Wednesday, July 20, 2011

{Travel Edition} Amsterdam guide round-up

One of the things I love most about Amsterdam is the plethora of oh so lovely design shops and eateries. Since I didn't have room to mention it in my travel review,  I thought I'd round up a few of my favorites to share with you in an Amsterdam guide round-up:

Shops:

Friday Next
Overtoom 31


A crazy cool concept store with incredible chandeliers, one of a kind furniture and funky decor and fashion accessories. If that's not enough to tempt you though, this place is worth a visit for their cafe alone - the sandwiches and staff are delightful


Frozen Fountain
Prinsengracht 645


2 floors of incredible Dutch design and art, this store is definitely not to be missed. I snagged some fantastic wallpaper for 50% off and can't wait to use it in upcoming projects. 
loved this chair



Droog Design
Staalstraat 7b


A 3 story concept and high end design and fashion store that is utterly inspiring. Showcasing works such as Tadaaki Narita's Lucky Cat pinball machine and Tejo Remy's loosely bundled set of found drawers, Droog showcases design as it was meant to be seen. It mixes the insane with the ordain all the while invoking questions, eliciting answers and leaving you in awe.
Tadaaki Narita's Lucky Cat Pinball machine


Laura Dols
Wolvenstraat July
 

A great priced selection of men and women's vintage, though I didn't move much past the purse section. I scored a great vintage leather satchel for only 15 euros that I have big plans for along with the cutest little silver bow tie. 


I love Vintage
LV Atelierboutique
Prinsengracht 201

I wasn't able to make it into this cozy little shop, but I've heard great things about it. If you check it out, let me know what you think!


1953 - Retro & Chic
Staalstraat 2
A tiny gem of a shop that had S. Monster not literally dragged me out, I would have spent all day in. 1920s-40s shoes and dresses take centre stage and it made my vintage heart swoon



The Otherist (formerly Egg Mercantile)
Leliegracht 6 


I discovered this place a few years ago when it was still known at the Egg Mercantile. It's a true "cabinet of curiosities" in every sense of the word and is an amazing little shop specializing in all things unique, nonconventional, weird and wonderful. From home decor and accessories to jewelry and books it's almost impossible to walk out empty handed.  
Kitch Kitchen 
Rozengracht 8- 12 


A bright and kitschy place that made my inner drag queen sing with delight. If it's colorful, fabulous and made from oilcloth it's here. As Friedensreich Hundertwasser said "The absence of kitsch makes life unbearable". So what are you waiting for? Go get your kitsch on 


shiny!



Pied A Terre 

Overtoom 135-137


A large specialist travel book shop with a beautiful collection of globes, maps and travel guides. We popped in by accident but I could have easily stayed and pursued the maps for at least a few hours. To be fair though, I do have a thing for maps.    

Food:


Sea Palace
Oosterdokskade 8
Delicious Chinese restaurant that is a bit of a hike but well worth the journey. It looks a bit ridiculous but frankly that only adds to the charm once you take your first bite.

Supper Club
Jonge Roelensteeg 
211012 PL Amsterdam


This place is the definition of edgy and is most definitely not for the faint hearted or conservative. An S&M erotica restaurant fusion you never quite know what you're going to get. You can be sure though that whatever happens, it will be a good time. Go with an open mind, an apetite and let your inner freak flag fly. 


Upstairs Pancake
Grimburgwal 2

It's tiny, open for only a few hours a few days out of the week and located on the second floor with what appears to be an almost vertical flight of stairs to climb but it is more than worth it. Easily the best pancake joint in Amsterdam this hidden gem is fantastic and not to be missed. You have been warned. 
can't decide between bacon and cheese or chocolate and coconut? Get both!



If you need more resource guides on dining and shopping in Amsterdam, here's a few that I enjoy:


Amsterdam city guide


Design*Sponge Amsterdam Guide


Vintage shopping in Amsterdam


Got any nifty, off the beaten track tips or suggestions to add to the list? Let me know! 
xx
FK 

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