I was in Amsterdam for a short trip during a blustery, cold week of March. After a long day of meetings in a city that closes early, I was worried I'd have to go to bed hungry. Albina came to my rescue as a place that stays open until 10pm.
I trekked there from Central Amsterdam (not a long trip at all) and was delighted to find the menu was in both Dutch and English (I think) and was extensive. Many options were available. To warm my soul and fill me up, I went with the lamb roti, which came quickly and was piping hot. The plate was piled high, the meat was tender, the potatoes and green beans perfectly cooked, and the roti itself was fresh and delicious.
The staff wasn't overly concerned with me - it's just not that kind of place - but they weren't ignoring me. The overhead fluorescents and the white tile floor prevented me from feeling cozy, and the lively, youthful patrons added a measure of loudness, but not a bothersome kind.
I will be going back to Albina soon: late one night when the rest of Amsterdam's good eateries are closed and shuttered. read more