Dutch Courage

Think you have what it takes to work your way through the best of Amsterdam’s bars and lo-fieateries? Put on your walking shoes, fire up Google Maps and give it your best shot

- Lisa Van Aswegen

For pure and simple seafood: THE SEAFOOD BAR

Appropriately owned and run by fishmonger family De Visscher, The Seafood Bar runs the gamut of ocean delights. The likes of king crab and lobster may be beyond the reach of most travelling on the rand, but a cold seafood board, classic mussels with garlic and white wine, or Dutch shrimp croquettes will go down well with a glass of wine (affordable French, Italian and Portuguese varieties are on offer). And don’t forget the oyster menu – a mixed selection from Zeeland, France and Ireland is any crustacean lover’s dream. Van Baerlestraat 5, theseafoodbar.com

2 For kicks: MELLY’S STROOPWAFELS

Sure, everyone knows how delicious, sweet and sticky Dutch stroopwafels are. But biting into a giant fresh-from-the-griddle waffle, oozing with cinnamon-infused caramel takes it to a whole new level. Take yours dipped in Callebaut chocolate (white, milk or dark) and topped with anything from mini marshmallows and candies, to roast nuts and chocolate shavings … you might have to return for round two. Nieuwezijds Voorburg Wal 141, mellysstroopwafels.nl

3 For kitchenalia: DILLE & KAMILLE

The only problem with this homeware store is figuring out how you’ll get your purchases home. Muted herbaceous colours greet you with row upon row of meticulously organised kitchenware and home accessories. Stock up on drop (salty liquorice), speculaas spices, teas and cinnamon stick bonbons for gifts, and spoil yourself with beautiful wooden kitchen tools. The linen, with its simple botanical patterning, is particularly covetable. (Korte) Nieuwendijk 16–18, dille-kamille.nl

4 For proper pancakes: PANCAKES AMSTERDAM