The best comeback in Amsterdam: Hotel Arena

I may come from Utrecht, but I also know that Hotel Arena back in the old days was a place where many Amsterdammers came to dance. In fact: it was perhaps the hotspot to go out. And for those who have started to miss the place: I have good news. Hotel Arena is back after a major renovation with a renewed concept. One that already has my tail wagging in this summery sweaty weather.

Yep, the café-restaurant PARK Amsterdam has a completely new Food & Beverage concept and is my new favorite chill spot. And if you don't know it yet, I'd love to convince you. Because this is why you want to...

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And not just any food. We're talking about very Instagram-worthy Mediterranean dishes with attention to fresh vegetables and herbs. Totally plant-based, so, Simoon, when are we going together?

The coziness

I honestly don't understand why not all restaurants use a shared dining system. Why one big plate with fifty of the same bites when you can share several small dishes and taste all the flavors? That's what I mean.

The I-want-all-of-this menu

Cherry tomatoes and pistachio lollies, kataifi shrimp, crudités with shiso, marjoram cream, and radish, morel ravioli with grilled green asparagus or a sea bass piperade. And if you're tired of the Angus beef, you can opt for a variant of roasted cauliflower with cumin or chickpeas. I, uh, could go on for a while.

The location

I just love Oost. During a day of chilling in the Oosterpark, you can perfectly make a pit stop at PARK. Or better yet: go there for breakfast, that's a great plan. Every morning there is a gigantic buffet full of fresh fruit, vegetables, smoothies, and juices ready. The terrace is where you need to be and never want to leave.

The interior (and the peace)

Step over the threshold and you immediately feel an oasis of calm. Think a lot of green, because Park Amsterdam wants to extend the line of the Oosterpark directly inside. The hangout actually consists of three different settings: an accessible lounge, a cozy bistro, and a classy restaurant.

The cocktails

Something with pitchers of sangria (perfect for sharing), too cute spritzer popsicles, and real ‘cocktail bags’ to sip on the terrace. And if you may have been a bit too enthusiastic with the cocktails, you can always stay overnight in the four-star hotel. I'm telling you one more time: you want this.

P.S. And in July/August, Hotel Arena will open a new hotel wing and refurbished rooms. You can dive straight into bed after dinner.