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Situated in the picturesque Jordaan district, away from the crowds and general tackiness that typifies much of Amsterdam is Blakes, the Amsterdam outpost of London's famed Blakes Hotel in Chelsea, also designed by Anouska Hempel. As in London the emphasis is on dark woods, the decor and the cuisine as well, are eastern inspired.
Under the watchful eye of General Manager Richard van Batenburg, formerly of Ian Schrager's Delano in Miami, Blakes is maintained to a high standard. To ensure that the appearance is immaculate - particularly in the new all white wing - two full time painters are on staff.
The past has not been entirely painted over however - in well worn staircases and rustic brick - the spirit of the original 17th century theatre is evident. Antonio Vivaldi conducted the theatre orchestra at the time of the 100th anniversary in 1737.
The property has seen several incarnations since its days in the theatre - most recently a Catholic charity organization, The Regents of the Roman Catholic Old and Poor People's Office, which held the property for more than two hundred years.
But there are few poor around the property these days. Blakes' 41 rooms start at a reasonable €250/night but rise quickly to as much as €890. Suites range from €1090 - 1490. Room aesthetics range from boldly colourful to totally colourless - white on white - something for everyone's tastes. Heavy beams characteristic of Amsterdam architecture are notable features in many rooms.
Blakes guests are welcome to use the hotel's own bicycles - which are status symbols themselves in this bike-obsessed town. Originally used by the Swedish military, Blakes bikes - with discreet nameplate - are the Land Rovers of Amsterdam.
Today the Jordaan is home to most of the city's best small shops and restaurants - not the least of which is Blakes own restaurant - under chef Schilo van Coevorden - formerly chef to the Sheik of Dubai - widely recognized to be among the best, if not the very best, in town.
If all of this is out of budget - at very least go for an inventive and superb east/west bento box lunch (menu below) in the courtyard and linger with a pot of their luxurious Kilimanjaro slope grown Chagga coffee.
blakes classic bento box:
wasabi soup with prawn dumpling, seared tuna sushi, wok tossed soft shell crab, honey roast duck salad -€28.
protein box:
green tomato gazpacho with basil sorbet, picollini salad with balsamico, green asparagus with wasabi hollandaise green papaya salad with langoustines - €28.
carbohydrate box:
tom yam dam, lapsang tea smoked beef, steamed char siu bun, tortellini des landes - €28.
dessert bento box:
chocolate ganache, galencal pannacotta, berry tartelette, apple cardomon ice - €12.
high roasted chagga coffee, pot - €4.
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