Recommended: Buffet van Odette, Amsterdam
What? Buffet van Odette in Amsterdam Why? This elegant all-day spot in the centre of Amsterdam is a favorite of many people, including myself. While this new location on the Prinsengracht (they moved a few years ago) is slightly bigger than their older space, the restaurant is still pretty small and fills up quickly. The Buffet’s popularity is well deserved, because the food and service always deliver. Everything is homemade, using the best of local suppliers (Hartog bread, Brandt&Levie sausage) and even the smallest aspects – like a simple side salad – are made with...
Read MoreCuliperslunch 2013
The annual Culiperslunch is an event where the Dutch culinary press is introduced to new food brands, where publishers present their new cookbook collections and where chefs show innovative skills and products. The lunch also serves as a vibrant meeting place for all culinary professionals in the Netherlands and thus provided me with much inspiration. While this post is way too short to describe everything I experienced during this lunch last Monday, I will focus on the most interesting trends and products I encountered. - Food boxes are in, that’s for sure. While the Dutch already...
Read MoreRecommended: Polpo, London
What? Restaurant group Polpo in London Why? I visited Polpo last year and was immediately intrigued by the popularity of this group of restaurants. The concept from best friends Russell Norman and Richard Beatty is based on a Venetian wine bar, with small dishes to share, a casual atmosphere and authentic Italian comfort food served with a modern twist. I was really impressed by the quality of the dishes I had at the Soho location and loved the buzzing, lively vibe of the place. The Polpo restaurants don’t take reservations, so be prepared to wait for your dinner. You won’t...
Read MoreRecommended: Quatfass, Amsterdam
What? Restaurant Quatfass in Amsterdam Why? The owners of Quatfass exploit several popular cafes in the Eastern part of Amsterdam and Quatfass is their slightly more upscale place. The restaurant has the ambiance of a somewhat industrial but cozy café, and combines that with remarkably good dishes for affordable prices (both chef’s menu’s cost less than 30 euro). Bonus points for the friendly service, the many wines available per glass and easy parking in the area. Must-try? The chef’s tasting menu consists of seven small (but actually pretty generous!) courses and offers a sample of...
Read MoreRecommended: Murray’s Cheese Bar, NYC
What? Murray’s Cheese Bar in New York Why? Last year the well-known cheese shop Murrays in New York’s West Village opened a bar across the street and I was lucky enough to visit just after opening. This bar is cheese lovers’ heaven! The concept is pretty genius: the bar offers a wide variety of remarkable cheeses, cheese-based dishes and matching wines and sides. The cheese mongers are incredibly passionate and more than willing to advise or surprise you with the cheeses of your liking. Murray’s will also launch a brunch service this month. Must try? A ‘Cheese Flight’...
Read MoreRecommended: Zuma, Miami
What? Japanese restaurant Zuma in Miami’s EPIC hotel Why? Zuma is popular in places like London and Dubai and it’s no wonder the location in Miami is such a celebrity hotspot. The place has a sleek, chic design and offers a wide array of small dishes (order about 3-4 per person) to share with the table. Although the prices are pretty steep, it’s absolutely worth the splurge for a great night out. Each dish impressed me and every glass of wine complimented it even more. Perfect when you’ve got something to celebrate. Must try? The dish with tuna and salmon tartar (served with...
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