Restaurants and Nightlife
Amsterdam is a cultural and, consequently, a culinary melting pot. There are plenty of restaurants and cafés specialising in every cuisine your pallet desires.
Dutch cuisine
Hearty pea soup, dinner pancakes, meat croquettes, thick fries with real mayo and wholesome variations of meat and potato dishes are just a few examples of a limited though satisfying cuisine. Fresh seafood, such as herring, mussels and shrimp are available all year round. There is also a strong Indonesian influence in Dutch kitchens.
Food from a wall
The Dutch also have their fair share of fast food. Apart from the international chains, there are plenty of deep-fried products to be found in ‘snack bars’ throughout the city. There are also ‘Febo’ snack bars where, after inserting some change, you can get your treat right out of the wall. Brown cafés and pubs normally serve up great sampling plates with bitterballen (mini meat-croquettes).
Nightlife
Amsterdam’s nightlife is as varied as the city’s residents themselves. The city offers everything from night theatre, art parties and live music from well-known and up-and-coming international bands, to packed clubs with the best DJs spinning everything from R&B and house to hard rock and hip-hop. You’ll have plenty of time to take it all in, as most nightclubs stay open until 04:00.
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Practical Information
Tipping
Service is always included. It is however customary to tip in restaurants, bars and when paying for taxis. As a general rule tipping between 5 - 10% is acceptable.
Electricity
The Netherlands, like most other European countries, has 220V AC, 50Hz and uses two- or three-pin plugs. Visitors from the UK will need an adaptor for electric appliances, whereas North Americans need a transformer in order to use their 110/125V appliances.
Emergencies
Telephone the emergency number 112. This number is intended for serious situations when somebody’s life is in danger. This number will connect you to the fire services, police and ambulance.