AMSTERDAM MAGAZINE

MAR & APR EU PRESIDENCY EDITION

The card that offers morethan you can visit

(but you can try)

iamsterdam.com/citycard

P.04 YOU ARE HEREThe heart of the EU Presidency: the Marine Etablissement

P.08 MARINE ETABLISSEMENT AREAExplore the neighbourhood's best restaurants, museums, bars, cafes, and unique spots

P.12 DUTCH DESIGN A spotlight on Dutch Design which you can see at the Europe building

P.16 VAN GOGH IN AMSTERDAMDiscover this true European's life in the city before becoming one of the world's most prominent painters

P.20 WHAT'S ONA treasure trove of top tips: exhibitions, events, festivals, and hotspots during your stay in Amsterdam

CONTENTS

published for the City of Amsterdam by Amsterdam Marketing editor-in-chief & writer Angel Trinidad project manager Sebas van der Sangen designer Zlatka Siljdedic coordinator Bart van Oosterhout

AMSTERDAM MAGAZINE

EU PRESIDENCY

LETTER FROM THE MAYOR

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to Amsterdam. Our city is hosting the Netherlands’ presidency of the European Union during the fi rst half of 2016. I hope your stay in our city will leave you with fond memories. I am looking forward to April, when the fi fth conference of EU capital cities will be held at the National Maritime Museum. Twenty-eight mayors will meet on 21 April to discuss the role of cities in Europe. In consultation with the European Commission, we aim to contribute to solutions. Regarding the economy, sustainability and the arrival of refugees, there is enough experience for us to exchange.But the Dutch EU presidency must not be a party for politicians. I am very pleased that there will be a public meeting on 21 April, at which Amsterdam residents will be exchanging views with the mayors of European capital cities.And the ‘night mayors’ of European cities will be meeting on 22 and 23 April to discuss nightlife in Europe. Topics on the agenda will no doubt range from the creative industries and gastronomy to security and art – all areas in which a city can make its mark and boost its popularity.So where the EU is concerned, we can certainly talk about having a party, but a party for everyone. And there are plenty of other ways to enjoy yourself in Amsterdam too. Find out more in this magazine.

Mr. E.E. van der LaanMayor of Amsterdam

The card that offers morethan you can visit

(but you can try)

iamsterdam.com/citycard

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE DUTCH EU PRESIDENCY:iamsterdam.com/europe, europebypeople.nl (offi cial cultural programme), eu2016.amsterdam

EU PRESIDENCY4 MINI re etabsseent

� e Marine Etablissement in Amsterdam is the sparkling centre of the Dutch EU Presidency for the � rst half of 2016. Located close to the central station, it was a former naval dockyard turned into a dynamic social and technological hub.

HISTORY

The historical naval dock on Katten-burg Island has existed for over 350 years. In 1655, during the height of the Dutch Golden Age, the site was a large shipyard. Plenty of ships were built there for the naval protection of the Dutch East India Company’s fl eet. One of the few surviving 17th century buildings in the area is the historic archway; hundreds of labourers, carpenters, mast-makers and painters walked underneath here daily to or from their work. A bell hung above the gate signalling the beginning of the workday. This bell can now be found in the Maritime Museum.Meanwhile the Maritime Museum used to be a central storage and warehouse for the admiralty’s fl eet; cannons, sails, fl ags and ship equipment were stored here. The imposing building was designed by Daniel Stalpaert, the same architect who designed the City Hall at Dam Square, now the Royal Palace.

A COMMUNICATIONS,SUSTAINABILITY ANDTECHNOLOGY HUBLocated right next to the beautiful Maritime Museum, the area is now home to several innovative compa-nies and organisations in the fi elds of media, sustainability, technology and social development, among others. marineterrein.nl

YOU ARE HERE

SMART CITY EXPERIENCE LAB

Learn more about Amsterdam Smart City’s projects and innovations which aim to create smarter cities. Information regarding the projects are displayed on a Smart ID Card – an information card with answers to several key questions. There will also be a series of lectures and workshops.

Open on Tuesdays 12 pm – 5 pm & Fridays 9 am – 4 pmamsterdamsmartcity.com

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Q&AWe had a quick chat with Farid Tabarki – founder of Studio Zeitgeist, one of the Top 200 most in� uential people in the Netherlands, Trendwatcher of the Year, speaker and globetrotter – about what makes theKattenburg neighbourhood special, and how it feels to have an o� ce where a prominent painter used to live…TELL US ABOUT STUDIO ZEITGEISTWe catch, present and shape the zeitgeist. By catching, we do classical research, focus groups, research commissioned by organisations, etc. I’m also a moderator and host for meetings and conferences in Europe, which gives you a really quick and good insight on what’s happening in the economy and the public sector. By presenting, I do keynotes and lectures. I also have a weekly column in the Financiele Dagblad and just launched a new book called The End of the Middle – which explores the end of retail and the nation state. By shaping the zeitgeist, we advise organisations on future develop-ments and what it means for their business. We also produce media outlets, leafl ets, magazines or websites which communicates the current zeitgeist for businesses, their employees or consumers.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE MARINEETABLISSEMENT AS YOUR HQ?The funny thing is, I also live on the same island. In fact, just on the other side of the road; I’m a citizen of Kattenburg Island. It’s interesting for me that this part of the city is now open to the public, as it used to be a space for the marine organisation before. I really like the mix of population; some people have been living here

since childhood, and at the same time, new waves of people come from different back-grounds and walks of life.

WHAT MAKES THE PLACE SPECIAL?It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity for the city that a huge part of the centre is now open to the general public. It’s special because of the potential and excitement of what this new part of the city is going to mean for Amsterdam and for the people who are living here – from a personal perspective, and as somebody who is interested in entrepreneurship and innovation. It can accelerate some developments.The funny thing is that my offi ce is where Van Gogh used to live for one and a half years; his uncle was the commander of the marine. He actually lived in the room where we have our offi ce! We also have a painting (not an original, of course) of Van Gogh which he painted during that period.

FAVOURITE SPOTS?There’s an amazing restaurant just around the corner: A Tavola (Kadijksplein 9). It’s really good, you’re in for a special treat and some delicious Italian food. My regular hang-out for coffee and croissants is Cafe Orloff (Kadijksplein 11). I often go to Pakhuis de Zwijger (Piet Heinkade 179). I will moderate events and discussions on the future of the city during FabCity Campus.More info about FabCity Campus on p. 10

studiozeitgeist.eu

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EU PRESIDENCYMINI6 hat' ew

All the latest cultural news plus the fresh new initiatives, events and venues making Amsterdam the place to be.

WHAT’S NEW? (in town)

text Mark Smith & Angel Trinidad

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1 KING’S DAYAll hail the King... and his many revellers, as the nation’s capital marks the royal birthday not with a regal gala but with King’s Day, a street party to end all street parties.27 AprilAcross town

2 CLOSE UP AT EYE‘Close-Up – A New Gene-ration of Film and Video Artists in the Netherlands’ presents the work of recent fi lm graduates and fresh

talents who are breaking down barriers between fi lm, video and visual art. The participating artists in-clude Melanie Bonajo, Felix Burger, Helen Dowling, Zachary Formwalt, Mariska de Groot, Hamza Halloubi & Cristóbal León among many others. Until 22 May EYE Film Institute eyefi lm.nl/en 3 ROMEO & JULIETThe timeless love story of two star-crossed lovers are presented in atmosphe-ric dance and song, with beautiful choreography by Sasha Waltz, at the Dutch National Opera and Ballet.15-28 AprilDutch National Opera & Ballet operaballet.nl

4 EASY VIRTUE ATVAN GOGH MUSEUMDiscover the world of prostitution through the eyes of Vincent Van Gogh and many other well-known 19th century artists, inclu-ding Edgar Degas, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Pablo Picasso. Until 19 JuneVan Gogh Museum vangoghmuseum.nl

5 AMSTERDAMSCHOOL AT STEDELIJKIn celebration of 100 years of the Amsterdam School architecture and design movement, the Stedelijk museum’s exhibition ’Living in the Amsterdam School’-showcases its stunning furni-ture collection from the era.9 April to 28 AugustStedelijk Museum stedelijk.nl

TOO COOL FOR...

De School is a 24-hour licensed venue located in a former school building. A club, music hall, restaurant, cafe, gym and exhibition space in one, it is fast becoming the hippest spot in Amsterdam West. With two authentic gymnastic halls from the sixties and nostalgic classrooms, it's a unique all-in-one venue for working out, dining and partying the night away.Jan van Breemenstraat 1deschoolamsterdam.nl

‘IT WAS AWFUL AND WONDERFUL.’BREAKING BAD STAR BRYAN CRANSTONRECALLS A FORMATIVE EXPERIENCE INAMSTERDAM’S RED LIGHT DISTRICT.

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If you only do one thing in Amsterdam, make it one of our top picks of must-do events, exhibi-tions, museums, music and more this issue.

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‘AMSTERDAM. EMOTIONAL CHOCOLATE. #RIDERWATCH’ BASSIST MAT OSMAN DISCOVERS AMSTERDAM-BORN BRAND TONY’SCHOCOLONELY ON SUEDE’S RECENT TOUR.

POP ARTS FESTIVAL

Despite its moniker, the Pop Arts Festival is actually an 11-day, three-venue event focusing on local and international puppetry. Forget Sesame Street and Punch and Judy; think Japanese kabuki, Russian and Czech marionettes and Turkish shadow puppets. "There’s not much of a puppet tradition in the Neth-erlands," says artist Ulrike Quade, who calls her company a puppet theatre for adults. "My mission is to integrate puppets more and more into theatre, dance and all the disciplines, so it’s one form." The festival’s opening night, ’Puppet Explosion‘, at Theater Bellevue, will be an ’animated party‘ with music, dance and puppet acts in addition to drinks and DJs. 14-24 AprilTheater Bellevue, Jeugdtheater de Krakeling and Ostade A’dampopartsfestival.nl

FLASH MOB

New research suggests that the foremost Dutch Old Master may have been something of a prude. Certainly, Rembrandt’s depictions of naked folk, such as the Seated Nude at the Rembrandt House museum, are very rare indeed. It’s thought that the great artist only began using nude sitters towards the end of his career because of ’moral concerns’. Until 16 Mayrembrandthuis.nl

FLOWER BED

It’s tulip season again and, fi ve years since the unveiling of its orange-hued Princenhof, the Amsterdam Sofi tel Legend The Grand remains the only hotel to boast its very own variety of tulip. This year, The Grand is taking tulip mania one step further; its stately courtyard will host a whopping eight new tulip strains that have never been seen the light of day before. sofi tel-legend-thegrand.com

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EU PRESIDENCY8 MINI re etabsseent rea

Marine Etablissement and surroundingstext Angel Trinidad map Gemma Pauwels/SaltyStock

HET SCHEEPVAART MUSEUM The National Maritime Museum presents a series of small exhibitions exploring various elements of maritime life. Moored outside is the Amsterdam, an exact replica of a famous Dutch East India Company ship. Closed during informal meetingshetscheepvaartmuseum.nl

HEMA From sweet stroopwafels and savoury sausages, to cute home and kitchen objects and cheap socks, HEMA’s beloved inventory are staples to every Dutch home. A perfect place to buy snacks and trinkets (that even locals would love). hema.nl

PENSION HOMELAND AND EU VISITORS’CENTRE The former offi cers’ quarters has a beautiful living room, billiards room and restaurant that is open to the public. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in the stunning mid-20th century designed restaurant. Plus, they serve specialty beer, made at Home-land’s own brewery. The newly opened Visitors’ Centre for the Dutch EU Presidency, also at Pension Homeland, showcases the history and operation of the EU via photography and video exhibits and interactive applications. pensionhomeland.com

AMSTERDAM LIBRARY The top fl oor of the multilevel public library houses the charming La Place, a restaurant and cafe with fantastic views of the city. oba.nl

CAFE ORLOFF A cosy cafe and bar located at Kadijksplein 11 – really close to the Maritime Museum and Europe building – serving delicious coffee and snacks. facebook.com/CafeOrloffAmsterdam

MUZIEKGEBOUW AAN `T IJ Muziekgebouw aan 't IJ is Holland’s most important concert hall for contemporary and

classical music (with a twist). The main auditorium has wonderful acoustics fi t for intimate chamber music, as well as large orchestras.muziekgebouw.nl

LLOYD HOTEL AND CULTURAL EMBASSY With interiors designed by Dutch architects MDRDV and internationally renowned Dutch designers Richard Hutten, Claudy Jongstra and Joep Van Lieshout, Lloyd Hotel offers unique rooms ranging from 5 stars to 1 star. Set in a beautiful 1920s building, this hip hotel and cultural embassy offers an airy cafe/restaurant with a bar and terrace, plus an art library and regular cultural events. lloydhotel.com

NEMO A science center and museum housed in an imposing Renzo Piano building, the museum presents fi ve fl oors of fun hands-on science exhibitions. Don’t forget to spend some time on the fi fth fl oor, with its wide open space offering amazing views of the city! e-nemo.nl

ARTIS ZOO & MICROPIA Natura Artis Magistra is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and one of the oldest in mainland Europe. Admire tropical fi sh in the Aquarium, travel through time at the Planetarium or get up close and personal with the free-roaming lemurs. Also located in the complex is Micropia, the world’s fi rst museum dedicated to microbes and microorganisms. artis.nl, micropia.nl

BROUWERIJ HET IJ Located in an old bathhouse, and right next to the ultimate landmark – a huge windmill! – Brouwerij Het Ij is the best known brewery in Amsterdam. Offering high quality beers since 1985, the bar is open everyday of the year (including holidays), and offers tours during weekends. brouwerijhetij.nl

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CAFE RESTAURANT DE PLANTAGE The stunning Plantage restaurant, just next to the zoo, is housed in a breathtaking 19th century converted conservatory which was a former meeting facility for the members of the Artis Zoo. And of course, the dishes are impressive, too. caferestaurantdeplantage.nl

RESTAURANT 15 Top chef Jamie Oliver’s industrial-style restaurant offers delicious Modern European food, served and prepared by disadvantaged youngsters which Oliver trained. fifteen.nl

HANNEKE’S BOOM This shack-style, waterfront cafe is a cosy and alternative place to enjoy drinks and listen to live music. Hang back, relax and watch the boats passing by the IJ river. hannekesboom.nl

EU PRESIDENCYMINI acy aps

‘Europe by People’ is the official arts and design programme of the EU Presidency 2016, commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. One of its projects is ‘FabCity Campus’, a self-sufficient and hyperconnected local city representing our future way of living.

FOUR THINGS TO KNOWABOUT FABCITY:

1 From April 11 onwards, this remarkable society will arise on Kop van Java Island. It will be inhabited by young students, professionals and artists, creating a self-sustaining city in which they will work, create, learn, build, research, and show possible solutions to universal problems in everyday living. 2 FabCity will function as a living lab for alternative desig-ning, developing and producing – fi nding ecological and innovative solutions for cities and everyday life. Participants will create new social, econo-mical and logistical services, products and systems.3 A three-day kickoff at Fab-City Campus and Pakhuis de Zwijger is taking place on 11-13 April. For the next ten weeks,

students will occupy FabCity Campus and the city, and look into specifi c issues – energy, water, food, waste, circular de-velopment, migration, transport, health – in ten different urban areas, in collabo-ration with its locals.4 FabCity will have its own, independent smart grid, using wind turbines and solar panels to generate its electricity and sourcing water from the river IJ. Heat will be generated using a biomeiler for composting, and campus food trucks will serve fresh produce from local fi shermen and farmers from the Amsterdam region. Even a local football team will be formed – We Are Here FC – and coached by students from the Sandberg Institute.

For the complete programme: europebypeople.nl/fabcity-campus

EUROPE BY PEOPLEFabCity Campus

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“ran onis hat egage n oal eel, re itay eronected d t he ae e aage o eeop rog oal anacrg iry, l oete d eeop into sl ef-tang onis.” – FabCity

Q&AWe spoke with Egbert Fransen - managing director of cultural hub Pakhuis de Zwijger, and intendant of ‘Europe by People’ - about FabCity Campus. What can we expect from this project and what inspires him?WHAT IS THE MAINMESSAGE OF FABCITY?FabCity shows that we can fi nd answers to the big environmental, social and economic challenges of this era. Scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs, artists, designers, students as well as people in the neighbourhoods of various European cities are working together on new ways of providing energy, growing food, organising healthcare and recycling waste. CAN YOU TELL US MOREABOUT THE PARTICIPANTS?One example is Fiction Factory, an innovative construction studio. They developed the Wikkelhuis, a sustainable house made out of strips of virgin fi ber corrugated cardboard. On campus, they will place three houses which will be used by campus residents. Another is Wasted, a neighbour-hood laboratory for plastic waste upcycling. The people behind the Wasted programme together with Better Future Factory, Bureau Sla, Overtreders W and the University of Applied Sciences Amsterdam will organise workshops about plastics

for schoolchildren. They will also create a collecting point for plastics, which will be recycled into usable products.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU ABOUTEUROPE?The diversity that creates a certain unity. We actually have more in common than we think. While working on our project ‘New Europe: Cities in Transition’, we visited about twenty EU capitals. The things we saw in the cities and the experiences we had on the streets were similar as in Amsterdam. People are understanding and respectful of each other’s religion, background, ethnicity, sexual orientation. They work towards an inclusive and economically strong society.

HOW DOES ART ANDDESIGN AFFECT TODAY'SSOCIETY?In all ways. Everything is about design. I believe that what we have designed can be re-designed, and that we still have a long way to go. Artists can tell stories about how we want to live; in which cities we want to live. We should work more with artists to connect their imaginative powers to the big challenges of today.

europebypeople.nl

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EU PRESIDENCY12 MINI tch in

Dutch Design

text Angel Trinidad

oensSTUDIO RODERICK VOSDesigner Roderick Vos created Dutch trade-inspired gifts and souvenirs for the heads of delegations and ministers. These beautiful design objects – vases, glasses, candlesticks and table-cloths – are made with traditional production techniques both from the past and the present, which makes them truly characteristic of Dutch Design. Other eye-catching souvenirs include biscuit tins, teapots and chocolates.roderickvos.com

During the EU Presidency at the Marine Etablissement, delegates will be surrounded by the works of today’s most in� uential Dutch designers at the Europe building.

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interior STUDIO EDWARD VAN VLIETIn calming waves of blue and white, Studio Edward van Vliet created a beautiful world inside the Europe building. Under the theme ‘Explore’, the designer established a link between innovation and the historic character of the Marine Etablissement.creatingworlds.edwardvanvliet.com

exteriorDUS ARCHITECTSThe 3D printed entrance and facade of the Europe building is designed by DUS Architects. Partly built from 3D printed material and in line with ‘Explore’ as a theme, large triangular niches are shaped like while sails, a nod to the many sailing ships that were built on-site. The unique 3D printed blue seats fit perfectly in each niche, and are locally produced with a large scale printer, KamerMaker. The printer makes use of a Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technique where bio-plastic is melted and applied layer by layer on a moveable platform to create huge spatial objects.dusarchitects.com

passageway IRMA BOOMTake an artful detour to check out the exceptional design by the renowned graphic designer Irma Boom that covers the floor, walls and ceiling of the new 120-metre long pedestrian and bicycle passageway in Amsterdam Central Station. The striking, abstracted seafaring motif is inspired by a tile painted by 17th-century Old Master Cornelis Bouwmeester, which can be seen in the Rijksmuseum.

EU Objects photographyMARIE CECILE THIJSMarie Cecile Thijs makes everyday objects look like Golden Age masterpieces. Her profound talent in capturing light and serene moods is evident in the photographs on display in the building. Taking Roderick Vos’ design objects, she created painterly photographs of each souvenir, transforming them into a surreal three-dimensional landscape – rendered in golden light, floating in mid-air.mariececilethijs.com© BZ | AAD MEIJER

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EU PRESIDENCY14 MINI eu in he asroom

BRINGING EUROPE CLOSEROne of projects of the city of Amsterdam during the Dutch Presidency is the ‘EU in the Classroom’ project, which aims to bring the EU closer to young people. By inviting EU offi cials to speak and give a guest lesson in secondary schools, the school project will literally put a face on the European Union, making it come alive for students, and fostering a construc-tive dialogue.

The city invites professionals of the European Institutions who will be coming to Amsterdam, to take an extra hour or two to visit a school and meet the young students of the city. More than 20 schools in Amsterdam and neighbouring municipalities are looking forward to welcoming EU offi cials as guest speakers to share and discuss their experience with the EU.

In partnership with the University of Amsterdam and the organisation of Amsterdam secondary schools, the municipality aims to match school teachers with EU offi cials accord-ing to their interests, specialties and language requests.

During the programme, EU offi cials are assisted by a third year European Studies student from the University of Amsterdam. These students have put together a special ‘EU in the Class-room’ lesson programme and developed lesson materials with school teachers on various EU themes such as security, the market, European multilingualism and the origin and function of the euro. The students act as ambassadors between the schools and the EU offi cials as they develop the themes under the supervision of the teachers.amsterdam.nl/schoolproject

EU IN THE CLASSROOMtext Angel Trinidad

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Do you wish to take part of the programme as a guest lecturer?

To learn more about the EU in the Classroom programme, visit:amsterdam.nl/schoolproject

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRSTIMPRESSION OF THEEUROPEAN UNION?M: For (the course) sociology, we learned a little bit about the EU but not as much as we did today. My fi rst impression of the EU is that it’s big and that everybody is a part of it.

N: I already knew quite a lot about the EU and about the fact that the Netherlands is holding the Presiden-cy. I learned a lot today aboutsatellites.

WHICH TOPICS DID THEEU DELEGATE DISCUSS?M: He talked about the structure of the EU and current events.

WHAT WAS THE MOSTINTERESTING THINGYOU'VE LEARNED?M: Everything was informative and interesting!N: The part about satellites was the most interesting for me.

DO YOU FEEL THAT YOUHAVE A BETTERUNDERSTANDING OFEUROPE AFTER THE TALK?M: Yes, it’s all a little bit clearer now. We understand now why some issues are handled at the local government level and others at the EU-level.

N: Yes, I now know a lot more than I did before. It is important that there is cooperation. The existence of the EU is important.

Q&AWe asked Mike Stuart and Nynke Van der Tol, both 4th year high-school students, about their thoughts on ‘EU in the Classroom’:

EU PRESIDENCY16 MINI soer

Van Gogh in AmsterdamBefore Vincent Van Gogh became an artist and an acclaimed post-impressionist master, he dreamt of becoming a minister. He spent 400 days in the city before moving to other European towns and discovering his passion in painting.

text Angel Trinidad

LIVING IN THE MARINEETABLISSEMENT

When he was 24 years old, Vincent spent more than a year living and studying in Amsterdam (from May 1877 to July 1878). He took up theological studies, Latin and Greek in hopes of becoming a preacher. He lived with his uncle Johannes van Gogh, who was the director of the Amsterdam naval dockyard. They lived just next to the naval storehouse, which is now the Maritime Museum.

The exhibition ‘Vincent van Gogh: 400 Days in Amsterdam’ at the Amsterdam City Archive offers personal insights from the famous Dutch artist, which includes letters to his brother vividly describing the city life around him. In these letters, he painted a picture in words of everyday life: the shipbuilders walking past the building at fi ve in the morning, the beautiful garden behind their house, the poplar trees lining the street, and the people he encounters during his long walks.

Two oil sketches of Amsterdam made by Van Gogh can be seen in the exhibition. This little-known painting (pictured here) was created in 1885, while he was waiting for a friend at the city's old train station.

Until 17 AprilAmsterdam City Archivestadsarchief.amsterdam.nl

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A TRUE EUROPEAN

Van Gogh lived like a modern cosmopolitan, travelling and living in over 30 different places in Europe during the course of his life. Born in Zundert in the Netherlands, he later worked in the Hague, London and Paris as an art dealer. In 1877, he lived in Amsterdam while studying to become a pastor and later on worked as a missionary in the Borinage, a poor mining region in Belgium. He deve-loped as an artist in Nuenen, Antwerp and Paris, and spent the last years of his life in the French towns of Arles, Saint-Rémy and Auvers-sur-Oise. He was fl uent in Dutch, English and French and a prolifi c writer in these languages, writing over 900 letters during his lifetime. vangoghletters.org

FIND VAN GOGH

an oh semAmsterdam Nowhere in the world is it possible to see so many works by Van Gogh in one place, with over 200 paintings, 400 drawings and 700 letters.vangoghmuseum.com

rer-er semOtterlo Nestled in the forests of the Veluwe National Park, this picturesque location has the second largest Van Gogh collection in the world.kmm.nl

an oh’ oeadBrabant Trace the artist’s early years and their infl uence on his career in these locations: Van Gogh House Zundert, Vincent Van Gogh Informa-tion Centre Etten-Leur, Van Gogh Village Nuenen and The North Brabant Museum ‘s-Hertogenbosch.vangoghbrabant.com

ason an oh in he orageMons This little brick house and museum tells the story of Van Gogh’s time as an aspiring preacher in the mining town of Mons. en.maisonvangogh.mons.be

54 e epicParis Van Gogh moved into his brother’s third-fl oor apartment in Montmartre which is now a private residence.

t. Pl e asoe oaterySaint-Rémy-de-Provence Visit the former asylum where Van Gogh received treatment and where you can see his old room, and the beautiful garden where he painted many of his masterpieces. saintpauldemausole.fr

ason e an ohAuvers-sur-Oise Auberge Ravoux is the last place where Van Gogh lived. maisondevangogh.fr/en

EU PRESIDENCY18 MINI 5 ios

5 QUESTIONS

With the goal of stimulating a safe and diverse environment, the Night Mayor functions as an ambassador for everyone who feels connected to the city’s nocturnal life.e psed e ios o he rent iht-aor, rk an, d soered reare roe f s:

1. WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT AMSTERDAM?

For me, Amsterdam is special because of its history and diversity. For so long, it has been so prosperous and keeps on attracting people from all over the world. I also like the decisiveness and conciseness of the people living here. ’Getting things done’ is our tagline.

2. WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO DOHERE AT NIGHT?

I like to combine the familiar with the new, and explore different places. I usually have a good dinner with friends in a restaurant like Cafe Restaurant Amsterdam (Watertorenplein 6) and from there we will go to a party in the North neighbourhood across the Ij. The North has several cool locations which offer more than just partying. One of them is the Lighthouse (Krijn Taconiskade 432), a hybrid location for parties, community projects, work spaces and art exhibits. I also enjoy going to raves at the Voltt warehouse parties (www.voltt.com).

3. ANY MEMORABLE STORIES DURING YOURREIGN AS NIGHT MAYOR?

Yes of course! Most memorable was playing the fi rst

record at Club Trouw together with Mayor Eberhard van der Laan, when the club fi rst got its 24-hour licence. It was a very special moment, not just for me but for the whole club scene.

4. CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURCURRENT PROJECTS?

We're working on our biggest project now, the fi rst ever Night Mayor Summit which is to be held at Marktkantine in Amsterdam. It’s part of the offi cial cultural programme, where various delegates and night mayors from other European cities will join in the discussion on subjects like the nighttime economy, public health, arts and culture. 22 & 23 April

5. ANY HIDDEN GEMS IN THE CITY?

That would defi nitely be Mayor Manor (Nes 116), one of the most beautifully decorated monumental buildings in town. Also, check out the newly opened club De School (Jan van Breemenstraat 1) on the west side, a former school building, where you can have dinner, or go clubbing, all in the same location. nachtburgemeester.amsterdam

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BACK THEN1 APRIL 2001

For lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) visitors and residents, Amsterdam is one of the most attractive cities in Europe. Nowhere in the world will you find so many gay-friendly attractions per square metre as in the city centre of Amsterdam. As such, it's no small wonder that Amsterdam became so popular with gay visitors.

Moreover, Amsterdam was where the first ever same-sex marriage took place. On the first of April 2001, the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalise gay marriage. The first four same-sex couples were married in the city by then Mayor of Amsterdam Job Cohen in a wonderful celebration with champagne, pink roses, and a pink tiered cake. A few months earlier, Mayor Cohen had been junior Minister of Justice of the Netherlands and was responsible for putting the new marriage and adoption laws through parliament.

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EU PRESIDENCY20 MINI hat' n

WHAT’S ON FESTIVALS & EVENTS

TULIP MANIA

Tulip fever strikes again! During the whole month of April, citizens and visitors of Amsterdam will experience the city in full bloom: hundreds of thousands of tulips can be seen in dozens of venues all over the capital. In line with the motto ’A tulip for every citizen of Amsterdam’, around 800,000 tulips can be seen in participating museums, hotels and venues across the city. Admire these iconic blooms in locations such as DoubleTree by Hilton, Conservatorium Hotel, EYE Amsterdam and Van Gogh Museum, among many others.Various locations1-30 April 2016tulpfestival.com

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ROZE FILMDAGENWith its top-draw program- ming, the festival has earned

an excellent reputation amongst its visitors, as well

as with filmmakers and festivals abroad. Subtitled the Amsterdam LGBTQ Film Festival, its aim is to

highlight all aspects of quality LGBTQ cinema for a broad audience: feature films, documentaries and shorts, which are typically

missing from regular cinematic programming.

10-20 Mar, Ketelhuis/ Westergasfabriek rozefilmdagen.nl

24H WESTFrom noon on Saturday till noon on Sunday, the

West district is overflowing with fun and often unusual events. Theatres, museums, clubs, shops and places of interest open their doors

to the public. For example, listen to beautiful arias while enjoying a cold beer at Bret,

or go die-hard DIY at the Student Hotel. Night owls can dance till dawn to elec-tronic music at the Radion

Weekender, while early birds can start their day with a

Turkish breakfast followed by a yoga lesson at Podium

Mozaïek.12 & 13 Mar, various loca-

tions, iamsterdam. com/24h

ROME. THE DREAM OF EMPEROR CONSTANTINE

This impressive collection shows how Christianity grew

in imperial Rome, from being a minor religious com-munity to becoming a major world religion, illustrated by treasures of Roman art and architecture from the 4th century AD and onwards.

16-20 Mar, RAI Amsterdam

CINEDANSThis international dance and movie festival features short and full-length dance films, documentaries, installations

and a special children’s programme.

16-20 Mar, EYE Filmmu-seum, cinedans.nl

ST. PATRICK’S IRISH FESTIVAL 2016

If you had dyed-green canals, bad wigs and floods of

Guinness in mind, think again: this Dutch-Irish

cultural celebration is a tad more sophisticated. Taking

place all day long, there’s everthing from traditional Irish dancing, folk music,

film screenings, a chance to watch the Ireland v. Scotland

rugby match, plus a live performance by Liam Ó

Maonlaí.19 Mar, Splendor,

splendoramsterdam.com

AWAKENINGS EASTER SPECIAL

An institution in the Nether-lands, Awakenings is behind some of the country’s most

legendary techno events and they’re back to help you kickstart your Easter!

24-27 Mar, Westergasfab-riek, awakenings.com

RESTAURANT WEEK

This biannual event sees the city present its culinary bounty to offer memorable

mouthfuls at cheap, forgetta-ble prices. The idea is simple: eat, drink and be merry at no

added expense. It’s a great opportunity to sample some

of the city’s finest dining venues. The wealth of par-

ticipating establishments tra-ditionally includes Michelin-starred restaurants, lauded celebrity dining haunts and

trendy eateries.30 Mar-10 Apr, various

locations, www.restaurant-week.nl

INNOVATION EXPO

What does the city of the future look like? The theme

for this biennial event is `Sustainable Urban Deltas'.

The Innovation Expo connects and inspires (fu-ture) innovative initiators,

offering a stage for concrete projects that contribute to

smart, sustainable and social cities of the future.

innovatie-estafette.nl14 April

IMAGINE FILM

FESTIVALThe Imagine Film Festival is a home to fantastic ideas and creative filmmaking. While the festival still fea-tures the very best intern tional horror releases, it has broadened its taste to include fantasy, cult,

animé, experimental and science fiction. This year’s theme is ‘Building Dreams

and Nightmares’, and in addition to dozens of long and short fi lms, directors are invited to discuss their work in symposiums. And, for hard core horror fans, there’s always the annual Night of Terror at Pathé

Tuschinski. 14-26 Apr, EYE Filmmuseum,

imaginefilmfestival.nl

RECORD STORE DAYEach year more and more

bands participate in Record Store Day, causing fans to

queue up and grab limited-edition independent album releases or one-off reissues from heritage rock acts. In Amsterdam, head to local record stores like Concerto and Velvet Music for live in-stores and other surprises. 16 Apr, various locations,

recordstoreday.nl

NATIONAL MUSEUMWEEK AMSTERDAM

Expanded from a weekend to a whole week, this event sees museums all around the Netherlands organise unique events and lower

ticket prices, inviting visitors to check out what they are all about. With admission

being reduced to as little as €1 at many of Amsterdam’s museums, it’s the ideal time

to visit. 16-24 Apr, various locatons, nationalemuseumweek.nl

CINÉMA ARABEThis Dutch film festival,

based in both Amsterdam and Rotterdam, showcases the best of contemporary

Arab cinema and provides a fresh look at life in the Arab world. Film screenings are interspersed with director

interviews, debates and other special events.

19-24 Apr, Rialto, cinemaarabe.nl

SPRINGSNOW FESTIVAL

Every year, Amsterdam’s elm trees scatter a blanket of blossom over the city’s

streets: a phenomenon that has come to be known as

‘spring snow’. This celebration of spring includes a walking route past the city’s

elm highlights, exhibitions and side programmes.

21 Apr-21 May, various locations, springsnow.nl

For the complete listing: iamsterdam.com

Choice event

EUROVISION IN CONCERTThe Eurovision Song Contest 2016 will take place in Stockholm, but make sure to go to Amsterdam's popular pre-party at Melkweg where many of the competing acts will unleash their songs before an adoring audience. The Netherlands will be represented this year by Dutch singer-songwriter Douwe Bob. Sat 9 Apr, Melkweg, 19:30, x35

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

EU PRESIDENCY22 MINI hat' n

ANNE FRANK HOUSEPrinsengracht 263 is where

Anne Frank lived in hiding with her family

during WWII. Make sure to buy tickets in advance, as

the lines can be long. (Permanent exhibition)

KONINKLIJK PALEIS(ROYAL PALACE)

The Koninklijk Paleis (Roy-al Palace) on Amsterdam’s Dam Square is one of three

palaces still in use by the Dutch royal family. When

the palace is not being used by the royal family, it is

open to the public.(Permanent exhibition)

MARC CHAGALL’SCALVARY

Regarded as a key work by the young Marc Chagal, his Cubo- Futurist Jesus

portrayed in ‘Calvary’ was created when he was just 25 years old in 1912.

Owned by the Museum of Modern Art, New York, this

large-scale painting will be exclusively on loan for the fi fth instalment of the

Masterpiece. De Nieuwe Kerk, until 10

Apr

SETH SIEGELAUB:BEYOND CONCEPTUAL An exhibition looking at the life and work of Seth Siegelaub. Often billed as the ‘father of Conceptual

Art’, he was a seminal infl u-ence on curators, artists,

and cultural thinkers, internationally and in Amsterdam, where he settled in the 1990s.

Stedelijk Museum, until 17 Apr

ZONDESeven artists are invited to refl ect upon the seven deadly sins. Each month

sees a different artist present works inspired by

their designated sin. Biblical Museum, until

30 Apr

SASKIA NOOR VANIMHOFF

A solo exhibition by Dutch artist Saskia Noor van

Imhoff (1982), with her installation taking direct

inspiration from the Stedelijk’s collection.

Stedelijk Museum, until 8 May

BERLAGE, GODFATHEROF DUTCH DESIGN

Berlage could be consid-ered to be the most impor-

tant designer in Dutch his-tory. He not only designed the Beurs van Berlage in Amsterdam, but also the many exceptional objects

and pieces of furniture inside the building. This exhibition showcases au-thentic pieces of furniture

from Berlage’s hand, as well as looking at contemporary

Dutch Design. Beurs van Berlage, until

15 May

CATWALK An exhibition dedicated to some 100 spectacular

examples of Dutch fashion, dating from 1625 to 1960.

Look out for vibrantly-coloured French silk gowns and luxurious velvet gentle-men’s suits of the 18th Cen-

tury, classically-inspired Empire dresses and bustles

of the Fin de Siècle culminating in 20th-cen-tury French haute couture

by Dior and Yves Saint

Laurent. Rijksmuseum, until 15 May

REMBRANDT’S NAKEDTRUTH

Based on the latest research, Rembrandt’s

Naked Truth features 17th-century nude studies that

have never before been brought together in such large numbers. It will be the fi rst time that Rem-brandt’s frank approach to drawing nudes will be examined in depth and

brought to the attention of a wide

audience. Expect more than 50 objects collected from around the world, shown alongside pieces from the museum’s own collection. Rembrandt House Mu-

seum, until 16 May

AMY WINEHOUSE:A FAMILY PORTRAIT

Looking beyond the hype, this exhibition presents an intimate portrayal of the life of Amy Winehouse,

emphasising her passion for music and fashion, as well as the history of her

Jewish family and her school days. The Wine-house family has offered access to many of Amy’s

personal belongings for this collection, while

the stories by her brother Alex make the experience

even more personal. Jewish Historical

Museum, until 4 Sep

BREITNER: GIRL INKIMONO

Breitner created this much-loved series between 1893 and 1896, with young model Geesje Kwak being

immortalised in his art. Here you can see the en-tire series of 14 paintings, including an unfi nished version and an unknown ‘Girl in a Red Kimono’, telling the story of how

these works were created through the many prepara-tory drawings, sketches and photographs that the artist

produced.Rijksmuseum, until 22

May

SPANISH MASTERSFROM

THE HERMITAGESubtitled ‘The World of

El Greco, Ribera, Zurbarán, Velázquez, Murillo &

Goya’, this grand exhibition of Spanish art and artefacts

includes more than 60 superior paintings and a rich collection of graphic works and applied arts

masterpieces. As well as the grand masters, it features paintings by their pupils and later painters, up to and including Picasso.

Hermitage Amsterdam, until 29 May

WORLD PRESS PHOTOThe winning images from

the world’s most prestigious annual press photography contest begin their world tour in Amsterdam each

year, presenting a refl ection of trends and developments

in photojournalism. This collection of images not

only presents the (at times gruesome) reality of events on the world stage, but also

the beauty of life, sports, art, science and nature.

De Nieuwe Kerk,16 Apr-10 Jul

For the complete listing: iamsterdam.com

Choice exhibition

SECRET LOVE, SEXUAL DIVERSITY IN CHINAThis art exhibition explores the state of social accep-tance of LGBT people in today’s China. Contemporary artists have played an important role in the shift in awareness and growing social acceptance of sexual diversity, and the fi ght for equal rights.Tropenmuseum, until 8 May

EXHIBITIONS & MUSEUMS

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MUSEThe last time Muse were in Amsterdam they were

headlining the Amsterdam ArenA football stadium. Currently touring their newest album Drones,

expect a mammoth rock show with spectacular

audio and visual setpieces across these three massive

arena gigs.Mon 7, Wed 9, Thur 10

Mar, Ziggo Dome, 20:00, €52-€57

LONDON CALLINGA favourite of music

lovers in Amsterdam, taking place twice a year

in Paradiso, London Call-ing showcases a collection of bands who’re tipped to make it big, along with a few more who’re making a comeback: pop, rock,

electronic and beyond. In this edition, look out for

Joan Shelly, Palehound and Ultimate Painting.

11 & 12 Mar, Paradiso, 18:30, €17.50 per day or

€35 for both nights

SAVAGESSavages by name, savage by nature. This English post-punk outfit now have two

critically-acclaimed records to their name and a fierce aesthetic that is intensely choreographed. For once, common comparisons to Joy Division and Siouxsie and the Banshees are ut-

terly justified.Wed 16 Mar, Melkweg,

19:30, €17.50

SCAPINO BALLET – ROLLERCOASTER

The renowned Rotterdam- based company presents an evening of bursts of dance in a non-stop performance of short choreographies by different choreographers such as Marco Goecke, Itamar Serussi, Marcos

Morau, Gentian Doda and Joeri Dubbe.

Sat 19 & Sun 20 Mar, Stadsschouwburg, 20:30,

€10-€37.50

A-HANorway’s finest have come and gone and come again. Thirty years on from their

biggest hits ‘Take on Me’ and ‘The Sun Always

Shines on TV’, which fell perfectly in with the MTV zeitgeist of the mid-1980s,

this classic pop band is back for a second official reunion. In fact, they’re returning to the same

arena at which they bade farewell to their Amster-dam fans just a few years back. As well as the chart toppers, chiselled front-

man Morten Harket will be breaking out tracks from their new record Cast in

Steel.

Thur 31 Mar, Heineken Mu-sic Hall, 20:00, €42

THE CORALFollowing a five-year hiatus, UK psych-rock troupe The

Coral bring their swag-gering new sounds and

well-trodden favourites to Amsterdam. Support comes from Manchester buzz band Blossoms, fresh from their turn on the BBC Sound of

2016 list. Fri 8 Apr, Melkweg, 19:30,

€17.50

LUNCHTIME CONCERTThe Royal Concertge-

bouw’s free weekly lunch-time concerts showcase the talents of up-and-coming

musicians or offer an opportunity to be present

at a public rehearsal of one of the city’s big orchestras.

Wednesdays (except 27 Apr) & Fri 29 Apr, Royal

Concertgebouw, 12:30, free

PIPPINThe Tony Award-winning

Broadway hit, featuring songs by Wicked’s Stephan Schwartz, comes

to Amsterdam for a month, complete with its original US cast. This high-flying, death-defying musical is

overflowing with extraordi-nary acrobatics, wondrous magical feats and soaring

songs that will glue themselves into your head.

Wed 9 Mar-Sun 10 Apr, Royal Theatre Carré,

various dates and times, €23.50-€93.50

NOEL GALLAGHER‘S HIGH FLYING BIRDS

Noel Gallagher took his prodigious songwriting

talents with him when he left Oasis in 2009, forming High Flying Birds to pursue

his solo career. He soon picked up the Q Award for best album with Chasing Yesterday and the gongs keep on coming. Support from Brooklyn indie rock

trio Augustines.Mon 18 Apr, Heineken Mu-

sic Hall, 20:00, €35

For the complete listing: iamsterdam.com

Choice music

OPERA FORWARD FESTIVALThe Dutch National Opera celebrates its 50th annivers-ary with the brand-new Opera Forward Festival, which explores the future of opera through innovative new work by the next generation of artists. 15-25 Mar, various dates, locations, times and prices, operaforwardfestival.nl

MUSIC & STAGE

WEEZERFrom dorky alt-rock heroes to arena- filling megastars, this American band combines heavy power pop with a geeky humour, selling 17 million albums so far. April sees the release of their 10th studio album, their own White Album in fact, including singles ‘Thank God For Girls’, ‘Do You Wanna Get High?’ and ‘King of the World’.Fri 8 Apr, Heineken Music Hall, 20:00

BEST OF BALANCHINEThe Dutch National Ballet dances an ode to Russi-an-American choreograp-her George Balanchine, with a programme that includes three well-known masterpieces and one of his works that is new to the company: Theme and Variations, Apollon musagète, Ta-rantella Pas de Deux and Violin Concerto. Selected dates in Mar and Apr, Dutch National Opera and Ballet, €16-€61

EU PRESIDENCY24 MINI

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THE NEW I AMSTERDAM STOREIN CENTRAL STATIONThose already craving local treats with a conscience should look no further than the brand new I am-sterdam store, housed under the mirrored roof of Central Station’s shiny IJ hall. A sprawling 300m2 affair, the shop wants locals to feel proud of the city’s vibrant cultural scene and innovative artisans.Among the socially-minded products that you can bag straight away are chocolate bars from Tony’s Chocolonely, which strives to only use traceable, fairly-produced cocoa; organic brews from the city’s original microbrewery, Brouwerij ’t IJ; and natural, paraben-free skincare goodies made by Marie-Stella-Maris, a social enterprise keen on mak-ing clean drinking water the global norm.One of the store’s highlights is a wall showcasing 27 home-grown products and brands. The focus is on the stories behind their success, and sustainabil-ity is purposefully woven into many of these brands’ DNA. The store also offers personalised advice for your trip: ask one of the enthusiastic in-siders, who will be walking around the store, ready to tell you where the city’s finest coffee or most cutting-edge exhibitions are to be found.

Central Station IJ Halliamsterdam.com

rey hs

Purses at the ready: these tempting stores will have you reaching for your credit card.

PRETTY THINGS

book paradise MENDO

A paradise for book afi cionados, Mendo selects the world’s greatest books on fa-shion, architecture photography, interior, traveling, food and graphic design. The design of this stunning store was created by Concrete Architectural Associates. From the idea of making a bookstore made of books, the designers lined the wall with thousands of black MENDO books, making for an intimate and mys-terious atmosphere. Mendo also publish their own books, which are also the per-fect souvenirs; check out the beautiful Amsterdam, The Amsterdam Canals and Below Sea Level.Berenstraat 11mendo.nl

text Catalina Iorga & Angel Trinidad

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TRIP AROUND EUROPECosmopolitan shopping & dining in Amsterdamtext Angel Trinidad

tay SPAGHETTERIAThis beautiful spaghetti bar offers fresh, homemade pasta made accor-ding to ancient Italian traditions. The menu consists of three permanent classics and three other traditional dis-hes, which change on a daily basis - all made from organic fl our from Emilia Romagna.Jan Hanzenstraat 32 spaghetteria-pastabar.nl

anPUERTO PATA NEGRAKnown for their delectable tapas, Pata Negra offers authentic Spanish cuisine made with fresh ingredients from Spain. Grab a pitcher of sangria and enjoy the restaurant’s mouthwatering pata-tas bravas, chorizo and paella. Oostelijke Handelskade 999 pata-negra.nl

raeBETTY BLUEBetty Blue is simply pastry heaven. They also serve breakfast and lunch with a French touch, and sell fashion and lifestyle goodies. Snoekjessteeg 1-3 bettyblueamsterdam.nl

Betty Blue is simply pastry heaven.

nadA PIECE OF FINLANDThis beautiful concept store offers food, objects, clothing and travel accessories by Finnish designers. There is also a coffee corner where visitors can relax and enjoy pastries and delicious coffee from a Finnish roastery. Haarlemmerdijk 66 apieceoffi nland.nl

oenia, Pad, ech epbicHARVEST AND COMPANYTheir industrial designs, vintage furniture and interior goodies were mostly found in old factories in Eastern Europe but have been renovated and are now ready to use and fabulously unique. Also try Woodies at Berlin in Amsterdam Noord.Tweede Helmersstraat 96 www.harvestandcompany.comMs van Riemsdijkweg 51 woodiesatberlin.nl

oenia, Pad, ech epbic

Their industrial designs, vintage furniture

emVLAAMS FRITESHUIS VLEMINCKX A long line snaking out on the street can always be seen beside this small friet stand. Vleminckx sells delicious home-made Belgian fries and 25 diffe-rent types of sauces, and was voted 2nd best snack corner in Holland by a Dutch newspaper. The best things in life are worth waiting for, as they say.Voetboogstraat 31-33 vleminckxdesausmeester.nl

teramLOCAL GOODS STOREWith every purchase at this beautiful concept store, you are funding the work of many local Dutch designers, creators and brands. The Local Goods store located at the beautiful De Hallen presents innovative and original products - books, t-shirts, art, jewellery, food and accessories - all made by local creatives.Hannie Dankbaarpassage 39 localgoodsstore.nl

eranyCAFE BRECHTThis cosy Berlin-style living-room cafe is decorated with vintage mismatched sofas, chairs and lamp-shades, making for a relaxed and unpretentious hangout. Serving German beers, soft drinks and light bites, it is the perfect spot for an after-work drink.Weteringschans 157 cafebrecht.nl

enrkBOLIADanish furniture and lifestyle chain Bolia has recently opened its doors in Amsterdam. Discover an idyllic world of cosy, personal and innovative `New Scandinavian Design´, with their beautiful handmade furniture in minimal styles, luscious colours and inviting textiles. Utrechtsestraat 78 bolia.com

weenSCANDINAVIAN EMBASSYThis sparse, minimal cafe serves the best fi ka and Swedish dishes in town. Serving delicious coffee from diverse micro-roasters in Scandinavia (inclu-ding famed Drop Coffee Roasters in Stockholm and Koppi Fine Coffee Roasters in Helsingbor)and counting the 2013 Brewers Cup Champion of Sweden as its head barista, Scandinavi-an Embassy is a must-visit in Amster-dam. Tip: the cinnamon buns are the best in the country! Sarphatipark 34 scandinavianembassy.nl

SCANDINAVIAN EMBASSY

VLAAMS FRITESHUIS VLEMINCKX

CAFE BRECHT

This beautiful spaghetti bar offers fresh, homemade pasta made accor-ding to ancient Italian traditions. The

LOCAL GOODS STORE

enrk

Known for their delectable tapas, Known for their delectable tapas,

A PIECE OF FINLANDThis beautiful concept store offers food,

EU PRESIDENCY26 MINI ag t

EATING OUTtext Angel Trinidad

Our top dining options, from sweet sensations to starred suppers.

Located in an awe-inspiring location, Room Service at Olof ’s is a pop-up restaurant situated in the oldest chapel

in Amsterdam. One star Michelin chef Chris Naylor - famous for his work at Restaurant Vermeer - serves dishes centering on vegeta-bles, with fi sh and meat as sides. On the beautiful mezzanine, you can visit the fi rst Vermuteria in Holland (serving Italian and Spanish vermouths), a charcuterie bar with meats by local brand Brandt & Levie, and a tropical cocktail bar serving delicious cocktails. The interiors have the atmosphere of NH’s Barbizon Palace’s hotel rooms, that is because the hotel’s furniture, lamps and curtains (even the Bibles) of the hotel is used for the restaurant’s setting. Check in to this luscious paradise until 30 April.

Zeedijk 2aroomserviceatolofs.com

pop-up Michelin dining ROOM SERVICE AT OLOF’S

WHAT A food festival celebrating European food and drinks, with information about European food traditions and cultureWHEN 17-21 MarchWHERE Gedempt Hamerkanaal 231, KromhouthalWHY VISIT? You can “travel” around Europe and enjoy delicious drinks and bites - from Spanish hams to Hungarian goulash - for just ¤2,50 to ¤5,00 a bite.There will also be an entertainment programme.

Kromhouthal, Gedempt Hamerkanaal 231europaculinair.eu

festivalEUROPA CULINAIR

Our top dining options, from sweet sensations

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IJSCUYPJEspeculaas ice creamThis chain of ice cream shops offer the best homemade ice cream in the city and offers the most special fl avours. Our tip: the speculaas ice cream, made out of the traditional Dutch spiced cookie.Eerste van Helstraat 27, Prinsengracht 292, and more

WINKEL 43 apple pieWinkel 43’s generous portions of crunchy baked apple pie is served with dollops of delicious whipped cream and is heralded as the best appletaart in the city. Just go.Noordermarkt 43

DE LAATSTE KRUIMELcourgette cake‘The Last Crumb’ serves heavenly cakes, tarts, pies and cookies, all showcased beautifully in its whimsical window display. The homemade lemon poppyseed scone and the courgette cake are crowd favourites. Langebrugsteeg 4

PATISSERIE HOLTKAMPchampagne cakeThis beloved Amsterdam institution has been around since 1886, offering the best classical cakes in town. Local favourites

include fl avoured chocolates and the lemon meringue cake. Don’t miss out on the champagne cake, it tastes as lovely as it sounds.Vijzelgracht 15

NOORDERMARKTpoffertjesPoffertjes are like mini pancakes, but fl uffi er and puffi er. The most delicious and buttery ones are made fresh and sold on the streets. Check out the stands at Noorder-markt fl ea- and organic market for this traditional Dutch treat. Noordermarkt

BLOMMESTEINtompouceThis bakery produces the most delicious tompoucen in Amster-dam. The tompouce is one of the most iconic (and diffi cult to eat) Dutch pastries; two layers of puff pastry with cream fi lling, topped with smooth pink icing. Churchilllaan 26

HET OUD-HOLLANDSCHSNOEPWINKELtraditional candyThe Old Dutch Candyshop, located in the heart of the Jordaan district, offers delightful candy made in the way our grandparents used to enjoy it. Dare to try drop (licorice) - most Dutchies’ favourite candy.Egelantiersdwarsstraat 2

LANSKROONBANKETBAKKERIJstroopwafelsFamous for their giant-sized homemade stroopwafels, this confectionary, tea room has been around since 1908, boasting four generations of master bakers. While traditional stroopwafels have caramel fi lling, Lanskroon offers two mouthwatering fl avours: hopjes (coffee and caramel toffee) and honing (honey).Singel 385

DRS. KOEKKENBAKKERcustomised cakesThis lovely lady creates the most amazing customised birthday and wedding cakes. Arienne does not have a shop or bakery open to public yet, so requests are done via phone or e-mail. The chocolate cake with raspberry mousse is delicious!drskoekenbakker.nl

VAN STAPELEKOEKMAKERIJchocolate cookieHidden in a small alleyway close to Spui square lies a small cookie store selling the best kind of chocolate cookie in the world: dark chocolate cookie with melt-in-your-mouth white chocolate inside.Heisteeg 4

THE SWEETEST SPOTSFrom traditional Dutch treats such as stroopwafels and po� ertjes to more classical cakes and pastries, these dessert addresses’ specialties will make your saccharine dreams come true. text Angel Trinidad

PATISSERIE HOLTKAMP

Van Gogh engages you.

Book online vangoghmuseum.com/easyvirtue

VGM_Lichte Zeden-A Mag-HR2.pdf 1 11/01/16 14:19