Eden American Hotel

Built in 1900, the striking historic hotel with Art Deco styling is considered a monument. The location is perfect for sightseeing. The staff was amazingly helpful and friendly, even though I was not a guest at the hotel, taking the time to give me directions to some of the city sights I had on my agenda for the next day. Take a photo tour of Eden American Hotel

The hotel has done an amazing job with small spaces. I did find the Classic American rooms to be a bit dark and small. Every inch of space was used, including a tiny corner bathroom in one room. A few rooms were larger and faced the canal. I would probably opt for a Deluxe American Room, as they were larger and let in more natural light. There are also two suites, designed in a multi-level loft style. All guest rooms include luxury bedding, minibars, safes and flat-screen TVs.

I wanted to check out their new outdoor seafood restaurant, Cote d'Americain. Set on the canal, the restaurant only serves champagne, oysters and "fruit de mer," three of my personal favorites.

Unfortunately, while I was inside, the fickle Amsterdam weather had changed from a sunny warm day to overcast and drizzly -- and Cote d'Americain is only open in warm, fair weather. We instead went inside to Cafe Americain, a beautiful restaurant filled with Tiffany chandeliers overlooking the fountain.

Since it was our first night in Amsterdam, we decided to try a few classics. I'd read enough about bitterballen before I arrived to make my mouth water. It's a round, fried, bite-sized mixture of beef, veal or both, mixed with potatoes and chicken broth until it's creamy, with a fried crunchy coating. You typically dip them in mustard, which gives a kick to this savory treat. Other than bitterballen and other bar snacks, the menu was upscale, with main courses like duck breast and fillet of lamb.

Even if you don't stop in for dinner, I'd definitely recommend stopping by in good weather. Tables by the fountain in front of the hotel looked perfect for having a beer or cappuccino and munching on bitterballen while people-watching at the busy intersection.

The hotel offers a fitness center, sauna, and small business center. Scooter rentals are available, and the hotel offers various tour packages. (Reviewed 9/1/2009)

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Eden American Hotel is located: across from the Leidseplein
Leidsekade 97, Amsterdam, 1017 PN NL
Phone: 31 20 556 3000;
Email: info.american@edenhotelgroup.com
Web site: Eden American Hotel

^{As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with complimentary accommodations for the purpose of reviewing those services. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see our ethics policy.}