Amsterdam Travel: Afternoon Tea at Hotel Droog

"Why is this place never busy?"

That's what NewMan and I ask each other when we go to the cafe in Hotel Droog. Maybe it's because it's upstairs and people are too busy perusing the weird and wonderful objects on display on the ground floor, or maybe it's because they don't even see the signs for the "Roomservice" restaurant or they are simply confused by this name.

Either way I'm always happy when we can get a table easily in the restaurant on the first floor of a historic Amsterdam building that houses one of the Netherlands' most interesting design companies. To find out more about the history of the building go to the big Rembrandt-inspired mural on the wall and read about what the building was used for many centuries ago.

And don't get too confused by the name because although yes, it does offer overnight accommodation (it has just one bedroom which you can book) it is primarily a place for people to come see the good work of Droog and just experience interesting, thought-provoking and also admittedly bizarre design in a range of products. all showcased or for sale in the ground floor shop and exhibit areas. 

Upstairs is the "Roomservice" restaurant where you can enjoy lunches, coffee and yes, afternoon tea. Still surrounded by design and art on display - there are even Banksys on canvas in the toilet - but this doesn't detract from the tasty food and impressive range of teas offered as part of their afternoon tea service. Because I'm no food writer, I'll let the photos tell you more about what you can enjoy eating and drinking...

Hotel Droog, Staalstraat 7B, 1011 JJ, Amsterdam