Tales & Spirits

"Tipples and Nibbles in Amsterdam Cocktail bar-restaurants typically excel at one or the other, rarely both tipple and nibble. Four month old Tales & Spirits, located in the beating heart of Amsterdam , manages to succeed on both fronts. The cocktails are both creative in name and flavor (I opted for a Fallen Lady with vodka, deep fruit flavors and a dusting of chocolate and pepper), affordable and strong for the initiated cocktail lover. Spa still water is offered on the house with each drink ordered- a nice touch when the alcohol bill starts climbing. While I enjoyed my drink, it was the food menu that caught and held onto my attention. My truffle and wild sautéed mushroom risotto was impeccable in taste and size, leaving me sufficient room to test out one of their desserts of the moment. Most of the dishes on the menu are small so prepare to order several to share. And, of course, given the spot's short order popularity, it's wise to book ahead."

"Tales & Spirits is one of Amsterdam's top destinations for creative cocktails like the "Pretty in Pink," made with Hayman's Old Tom, fresh lemon, raspberry, celery foam, and soda. But traditionalists will be happy too; the menu features plenty of classics, including a take on the tiki fave Zombie that blends four different rums with pineapple, lime, and grapefruit juices, falernum, cinnamon syrup, passionfruit, and absinthe." - Meredith Bethune