Right at the end of the Haarlemmerstraat and by the lovely Westerpark is the fabulous Cafe Restaurant Amsterdam. The stunning space used to be the engine room of a pump station and is now a vast industrial dining room with floor to ceiling windows whist lighting is courtesy of twenty two floodlights from Amsterdam’s two legendary football stadiums – the old Ajax-stadium and the Olympic Stadium.
We have been coming here for years as Marc’s uncle is one of the owners but honestly that’s got absolutely nothing to do with why we recommend it. The fact it’s almost always full to bursting is testament to that.
It’s super family friendly with a kids menu to boot (there’s even a small local astro-pitch outside so bring a ball for the littles) but don’t let that put you off as you’ll find couples, groups of friends, birthday celebrations and more when you arrive.
Food-wise think French bistro staples – seafood, burgers, pasta and more but whilst always reliable, it’s not the menu that necessarily draws us but rather the stunning room, the buzz and the ‘gezelligheid’.
There’s outside seating too but it’s limited and truth be told really its the interior that we love the most.
Even though its likely to be a tram or taxi ride from where you are staying, Sony let that put you off. Everyone we’ve ever sent has always been wowed. Book ahead.
