Mr & Mrs Smith

Café Esprit on Spui (+31 20 622 1967) is a delightful spot for a quick salad or sandwich. Herengracht on Herengracht (+31 20 616 2482) is an art gallery, bar and restaurant, good for an aperitif or a Modern European lunch on the canal. Metz & Co on Leidsestraat (+31 20 520 7020) is a department store with a café that’s good for lunch or a coffee break with a view. The brasserie-style menu at two-floored Morlang on Keizersgracht (+31 20 625 2681) makes it ideal for a low-key lunch or dinner. Though once you get a look at their extensive spirit selection you may find food takes second place. Make a beeline for the large canalside terrace. Moeders on Rozengracht (+31 20 626 7957) is a fun place to go for a relaxed evening of authentic Dutch dining; get a table outside if the weather is up to it. The name means ‘Mother’s’, which explains why the walls are covered with photographs of mums through the ages. We loved the stamppot, which translates as ‘mashed pot’. It’s is a traditional dish of mashed potatoes with vegetables, served with a Hema (famous department store) sausage, meatballs and bacon. Supperclub on Jonge Roelensteeg (+31 (20) 344 6400; www.supperclub.nl) is still going strong, but you may find it more fun to book dinner on its boat (www.supperclubcruise.nl).