Amsterdam #8

 June 26th.  Clear blue sky, no clouds at all and Very Hot

Today my nephew took us on a walking tour of The Nine Streets.   

These are a grid of 3 x 3 streets and four canals in the middle of the UNESCO World Heritage Canal Area.  We saw many different styles of architecture and lots of different boutique stores and intriguing signage.  Sadly there seemed to be many which had closed, perhaps due to the competition from on line shopping.  

 He pointed out a Silent Protest.   When the Russians invaded Ukraine and the war broke out these signs on yellow tape were placed on many of the blue street signs.   Not only were the words a protest but the blue and yellow was a nod to the Ukrainian flag.

We went to Blue Amsterdam, a cafe/restaurant at the top of a glass tower in the middle of Amsterdam.   Here we sat sipping a cool drink and enjoyed spotting the places we had visited in the city.   It was interesting too, to view the Canal Houses from above and see that although the canal facing facades are maintained to strict historical standards out the back it is possible, within limits, to make additions in the garden space.

Lunch was at De Bijenkorf, a huge department store in the ilk of Selfridges.   The restaurant was a very upmarket cafeteria style where first you picked up a tray and then from the various delectables on offer selected and strolled to the Kassa.   When I said I was paying for all the three the affable gentleman on duty said “that’s very kind” and tapped his keyboard.   Everything is very electronic here!  Many shops will only accept payment by card.   

 I alone had chosen a lemon meringue cake for dessert so I generously shared with Little Sister and Nephew.

Back home for a rest before Little Sister, Nephew, Nephew’s wife and I all went to The Secret Garden for a meal.   According to the website it is Japanese Peruvian Fusion.   The charming waiter explained the menu, advised on volumes and made recommendations.   We had an Experience.   Part way through the meal Charming Waiter, followed by his equally Charming Manager came to explain that there was a problem in the kitchen and our tempura and grilled food would not be available.   All four of us decided that we were ready for dessert and so skipped the mains altogether.

First up was guacamole made in a stone pestle at the table, and some edamame with black salt.

Next was Sea Bass Ceviche with Sweet Potato, Corn, Yuzu and Chilli.  Also Salmon Tataki with Honey miso and passion fruit.

Followed by Roasted Beetroot with Yuzu and Umeshu.  Also Watermelon with Avocado, Feta and a citrus Jus.

Desserts were this delectable ensemble of Mochi Icecream and fruits.

Well filled we strolled out into the twilight at 10:30pm.

Little Sister and I finally managed to wear our Tulip shoes in Amsterdam!!