The Credentials:
Dubbed ‘Amsterdam’s secret’, The Dylan Amsterdam is an intimate boutique hotel located in an exceptional 17th-century landmark building on the Keizersgracht, one of Amsterdam’s most famous canals. It is perfectly placed for guests wanting to explore the chic shopping district as well as some of the city’s best museums, including Van Gogh, the Rijksmuseum and the Hermitage.
Each of the hotel’s 40 rooms and suites are individually designed to provide the ideal blend of colour, texture and atmosphere. The hotel also boasts the Michelin-starred restaurant Vinkeles and Vinkeles on the Water, a unique Michelin dining concept aboard a specially built canal boat.
Dine:
Since the Vinkeles restaurants were closed, we dined at the neighbouring Occo brasserie, which had a straightforward and unpretentious feel, despite its sleek interior. The menu shifted from elegant truffle dishes and caviar to game and steak, while maintaining French influence and a smart simplicity.
We enjoyed the Occo take on the Caesar salad (€18), which was filled with roasted shrimps and was a replenishing, satisfying treat for the palate. The sauteed Dover sole (€59) was cooked to perfection, providing the perfect creamy texture, and the wine list was accomplished: we recommend the 2010 Chateau Moulin De Laborde.
Along with the Michelin starred options the hotel boasts two dark and intimate lounges, where most of the light provided flickers from a welcoming fireplace; we sat around this fireplace drinking a 13th century Dutch beer named ‘Brand’. It was a thought-out touch in a modern hotel, reminding us of the history of the area.
Sleep:
Upon arrival we were upgraded to a junior suite, whose large bedroom was sleek, modern and provided a superb view of the Kiezersgracht. The suite was equipped with a well-stocked minibar and numerous gifts (including a Balmain pen) and the bathroom had a sunken marble bath that exemplified the boutique, luxurious feel of the hotel.
There is a small exercise room a short walk away from the hotel rooms fitted with an ample number of exercise bikes and weight machines, for the energetic guest.
Who Goes There?
European Bright Young Things who like a central location.
Out & About:
The Dylan is perfectly situated for highlights such as the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House as well as the shopping districts and various nightspots. The Kiezersgracht is a beautifully lit canal at night and you can use custom bicycles that the hotel provides to explore.
The Worst Thing:
A deposit is taken in advance for any extras you may consume, which is refunded the next day.
The Best Thing:
The location and the interior of the suite were impressive.
