Bar Lusconi

In the landmark building where café Zurich held court for decades, Bar Lusconi gives the Mercatorplein an Italian heartbeat: burrata and cauliflower snacks to start, comforting pastas from an open kitchen, pizzas, and a staff culture warm enough that evenings occasionally end with limoncello at the bar. The square-side terrace is one of De Baarsjes' best people-watching seats. It's a neighbourhood place at neighbourhood prices rather than a destination — which is exactly what this fast-changing corner of West needed.