paroolFeb 14, 2026, 02:00

At Franzen, Mara Grimm deeply regrets not ordering the côte de boeuf (8)

Chef Jesse Franzen has opened a new "casual chic" restaurant called Franzen in Amsterdam’s Oud-Zuid neighborhood, specializing in classic French cuisine and high-quality grilled meats. Reviewer Mara Grimm praised the young chef's mastery of traditional sauces and steak tartare, though she highlighted the high cost of wine by the glass and the venue's loud acoustics. The restaurant features an extensive wine list and focuses on dry-aged Holstein beef, catering to the area's demand for upscale, traditional dining.

Lifestyle Amsterdam Haarlem Netherlands

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Chatterbox Roderik connects people with each other

Roderik Schaepman has launched the Week of the Conversation, an initiative aimed at encouraging social interaction to combat loneliness and declining communication skills. By setting up designated spaces at locations like the Haarlem train station, he encourages people to overcome social hesitation through simple steps like greeting and complimenting strangers.

Looking for a friendly chat? Step into the yellow square at the station on Wednesday

To promote social connection, the Week of the Chat initiative is launching in Haarlem on October 14, featuring a designated yellow zone at the train station where people can meet for casual conversations. Inspired by research from the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the project aims to help individuals feel happier and less lonely by encouraging social interaction and boosting confidence.

Brazilians (22 and 23) who used extreme violence to rob men met via Grindr are now in the Netherlands

Two Brazilian men, aged 22 and 23, have been extradited from Portugal to the Netherlands to face charges for a series of violent robberies in Amsterdam and Haarlem. The suspects allegedly lured victims via the dating app Grindr alongside an accomplice who has already received a ten-year prison sentence.

Painful, black toenails after running: this is 'runner's toe' and how you can prevent it

Runners toe, or a subungual hematoma, is a frequent injury caused by repetitive impact or direct pressure on the toes, often affecting endurance athletes. While usually harmless, the condition results in painful bruising under the nail that can take months to fully resolve as the nail grows out.

Aid worker Tim has been volunteering at Amsterdam Marathon for nearly nine years

Tim Zandbergen has volunteered as a first aid responder for the Amsterdam Marathon for nearly nine years, using his bicycle to provide rapid medical assistance. He carries essential equipment like an AED to help participants and spectators during emergencies, including life-threatening situations.