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…
Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove, Seychelles: Brilliant views and barely 4 star.
Living in the Middle East, I’m exposed to essentially the best hotels and service in the world. Indeed, I could tell you a handful of nice properties I visited while residing in the States. Eight years into life in Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi, I regularly (once a week) go to five-star resorts. This is not bragging, this is just a fact of life. Thus, I have fairly high standards when it comes hotels. I don’t think this is me being picky or high maintenance, it is just that I know where the standards fall. Enter, Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove. While I had my heart set on either the Four Seasons or Constance Ephelia, in the end, with as much as we were going to spend, I wanted to earn some points. While I thought Hubs and I would be out most of the day (we’re doing our Open Water PADI…
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…
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…
30 Day Food Blog Challenge.
I couldn’t find any, so I made a 30 Day Food Blog Challenge of my own! Feel free to share or take the challenge yourself. I also have it saved as a Pin, if that’s easier.