Tomaz

A small wine bar and restaurant,Tomaz is tucked away on a narrow 17th-century street between the shopping Mecca of Kalverstraat and the serene Begijnhof (originally a women’s religious community, dating back to the 14th century).

The interior is cosy-kitsch: an aquatic scene moves slowly across the screen of a TV mounted on one wall, a long wooden pew is strewn with velvet cushions, and the tendrils of ornate, foliage-like light fixtures creep across the plasterwork.

The wine menu includes a selection of Old and New World red, white, rosé and sparkling wines, the majority of which are available by the glass. These go well with the Mediterranean ‘tapaz’ on offer, such as warm dates stuffed with chorizo, Spanish tortilla or goat’s cheese croquettes.

A basic choice of sandwiches, soups and pasta is available for lunch (12.00-16.00), while an international array of mains fills the dinner menu - organic burger, chicken satay, lasagne - served 17.00-21.00 - and one of the chefs specialises in vegetarian dishes.

The food at Tomaz won't win awards, but its location and character make it an unexpected hideaway just off one of Amsterdam's busiest streets.

All of Tomaz’ menus can be found online.