The nostalgic era of train travel is recalled in this lofty Art Nouveau grand café on platform 2B of Centraal Station, formerly the first-class waiting room. The elegant restaurant now dishes up standard fare from soup and salads to more substantial traditional French dishes. Breakfast is served from 8.30am for the early birds – including their rather vocal cockatoo which roams free along one end of the bar.
AMSTERDAM | Watertorenplein 6 | (020) 682 2666 | www.caferestaurantamsterdam.nl
Vegetarians and carnivores alike, will feel pampered at this huge restaurant in the west of the city. Housed within a former water pumping house, dating from 1897, it's lit by floodlights from Amsterdam's famous Ajax Stadium and the 1928 Olympic Stadium where Vakzuid restaurant is. There's also a quiet grass terrace at the back and it's popular with families.
AS | Prinses Irenestraat 19 | (020) 622 5232 | www.restaurantas.nl
On the edge of the Beatrix Park within a circular former church, this spacious 'designer cantine'-style establishment opens daily for lunch and dinner (except Mon). The choice menu and price (you may have to dig a little deep into your pockets), reflects the fresh-quality organic Mediterranean fare on offer, sourced locally (this includes the beer!). Uniquely, it has an open-kitchen with a large wood oven outdoors on the peaceful, rustic terrace - all year round.
BAZAR | Zeedijk 72-74 | (020) 622 5232 | www.thai-bird.nl
An enormous former church, crowned by a statue of an angel, provides a veritable respite from the busy Albert Cuyp street market (it's half-way up). The Eastern-style restaurant (it now resembles a mosque) serves a fantastic choice of delicious North African, Iranian and Turkish food for breakfast, lunch or dinner – and it's one place where vegetarians will also feel happily sated. Divine indeed.
BLAUW AAN DE WAL | Oudezijds Achterburgwal 99 | (020) 330 2257 | no website
What's unique about this restaurant is its 'hidden' location in the heart of the Red Light District – it's at the end of a tiny alleyway and a complete contrast to its bustling surrounds. The menu proffers sublime Mediterranean fusion delights – a treat for the refined palate – complemented by an outstanding wine list. The excellent service leaves you feeling spoiled and the outdoor courtyard is a delight on summer nights. Book well ahead, though – it's extremely popular!