Dining in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is famous for its fine international cuisine. On our July ’05 trip, one of the spots that we thoroughly enjoyed was the highly recommended d’Vijff Vlieghen, or The Five Flies (Spuistraat 294-302 1012 VX, Amsterdam, Netherlands; phone +31 20 5304060, fax 6236404 or visit www.thefiveflies.com). The unusual name originates with Jan Janszoon Vijff Vlighen, the first inhabitant of one of the five adjoining 17th-century houses that make up the dining establishment.

The restaurant consists of nine small interconnected dining rooms, including a Rembrandt Room which features four of the artist’s original sketches. Each of the rooms has its own distinct style, but all feature what is called New Dutch Cuisine.

My wife ordered monkfish, while I had a perfectly prepared sole. Our meal cost $80 for two, including wine.

• The centrally located Indrapura (Rembrandtplein 42, 1017 CV, Amsterdam; phone +31 20 623 7329, fax 624 9078 or visit www.indrapura.nl) is furnished in colonial style. This restaurant offers an exceptionally delicious traditional rijsttafel (rice table) from Indonesia, once a Dutch colony.

We selected an array of meats, vegetables and rice, all kept on our own warming table. Salads and condiments perfectly complemented the entree. $50 for two included beer.

LARRY TAYLOR

Fullerton, CA