Associating this name with Jacques Brel’s chanson, De Burgerij (Les Bourgeois) I could not have been more surprised as friends took me to this amazing place in the north of Amsterdam last weekend. Situated along the IJ Channel a huge hangar, which used to store requisites and decors for a theatre company, is transformed into a realm of industrial grandeur.
On less windy nights you can sit outside and enjoy a breathtaking view over the outstretched IJ and the KNSM Island.
Sitting in the gigantic hall amongst a mixture of young downtowners, beautiful people and some parked cars, I had the feeling it suited all. Kids were playing billiards on a mezzanine, the emptiness of the hall filled with nothing else than our lifted spirits reflected in one immense chandelier above the bar and as if it is of any importance on such a night, the food was superb: fresh, tasty and handsomely composed.
Photo by *N*o*o*r
Being one of the hottest dinner places at the moment and always booked out, the staff is not arrogant at all. On the contrary, in an informal way they chat, are attentive and at night even cycle with you to open the fence.
I have to admit that it is almost impossible to find but in a way that is part of the charm. So be well prepared- study a map, take a cab or simply ask a local. Good luck!
Hotel de Goudfazant; Aambeeldstraat 10H; Amsterdam-Noord