Postcard: Dutch Pancakes in Amsterdam

The Dutch version of our flapjacks are pannekoeken. These enormous, paper-thin pancakes are made from a skillet-fried batter of flour (traditionally including buckwheat flour), milk, salt, and eggs, and served with toppings both sweet and savory. Pannekoeken are a ubiquitous Amsterdam treat. My Dutch friends favor the ones at De Carrousel for the wide range of garnishes, but also because there's something for everybody nearby. This indoor-outdoor restaurant — housed in an old carousel complete with vintage horses — is located across the street from the Heineken brewery, and right beside one of the city's best playgrounds, where the ample, sturdy tire swing is truly exemplary. _ — Betsy Andrews