Description: WESTERN CANAL RING / JORDAAN. This unassuming coffee shop caters to folks who believe there's no better way to start your morning than with a steaming cup of java in a relaxing atmosphere. A selection of coffees, sodas, smoothies, and organic wellness drinks served along side a light fare of snacks and sweets ensure that you'll be well provided for throughout the day and night. If you're so inclined, Barney's also has a selection of cannabis products, some of which have garnered awards.

 

Description: MUSEUM QUARTER / VONDELPARK. This engaging, established restaurant attracts a diverse mix of people, and depending on when you visit, you'll encounter folks from the world over, including local concert-goers, business professionals, and well-to-do city denizens. The menu is fish and meat-oriented – with a twist – and includes such delights as roasted sea scallops with truffled parsley-root mousse, creamy quail soup with wild mushrooms and a quail wonton and roast monkfish with oven-braised fennel and risotto, among other standouts on the menu. A charming outdoor garden, fantastic wine menu and Sunday brunch are other reasons to drop by.

 

Description: EASTERN CANAL RING. Bathed in light and good favor, Breitner is a serious restaurant that prefers its clientèle to enjoy themselves rather than defer to its quality. In fact, you'll often find groups of friends frequenting the place, enjoying leisurely meals, and delighting in a menu that's sometimes a bit experimental but always good. Breitner also appeals to business professionals who appreciate the fact that they can meet amid hip surroundings and dine without a contingent of overly attentive servers. Great food and ambiance, no matter your purpose.

 

Description: CENTRAL CANAL RING. Renowned for its Art Deco architecture and furnishings, this café has been a magnet for Amsterdam's art and literary circles for decades. Its fabulous interior invites folks to marvel while they lounge over strong coffee and a newspaper or indulge in lush meat and seafood dishes on linen-draped tables. Entrées, many accented with delectable sauces, feature beef, lamb, duck, and an array of fresh fish and shellfish. Sunday brunch is a fantastic affair, boasting jazz musicians and a tempting spread of delicacies.

 

Description: FURTHER AFIELD. An excellent example of adaptive reuse, this breathtaking restaurant occupies what was once a water pumping station. The spacious building boasts arched windows, industrial detailing, and even some of the original equipment. The menu promises a host of great dishes, including grilled venison, fried sweetbreads, grilled swordfish or sea bass, beef burgundy, wiener schnitzel, roast quail, wild duck and lobster. Desserts ranging from fruit and cheese to chocolate and cream can be had as well. Affordable and inviting.

 

Description: WESTERN CANAL RING / JORDAAN. Returning patrons applaud this delightful restaurant, which often books diners weeks in advance. In the intimate place, folks take in the capable cuisine of the Belgian-born chef while they relax amid traditional furnishings, indulging in carefully crafted dishes. Multi-course meals are an especial treat, particularly since they allow the kitchen an extended chance to shine and since they allow diners to experience a well-coordinated meal, either with or without wine. A bit pricey but great for special dinners.

 

Description: MUSEUM QUARTER / VONDELPARK. Subtle lighting gleams on dark, polished woods at this cozy, charming restaurant near Amsterdam's concert hall. The menu features Dutch cuisine, albeit with a continental influence, and everything you'll encounter is beautifully prepared. Whether you choose a tilapia filet, a well-composed salad, steak, or some other treat, you'll be suitably impressed by the kitchen's capable hand. The restaurant is ideal for intimate suppers, and since it's open late, it's perfect for post-show meals as well.

 

Description: OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. This exquisite restaurant garners praise time and time again from patrons and critics alike. Its refined interior overlooks the river and is, itself, dressed in crystal, linens, and delicate flowers. The menu more than follows suit. Celebrated dishes include grilled fish, veal, lobster, smoked eel, and whatever the kitchen finds intriguing. Desserts are lush as well, and the wine list, gracious service, and live music played on a grand piano heighten the genteel experience. Prix fixe menus available. Jackets required.

 

Description: OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Once a city gate, this now-restaurant is an awesome mix of 15th-century architecture and 21st-century adaptation. The interior maintains a medieval charm, complete with enormous, candle-studded chandeliers; outside, terrace tables invite folks to while away sunny afternoons on the Nieuwmarkt square. Along with sandwiches and salads, the menu offers grilled spring chicken, pan-fried Norwegian salmon, grilled beef tournedos, a variety of pastas and risottos, and a children's menu. High Tea is also served between 2pm and 4:30pm (reserve at least two days ahead). Ideal for people-watching and experiencing city history.

 

Description: WATERFRONT. Set on the tip of a pier overlooking the IJ river, this intimate restaurant is a well-kept secret, thanks to its location behind Central Station. Dating from the 1930s, the structure is small, comprised of two rooms, and boasts candlelight and great views. The seasonally-adjusted fish and meat menu features dishes ranging from classical French to typically Dutch (and includes several vegetarian options). The chef isn't afraid to expand horizons with ingredients and preparation, so take in the surprises (and the quality) with a smile and a ready appetite. Ask for the room overlooking the water for the best ambiance. Kitchen closes at 11pm.