Utrecht
in The Netherlands

The perfect background for a multitude of occasions Bar Bet works for everything from a post-office glass of wine on the terrace to an all-out tasting menu dinner. Start with a selection of perfectly smoked olives, Dutch cheese, and paté with chunks of bright green pistachios dotted throughout. And then stay for the bavette with little gem lettuce, capers, and parmesan – you’ll thank us later.   

At this modern Bruin Café there are students escaping exam stress, friends having a catch up as well as tourists who stumble into the cosy spot. Pick up some sandwiches from nearby Bigoli if a picnic is the order of the day and then a coffee or a biertje from Cafe de Zaak. Do note that if you are bringing food from elsewhere, you do need to order a drink, then, settle in and while away the afternoon. 

Soft lighting and seasonally rotating small plates just outside the city centre. The team is incredibly welcoming and plates are filled with sardines doused in olive oil with romesco and buttery brioche, and roast chicken with crispy skin and tangy kimchi on the side. Amble into the to 't Oude Pothuys for a nightcap afterwards.