La Rive Amsterdam*
As one of the most hyped restaurants on TripAdvisor (yes, I definitely use this site as a resource!), I was more than looking forward to our meal at La Rive. Although we dodged a considerable amount of rain during the evening on our journey across town, it was well worth the trip to a part of the city we’ve rarely visited during previous trips. Located on the Amstel and inside the historic Intercontinental hotel, much like the other intimate seating areas of similarly ranked restaurants, I enjoyed a space that was limited to a select group of patrons. In our case, I didn’t think to ask for a table at the window (but my guess is these might be more reserved for hotel guests than outsiders like us). Should you be making a reservation, I would strongly suggest requesting a seat right on the river, to fully maximize the experience.…
Librije’s Zusje**
“Distinctive. Contemporary. Ingredients from around the world blended with the finest produce from local farmers. Executive Chef Sidney Schutte will take you on a vibrant culinary journey.” While I’ve been super fortunate to tick off some of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2017, I’ve been a bit neglectful on the Michelin side of the house. With a less than memorable visit to Zass in April, my appetite was more than ready for a memorable Michelin star experience. Fortunately, Librije’s Zusje stepped up and ensure my belief in the iconic ratings system once again. As a bit of a late addition to our trip, I only managed to secure a lunch booking — but in all honesty, this reservation worked out for the best, and I would highly recommend the daytime experience. Located in the stunning Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam, the venue is a private space, with views onto one…
Not for me: Kantjil & de Tijger, Amsterdam.
For another one of our dinners in Amsterdam this summer, I took the advice of a fellow food blogger and searched for one of the Indonesian restaurants in the city. Kantjil & de Tijger came up in a search (and was well reviewed). And as it was close to where we were staying, it seemed like the right option. While I have previously enjoyed other regional (Thai and Indian both feature in my weekly eating) cuisines, I had not specifically eaten Indonesian. After this meal, I’m not sure I would again. For what we paid and what we got, I felt like there was a big disconnect (or maybe I’m still missing something). Reservations? Made online and necessary – the place was absolutely packed while we were there. Ambiance? Bar type atmosphere with tables packed together. It’s loud and popular. For the cuisine, it makes sense, but I prefer a…
Decent lunch spot: Bluespoon (Andaz Amsterdam).
In the summer of 2014, I was still getting my foodie feet underneath me. Much like Vinkeles, our visit to the Bluespoon was inspired forced by my interest in the hotel first (to Vinkeles The Dylan, Bluespoon is located in the Andaz Amsterdam). Reflecting over a year later, I’m not sure I would go back (unless we secured a seat at the Chef’s Table). Sure, the property is cool, but I’m also dying to dine at The Conservatorium Hotel… Furthermore, in comparing this lunch to the lunch we had at Nevel, I would definitely return to Nevel. Reservations? Made online, but not necessary for lunch. We were one of three tables seated. Ambiance? Tres chic. The whole of the Andaz (like the brand at large) is a lesson in unique and memorable interior design. The restaurant is immediately off of the lobby and is close to a nice garden (plenty…
Beautiful night at Bridges.*
During our 2014 trip to Amsterdam, Hubs and I decided to break away from our beloved bitterballen and test out one of the fine dining options in the city. If I’m remembering correctly, this meal was very close to our 11th wedding anniversary. I can’t recall the exact search that led me to Bridges, complete with its own Michelin star, but I’m glad we ended up there. Reservations? Made online. A credit card was needed to hold the reservation. Ambiance? Absolutely wow factor. Located in the Grand Sofitel, this is one of those very special restaurants. Hubs and I were seated at one of the tables close to a window, near the canal and street where we could see the world walk by. As my proclivity to be absolutely on time was en force, we were (of course) the first people to be seated. (I’ll again attest that when traveling to Europe…
Vinkeles, a well earned Michelin star.*
To end our recent time in Amsterdam on a high note, I debated a few restaurants (including a return trip to Bridges, which I’ll cover in a later post), but ultimately decided on Vinkeles (and yes, I’m also dying to stay at the hotel it is connected to, The Dylan). For the only time in the trip I was able to wear heels (damn them taking up valuable space in my luggage and silly me for thinking I would get more use out of them!), I (gratefully) tottered just around the corner from our AirBnb. Reservations? Made online with no problems. Note that I did have to put a credit card forward to hold and confirm the booking. Ambiance? The restaurant is located after walking through the lobby, through another restaurant (?), and down some stairs. While I love how almost everything in Amsterdam is historic (and therefore charming), I’m…
Zeezout: Divine Lunch in Rotterdam.
You might be noticing a trend here, but on Hubs’ and I recent trip to the Netherlands this summer, we fell into a great habit of having a busy morning and then treating ourselves to a long, indulgent lunch (the best kind of holiday!). After wandering far and wide across a rather cold Rotterdam, we found ourselves with a healthy appetite. Reservations? Walk up and hope the restaurant is open. In our case, they open for a 2 hour window at lunch. We were two of four patrons for the first hour and then others joined, creating a friendly atmosphere. Ambiance? Charming and well appointed. Seating was very intimate (close), but as lunch was not crowded, this was not an issue. I’m sure the street we were on becomes busier, however, at the time we were in town, it was quite quiet. Additionally, in warmer weather, it would be lovely…