A Gourmet Escape on the Eurostar: London to Amsterdam with Culinary Delights in Almere

Friday, 7 June 2024 10:56

By Bill Murray

Bill Murray samples the culinary delights of Amsterdam and the nearby resort town of Almere

My wife and I recently embarked on a culinary adventure from London to Amsterdam, with a delightful detour to the resort town of Almere. We savoured every moment and bite, kicking off with a stay at The Megaro Hotel in London. Strategically positioned opposite King's Cross and St Pancras, this vibrant, mural-covered gem stands out like a beacon for Eurostar travellers. Its location couldn’t be better for those ready to hop on the train and head to the continent.

The moment we stepped into our room, we were greeted with a mix of comfort and rock 'n' roll flair. The corner suite we chose had a balcony offering stunning views of the iconic St Pancras clock tower and the bustling tracks at King’s Cross. We loved the eclectic punk-inspired décor with Union Jack prints and Diesel Living furniture. The only downside was occasionally being serenaded by street buskers - charming, though sometimes loud.

Our culinary adventure began right at The Megaro's restaurant, Spagnoletti. Specialising in superior Italian small plates and phenomenal mains, the menu blew us away. The chicken ballotine was succulent, the risotto with slow-cooked beef cheek was divine, and the burrata with pea and truffle had just the right zing. Kudos to Ferenc, the manager, and head chef Adam Simmonds- they've created something truly special. A reservation here is a must!

Don’t miss the basement ‘hocus-pocus’ cocktail bar. The bartenders’ knowledge and creativity were impressive, and it was the perfect spot to start our evening. The upper floors feature functional yet spacious rooms, but the Studio suites with their high-tech amenities and quirky décor were our favourite. The Megaro also offers great value with Italian breakfast included, and it’s accommodating for guests with disabilities, providing three wheelchair-accessible rooms.

Next up was our Eurostar journey to Amsterdam - a seamless and enjoyable experience. Departing from St Pancras International, the four-hour trip whisked us through the Channel Tunnel and the scenic landscapes of Belgium and the Netherlands. With spacious seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, and delicious onboard dining, it was a comfortable start to the next leg of our adventure.

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Upon arrival at Amsterdam Centraal, we headed to the INK Hotel, a modern boutique haven in the heart of the city. The hotel’s history as a former newspaper building is evident in its unique design, featuring typewriters, vintage printing presses, and a cosy library lounge perfect for relaxation.

Our room at the INK Hotel was minimalist yet comfortable. The plush super king bed and thoughtful amenities like a Nespresso machine and a smart TV made for a cosy stay. The slightly dated bathroom did, however, have a tub with a rain shower. For those seeking extra space, a suite there offers city views and separate living areas.

One of the highlights of our stay was dining at the hotel’s newly evolved PRESSROOM restaurant. Here, head chef Justin combines classic techniques with modern flair in a chic, inviting atmosphere. The open kitchen allows diners to watch the culinary magic unfold - a treat for food enthusiasts!

The veal was superb, as was the sea bass. The cooked-to-order and buffet breakfasts were also standouts. The staff managed a very busy service and dealt with demanding American guests wanting "over-easy everything" with an attitude that was anything but!

The following night we dined at the centrally located Celia restaurant at the Kimpton De Witt hotel, where the mixologists are true artists. We loved the atmosphere and the cocktails here - in particular, the rum and nutmeg flavoured Planter’s Punch and the Espresso Martini were fabulous. Menu highlights included the fish tacos to start and the beautifully cooked beef tenderloin. The staff here are superb and under the management of Tim, a former executive chef, this restaurant runs like a finely tuned piano!

Thanks to our IAMsterdam cards, we were able to explore a multitude of attractions and museums. The canal tours are a must and included. The Stedelijk and the Rijksmuseum are both awe-inspiring with the Rembrandts at the latter - in particular, the ‘Night Watch’ being quite fantastic. The Anne Frank Museum offers a thought-provoking glimpse at the horror of the Holocaust.

After soaking in the vibrant culture and cuisine of Amsterdam, we took a short train ride to Almere, a modern resort town known for its innovative architecture and scenic waterfront. Almere offered a serene escape from the bustling city, and we rented a boat to navigate the inland waterways for a few hours. This was one of the highlights of the entire trip. Fully electric, we were left to steer around the natural waterways and man-made lakes that form part of this beautiful area of North Holland. Just 20 minutes outside of Amsterdam, we felt like we were in a different country altogether.

One of Almere’s culinary highlights was the Boutiq Restaurant, a trendy spot known for its incredible cocktails and Asian-inspired menu. The sleek, modern décor and open bar showcasing the restaurant's extensive cocktail offerings made for a memorable dining experience. Offering everything from Sevruga caviar to Korean chicken, it was absolutely magnificent. The owners were incredibly accommodating, and after a feast of Peking duck, fresh asparagus, and delicious prawns, we waddled back to Amsterdam.

Combining the ease of Eurostar travel with the culinary delights of Amsterdam and Almere, our gourmet break was a feast for the senses. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic getaway or a foodie adventure with friends, this trip promises unforgettable experiences and flavours. Book your Eurostar tickets, pack your bags, and get ready for a journey that combines the best of European travel and gourmet dining.

So whether you're planning your next culinary adventure or simply dreaming of the perfect gourmet getaway, let our journey inspire you to explore the rich and diverse flavours of Europe. Bon appétit and happy travels!

Useful Links and Contact Information

The Megaro Hotel, London
- Website: The Megaro Hotel
- Phone: +44 20 7843 2222
Spagnoletti at The Megaro

◦ Website: Spagnoletti

◦ Website: Eurostar

INK Hotel, Amsterdam
- Website: INK Hotel
- Phone: +31 20 627 5900
PRESSROOM Restaurant at INK Hotel

◦ Website: PRESSROOM

Celia Restaurant at Kimpton De Witt
- Website: Celia Restaurant
- Phone: +31 20 521 1740
Boutiq Restaurant, Almere

◦ Website: Boutiq Restaurant

• I Amsterdam Card

◦ Website: I AMsterdam Card

A Gourmet Escape on the Eurostar: London to Amsterdam with Culinary Delights in Almere

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