The holy trinity of Dutch cuisine comprises of Stamppot, Bitterballen and of course Pancakes.
The Shallow Man would sooner cross a busy road, and sit at a table with a group of chain smoking Dutch women, than eat stamppot.
Bitterballen, remind me of the kind of women one meets late at night at the Amsterdam cafes, Bubbels and the Cooldown cafe. Hot, a little greasy and best avoided, however, when it comes to a good pancake, the Shallow Man is like a Dutch woman standing in front of a cigarette dispensing machine.........excited.
Ijsland, in the Rivierenbuurt neighborhood of Amsterdam, offers an extensive selection of pancakes. Sweet, savory, and some creative variations, including pancakes filled with mexican chicken, or even a pizza pancake are on offer.
They have pancakes available to suit all tastes and ages, all though sadly I didn't see a foie gras pancake in the menu. My personal favorite is the bacon, mushroom and onion combination. Tastier than a Dutch girl that doesn't dress to be comfortable.
Ijsland also offers a selection of homemade ice cream and some delicious healthy smoothies and homemade lemonades.
The reason I give them four stars is due to some slightly incompetent service, and a longer than expected wait for the pancakes, however, as it was a Saturday afternoon, and the place was busier than the first day of a sale at the De Bijenkorf, I'll let that one pass.
I'll add that this place is wonderful for kids. They have lots of toys on hand, and it's a great place for families to visit.
If pancakes are your thing, then you really should check out Ijsland. Like sex on a second date, it's pretty damn good. read more