The Dutch often avoid this part of the city, or cycle through it as fast as they can, ringing their bell to warn unobservant tourists that they are about to pass. This area is bustling with tourists. It is the heart of the city and for some tourists, with the red light district and coffee shops, the only neighbourhood to visit in Amsterdam. But there are many good places for more sophisticated people. You just need to know where.
In the midst of the red light district lies Mata Hari, a restaurant with a vintage interior and a cozy atmosphere. The restaurant offers a lovely dinner menu with dishes prepared with sustainable and local ingredients where possible. Also during the day you can enjoy a coffee or bite to eat on the terrace by the canal or on one of the couches inside. It’s name, and interesting location stems from the former illegal gambling casino run by the infamous Frits van de Wereld. Another bonus, Mata Hari offers free wifi.
