Top Tips Monumental Dining

With over 9,000 monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site-listed Canal Ring, Amsterdam has no shortage of beautiful buildings. And, many of them house restaurants and bars. Here are a few of our favourite places to drink in the history.

De Willem

Ponder the past from breakfast to late at this recently opened restaurant and café in a Neoclassical former toll gate, which was finished just in time for King William II’s 1840 investiture. If the walls could talk they’d tell of all who’ve passed through or stayed a while, from royalty to squatters, firefighters and police officers.

HAARLEMMERPLEIN 58-66

DE-WILLEM.NL

Merkelbach

Situated in the former coach house of the stately Huize Frankendael, one of Amsterdam’s last estates, is an excellent restaurant. Chef Geert Burema’s love of local shines through in dishes featuring Dutch heritage products, such as aged artisan Gouda, Amsterdam ossenworst and Limburgian apple syrup

MIDDENWEG 72

RESTAURANTMERKELBACH.NL

De Belhamel

This romantic French-Italian mainstay combines dependable fare with views of Amsterdam’s prettiest waterways and a beautiful Belle Époque interior with original Art Nouveau details. Feast on shallot Tarte Tatin with blue cheese and mustard caramel (€16), traditional tournedos Rossini with panfried foie gras, potato rösti and a truffled Madeira sauce (€43).

BROUWERSGRACHT 60 BELHAMEL.NL

De Ysbreeker

Named for the icebreaker ship that was moored in front until 1860, this popular spot’s story began in 1702, when it was an inn and tavern. Its architect also had a hand in landmarks such as Central station. A masterful mix of original and modern features remains, as well as a menu of brasserie classics and wines.

WEESPERZIJDE 23, DEYSBREEKER.NL