolate Bar 1e Van der Helststraat 62a. Cool, disco-inspired cafe-bar that's open for tasty food and c.o.c.ktails at any time of the day. Perch at the bar on leather stools or lounge in the cosy room out back. It's a shame, though, that the service can be somewhat lackadaisical. MonThurs 10am1am, Fri & Sat 10am3am, Sun 11am1am. 1e Van der Helststraat 62a. Cool, disco-inspired cafe-bar that's open for tasty food and c.o.c.ktails at any time of the day. Perch at the bar on leather stools or lounge in the cosy room out back. It's a shame, though, that the service can be somewhat lackadaisical. MonThurs 10am1am, Fri & Sat 10am3am, Sun 11am1am.

East of Eden Linnaeusstraat 11. See map " Linnaeusstraat 11. See map "Amsterdam Oost". A wonderfully relaxed cafe-bar across the road from the Tropenmuseum the Tropenmuseum, providing inexpensive food and good c.o.c.ktails. There's an appealing combination of high-ceilinged splendour and gently waving palm trees with James Dean pictures thrown in to boot. A good place to spend a sunny afternoon.

De Groene Vlinder Albert Cuypstraat 130. There are great views of the bustling market from this pleasant split-level cafe, with cheap daily specials and bulky salads. Daily 10am1am (Fri & Sat till 3am). Albert Cuypstraat 130. There are great views of the bustling market from this pleasant split-level cafe, with cheap daily specials and bulky salads. Daily 10am1am (Fri & Sat till 3am).

Kingfisher Ferdinand Bolstraat 24. A nice neighbourhood cafe that's good for lunch or just a drink if you want to continue imbibing after Ferdinand Bolstraat 24. A nice neighbourhood cafe that's good for lunch or just a drink if you want to continue imbibing after the Heineken Experience the Heineken Experience it's right around the corner. MonThurs 11am1am, Fri & Sat 11am3am, Sun noon1am. it's right around the corner. MonThurs 11am1am, Fri & Sat 11am3am, Sun noon1am.

Pilsvogel Gerard Douplein 14. A favourite drinking spot for style-conscious thirty-somethings enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and decent tapas, as well as the good selection of Spanish wines. Daily 10am1am (Fri & Sat till 3am). Gerard Douplein 14. A favourite drinking spot for style-conscious thirty-somethings enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and decent tapas, as well as the good selection of Spanish wines. Daily 10am1am (Fri & Sat till 3am).

Eating and drinking Cafes and tearooms Amsterdam has plenty of cafes and tearooms cafes and tearooms, serving good coffee, sandwiches, light snacks and cakes at very affordable prices throughout the day. Some may serve alcohol but you wouldn't cla.s.s them as bars. Usual opening hours are 9am or 10am to 5pm or 6pm; some are closed on Sundays.

Eating and drinking Cafes and tearooms Cafes and tearooms Old Centre [image]De Bakkerswinkel Warmoesstraat 69. Part of an immensely popular chain where you can expect to queue up for a table at lunchtime. Mouth-watering scones with lemon curd and jam, m.u.f.fins and home-made pies. TuesSat 8am6pm, Sun 10am4pm. Other branches at Roelof Hartstraat in the Old South and at the Westergasfabriek complex. Warmoesstraat 69. Part of an immensely popular chain where you can expect to queue up for a table at lunchtime. Mouth-watering scones with lemon curd and jam, m.u.f.fins and home-made pies. TuesSat 8am6pm, Sun 10am4pm. Other branches at Roelof Hartstraat in the Old South and at the Westergasfabriek complex.

Cafe Beurs van Berlage Beursplein 1. The best chance to glimpse the interior of Beursplein 1. The best chance to glimpse the interior of the Beurs the Beurs, and an elegantly furnished place for coffee or lunch. There are tables outside too. MonSat 10am6pm, Sun 11am6pm.

Cafe Esprit Spui 10. Attached to the chain clothes shop, this is a swish, modern cafe, with wonderful sandwiches and rolls and superb salads. MonFri & Sun 10am6pm (Thurs till 8pm), Sat 10am7pm. Spui 10. Attached to the chain clothes shop, this is a swish, modern cafe, with wonderful sandwiches and rolls and superb salads. MonFri & Sun 10am6pm (Thurs till 8pm), Sat 10am7pm.

Hofje van Wijs Zeedijk 43. A hidden treasure, this eighteenth-century courtyard sells Indonesian coffee and countless different tea blends. The home-made delicacies are mainly made with organic ingredients. Tues & Wed noon6pm, Thurs 10am10.30pm, Fri & Sat 9am10.30pm, Sun 10am7pm. Zeedijk 43. A hidden treasure, this eighteenth-century courtyard sells Indonesian coffee and countless different tea blends. The home-made delicacies are mainly made with organic ingredients. Tues & Wed noon6pm, Thurs 10am10.30pm, Fri & Sat 9am10.30pm, Sun 10am7pm.

De Jaren Nieuwe Doelenstraat 20. One of the grandest of the grand cafes, overlooking the Amstel next to the university, with three floors, two terraces and a cool, light feel. A great place to read the Sunday paper unusually, you'll find English ones here. Reasonably priced food too, and a great salad bar. There are sandwiches and snacks downstairs and a full restaurant upstairs. Daily 10am1am (Fri & Sat till 2am). Nieuwe Doelenstraat 20. One of the grandest of the grand cafes, overlooking the Amstel next to the university, with three floors, two terraces and a cool, light feel. A great place to read the Sunday paper unusually, you'll find English ones here. Reasonably priced food too, and a great salad bar. There are sandwiches and snacks downstairs and a full restaurant upstairs. Daily 10am1am (Fri & Sat till 2am).

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De Jaren Latei Zeedijk 143. Homely shop and cafe selling bric-a-brac as well as serving good coffee and decent lunches. Quite a find if you fancy something different from the Chinese restaurants that dominate this end of Zeedijk. MonWed 8am6pm, Thurs & Fri 8am10pm, Sat 9am10pm, Sun 11am6pm. Zeedijk 143. Homely shop and cafe selling bric-a-brac as well as serving good coffee and decent lunches. Quite a find if you fancy something different from the Chinese restaurants that dominate this end of Zeedijk. MonWed 8am6pm, Thurs & Fri 8am10pm, Sat 9am10pm, Sun 11am6pm.

Luxembourg Spui 22. The prime watering hole for Amsterdam's advertising and media brigade, this is a long, deep cafe-bar with a pleasant pavement terrace and an elegant, if faded, area at the back overlooking the Singel. Competent, reasonably priced bar food and possibly the best hamburgers in town. Very popular. Daily 9am1am (Fri & Sat till 2am). Spui 22. The prime watering hole for Amsterdam's advertising and media brigade, this is a long, deep cafe-bar with a pleasant pavement terrace and an elegant, if faded, area at the back overlooking the Singel. Competent, reasonably priced bar food and possibly the best hamburgers in town. Very popular. Daily 9am1am (Fri & Sat till 2am).

't Nieuwe Kafe Eggerstraat 8. Adjoining the Nieuwe Kerk, this straightforward, modern cafe is popular with shoppers and tourists, serving good, reasonably priced breakfasts, lunches, light meals and great pancakes too, plus mountainous sundaes and ice creams. Daily 8am6pm. Eggerstraat 8. Adjoining the Nieuwe Kerk, this straightforward, modern cafe is popular with shoppers and tourists, serving good, reasonably priced breakfasts, lunches, light meals and great pancakes too, plus mountainous sundaes and ice creams. Daily 8am6pm.

Puccini Staalstraat 21. This lovely cafe serves great salads, sandwiches, cakes and pastries, a few doors down from its sister chocolate shop (see " Staalstraat 21. This lovely cafe serves great salads, sandwiches, cakes and pastries, a few doors down from its sister chocolate shop (see "Bread, pastries, chocolates, sweets and ice cream"). MonFri 8.30am6pm, Sat & Sun 10am6pm.

Restaurant 1e Klas Platform 2b, CS. Located in Centraal Station, this is more of a fully fledged restaurant than a cafe, with a sumptuous turn-of-the-twentieth-century interior and a solid menu of omelettes, sandwiches or more substantial meat and fish offerings at lunchtime. Certainly the best option in the station's immediate vicinity. Daily 8.30am11pm. Platform 2b, CS. Located in Centraal Station, this is more of a fully fledged restaurant than a cafe, with a sumptuous turn-of-the-twentieth-century interior and a solid menu of omelettes, sandwiches or more substantial meat and fish offerings at lunchtime. Certainly the best option in the station's immediate vicinity. Daily 8.30am11pm.

Staalmeesters Kloveniersburgwal 127. Cosy, if slightly cramped, cafe, with wooden tables and a large replica of Rembrandt's Kloveniersburgwal 127. Cosy, if slightly cramped, cafe, with wooden tables and a large replica of Rembrandt's The Syndics of the Clothmaker's Guild The Syndics of the Clothmaker's Guild on the wall. Breakfast until 4.30pm for the genuine night crawler and a small selection of c.o.c.ktails. The on the wall. Breakfast until 4.30pm for the genuine night crawler and a small selection of c.o.c.ktails. The frites frites are served in paper cones. Daily 10am10.30pm. are served in paper cones. Daily 10am10.30pm.

Tisfris St Antoniesbreestraat 142. Colourful, split-level cafe and bar metres from the Rembrandthuis and minutes from Waterlooplein. Youthful and popular, with hot rolls, sandwiches, salads and so forth. Daily 9am7pm. St Antoniesbreestraat 142. Colourful, split-level cafe and bar metres from the Rembrandthuis and minutes from Waterlooplein. Youthful and popular, with hot rolls, sandwiches, salads and so forth. Daily 9am7pm.

Villa Zeezicht Torensteeg 7. Small and central, this pastel-coloured cafe serves excellent rolls and sandwiches, plus some of the freshest apple cake in the city. Daily 8am9pm. Torensteeg 7. Small and central, this pastel-coloured cafe serves excellent rolls and sandwiches, plus some of the freshest apple cake in the city. Daily 8am9pm.

Vlaamse Friethuis Voetboogstraat 33. This hole-in-the-wall takeaway has a long-established and pretty much undisputed reputation for serving the best Voetboogstraat 33. This hole-in-the-wall takeaway has a long-established and pretty much undisputed reputation for serving the best frites frites in town. Mon & Sun noon6pm, TuesSat 11am6pm. in town. Mon & Sun noon6pm, TuesSat 11am6pm.

Eating and drinking Cafes and tearooms Cafes and tearooms Grachtengordel west Buffet van Odette & Yvette Herengracht 309. Neat little place decorated in attractive, modern style and serving tasty snacks and light meals, from home-made quiches, soups and pastas through to fruit tarts; cheese omelettes are the house speciality. Mon & WedFri 8.30am4.30pm, Sat 10am5.30pm. Herengracht 309. Neat little place decorated in attractive, modern style and serving tasty snacks and light meals, from home-made quiches, soups and pastas through to fruit tarts; cheese omelettes are the house speciality. Mon & WedFri 8.30am4.30pm, Sat 10am5.30pm.

Greenwood's Singel 103. Pocket-sized cafe serving up a tasty line in salads, omelettes and cakes. Look out for the daily specials and order an English-style pot of tea. MonThurs 9.30am6pm, FriSun till 7pm. Singel 103. Pocket-sized cafe serving up a tasty line in salads, omelettes and cakes. Look out for the daily specials and order an English-style pot of tea. MonThurs 9.30am6pm, FriSun till 7pm.

Lunchcafe Winkel Noordermarkt 43. Queue up along with the rest of Amsterdam (or so it seems) for mouth-watering, chunky apple-pie, home-made in the bas.e.m.e.nt of this sober but agreeable lunchroom-c.u.m-restaurant. Great coffee and fresh mint tea to go with it. Mon 7am1am, TuesThurs 8am1am, Fri 8am3am, Sat 7am3am, Sun 10am1am. Noordermarkt 43. Queue up along with the rest of Amsterdam (or so it seems) for mouth-watering, chunky apple-pie, home-made in the bas.e.m.e.nt of this sober but agreeable lunchroom-c.u.m-restaurant. Great coffee and fresh mint tea to go with it. Mon 7am1am, TuesThurs 8am1am, Fri 8am3am, Sat 7am3am, Sun 10am1am.

[image]Pompadour Patisserie Huidenstraat 12. This patisserie sells fifty different sorts of bonbon as well as a mouthwatering selection of cakes and candied fruits take out or eat in. MonFri 10am6pm, Sat 9am5pm. Huidenstraat 12. This patisserie sells fifty different sorts of bonbon as well as a mouthwatering selection of cakes and candied fruits take out or eat in. MonFri 10am6pm, Sat 9am5pm.

Spanjer & van Twist Leliegracht 60. Hip cafe-bar with an arty air and brisk modern fittings. Tasty snacks and light meals plus an outdoor terrace right on the ca.n.a.l. Lunch served daily 10am4pm, evening meals from 6pm. Leliegracht 60. Hip cafe-bar with an arty air and brisk modern fittings. Tasty snacks and light meals plus an outdoor terrace right on the ca.n.a.l. Lunch served daily 10am4pm, evening meals from 6pm.

Van Harte Hartenstraat 24. Crowded and cheerful spot for lunch, dinner and drinks with tasty sandwiches, a large tea selection, home-made pies and bonbons from Hartenstraat 24. Crowded and cheerful spot for lunch, dinner and drinks with tasty sandwiches, a large tea selection, home-made pies and bonbons from Pompadour Pompadour. The Mediterranean-inspired mains go for around 18. Mon 10am5.30pm, TuesSat 10ammidnight, Sun 11am7pm.

Eating and drinking Cafes and tearooms Cafes and tearooms Grachtengordel south Bagels & Beans Keizersgracht 504. Bagel specialists, with all sorts of imaginative fillings, attracting a young clientele; their version of strawberries and cream cheese is a big favourite in the summer. The "Beans" part of the name refers to the coffee you can have with your bagel. There are also several other branches, including one in De Pijp (see " Keizersgracht 504. Bagel specialists, with all sorts of imaginative fillings, attracting a young clientele; their version of strawberries and cream cheese is a big favourite in the summer. The "Beans" part of the name refers to the coffee you can have with your bagel. There are also several other branches, including one in De Pijp (see "The outer districts"). This one is open MonFri 9am5.30pm, Sat & Sun 10am6pm.

Cafe Americain American Hotel, Leidseplein 28. There was a time when this cafe was the trendiest spot in the city, attracting at one time or another artists, poets and TV folk. Nowadays, things are much more routine, even canteen-like, but the fanciful Art Nouveau decor, coordinated down to the doork.n.o.bs, has survived intact and makes a visit worthwhile(ish). Daily 7am10pm. American Hotel, Leidseplein 28. There was a time when this cafe was the trendiest spot in the city, attracting at one time or another artists, poets and TV folk. Nowadays, things are much more routine, even canteen-like, but the fanciful Art Nouveau decor, coordinated down to the doork.n.o.bs, has survived intact and makes a visit worthwhile(ish). Daily 7am10pm.

[image]Metz Leidsestraat 34. Pleasantly appointed cafe on the top floor of the Metz department store, offering panoramic views over the city centre. Asian food is the big deal here, but there are also salads and sandwiches; mains average 11. Mon 11am6pm, TuesSat 9.30am6pm & Sun noon5pm. Leidsestraat 34. Pleasantly appointed cafe on the top floor of the Metz department store, offering panoramic views over the city centre. Asian food is the big deal here, but there are also salads and sandwiches; mains average 11. Mon 11am6pm, TuesSat 9.30am6pm & Sun noon5pm.

Panini Vijzelgracht 3. Formica may be a thing of the past almost everywhere else, but not here, giving this split-level, Italian cafe-c.u.m-restaurant a vaguely beatnik air. Great coffee, sandwiches, pastas and snacks during the day; reasonably priced meat, fish and pasta dishes at night. MonSat 9.30am11pm, Sun 11.30am11pm. Vijzelgracht 3. Formica may be a thing of the past almost everywhere else, but not here, giving this split-level, Italian cafe-c.u.m-restaurant a vaguely beatnik air. Great coffee, sandwiches, pastas and snacks during the day; reasonably priced meat, fish and pasta dishes at night. MonSat 9.30am11pm, Sun 11.30am11pm.

Stacey's Pennywell Herengracht 558 020/624 4111. Very stylish split-level cafe with a tile-covered bar, bra.s.sy chandeliers and comfortable lounge sofas. Inventive sandwiches make up the lunch menu; the small but well-balanced dinner menu offers main dishes like Ostrich steak or rack of lamb for around 18. Mon 9am5pm, TuesSat 9.30am10.30pm, Sun 9.30am10.30pm. Herengracht 558 020/624 4111. Very stylish split-level cafe with a tile-covered bar, bra.s.sy chandeliers and comfortable lounge sofas. Inventive sandwiches make up the lunch menu; the small but well-balanced dinner menu offers main dishes like Ostrich steak or rack of lamb for around 18. Mon 9am5pm, TuesSat 9.30am10.30pm, Sun 9.30am10.30pm.

Eating and drinking Cafes and tearooms Cafes and tearooms The Jordaan and Western docklands Arnold Cornelis Elandsgracht 78. Long-established confectioner and patisserie with a mouthwatering display of pastries and cakes. Take away or eat in the snug tearoom out back. MonFri 8.30am6pm, Sat 8.30am5pm. Elandsgracht 78. Long-established confectioner and patisserie with a mouthwatering display of pastries and cakes. Take away or eat in the snug tearoom out back. MonFri 8.30am6pm, Sat 8.30am5pm.

Festina Lente Looiersgracht 40b. Relaxed, neighbourhood cafe-bar with mismatched furniture and armchairs to laze in. The outside tables overlooking the ca.n.a.l are a suntrap in the summer when the locals come out to relax with friends for the afternoon; inside is cosy in the winter, and has a good selection of board games. As for the cons: service at the weekend can be slow. Mon noon1am, TuesFri 10.30am1/3am, Sat 11am3am, Sun noon1am. Looiersgracht 40b. Relaxed, neighbourhood cafe-bar with mismatched furniture and armchairs to laze in. The outside tables overlooking the ca.n.a.l are a suntrap in the summer when the locals come out to relax with friends for the afternoon; inside is cosy in the winter, and has a good selection of board games. As for the cons: service at the weekend can be slow. Mon noon1am, TuesFri 10.30am1/3am, Sat 11am3am, Sun noon1am.

Il Tramezzino Haarlemmerstraat 79. Richly filled sandwiches (2.95) according to the old Venetian recipe, to be washed down with a superb espresso, ristretto or cappuccino in an up-to-the-minute setting. Mon & TuesSat 9am6pm, Sun 9.30am5pm. Haarlemmerstraat 79. Richly filled sandwiches (2.95) according to the old Venetian recipe, to be washed down with a superb espresso, ristretto or cappuccino in an up-to-the-minute setting. Mon & TuesSat 9am6pm, Sun 9.30am5pm.

Eating and drinking Cafes and tearooms Cafes and tearooms The Old Jewish Quarter and Eastern docklands Blijburg aan Zee Bert Haanstrakade 2004 Bert Haanstrakade 2004 www.blijburg.nl. Last stop of tram #26 from CS. Amsterdam's city beach itself, situated on the IJsselmeer, might be something of a disappointment, but Blijburg aan Zee Blijburg aan Zee is very happening, with DJs in summer and live music in winter. Opening hours vary according to weather conditions. is very happening, with DJs in summer and live music in winter. Opening hours vary according to weather conditions.

De Hortus Plantage Middenlaan 2a. The pleasant cafe in the orangery of the Plantage Middenlaan 2a. The pleasant cafe in the orangery of the Hortus Botanicus Hortus Botanicus serves a good range of tasty sandwiches and rolls plus the best blueberry cheesecake in the Western world. Unfortunately, you do have to pay entry for the gardens (7) to get to the cafe. MonFri 9am5pm, Sat & Sun 10am5pm; Dec & Jan till 4pm; July & Aug till 7pm. serves a good range of tasty sandwiches and rolls plus the best blueberry cheesecake in the Western world. Unfortunately, you do have to pay entry for the gardens (7) to get to the cafe. MonFri 9am5pm, Sat & Sun 10am5pm; Dec & Jan till 4pm; July & Aug till 7pm.

Kadijk Kadijksplein 6. Tiny split-level place which contrary to what the homely interior with Delft blue crockery might suggest has an excellent Indonesian-inspired menu. Tasty Kadijksplein 6. Tiny split-level place which contrary to what the homely interior with Delft blue crockery might suggest has an excellent Indonesian-inspired menu. Tasty sate sate, soto ajam soto ajam and traditional Indonesian and traditional Indonesian spekkoek spekkoek (spiced cake) served with the coffee. Daily noon10pm, Sat & Sun from 1pm. (spiced cake) served with the coffee. Daily noon10pm, Sat & Sun from 1pm.

Eating and drinking Cafes and tearooms Cafes and tearooms The Museum Quarter and Vondelpark 't Blauwe Theehuis Vondelpark 5. These days this is a slightly shabby tearoom/cafe/bar in the middle of the Vondelpark, but its building dates from the De Stijl period. Downstairs it's a regular self-service park cafe; upstairs it's a pleasant, circular bar that hosts DJs on Friday and Sat.u.r.day nights. AprilSept daily 9am1am (Fri & Sat till 3am); OctMarch MonWed 9am7pm, Thurs 9am11pm, Fri 9am2am, Sat 9am1am, Sun 9am10pm. Vondelpark 5. These days this is a slightly shabby tearoom/cafe/bar in the middle of the Vondelpark, but its building dates from the De Stijl period. Downstairs it's a regular self-service park cafe; upstairs it's a pleasant, circular bar that hosts DJs on Friday and Sat.u.r.day nights. AprilSept daily 9am1am (Fri & Sat till 3am); OctMarch MonWed 9am7pm, Thurs 9am11pm, Fri 9am2am, Sat 9am1am, Sun 9am10pm.

Bra.s.serie Patou PC Hooftstraat 63. The perfect spot to watch the shopping mania of the Dutch rich and famous, flas.h.i.+ng their credit cards on the luxurious PC Hooftstraat. Service can be slow though. Daily 7.30am6pm. PC Hooftstraat 63. The perfect spot to watch the shopping mania of the Dutch rich and famous, flas.h.i.+ng their credit cards on the luxurious PC Hooftstraat. Service can be slow though. Daily 7.30am6pm.

Cobra Hobbemastraat 18. This stand-alone asymmetric structure behind the Rijksmuseum mainly caters for tourists looking for a convenient place for a drink or a quick bite between exhibitions. It's also a popular late-night hangout, open from 10am until 3am at weekends, otherwise until 9pm. Hobbemastraat 18. This stand-alone asymmetric structure behind the Rijksmuseum mainly caters for tourists looking for a convenient place for a drink or a quick bite between exhibitions. It's also a popular late-night hangout, open from 10am until 3am at weekends, otherwise until 9pm.

Keyser Van Baerlestraat 96. In operation since 1905, and right next to the Concertgebouw, this cafe-restaurant exudes a Van Baerlestraat 96. In operation since 1905, and right next to the Concertgebouw, this cafe-restaurant exudes a fin-de-siecle fin-de-siecle charm, with ferns, gliding bow-tied waiters and a dark, carved-wood interior. It's open all day, and you can come here for dinner, but these days it's best as a venue for lunch or coffee. Daily 11am11pm. charm, with ferns, gliding bow-tied waiters and a dark, carved-wood interior. It's open all day, and you can come here for dinner, but these days it's best as a venue for lunch or coffee. Daily 11am11pm.

KinderKookKafe Vondelpark 6. A cafe entirely dedicated to making kids happy with a help-yourself bar where they can top their own sandwich, pizza or cake; the food is simple but tasty. Daily 10am5pm. . Vondelpark 6. A cafe entirely dedicated to making kids happy with a help-yourself bar where they can top their own sandwich, pizza or cake; the food is simple but tasty. Daily 10am5pm. .

De Roos PC Hooftstraat 183. The downstairs cafe at this New Age centre on the edge of the Vondelpark is one of the most peaceful spots in the city, selling a range of drinks and organic snacks and meals. There's also an upstairs bookshop, and any number of courses in yoga and meditation. MonFri 8.30am9pm, Sat & Sun 8.30am5.30pm. PC Hooftstraat 183. The downstairs cafe at this New Age centre on the edge of the Vondelpark is one of the most peaceful spots in the city, selling a range of drinks and organic snacks and meals. There's also an upstairs bookshop, and any number of courses in yoga and meditation. MonFri 8.30am9pm, Sat & Sun 8.30am5.30pm.

Toussaint Cafe Bosboom Toussaintstraat 26. This cosy, very friendly cafe not far from the Vondelpark is a pleasant spot for lunch excellent sandwiches, toasties and Bosboom Toussaintstraat 26. This cosy, very friendly cafe not far from the Vondelpark is a pleasant spot for lunch excellent sandwiches, toasties and uitsmijters uitsmijters, as well as tapas-style options, although service can be slow. Daily 10ammidnight (Fri & Sat till 1am).

Vertigo Vondelpark 3. Attached to the Filmmuseum, this is a pleasant place to while away a summer afternoon at the tables outside overlooking the park; in winter, take refuge in the intimate bas.e.m.e.nt interior. Good food, too, at all times of day. MonFri 11am1am, Sat & Sun 10am1am. Vondelpark 3. Attached to the Filmmuseum, this is a pleasant place to while away a summer afternoon at the tables outside overlooking the park; in winter, take refuge in the intimate bas.e.m.e.nt interior. Good food, too, at all times of day. MonFri 11am1am, Sat & Sun 10am1am.

Eating and drinking Cafes and tearooms Cafes and tearooms The outer districts Bagels & Beans Ferdinand Bolstraat 70. Large southern branch of this popular coffee and bagel joint, just opposite the Albert Cuypmarkt, with outside tables. Snacks include tuna melts, soups and club sandwiches. MonFri 8.30am5.30pm. Sat & Sun 9.30am6pm. Ferdinand Bolstraat 70. Large southern branch of this popular coffee and bagel joint, just opposite the Albert Cuypmarkt, with outside tables. Snacks include tuna melts, soups and club sandwiches. MonFri 8.30am5.30pm. Sat & Sun 9.30am6pm.

Granny 1e van der Helststraat 45. Just off the Albert Cuypmarkt, with faded, old-fas.h.i.+oned Dutch appeal and terrific 1e van der Helststraat 45. Just off the Albert Cuypmarkt, with faded, old-fas.h.i.+oned Dutch appeal and terrific appelgebak appelgebak and and pana montata pana montata. TuesSat 9am6pm.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Traditionally at least, Dutch cuisine Dutch cuisine lacks a certain finesse, with its origins firmly rooted in the meat, potato and cabbage school of cooking. That said, many restaurants offer tasty renditions of Dutch dishes, plus a healthy selection of vegetarian and seafood places. Nonetheless, it's the city's non-Dutch restaurants that usually steal the gastronomic limelight especially the abundance of outstanding Indonesian restaurants. lacks a certain finesse, with its origins firmly rooted in the meat, potato and cabbage school of cooking. That said, many restaurants offer tasty renditions of Dutch dishes, plus a healthy selection of vegetarian and seafood places. Nonetheless, it's the city's non-Dutch restaurants that usually steal the gastronomic limelight especially the abundance of outstanding Indonesian restaurants.

Intense compet.i.tion keeps prices prices down to manageable proportions, and in all but the ritziest of joints you can expect to pay no more than 2025 for a main course, usually less. As for down to manageable proportions, and in all but the ritziest of joints you can expect to pay no more than 2025 for a main course, usually less. As for opening hours opening hours, the Dutch eat out early, with most restaurants opening at 5.30pm or 6pm and closing their doors around 10pm, though you'll still be served if you're already seated. At all but the least expensive places, it's a good idea to call ahead and reserve reserve a table, especially on Thursday, Friday and Sat.u.r.day nights. Almost all of the larger or smarter restaurants take a table, especially on Thursday, Friday and Sat.u.r.day nights. Almost all of the larger or smarter restaurants take credit cards credit cards, but don't a.s.sume this to be the case at smaller or cheaper places. A tip tip of about ten percent is pretty much expected; the custom is generally to hand some change directly to your server rather than adding it to the bill. of about ten percent is pretty much expected; the custom is generally to hand some change directly to your server rather than adding it to the bill.

We've listed the restaurants below by type of cuisine type of cuisine, but there's an alphabetical list in the index at the back of the book; locations are marked on the colour maps maps, also at the back of this book.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants Fish stalls Fish stallsOne of the pleasures of Amsterdam is to sample the various fish and seafood specialities fish and seafood specialities sold from stalls dotted around the city centre all delicious: raw herring ( sold from stalls dotted around the city centre all delicious: raw herring (haring), smoked eel (gerookte paling), mackerel in a roll (broodje makreel), mussels (mosselen) and various kinds of deep-fried fish. Look out, too, for "green" or maatje maatje haring, eaten raw with onions in early summer; hold the fish by the tail, tip your head back and dangle it into your mouth, Dutch-style. Among other places, there are stalls at the following city centre locations: Nieuwmarkt, Westermarkt, Stromarkt, Haarlemmerplein, Albert Cuypstraat. haring, eaten raw with onions in early summer; hold the fish by the tail, tip your head back and dangle it into your mouth, Dutch-style. Among other places, there are stalls at the following city centre locations: Nieuwmarkt, Westermarkt, Stromarkt, Haarlemmerplein, Albert Cuypstraat.Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants Restaurants on the web Restaurants on the webAmong the many websites providing information on Amsterdam's restaurant scene, one of the most useful is www.iens.nl, an independent index of all the major restaurants in Amsterdam and most other Dutch cities. The reviews are of mixed quality, but the opening hours and telephone numbers are regularly updated and there is an easy-to-follow grading system for the quality of the food and service.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants The Old Centre Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants The Old Centre The Old Centre Chinese Golden Chopsticks Oude Doelenstraat 1 020/620 7040. Cheap and cheerful canteen-style Chinese food on the edge of the Red Light District. Very central, and, despite the Spartan interior, among the best Chinese food you'll find in Amsterdam. No credit cards. Daily 11.30am1am. Oude Doelenstraat 1 020/620 7040. Cheap and cheerful canteen-style Chinese food on the edge of the Red Light District. Very central, and, despite the Spartan interior, among the best Chinese food you'll find in Amsterdam. No credit cards. Daily 11.30am1am.

Hoi Tin Zeedijk 122 020/625 6451. You can always trust a restaurant where you have to walk through the kitchen to get to your table, and this one is no exception: a constantly busy Chinatown favourite with an enormous menu (in English too). Dim sum at lunchtime. Daily 11am11.30pm. Zeedijk 122 020/625 6451. You can always trust a restaurant where you have to walk through the kitchen to get to your table, and this one is no exception: a constantly busy Chinatown favourite with an enormous menu (in English too). Dim sum at lunchtime. Daily 11am11.30pm.

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Hoi Tin [image]Nam Kee Zeedijk 111113 020/624 3470. Arguably the best of a number of Chinese diners along this stretch, and attracting a loyal clientele. Quick service, great food. There's another, slightly posher location at Gelderskade 117 (020/639 2848). Both daily noonmidnight. Zeedijk 111113 020/624 3470. Arguably the best of a number of Chinese diners along this stretch, and attracting a loyal clientele. Quick service, great food. There's another, slightly posher location at Gelderskade 117 (020/639 2848). Both daily noonmidnight.

Wing Kee Zeedijk 76 020/623 5683. Simple Chinese restaurant that's popular with the local Chinatown community. Good food, and very cheap too, although the service isn't great. Daily noon10pm. Zeedijk 76 020/623 5683. Simple Chinese restaurant that's popular with the local Chinatown community. Good food, and very cheap too, although the service isn't great. Daily noon10pm.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants The Old Centre The Old Centre Dutch and Modern European [image]Blauw Aan De Waal Oudezijds Achterburgwal 99 020/330 2257. Quite a haven, situated down an alley in the heart of the Red Light District, with tremendous French-Dutch food and a wonderfully soothing environment after the mayhem outside. MonSat 611.30pm. Oudezijds Achterburgwal 99 020/330 2257. Quite a haven, situated down an alley in the heart of the Red Light District, with tremendous French-Dutch food and a wonderfully soothing environment after the mayhem outside. MonSat 611.30pm.

Bra.s.serie Harkema Nes 67 020/428 2222. Very sleek and stylish converted warehouse restaurant, whose moderately priced food mains 1419 is sometimes good, and sometimes more variable than you might expect. The menu is appealing enough, but service sometimes leaves something to be desired, delivered by fresh-faced youths who tend not to have a clue. Daily 11am11pm. Nes 67 020/428 2222. Very sleek and stylish converted warehouse restaurant, whose moderately priced food mains 1419 is sometimes good, and sometimes more variable than you might expect. The menu is appealing enough, but service sometimes leaves something to be desired, delivered by fresh-faced youths who tend not to have a clue. Daily 11am11pm.

Hemelse Modder Oude Waal 9 020/624 3203. Sleek, large restaurant serving a tasty menu of Dutch and vaguely European food in an informal atmosphere. Service is very attentive and despite the trendy environment not at all precious, and the food is excellent and reasonably priced. Deservedly popular. Main courses for 19.50, and three-course menus for 29.50. Daily except Mon 611pm. Oude Waal 9 020/624 3203. Sleek, large restaurant serving a tasty menu of Dutch and vaguely European food in an informal atmosphere. Service is very attentive and despite the trendy environment not at all precious, and the food is excellent and reasonably priced. Deservedly popular. Main courses for 19.50, and three-course menus for 29.50. Daily except Mon 611pm.

Keuken Van 1870 Spuistraat 4 020/620 4018. This large, light restaurant has been serving hearty Dutch food to cheapskates for years and continues justifiably to thrive. Its three-course 7.50 menu is one of the city's best bargains. MonSat 510pm. Spuistraat 4 020/620 4018. This large, light restaurant has been serving hearty Dutch food to cheapskates for years and continues justifiably to thrive. Its three-course 7.50 menu is one of the city's best bargains. MonSat 510pm.

De Roode Leeuw Damrak 93 020/555 0666. Fusty old Dutch restaurant that's good for both a quick bite at lunchtimes at the front pea soup, herrings, Damrak 93 020/555 0666. Fusty old Dutch restaurant that's good for both a quick bite at lunchtimes at the front pea soup, herrings, uitsmijters uitsmijters or a full evening meal in the more formal main restaurant just behind. A good place if you want to sample a traditional Dutch feed. Main courses go for 1520. Daily 710am & noon10pm. or a full evening meal in the more formal main restaurant just behind. A good place if you want to sample a traditional Dutch feed. Main courses go for 1520. Daily 710am & noon10pm.

De Silveren Spiegel Kattengat 4 020/624 6589. There's been a restaurant in this location since 1614, and "The Silver Mirror" is one of the best in the city, with a delicately balanced menu of Dutch cuisine. The proprietor lives on the coast and brings in the fish himself. Spectacular food, with a cellar of 350 wines. Four-course dinner for two at a table set with silver is a cool 100, though you can get a main course for 30. MonSat 5.3010.30pm. Kattengat 4 020/624 6589. There's been a restaurant in this location since 1614, and "The Silver Mirror" is one of the best in the city, with a delicately balanced menu of Dutch cuisine. The proprietor lives on the coast and brings in the fish himself. Spectacular food, with a cellar of 350 wines. Four-course dinner for two at a table set with silver is a cool 100, though you can get a main course for 30. MonSat 5.3010.30pm.

Skek Zeedijk 4 020/427 0551, Zeedijk 4 020/427 0551, www.skek.nl. A no-nonsense cultural eetcafe eetcafe run by students. Cheap mains like Moroccan fish stew or fried tortilla are accompanied by seasonal vegetables. Check the website for their frequent live music and exhibitions. Free wi-fi access and student discounts. Daily noon10pm. run by students. Cheap mains like Moroccan fish stew or fried tortilla are accompanied by seasonal vegetables. Check the website for their frequent live music and exhibitions. Free wi-fi access and student discounts. Daily noon10pm.

Supper Club Jonge Roelensteeg 21 020/344 6400. A five-course set menu is served at 8pm to customers lounging on mattresses listening to a DJ on a raised stage. The fusion food is of a very high standard, though some may find the whole concept pretentious or downright disconcerting it's not the most comfortable way to eat dinner. Diners have free entry to the members-only club downstairs. It's expensive, since there's no a la carte and you have to have the set dinner at 65 a pop (70 at weekends); booking essential. You can also try Jonge Roelensteeg 21 020/344 6400. A five-course set menu is served at 8pm to customers lounging on mattresses listening to a DJ on a raised stage. The fusion food is of a very high standard, though some may find the whole concept pretentious or downright disconcerting it's not the most comfortable way to eat dinner. Diners have free entry to the members-only club downstairs. It's expensive, since there's no a la carte and you have to have the set dinner at 65 a pop (70 at weekends); booking essential. You can also try Supperclub Cruise Supperclub Cruise, which leaves from pier 4 behind Centraal Station on Friday and Sat.u.r.day nights (020/344 6403). Daily 7.30pm1am.

Van Beeren Koningsstraat 54 020/622 2329. This Koningsstraat 54 020/622 2329. This eetcafe eetcafe serves a satisfying mixture of Dutch staples and modern European dishes in relaxed surroundings. The food is good, and the setting cosy and it remains a moderately priced choice. Daily 5.3010.15pm. serves a satisfying mixture of Dutch staples and modern European dishes in relaxed surroundings. The food is good, and the setting cosy and it remains a moderately priced choice. Daily 5.3010.15pm.

[image]Van Kerkwijk Nes 41 020/620 3316. It looks like a bar but is more of a restaurant these days, serving steaks, fish and so on, from an ever-changing menu that isn't written down, but heroically memorized by the attentive waiting staff. Good food, and cheap too mains from 12.50. Daily noon10pm. Nes 41 020/620 3316. It looks like a bar but is more of a restaurant these days, serving steaks, fish and so on, from an ever-changing menu that isn't written down, but heroically memorized by the attentive waiting staff. Good food, and cheap too mains from 12.50. Daily noon10pm.

D' Vijff Vlieghen Spuistraat 294 020/530 4060, Spuistraat 294 020/530 4060, www.thefiveflies.com. One of the city's best restaurants, "The Five Flies" occupies immaculate ground-floor premises kitted out in a smart version of traditional Dutch style, from the tile- and wood-panelled walls to the beamed ceiling and antique embossed leather hangings. Intimate and very cosy, its enterprising menu features imaginative renditions of traditional dishes, with herring and suckling pig being two favourites. Superb service. Main courses 2832. Daily 610pm.

In de Waag Nieuwmarkt 020/422 7772. Comfortable cafe-restaurant housed in a historic building bang in the centre of the Nieuwmarkt. The building has been well converted, there's outside seating, and the food is reasonable, if not great. Sandwiches, burgers and salads are served at lunchtime, with more substantial dishes in the evening or there's a menu of tapas, oysters and various other nibbles if all you want is a snack with a drink. Daily 10ammidnight. Nieuwmarkt 020/422 7772. Comfortable cafe-restaurant housed in a historic building bang in the centre of the Nieuwmarkt. The building has been well converted, there's outside seating, and the food is reasonable, if not great. Sandwiches, burgers and salads are served at lunchtime, with more substantial dishes in the evening or there's a menu of tapas, oysters and various other nibbles if all you want is a snack with a drink. Daily 10ammidnight.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants The Old Centre The Old Centre Fish Kopke Adega Koggestraat 1 020/622 4587. Mediterranean-style fish restaurant that does a great Koggestraat 1 020/622 4587. Mediterranean-style fish restaurant that does a great bouillabaisse bouillabaisse, as well as some tasty, mainly Iberian fish and sh.e.l.lfish dishes; you can sample them in the restaurant itself or in the more informal tapas bar. Decent prices too you'll spend no more than about 30 for three courses a la carte. Daily 610.30pm.

Lucius Spuistraat 247 020/624 1831. This long-established, bistro-style restaurant, with its high-varnish wooden panelling, is one of the best fish restaurants in town. The lemon sole, when it's on the menu, is excellent and so are the seafood platters. Mains 25, a tad less for the daily special. Daily 5pmmidnight. Spuistraat 247 020/624 1831. This long-established, bistro-style restaurant, with its high-varnish wooden panelling, is one of the best fish restaurants in town. The lemon sole, when it's on the menu, is excellent and so are the seafood platters. Mains 25, a tad less for the daily special. Daily 5pmmidnight.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants The Old Centre The Old Centre French, Belgian and Swiss De Brakke Grond Nes 43 020/626 0044. Modern, high-ceilinged Nes 43 020/626 0044. Modern, high-ceilinged eetcafe eetcafe specializing in Belgian beer and food, often full of people discussing the performance they've just seen at the adjacent Flemish Cultural Centre. Daily 210pm. specializing in Belgian beer and food, often full of people discussing the performance they've just seen at the adjacent Flemish Cultural Centre. Daily 210pm.

[image]Cafe Bern Nieuwmarkt 9 020/622 0034. This place is really more of a bar, but it's well known for its food, which is excellent, for example the alcoholic cheese fondue. It's very cosy and usually extremely crowded, so it's best to book. If not, just get plastered at the bar while you wait for a table. Daily 611pm. Nieuwmarkt 9 020/622 0034. This place is really more of a bar, but it's well known for its food, which is excellent, for example the alcoholic cheese fondue. It's very cosy and usually extremely crowded, so it's best to book. If not, just get plastered at the bar while you wait for a table. Daily 611pm.

De Compagnon Guldenhandsteeg 17 020/620 4225. This traditional restaurant serves decent French food to a self-consciously discerning clientele in an old-fas.h.i.+oned atmosphere. There's a great, if not especially cheap, wine list, too. It's expensive reckon on 25-plus for a main course and tends to be fully booked well in advance, but you might get in for lunch. Daily except Sun noon2pm & 610pm; evenings only on Sat. Guldenhandsteeg 17 020/620 4225. This traditional restaurant serves decent French food to a self-consciously discerning clientele in an old-fas.h.i.+oned atmosphere. There's a great, if not especially cheap, wine list, too. It's expensive reckon on 25-plus for a main course and tends to be fully booked well in advance, but you might get in for lunch. Daily except Sun noon2pm & 610pm; evenings only on Sat.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants The Old Centre The Old Centre Indonesian Kantjil en de Tijger Spuistraat 291 020/620 0994. This high-quality Indonesian restaurant has been somewhat of an inst.i.tution for over twenty years. The traditional Spuistraat 291 020/620 0994. This high-quality Indonesian restaurant has been somewhat of an inst.i.tution for over twenty years. The traditional rijsttafels rijsttafels start at 22 per person and are served in a stylish wood-panelled setting. MonFri 4.3011pm, Sat & Sun noon11pm. start at 22 per person and are served in a stylish wood-panelled setting. MonFri 4.3011pm, Sat & Sun noon11pm.

Sie Joe Gravenstraat 24 020/624 1830. Small cafe-restaurant whose great value-for-money menu is far from extensive but comprises well-prepared, simple dishes such as Gravenstraat 24 020/624 1830. Small cafe-restaurant whose great value-for-money menu is far from extensive but comprises well-prepared, simple dishes such as gado gado gado gado, sateh sateh and and rendang rendang. MonSat 11am7pm, Thurs till 8pm.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants The Old Centre The Old Centre Italian [image]Mappa Nes 59 020/528 9170. Cla.s.sic Italian food with some inventive twists, incorporating good home-made pasta dishes and excellent service in an unpretentious and modern environment. Daily 69.45pm (Fri & Sat till 10.45pm). Nes 59 020/528 9170. Cla.s.sic Italian food with some inventive twists, incorporating good home-made pasta dishes and excellent service in an unpretentious and modern environment. Daily 69.45pm (Fri & Sat till 10.45pm).

Va.s.so Roozenboomsteeg 12 020/626 0158. Genuine, creative restaurant off a corner of the Spui, housed in three curvy, sixteenth-century buildings. Polite and attentive service and moderate prices around 20 for a main course. Daily 511pm. Roozenboomsteeg 12 020/626 0158. Genuine, creative restaurant off a corner of the Spui, housed in three curvy, sixteenth-century buildings. Polite and attentive service and moderate prices around 20 for a main course. Daily 511pm.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants The Old Centre The Old Centre j.a.panese Kobe House Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 77 020/622 6458. Not a lot of atmosphere, partly because it's a big restaurant that rarely seems to get full. But if you're craving sus.h.i.+ or other j.a.panese treats, this is the place. Daily noon10.30pm. Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 77 020/622 6458. Not a lot of atmosphere, partly because it's a big restaurant that rarely seems to get full. But if you're craving sus.h.i.+ or other j.a.panese treats, this is the place. Daily noon10.30pm.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants The Old Centre The Old Centre Pancakes Pannekoekhuis Upstairs Grimburgwal 2 020/626 5603. Minuscule place in a tumbledown house opposite the university buildings, with sweet and savoury pancakes at low prices. Student discounts. Fri & Sat noon6pm, Sun noon5pm. Grimburgwal 2 020/626 5603. Minuscule place in a tumbledown house opposite the university buildings, with sweet and savoury pancakes at low prices. Student discounts. Fri & Sat noon6pm, Sun noon5pm.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants The Old Centre The Old Centre Spanish and Portuguese Centra Lange Niezel 29 020/622 3050. This authentic Spanish cantina is a long-standing Red Light District favourite, with a wonderful selection of Spanish food, masterfully cooked and genially served. Daily 1.3011pm. Cash only. Lange Niezel 29 020/622 3050. This authentic Spanish cantina is a long-standing Red Light District favourite, with a wonderful selection of Spanish food, masterfully cooked and genially served. Daily 1.3011pm. Cash only.

De Portugees Zeedijk 39 020/427 2005. Truly a little piece of Portugal on the Zeedijk, with chaotic service and authentically hearty and filling (rather than gourmet) food tasty fish stews, garlicky sausages, salt cod and eggs. TuesSun 610.30pm. Zeedijk 39 020/427 2005. Truly a little piece of Portugal on the Zeedijk, with chaotic service and authentically hearty and filling (rather than gourmet) food tasty fish stews, garlicky sausages, salt cod and eggs. TuesSun 610.30pm.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants The Old Centre The Old Centre Thai [image]Bird Zeedijk 77 020/420 6289. This Thai canteen is always packed, and rightly so, drawing people from far and wide for its cheap and authentic Thai fare. Its big brother across the road (also called Zeedijk 77 020/420 6289. This Thai canteen is always packed, and rightly so, drawing people from far and wide for its cheap and authentic Thai fare. Its big brother across the road (also called Bird Bird) serves much the same food in slightly more upscale surroundings. Daily 210pm.

Krua Thai Staalstraat 22 020/622 9533. High-quality Thai restaurant with excellent fish and seafood dishes and moderate prices, with most main dishes going for around 15. Daily 510.30pm. Staalstraat 22 020/622 9533. High-quality Thai restaurant with excellent fish and seafood dishes and moderate prices, with most main dishes going for around 15. Daily 510.30pm.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants Grachtengordel west Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants Grachtengordel west Grachtengordel west Dutch and Modern European [image]Belhamel Brouwersgracht 60 020/622 1095. Smas.h.i.+ng restaurant where the Art Nouveau decor makes a delightful setting and the menu is short but extremely well chosen, mixing Dutch with French dishes. Main courses at around 2025. The prime tables have charming ca.n.a.l views too. Daily 610pm. Brouwersgracht 60 020/622 1095. Smas.h.i.+ng restaurant where the Art Nouveau decor makes a delightful setting and the menu is short but extremely well chosen, mixing Dutch with French dishes. Main courses at around 2025. The prime tables have charming ca.n.a.l views too. Daily 610pm.

[image]De Luwte Leliegracht 26 020/625 8548. This cordial restaurant is kitted out in attractive style, its yellow tables and pastel walls embellished with Art Nouveau flourishes. The small but well-chosen menu offers first-rate Dutch/Mediterranean cuisine the seafood is especially delicious. Mains from 20. Daily 610pm. Leliegracht 26 020/625 8548. This cordial restaurant is kitted out in attractive style, its yellow tables and pastel walls embellished with Art Nouveau flourishes. The small but well-chosen menu offers first-rate Dutch/Mediterranean cuisine the seafood is especially delicious. Mains from 20. Daily 610pm.

Prego Herenstraat 25 020/638 0148. Informal Mediterranean restaurant with sharp modern decor offering an inventive menu of rich dishes, including such delights as Herenstraat 25 020/638 0148. Informal Mediterranean restaurant with sharp modern decor offering an inventive menu of rich dishes, including such delights as coq au vin coq au vin, ravioli and red sea ba.s.s with couscous. Mains 25 and up. Daily 610.30pm.

[image]Proeverij 274 Prinsengracht 274 020/421 1848. Inviting split-level restaurant with sixteenth-century relics on the wall and a first-cla.s.s menu offering cla.s.sic dishes with a modern twist. Solely organic meat and in-season fish are served. Mains from 23 and up, but well worth splas.h.i.+ng out on. Daily 5.3010.30pm. Prinsengracht 274 020/421 1848. Inviting split-level restaurant with sixteenth-century relics on the wall and a first-cla.s.s menu offering cla.s.sic dishes with a modern twist. Solely organic meat and in-season fish are served. Mains from 23 and up, but well worth splas.h.i.+ng out on. Daily 5.3010.30pm.

Saint Martin Prinsengracht 358 020/620 2757. Cheerful little place offering Mediterranean cuisine, using only the freshest ingredients, in an informal setting. Attractively located on a ca.n.a.l. WedSun 410pm. Prinsengracht 358 020/620 2757. Cheerful little place offering Mediterranean cuisine, using only the freshest ingredients, in an informal setting. Attractively located on a ca.n.a.l. WedSun 410pm.

Stout Haarlemmerstraat 73 020/616 3664. Lively and fas.h.i.+onable cafe-restaurant, popular with locals. Great sandwiches and salads in the daytime, and everything from duck to fresh oysters in the evening. Comfortable velvet lounge seats outside. Daily 10am11pm, Sun from 11am. Haarlemmerstraat 73 020/616 3664. Lively and fas.h.i.+onable cafe-restaurant, popular with locals. Great sandwiches and salads in the daytime, and everything from duck to fresh oysters in the evening. Comfortable velvet lounge seats outside. Daily 10am11pm, Sun from 11am.

Werck Prinsengracht 277 020/627 4079, Prinsengracht 277 020/627 4079, www.werck.nl. Located right next to the Anne Frank Huis this smart place offers flavoursome mains, such as pan-fried John Dory and venison stew for around 18. At night it's a livelier affair, with DJs. TuesSat 511pm.

't Zwaantje Berenstraat 12 020/623 2373. Traditional Dutch restaurant, down to the mini-rugs on the tables, that serves up reasonably priced food with main courses around 15. Well known for its liver and onions. Daily 4.3011pm. Berenstraat 12 020/623 2373. Traditional Dutch restaurant, down to the mini-rugs on the tables, that serves up reasonably priced food with main courses around 15. Well known for its liver and onions. Daily 4.3011pm.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants Grachtengordel west Grachtengordel west French and Belgian [image]Chez Georges Herenstraat 3 020/626 3332. Smart-to-formal, split-level, intimate restaurant offering highly rated, upmarket cuisine with an emphasis on meat dishes; mains 23 and up. Open from 6pm, but closed Wed & Sun. Herenstraat 3 020/626 3332. Smart-to-formal, split-level, intimate restaurant offering highly rated, upmarket cuisine with an emphasis on meat dishes; mains 23 and up. Open from 6pm, but closed Wed & Sun.

D'Theeboom Singel 210 020/623 8420. Traditional French restaurant in an old, attractive ca.n.a.l house a short walk from Dam Square. Relaxed atmosphere; attentive service. Mains from around 24. MonSat 610pm. Singel 210 020/623 8420. Traditional French restaurant in an old, attractive ca.n.a.l house a short walk from Dam Square. Relaxed atmosphere; attentive service. Mains from around 24. MonSat 610pm.

Eating and drinking Restaurants Restaurants Grachtengordel west Grachtengordel west Greek De Twee Grieken Prinsenstraat 20 020/625 5317. In a creatively renovated old shop, this appealing Greek restaurant, with its wood panelling and attractive outside terrace, offers all the favourites in an intimate, informal setting. Main courses average 1520. Daily 511pm. Prinsenstraat 20 020/625 5317. In a creatively renovated old shop, this appealing Greek restaurant, with its wood panelling and attractive outside terrace, offers all the favourites in an intimate, informal setting. Main courses average 1520. Daily 511pm.