Gleaming with coppery tones and polished woods, this warm, inviting cafe is a welcome sight in the city. Its delightful, well-portioned cuisine runs the gamut, from croquettes to salmon, sandwiches to spring rolls. You'll also find salads, soups, steaks, seafood, and a host of snacks and sweets. Many folks come in for a quick bite and end up lazing for hours in the comfortable atmosphere, or checking out the well-stocked international reading table. Outdoor dining is particularly nice when the weather's warm. From central station: tramway 1,2, or 5 and stop at Spui.

De Kroon's gracious interior, ornamented with French furniture and refined details, fits accordingly with the cafe's name, which means "crown." The upscale place offers both lunch and dinner options and boasts a wonderful enclosed terrace that affords views of the square. Desserts and coffees satisfy those who simply want to soak in the ambience with a light repast. The cafe is the latest incarnation of the original De Kroon, which first threw open its doors in 1898.

Beautiful architecture, abundant windows, and golden walls and floors impart a certain elegance to this hotel cafe. Its capable staff, accomplished menu, and attention to detail guarantee a pleasurable experience that often converts first-time diners to long-term patrons. Main dishes include pan-fried skate, roasted venison, braised lamb shank, and a wild mushroom tarte. Desserts are a veritable feast in and of themselves; try warm apple fondant with caramel sauce or perhaps a chocolate tart with ivory ice cream if you require proof.

Cozy and welcoming, this establishment is both brown bar and restaurant. Its dimly lit interior is adorned with dark woodwork and simple wood furnishings, and the menu includes beef, seafood, and pasta dishes. Daily specials expand the possibilities. Several different rooms accommodate patrons of all intents, whether they want, food, alcohol, camaraderie, or a combination of the three. Crowds of locals can often be found at this spirited hang-out, and when the weather's nice, guests have use of a floating barge just outside the restaurant.

Contemporary in style and boasting a wonderful location on the Amstel River, this large, popular cafe invites leisurely dining. Amid its spacious environs, patrons nurse cups of coffee, bask in the warmth of the waterside terrace, and sample lasagne, salads, soups, sandwiches, pastas, snack foods, and desserts. A favorite of creative types, the cafe also attracts folks who want to relax with a glass of wine or browse the selection of available periodicals. Great for day or evening.