Amsterdam — By Marianne on June 6, 2009 at 8:00 am
Filed under: amsterdam shopping, Shopping

Browsing and Buying in the Nine Streets

The Negen Straatjes is my favoutite shopping area. Whenever I have visitors I always include a stroll through these nine little streets. My non-shopping friend usually join me reluctantly but become more enthusiatic when they see that romantic and down-to-earth eateries mix with the shops and boutiques.

The Negen Straatjes is a compact area close to the Westerkerk. The area is bounded by Reestraat, Hartenstraat and Gasthuismolensteeg to the north and Runstraat en Huidenstraat to the south. The nine streets are intersected by Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht and Herengracht.

Quirky fashion boutiques and gift shops rub shoulder with antique shops and second-hand clothing stores.

White Teeth Shop

HARTENSTRAAT: Be sure to pop into Lady Day (at number 9), try on a trendy coat with matching hat. If you like board games The Game Keeper is your place.

REESTRAAT: Kramer-Pontifex (number 20), fragrant oils and candles, but Mr Kramer is also a doll’s doctor. Bring your tattered teddy bear or injured doll. Mr Kramer will make them healthy again.

WOLVENSTRAAT: browse in an old fashioned haberdashery shop, (number 9 – 11). Be stunned by the large selection of ribbons, tassles and cord. But no buttons. Just go round the corner to Herengracht 389. De Knopenwinkel, a shop selling only buttons, and find that button you thought you never would find. Be seduced by colourful second-hand clothes at Laura Dols (no 6) or try one of the nearly-new outfits at Second Best (no 18).

HUIDENSTRAAT: Indulge in tempting handmade chocolates at Pompadour (no 15). See if Zipper (no 7) has that special piece of vintage clothing you have been trying to find for ages

RUNSTRAAT: Stock up on cheese, wine and olives in De Kaaskamer (no 9) or buy that trendy leather jacket from Robin and Rick (no 30). Find that old fashioned tooth paste or your favourite brand at De Witte Tandenwinkel (the White Teeth Shop), and a toothbrush that fits your mood.

photo credit: personal collection