Amsterdam
Basel
Greenwoods
€15
(
465
Keizersgracht, tel: 020 420 4330
)
Everything is freshly made at this cosy canalside cafe,
so forgive the occasionally slow service and relax with a
newspaper. The muffins, cakes and scones are worth the wait.
&
Samhoud Places
Exclusive
(
5
Oosterdokskade, tel: 020
260 2094
)
Renowned chef Moshik Roth is behind this touchy-
feely restaurant concept: profits from the big-hitting signature
dishes are ploughed back into community projects, and even
the quotes on the wallpaper speak of self-improvement. The
foie gras olympiad, however, is pure self-indulgence.
Bitterzoet
(
2
Spuistraat, tel: 020 421 2318; bitterzoet.nl
)
Bar,
club and theatre all rolled into one, Bitterzoet has something
different on offer all the time. Expect crossover acts, with a
focus on emerging talent.
Leidseplein
The southerly square bordered by neon-
fronded pubs and big-name hotels, gets a bad press, but
December is the time to embrace the bustle. Skate on the
ice rink or guzzle on
poffertjes
(
hot mini pancakes) from one
of the seasonal stalls.
mark smith
Restaurant Bartholdi
€30
(
2
Rue des Boulangers,
Colmar, tel: 03 8941 0774
)
Grand Alsatian cooking in a
not-overly-pricey restaurant on the main thoroughfare of
Colmar's Old Town. Try the mussels or
veau sauté au madre
(
veal).
Gundeldingerhof
Exclusive
(
56
Hochstrasse, tel:
061 361 6909
)
This venue's proud combination of French
artistry and Italian accents is Swiss cuisine at its best,
producing creative twists on dishes you thought you knew.
Opt for the four-course surprise menu if you're not afraid
of encountering an animal you've never tasted before.
Singerhaus
(
34
Marktplatz, tel: 061 261 9040
)
This stylish
cafe from 1916 was converted into a club several years ago.
Expect DJs and live bands three nights a week.
Toy Worlds Museum
(
Steinenvorstadt 1, tel: 061 225 95
95
)
Christmas Light: Peace, Faith, Love, Hope
:
a temporary
exhibition of Christmas candles will enchant with a warm
glow this festive season. Includes colourful and remarkable
mementoes of Christmases past.
richard harvell
Find our full
guides on
traveller.
easyJet.com
Cosy breakfast at
Greenwoods
Beautiful vintage
Singerhaus
155
T H E G U I D E S
