Amsterdam Ajax teased by Adidas

When in Amsterdam...we have one team, Ajax Amsterdam. Many people love Ajax more than the national team. With World Cup fever sweeping the city and the country here is a reminder of which football team is the first love of many Amsterdammers.

Every year they launch the new team outfit for the following season. This year Adidas decided to have some fun with the players and the coaching staff of Ajax Amsterdam.

Watch the video and decide if you would like to wear a shirt with tulips on it. Would you be taken seriously?



When in Amsterdam....enjoy!








When in Amsterdam... - Blogged

Amsterdam: Where to Watch World Cup 2014 by country

When in Amsterdam...football/soccer is always an event. Where to watch the World Cup games in Amsterdam? Amsterdam is known as the Global Village with more nationalities for population size than any other city in the world!

With nationalities from all nations in the World Cup 2014 in Amsterdam there are many places to watch the great sporting event. Many of the games start at 1800, 2100, 2200 and 2300hrs. 

So we have listed bars and also restaurants. Not all listed below will show the game due to time difference. If you cannot see the game at least you can visit a place for dinner or a drink with natives from the country. Then go to one of the big sport bar venues listed at the bottom of the list. Check the links for more details.



(image by worldcupbrazil.net)


Australia - Coco's Outback (bar) - near Rembrandtplein. This is an Australian themed bar. Coco's is also one of the larger bars that is to specifically cater to the World Cup loving crowd.

Argentina - Luna (restaurant) - in the Jordaan area

Algeria - Restaurant Algiers (restaurant) - Say hi to the owner Tufik. It is in the Pijp neighbourhood

Belgium - EetCafe Brakke Grond - the bar - restaurant of the Dutch speaking Belgian cultural centre. All games shown live. Near Dam Square

Brazil - Brasil Music Bar (bar)- put your dancing shoes on it is in the Leidseplein area

Bosnia- Herzegovina - Eetcafe Bella Bosnie (eating cafe) - near Oosterpark

Cameroon - African Kitchen - West African with a specialty of Nigerian entrees. When in comes to the World Cup Africa sticks together. Located in Southeast.

Chile - Caramba Restaurant - Although a Mexican restaurant with a mix of Chilean, Mexican, and Argentineans workers it is sure to be exciting. In the Jordaan

Colombia - La Margarita - a bar and restaurant that is a mix of Caribbean and Colombian. Near Rembrandtplein

Costa Rica La Margarita - a bar and restaurant that is a mix of Caribbean and Colombian. Near Rembrandtplein

Croatia - Local spotter had a bunch at the Irish Bar on Heinekenplein O'Donnells

England - Just like the Germans you will be surprised by the amount of English in Amsterdam. It is not until the football starts that you realise. Cafe Batavia - with English management be sure to have a go at the shot crocodile.

Equador - Luna (restaurant) It says Argentina on the door but a number will be supporting Equador.

France Cafe Batavia - There is a crazy Frenchman there with his posse.

Germany - Germans are one of the largest immigrant groups in Amsterdam. For their games it will be hard to miss them. Club 8 Pool Hall - This is where they were last World Cup. Another option is Cocos as it has the space for a lot of Germans.

Ghana - African Kitchen - West African with a specialty of Nigerian entrees. When in comes to the World Cup Africa sticks together. Located in Southeast.

Greece - Go to the Waterlooplein during market day(not Sunday). The stand near the spring roll stand is run by Greeks. Ask them where they will watch the game. They don't recommend any Greek Restaurant in Amsterdam.

HondurasLa Margarita - a bar and restaurant that is a mix of Caribbean and Colombian. Near Rembrandtplein

Iran - Daan Baan - Restaurant

Italy - Caffe Parma

Ivory Coast African Kitchen - West African with a specialty of Nigerian entrees. When in comes to the World Cup Africa sticks together. Located in Southeast.

Japan - A lot of the places are owned by Chinese so Im not risking it. Any suggestions let me know.

Mexico Caramba Restaurant - Although a Mexican restaurant with a mix of Chilean, Mexican, and Argentineans workers it is sure to be exciting. In the Jordaan

Nigeria African Kitchen - West African with a specialty of Nigerian entrees. When in comes to the World Cup Africa sticks together. Located in Southeast.

Portugal - Os Lusitanos - This is a local Portugese football club that has been in the de Pijp (old Latin Quarter) since the late 1960s. You might want to call first.

Russia

Spain - La Paella - Don't order food during the game if the Spanish are losing as the Chef is a crazy fan. Red Light District

Switzerland - Cafe Bern - Nieuwmarkt - near Red Light District

South Korea - Yukio Korean BBQ - Red light district

USA - US Consulate did not reply to my email when published. Head to one of the bars listed below you maybe able to catch some of the Playoffs as well. Bonus, hey?

Uruguay - Albertos Steak House - near Centraal Station

If you have any additions let us know.


We haven't mentioned the most important of all The Netherlands. Go to this blog post for a list of large and small places to watch the national team. Also, find on this blog where you can watch late night games. Where to Watch the 2014 World Cup in Amsterdam


When in Amsterdam...enjoy!



(image from gazztoday.com)


When in Amsterdam... - Blogged

Where to Watch the World Cup 2014 in Amsterdam

When in Amsterdam....where do you watch the Dutch games for the World Cup 2014?

Here is:
  •  tips on where to watch the games;
  • Game dates and times;
  • A list of places big and open, small and closed;
  • Places to watch other games
Tips:
  • Check the weather and prepare for rain just in case.
  • Wear a little or a lot of Orange (or red, white or blue) on game day.
  • Do not wear orange when the team is not playing.
  • Talk football with the locals. The worse they can say is 'we don't like football'.
Game Dates:

Friday 13 June 2100hrs Netherlands v Spain 

Wednesday 18 June 1800hrs Netherlands v Australia

Monday 23 June 1800hrs Netherlands v Chile

Saturday 28 June Netherlands v Mexico

Saturday 5 July 2200hrs Netherlands v Costa Rica

Wednesday 9 July 2200hrs Netherlands v Argentina 

Large and outdoor

(photo by twittermania.nl)
Museumplein - Expect large crowds of Dutch visiting from around Amsterdam and a lot of teenagers just finished school. 50 000 to 150 000 are expected to turn up on the square surrounded by museums. For the final in 2010 200 000 were estimated to have watched the game at Museumplein. # late note. There is no game on the square for the Argentina game.

Let's hope we have this problem. Hup Holland Hup.



Hannekes Boom - Located 5 minutes walk to the east of Central Station this outdoor area is relaxed. A perfect place to watch the game if the weather is good.


Roest - Located in the near east a more local feeling is to be experienced. Take tram 9, 14 or 10. 



Small and local




Cafes in the Jordaan area such as Theo Thijssen. Many are small so be prepared to stand. The plus is that you will have the local vibe win or loose.

Small Cafes on the main squares:

Cafe Los - Rembrandtplein

Cafe de Monico - Rembrandtplein

Cafe Luxembourg - Spui

Cafe Spui-tje - Spui

Cafe het Molenpad - Prinsengracht Near Leidseplein

Brouwerij De Prael - Red Light District

Cafe Buurvrouw - near Dam Square

Where to watch other games

Most of the major tourist bars in the Dam Square, Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein have the space to cater to many people. Expect these places to be full of travellers and locals from participating teams all throughout the World Cup

Coco's Outback - Rembrandtplein

St James Gate - Rembrandtplein

Pub Aran - Max Euweplein (near Leidseplein)

Satellite Sports Bar - Leidseplein

Hole in the Wall - Leidseplein

O'Rielly's - near Dam Square


When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

Related posts:

Amsterdam where to watch the World Cup by country.



When in Amsterdam... - Blogged

Amsterdam's Vondel Park Celebrates 150 years

When in Amsterdam....Vondel Park is the largest and most famous of Amsterdam's green spaces. Every year 12 million people visit Vondel Park. To celebrate 150 years of the Park on Saturday there is a full program of events and on Sunday there is modest program.

The day of celebrations is full of music, theater, sports, art and many activities for children. You can join the biggest sporting bootcamp in Europe and enjoy classical music Belvedere Opera Competition and VondelCS.

Take half an hour of yoga, get a consultation of the Rose or discovered the park again with a tour of the nature reserve Koeweide. Festina tennis opens its doors for all. Dance a silent disco at Blue Teahouse where you can also listen to stories about the park.

Our picks







  • Kara Opera Choose an aria and test your opera skills at Kara Opera.
  • Roller Disco and skateboard demonstrations
  • London Police the famous Urban artists take 10 hours to construct a huge piece of art.

 For a complete list of Activities visit the program at the website 150 years of Vondelpark

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

When in Amsterdam... - Blogged

Amsterdam top 10 things to eat: a critical approach

When in Amsterdam....visitors always ask what local specialty food to eat and try? 

Our Approach:

  • Review websites with a top list of things to eat in Amsterdam
  • Collate
  • A critical analysis
  • Recommend places to try the local delicacy.
  • Include options you can try all year and not seasonal food.
  • At the end there are a range of food tours for you tick as many off the list in one outing.




10. Patat (Fries)

Although originally from Belgium(hence the name Flaamse Frites) the locals have adopted this local snack. Most street corners in tourist areas will have an outlet. Served in paper cones with an assortment of sauces of your choice.

Be sure to try the Amsterdam topping of Peanut sauce, Mayo and fresh onion. Locally referred to as Patatje Oorlog. 

Recommendation: 

Manneken Pis was voted the best fries in all of the Netherlands. Sadly, it is located on the Damrak rated the ugliest street in Amsterdam. Order and head three blocks to the west to sit on the Single canal and enjoy your fries.

Manneken Pis
Damrak 41, Amsterdam



9. Rijstaffel (Indonesian)

The Jewel in the crown of the Dutch Empire was Indonesia. Indonesian restaurants abound in Amsterdam similar to Indian restaurants in England. 

The Rijstaffel is a colonial invention. No Indonesian would ever serve small amounts of anything on their table. The meal was invented to make the colonial masters satisfied. Nonetheless, you order a fixed menu and an assortment of curries and other small Indonesian dishes are presented in the middle of the table for you. 

When reading reviews of Indonesian restaurants be mindful that many reviewers have never been to Indonesia or have tried the food before. Also, that many Indonesian restaurants reduce the flavour to cater to Northern European pallet. 

Recommendation:

Puri has a simple interior and at times grumpy staff (which is very Amsterdam). However, the Rijstaffel is excellent and recommended by the local Indonesians. It also doesn't have the high price tag that many Indonesian restaurants attach to their Rijstaffel. Probably another reason for the recommendation.
Albert Cuypstraat 58-60





8. Pancakes

Dutch pancakes are thin like crepes but the size of a large plate. Toppings are sweet, savoury or both. You can have them for breakfast, lunch, or all three.

Local's enjoy the mixture of bacon, cheese and topped with syrup on one pancake.

Pancakes are very simple to make so the below is nice old quirky place.


Recommendation:

Pannenkoekenhuis (Pancake House) Upstairs has been at the same location since the 1960s. The charm of the place is the death defying stairs and the little tables.

Grimburgwal 2



7. Koffie (Koffie)

Yes, it is not an eat. However, it is an integral part of Dutch society. You don't need half a gallon of coffee to keep you going in Amsterdam. A simple black coffee with some coffee milk on the side(is optional) and one biscuit. This is all you need to feel what a majority of the country runs on, coffee.

Recommendation:

Cafe Barones is situated centrally and next to some of the buildings of the University of Amsterdam. Well regarded coffee and a mixture of locals, students customers with a busy bike path at the front to watch the world pass.

Torensteeg 2



6. Apple Tart

Dutch apple tart recipes date back to the 1500s. Different from other countries in that there is a biscuit base and lattice top. Also, local appel varieties are often used such as Elstar and Goudreinet. Mixed with cinnamon and lemon juice don't forget to ask for whipped cream on the side.


Many places rate their Apple Tart as the best in town. Some places have built a reputation just on their pie alone. However, like pancakes Dutch Apple Tarts are not hard to make and most places have a very good tart.

Recommendation:

Anywhere in the Jordaan. The Jordaan is a district in the 17th Century area. Every guide book and site lists Winkle 43 as the best apple pie but they are normally filled with tourists. Explore the alleyways of the Jordaan and find a place to yourself and order the apple tart You will find a better experience and as good a slice of pie as the famous places.




Herring from Meer Dan Vis (Photo byAmsterdam Food Tour see below)


5. Herring 

Most cities built from a commodity base. For Amsterdam it was Herring and beer. Once this country pioneer the curing of this little fish it could be sent further as a commodity and exchanged for beer. From this humble start the country becomes a world power in the 17th century to the country it is today.

Note: In Amsterdam we do not hang it by the tail and take bites from it dangling above your head. Custom dictates that you get it cut up into small slices and sample in a civilised manner.

If you are not here from May to July. Get some onion to go with the fish as the new herring is is out of season.

Recommendation:

Meer dan Vis source their fish from small fishing vessels rather than industrial boats. They do this daily so it is sure to be fresh.

Meer Dan Vis
Tweede Eglantiersdwarsstraat 13 (long name for a short street...its in the Jordaan)






4. Ossenworst

Its a sausage. The only EU accredited food to be special to Amsterdam. Have it on a sandwich or as slices for a beer snack. The beef sausage is lightly cured and mixed with pepper and other spices.

Originally ox(hence the name ox sausage) was used when large number of them were imported from Austria and Germany in the 17th century. The boom in the spice trade made a delicious combination. Today the sausage is beef.

Recommendation:

Vet (fat) Butcher is known for their quality meat. Although the only place to sit is the bench at the front. Pop into this unassuming quality Dutch butcher in the middle of Amsterdam's Chinatown. Order an Ossenworst sandwich.

Vet
Zeedijk 99, Amsterdam





3. Stroopwaffel

Originally from Gouda (same place as the cheese) this local favourite dates back to the 1800s when a baker wanted to use leftovers. Today. two thin waffles are stuck together by syrup hence the name syrup waffel.

This is your best gift to take home with you. In the supermarkets these retail for 2 euros depending on the brand. They are a hit with all. Even that person that doesn't like sweets.

Recommendation:

Fresh from the Albert Cuyp Market. You won't be able to take a fresh one home from your travels but you can tell people about the best way to have them. There is one stall holder on the market which does them fresh. Do becareful as the syrup is dangerous when hot.

Albert Cuyp Market




2. Bitterballen/Kroket
Deep fried crumbed beef stew. They come in ball(bitterballen) or log (kroket) shaped. Bitterballen are normally served with bitters (mustard) as a beer snack. Krokets can be a snack or added to bread for a sandwich. 


Bitterballen is generally meat while krokets can come in a range of flavours from shrimp to vegetarian.

Recommendation:

Any Brown cafe. A traditional dutch bar that is brown on the inside. Hence the name, Brown Cafe. Cafe t' Smalle (the Small cafe) is a charming place though normally busy. If it is busy just cruise the near alley ways and look for old cafes.

Cafe t' Smalle
Egelantiersgracht 12






1. Cheese

Of course Cheese is number 1. Cheese in the Netherlands dates back to 2 centuries before Christ. The rich delta pasture has produced cheese famous all over the world. Gouda and Edam are the most popular internationally. Although the later is mainly exported. Aged, young, smoked, spiced there is cheese for every occasion. 

There is a range of cheese shops in Amsterdam. Many cheese shops have sprung up for the tourist market over the last few years. Be sure to taste but don't waste your money.

Recommendation:

Kaaskamer is for serious cheese heads. It is a retail place for you to take away or purchase a sandwich with some tasty cheese

Kaaskamer van Amsterdam
Rundstraat 7


Not a bad list for a city and country not known for cuisine. There is something for everyone. The cheese head, the sweet tooth, the adventurous and the conservative. So when you are asked about Dutch food in Amsterdam you have something to say.



Now you can spend hours navigating Amsterdam on your own trying to find these and other places to get your Dutch treats. However, to do it properly and save time here is a list of food tours so you can tick a number of these and many others off your list while learning something.

Food Tours of Amsterdam

Eating Amsterdam - 75 euro per person, 3-4 hours, 6 stops and a canal cruise. 6-12 people per group

Urban Adventures - 36 euros per person, 2.5 hours. 4 snacks and 1 drink. You get to go to a supermarket and finish at at micro-distillery. 12 people group maximum

Omy Amsterdam Jordaan Food Tour - 50.00 euro per person, 2 - 2.5 hours. 5 stops food drinks included and the history of the Jordaan. 4 people group maximum.

Hungry Bird Tour - 59 euro per person. Snacks and drinks equal to a full lunch. 8 people group maximum

Shop, Cook, Eat Tour. Go to the market with a local chef buy local goodies. Bring them back learn to cook local and eat or invite the rest of the family or friends to eat. 110 euro per person. Eaters are charged additional fee of 45 euros drinks and food included.

Tours by Locals - 290 - 560 euro for 1 to 10 people. 6 stops, 2.5 hours

Other interesting blogs

Beer related things to do in Amsterdam


Things to do in Amsterdam: local tips from famous Amsterdammers

Overcoming the biggest problems to Amsterdam for Visitors

Places to mum for lunch when visiting Amsterdam

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!




When in Amsterdam... - Blogged

Places to take women for lunch when visiting Amsterdam

When in Amsterdam... has been looking for a place to take that special woman on a nice lunch. Here is a list of charming places to savour the moment and the conversation. The list has been chosen due to their central location.




Gartine

In the middle of the hectic city is this charming place. Perfect for a brunch, lunch or high tea. Prominent is the Portugese chandelier and the wonderful china and crockery. Make sure to make a reservation as the capacity is 20 people. 

Taksteeg 7, Amsterdam




Buffet van Odette

Buffet van Odette

Situated on the World Heritage List Prinsengracht this is a great place for a lunch. Dinner time the place gets busy. If you are lucky get an outdoor seat and enjoy the conversation and the view.

Prinsengracht 598






Blue

Situated on top of shopping mall do not be disheartened by what is below. Above you have a 360 degree view of Amsterdam in a stylish environment at reasonable prices.

Kalvatoren level 3. Entrance via end of Kalverstraat or Single by Muntplein





Droog

Combination of shopping and a tea room. What could be better? Droog is also the best example of Dutch design under one roof. The shop has a tea room upstairs and don't forget to show mum the wonderful courtyard garden.

Staalstraat 7 Level 1


When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

Other related posts:


Top 10 Amsterdam eats: a critical approach

Amsterdam Vegetarian and Vegan Eats


When in Amsterdam... - Blogged

Amsterdam Vegetarian Vegan Eats






When in Amsterdam.... there are a range of vegetarian and vegan restaurants and lunch places. This list of healthy places for lunch and dinner has been chosen for their central location for you to enjoy. We then list some places a little further out and finish with some really local tips. (updated December 20140






Maoz Vegetarian


The popular chain first started in Amsterdam in 1991 and has now spread throughout Europe and the US.  The falafel and endless salad bar are a hit with visitors. The fast food chain for vegetarians and vegan. You will find Maoz stores near most tourist areas.

Muntplein 1, Amsterdam
Leidsestraat 85, Amsterdam
Damrak 40, Amsterdam
Ferdinand Bolstraat 67, Amsterdam
Van Woustraat 15, Amsterdam


Vliegende Schotel Vegetarian Restaurant

Vliegende Schotel 

Located in the centre of the Jordaan district. It got taken over by a new owner/chef some years ago and is currently 100% organic and vegetarian, with many seasonal dishes on the menu. The servings are very large so be sure not order to much. Great value for money.

Neighborhood: Jordaan
Nieuwe Leliestraat 162




Lavinia good food
(photo from facebook page)



Lavinia


Located in the busy Leidseplein area. Lavinia Good Food is a comfortable lunch room with a range of vegetarian and vegan bites. Try the spelt sandwich or the range of salads.

Neighborhood: Leidseplein
Kerkstraat 176, Amsterdam



Golden Temple Vegetarian Restaurant


Golden Temple


Founded by Shiks the food is a mix of Middle Eastern and Indian influence. Sit down in cushioned areas to enjoy their healthy offerings.

Neighbourhood: Grand Canal District
Utrechtsestraat 126, Amsterdam



Vegabond lunchroom and deli


Vegabond


Situated on the picturesque Leliegracht not far from the 9 Streets area. The place sells a range of vegan food to take away or sample there. A perfect place for lunch after or before an Anne Frank House visit.

Neighbourhood: Grand Canal District 
Address: Leliegracht 16, Amsterdam


Venkel Salad
(Photo from Venkel facebook page)


Venkle


Venkle is all about local and seasonal products. Their range of salads is fantastic. The small downside for picky vegetarians is the slight smell of fresh grilled chicken. If in the area of the famous Albert Cuyp Street Market then this is a good option.. Open 11am - 9pm.

Neighbourhood: De Pijp
Address: Albert Cuypstraat 22


Olive and Cookie, Amsterdam
(photo taken from their website)



Olive and Cookie


Food with love and care for a good price. A 'pearl' as one reviewer stated. Beautiful interior that transfers to the food. Daily selections of vegetarian and other food. A local favourite.

Neighbourhood: De Pijp
Address: Saenredamstraat 67


Mana Mana, Amsterdam
(Photo from Mana Mana facebook)



Mana Mana



An Israeli tapas style place. All of the dishes except one are vegetarian. Good selection for vegans also. Share the plates and don't forget to order the fresh pita bread.

Neighbourhood: De Pijp 
Address: 1e Jan Steenstraat 85


LOCAL TIPS


Robin Food for vegans and vegetarians, Amsterdam
(Photo from Robin Food facebook page)


The Robin Food Collective at the Nieuwe Anita


The Nieuwe Anita is a Speak Easy style of bar that host regular live music. However, twice a week on Monday and Thursday the area behind the bar is transformed into a vegan and vegetarian heaven. A set course is cooked with love by volunteers. You can buy drinks from the bar at the front. A great night to mix with locals. Be sure to check their website or facebook page for up to date details.




Vekologisch vegan and organic Amsterdam
(photo from Vekologisch facebook)

Vekologish.nl at Zaal 100


On Wednesdays at Zaal 100 the lovely people of Vekologisch create a set menu of biological vegan delight. Zaal 100 is normally a live music venue. Bookings are recommended as is checking their facebook page to ensure the event is taking place.



When in Amsterdam...enjoy!


When in Amsterdam... - Blogged