Intimate art deco surroundings welcome diners. The Paleis' owner, Hans Wolffenbuttel, said "The atmosphere I want here is like Berlin in the film "Cabaret" and he has certainly achieved that.

The food is excellent. Leisurely dining is interspersed with lively entertainment by Fifi L'Amour and her guest artistes.

Fifi who, by the way, reminded me of the very talented international star Cleo Laine, regaled us faultlessly in French, Yiddish, Russian, German, Dutch, and I would not have been surprised to hear other languages as well, such is her talent.

The restaurant's reputation is growing not just because of Fifi's talents and her many guest artistes, but because of its cuisine. Jort de Snoo, chef to the Paleis, presents an international menu of a very high standard served at a leisurely pace throughout the evening.

This truly international venue caters for all tastes.

Wednesday features authentic gypsy music from around the world.

Thursday's Levenslied - love songs - is romantic and seductive.

Friday and Saturday sees piano and passion. Fifi L'Amour and Rodolfo Ravissant present, with their special guests, an evening of comedy and cabaret.

Sunday offers an evening of Yiddish cabaret and Klezmer music.

A four-course dinner and full evening's entertainment will cost Fl.67.50. At approximately £24 this is excellent value for money and should not be missed.

Reservations are essential. Word has spread through Amsterdam like wildfire. If you don't book ahead it's unlikely that you will get a table. You can, of course, turn up on spec, just in case there are one or two seats available.

Paleis van de Weemoed is open Wednesday through Sunday. Doors open at 6.30 p.m. with dinner being served from 7.00 p.m. The show starts at 8.00 p.m.

For more information or to make a reservation telephone: 020 6256964 or visit the Paleis web site at www.paleis-van-de-weemoed.nl

Just a note of warning: The Paleis does not accept credit card payments.