i Love 11

Amsterdam is one of the flattest cities in Europe which accounts for all the cyclists. There are few better places to gaze down on the canal-lined expanse though than from the 11th floor of this former post office building near Central Station, recently reincarnated as a sleek and modern restaurant-club. Huge screens hanging from high walls play music videos and animated films, while the mirrors, pillars and bare white walls are bathed in the colorful glow of a state-of-the-art lighting system. Wrap-round windows offer a spectacular panorama of the city, although most of the leggy blondes in here seemed to be concentrating on their tall-glass concoctions and flirting with newfound friends.

Club 11, Oosterdokkade, Amsterdam - P. +31 206 255 999 - Surf. iLove11.nl [1]

 

Panama

Pricey wines and classy French fare are the name of the game at Panama – we just wonder why they didn’t call it Paris. Located in a spacious former Port Authority building on the edge of the city, it’ s a multi-room interior with restaurant, nightclub and theatre – perfect for an upmarket dinner, drink and dance with your date. Finely crafted cocktails are delivered to tables packed with a laid-back crowd of young lookers who are drawn to the high windows, soft light and minimalist décor. We say get your Panama hat on people.

Panama, 4 Oostelijke Handelskade, Amsterdam - P. + 31 20 311 8686 - Surf. Panama.nl [2]

 

Arc

Fresh Mint Juleps and delectable Absolute Arcs are among the cocktail specialties at this trendy spot on Reguliersdwarsstraat. It’s an intriguing venue too since while much of the street is overrun with posey and pretentious places, Arc manages to remain hip and homely. Big with a gay crowd but popular with straights too, you can choose to imbibe their delicious creations in one of three bar areas – the main section doubling as a restaurant. DJs spin clubby sounds and VJs perform on TV wall screens but for peace, quiet and contemplation we like the garden courtyard, where summer cocktails go down rather well. The chefs meanwhile offer up such delights as caviar, oysters and kangaroo steak. Not one to miss.

Arc, Reguliersdwarsstraat 44, Amsterdam - Surf. Bararc.com [3]