Amsterdam

Where we're staying.

Emily Zemler said this is her "absolute favorite."

Upstairs Pancake House, been in business since the 1500s. Only four tables, so you have to make a reservation about a week in advance (over the phone). Visited by Anthony Bourdain. NOT OPEN FOR BREAKFAST. CASH-ONLY.

If you’re an early diner, this charming wine bar off the Dappermarkt offers one of the best deals in town. Pappardelle with ragù is a perennial favourite, while the gnocchi changes seasonally to feature strong flavours like smoked scamorza in winter and fresh green peas in spring. It’s a delightful spot for couples and small groups, with intimate seating and plenty of sharing plates and charcuterie.

There are few better places to get stuck into fresh fish and seafood than Stork, a cavernous, south-facing space on the banks of the River IJ. A free ferry shuttles you across the water to Noord and this former factory that now serves up whole lobster, oysters, ‘catch of the day’ specials and a sumptuous seafood platter. If it’s sunny, order some ice-cold white wine, grab a spot on the terrace, and watch the river traffic bustle back and forth.

For a modern take on Indonesian food, head to this high-ceilinged room in the Oud-Zuid neighbourhood, just southwest of Vondelpark. It may be called ‘Blue’, but this peppy spot is done out in black, white and red, with a mural-sized family portrait dominating one wall. You can find traditional rijsttafels here (including a vegan option) or opt for the ‘Experience Menu’ to sample a selection of Indonesian street food

The industrial, shabby-chic interior and ever-changing daily menu of modern Dutch cuisine have made the ‘Wild Boar’ a trendy (and increasingly popular) haunt in Oost. The idea is simple – choose three or four courses, order some wine, and let the kitchen work its magic with fresh, seasonal produce (do try the boar though). And if something a little lighter is required, head next door to their Eetbar, where they offer smaller, individual plates at delightful prices.

If you try one thing at VJFB, make it the vegan version of the infamous Dutch creation kapsalon, a mound of fries traditionally topped with shawarma, cheese, and sauce. At the hip vegan eatery, the fries come loaded with vegan shawarma, vegan cheese, jalapenos, red onion, fried onion, and drizzles of garlic sauce and spicy VJFB sauce. The delicious rendition has won over many a carnivore.

I don’t know these people but the burgers are supposed to be great.

Cheese shop, I like cheese.

Cheese!

They sell Parra.

Gifts.

Museum that has Mondrian, De Kooning and a bunch of others.

Was covered for years, recently rediscovered.

If it's good enough for Jay-Z...

The homies.

Streetwear brand