As filled with history as it is with urban wine bars and inviting cafés, the capital of the Netherlands has a special place in our hearts. From the canals to the endless culture, Amsterdam is a city that moves at a more considered pace, encouraging us to contemplate the art of intention with every step. An Amsterdam native, our beautiful friend and team member, Renske, uniquely understands how to soak up the city’s energy. As someone who appreciates the timeless and sees dancing as a form of self-care, her take on Amsterdam is one that honours the Dutch way of living.

From unmissable vintage to the best gyoza’s and a dancefloor you won’t want to leave, discover the ESSEN guide to Amsterdam, as told by Renske.


DINE

Mr. Gyoza, Old West: Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, Mr. Gyoza is my forever go-to. The perfect balance of cosy and lively, its creative menu always hits the right note with delicious gyoza, side dishes and signature cocktails. Take a seat at the long bar, order the Kimchi Chicken Gyoza and sip on the Kamikaze Paloma while watching the talented chefs bring your meal to life.

SHOP

As a disciple of the conscious consumption movement, vintage is always on my radar. Ensō Vintage’s offering is hard to miss. Highly curated, founders Andrea and Liseth hand-select vintage designer pieces alongside new, upcycled collections, building a timeless range that focuses on fusing minimalism with tradition. Striving for a zero-waste future, their ethos of integrating unique yet versatile garments with your everyday definition of self echoes our own vision of the Essence of Less.

ART

Fabrique de Lumieres, Westergas: Unique and multisensory, Fabrique de Lumieres brings the golden age of Dutch painters to life. From Van Gogh to Vermeer and Rembrandt, the all-immersive exhibition captures the mastery of the 17th century, taking you on a journey that spans high society, rough seas, faith and enchanting winter landscapes. With more than 325 artworks on show, it’s the perfect place to get lost in contemplation.

GROUND

The White Door Studio, West: A serene oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, the White Door Studio combines endless forms of expression. A design, photography and yoga studio all in one, the light-filled 240 square meter space was designed to connect and inspire. Whether you’re engaging in a class or using it as a workspace, let its sense of intention turn your focus quietly inward.

DANCE

The Loft, A’DAM Tower: It would be remiss to visit the city without paying a visit to the institution that is The Loft. Located on the 16th floor of the iconic A’DAM Tower, its 7-meter high floor-to-ceiling windows have become synonymous with world-class DJs and parties you never want to end. With a penthouse feel and an elegant interior, it’s also available to rent for private events. Take a look at their schedule and remember to wear your dancing shoes - my go-to pair is The Strappy Sandal in Crystal.

SIP

Maracuyá, Old West: We love a space where you can stay all day and Maracuyá is just that. With quality underpinning every aspect, it’s the embodiment of the quintessentially Dutch approach to entertaining, better known as ‘huiskamergevoel’. The kind of cafe where coffee turns into a bite and a glass of wine, you can expect an extensive specialty coffee offering, a rotating wine list sourced from small and local importers and a highly curated menu centred on fresh ingredients. Grab a table and watch the world go by.

THE AMSTERDAM EDIT

Contemporary and unmistakably cool, Amsterdam has long inspired our approach to dressing. Whenever we’re in the city, we lean on three pairs that we know will cover all bases: the Sporty Sandal, the Strappy Sandal and the Leather Lug Sole. Comfortable without compromising on style, the Sporty Sandal is perfect for days when we’re biking around the city (and wanting to swap out our sneakers). For easy elegance, we look to the Strappy Sandal in Crystal. The perfect cross between subtle and statement, its versatility lends itself equally to evening and dressed-up denim silhouettes. And of course, the Leather Lug Sole is our tried and true wardrobe staple. Set on a well-gripped, flexible and ultra-light sole, it was designed to weather the Dutch rain season after season.