Altmann restaurant just beyond Amsterdam’s downtown, a stone’s throw across the Amstel river from the Amstel Hotel, is a chart-topping spot to see and be seen. Set in a big 19th century corner building, Altmann’s décor is sexy, luxurious and modern – lots of creamy walls, chocolate banquettes and enough candles to light St Paul’s. So smart, some call this restaurant ‘London on the Amstel’. Host Arne Altmann is on the scene, setting the tone of relaxation and fine personal service. For VIPs at heart, there’s a raised platform at the heart of the restaurant with just four tables for Olympic-level posing. Chef Mohammed Mahraoui earned his stars at Amsterdam’s Blakes and is working culinary magic here, too. Try starter of ricotta tomato cakes with gazpacho of tomato and basil, main course of Mahraoui’s own tagine of lamb, sweet potato, preserved lemons and coriander and dessert of espresso milkshake with vanilla ice cream, Baileys and bitter chocolate. Private groups up to ninety trendsetters can gather themselves in this special place. Valet parking.