La Rive

Cradling a Michelin star, La Rive is Amsterdam's high temple of culinary art. Master chef Rogér Rassin combines French cuisine with influences from around the Mediterranean and farther afield. Royalty, leading politicians and captains of industry dine here at discretely spaced tables (and hew to the dress code). The dining room overlooks the Amstel River through French windows, and in summer it opens onto a waterside terrace. Cherry-paneled walls punctuated with book-filled cabinets suggest a private library called into service for a dinner party. The menu changes seasonally, so I can't guarantee the presence of palate-pleasers like the Bresse pigeon with pistachio and sweetcorn, or the grill-roasted rack of lamb with dates and Zaanse mustard. The service, while impeccable, manages to keep just on the right side of stuffy, and the wine list is formidable.

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