When you pictured your trip to Amsterdam, De 9 Straatjes (the nine streets) is probably the district you had in mind: full of cyclists and boutiques and stroopwaffels and beautiful tall buildings lined up along the canal. But you can’t imagine The Dylan until you’ve seen it in real life.
This luxury boutique hotel, tucked away behind a gate and sandwiched between canals, is home to just 41 rooms – which have a slightly Tardis-esque way of being much, much bigger than you imagine they’ll be. They range from spacious double rooms to luxury suites, across the hotel’s Original and Serendipity buildings. All rooms are beautifully clean and decked out with Aesop soap, coffee, tea and a minibar, with varying views out onto the courtyard and beyond. The superior suites are particularly special, some of which are loft style with two floors, characterised by exposed beam ceilings. There’s a 24-hour concierge number and room service for breakfast in bed – or pastrami sandwiches and chicken burgers (more suited to your second dinner after a few drinks, perhaps).
But for your first dinner, head to The Dylan’s restaurant OCCO, which looks out over its courtyard (in summer, you can dine out on the terrace, but we weren’t so lucky). Go for the house wine if you know what’s good for you; it comes from The Dylan’s own winery, and it’s perfectly light to pair with food. The langoustine is herby and fresh and the bouillabaisse is well-seasoned with just the right hit of citrus. Finish with the chocolate eclair. Or, opt for Vinkeles, The Dylan’s second restaurant, which has a private room bookable for 14, and just earned its second Michelin star. This is one for your special occasions.
Neighbourhood
Slap bang in the middle of De 9 Straatjes, you’re in the thick of it for sightseeing (and snacking) here. Anne Frank’s house is just down the road, so if you’ve forgotten to book two months in advance (like we did), you can get there nice and early to queue. You’re also near strings of bars, good restaurants and coffeeshops, if you’re so inclined.
Nearby
1. Fabel Friet: For hot, fresh chips in little cardboard trays, covered in good mayonnaise and a mountain of parmesan, to be eaten with your legs dangling over the canal. You’ll spot it by its queue.
2. Pulitzer’s Bar: For seriously good cocktails in a cosy, old-school cocktail bar. Get a negroni or a martini and sample the oysters.
3. Breda: One of Amsterdam’s best restaurants, serving up set menus of seasonal meat, fish and veggie dishes across its two-storey restaurant.
Time Out tip
Have the perfect day by renting one of The Dylan’s bikes, cycling to Vondelpark and stopping for a coffee, spending a few hours at Anne Frank Huis and then heading to the world-famous Winkel 43 for its apple pie and cream.