For well over a half-century, this wonderful establishment has been a city mainstay. Character is found in gleaming copper cookware, rustic beams, and romantic artwork, and the menu boasts both French-inspired dishes and updated Dutch fare. The restaurant's presence on the second floor of a circa-1687 home also imparts charm, and fresh flowers are omnipresent. Among the culinary options are grilled salmon and chateaubriand. A boon to late diners, the Black Sheep serves dinner until 11pm.

In years past, this elegant venue was the waiting room for first-class train passengers. Nowadays, the Art Nouveau-styled space invites travelers and other folks into a haven of beauty, where they can indulge in a variety of terrific fare throughout the day. Whether your appetite is large or small, you can get a full, three-course meal or simply have a sandwich and a drink. Regular, gourmet specials provide an upscale note and ensure that no one goes away hungry. Ideal for on-the-run professionals.

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.

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.