A visit to Amsterdam wouldn't be complete without a meal at Restaurant Christophe (46 Leliegracht; 011-31-20-625-0807). Here are the city's best resources:

PICNIC PURVEYORS
Albert Cuypmarkt (Albert Cuypstraat), with its bustling outdoor stalls that sell fresh vegetables, fruit, fish and flowers. Fred and Yolanda de Leeuw (92 Utrechtsestraat; 011-31-20-623-0235), to find meat for grilling, charcuterie, ham and truffles. Abraham Kef (192 Marnixstraat; 011-31-20-626-2210), for French and Dutch artisanal cheeses. Wijn Koperij Otterman (300 Keizersgracht; 011-31-20-625-5088), for its wide selection of wines from small French vineyards. Venekamp (134 Ferdinand Bolstraat; 011-31-20-662-1209), for its dense Dutch peasant breads. De Waterwinkel (10 Roelof Hartstraat; 011-31-20-675-5932), for every conceivable brand of bottled water.

 

WATERSIDE RESTAURANTS
Bordewijk (7 Noordermarkt; 011-31- 20-624-3899), a perennially hip spot that's crowded with locals. Café de Jaren (20-22 Nieuwe Doelenstraat; 011-31- 20-625-5771), a sleek venue with a terrace overlooking a canal.

BOAT RENTALS
Call the Netherlands Board of Tourism at 212-370-7360 for more information.