Stephanie van Rappard

An historic arcade that still feels genuinely transportive. Opened in 1819 and patrolled by its impeccably dressed Beadles, the ‘Jewel of Mayfair’ was built by the Earl of Burlington as a covered passage for his wife to enjoy exclusive, crowd-free shopping. Ever a place for romantic gestures, come to be guided by artisans through collections of old-cut diamonds, cashmere, and beautifully crafted pieces that are sure to become heirlooms. 

Hidden away on a quiet residential street in Oud-West, this all-day neighbourhood favourite serves everything from generous breakfasts and French-inspired seasonal plates to homemade cakes and well-earned glasses of wine. Claim a spot on the tree-lined terrace, challenge your friends to a game of jeu de boules, and see where the afternoon takes you. Chances are, you'll end up staying for dinner.

Finding House of Noa already feels like being in on a secret. Hidden beneath the historic catacombs of UNESCO-listed Beurs van Berlage, this atmospheric spot pairs handcrafted temakis with one of the city's most intriguing candlelit spaces, dressed in deep crimson tones, jewel-coloured velvet, and Asian-inspired murales. The Japanese-inspired omakase menu is reason enough to visit alone – don't skip the buttery Black Cod Miso or the A4 Wagyu Tataki.

Part contemporary art gallery, part design store, part café, this canal house proves that admiring art is much easier with a freshly brewed coffee in hand. Fuel your browsing classic Dutch poffertjes topped with Greek yoghurt and blueberry compote, or the vegan lentil ragù, then try your best to leave without buying a print, a ceramic vase, or both.

A bowl of ramen so good people were willing to queue for it, mourn its closure and celebrate its comeback. This no-fuss spot just across from Amsterdam Centraal has earned a loyal following thanks to its rich broths, perfectly chewy noodles and legendary spicy pork ramen. Order a bowl, take a seat at the counter and embrace the slurping. If you leave without broth on your shirt, you're doing it wrong.s

Bar Kamer is proof that Amsterdam doesn't need another wine bar – until one like this comes along. Tucked inside a former brown café in the Jordaan, this intimate 32-seat spot pairs an ever-changing menu of seasonal sharing plates from the charcoal grill with an excellent selection of natural wines, all within a candlelit setting and old Dutch interior details.

What started as a sourdough hobby project turned into a permanent address in Amsterdam’s Dappermarkt. And it's fast becoming Oost’s neighbourhood baker. Crispy baguette batons are baked alongside traditional rye boules, and cinnamon rolls are served sticky with golden butter. Head for a lunchtime sandwich special and wander over to Oosterpark for the ideal summertime picnic.