The famous Dutch port boasts modern architecture, charming neighborhoods and an up-and-coming food scene. Here are some of the best restaurants – plus some tips for an enjoyable stay in Rotterdam.
When in Rotterdam, there's one thing that becomes apparent very quickly: the Dutch love coffee and bread! This is evident not only in the many specialized cafés, bistros and bakeries, but also in the breakfast options: Hot dishes like Eggs Benedict, omelettes, poached eggs or bacon and eggs are always served on toast – without fail.
The breakfast menu at the Harvest Café & Bakery in the city center is particularly popular. On weekends, you may have to get in line before enjoying their exceptional coffee, delicious croissants, tasty sourdough bread, egg dishes or healthy cereal bowls. As they don't take reservations, you simply have to try your luck.
As you stroll through the city, you'll noticed a large number of Asian delis, restaurants, and take-out spots. From Indian and Thai to Indonesian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese, the city's culinary scene is extremely multicultural. But as we wanted to discover typical Dutch fare, we asked the locals. And were astounded to learn that fries with peanut butter are a Dutch delicacy. They are particularly fine at Bram Ladage, a friet chain that operates several locations in Rotterdam. A very interesting combination! And if your taste buds can't handle that, don't despair – you can always order crispy fries with mayonnaise or ketchup.
You can also enjoy regional and seasonal revelations at De Matroos en Het Meisje (The Sailor and the Girl) in Katendrecht. The original restaurant and its charming checkered tablecloths offers exquisite set menus with 3-6 courses for lunch and dinner. As their selection is based on availability throughout the year, it changes constantly.
Located in a former industrial building at Kipstraat 12, Héroine is another unmissable culinary institution. The hip restaurant focuses on fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere, with a menu of up to seven courses, although one may also request fewer dishes.
If you're interested in a 100 percent Dutch menu, try Tres at the harbor. The playground of Michael van der Kroft and Emy Koster, their exquisite gourmet cuisine uses local ingredients exclusively – a clear statement of regionality and a love letter to their homeland.
Rotterdam after dark is also nothing to sneeze at: the Witte de Withstraat nightlife district offers a variety of bars and restaurants, which often transform into clubs on the weekend. But there are also great wine and cocktail bars on Rathausplatz or in the harbor district. Veteran bartenders Salvo and Rick serve fine cocktails at Bar Break in the Katendrecht district, running their stylish bar with great dedication and with the right (mixed) drink for every palate always on offer.
Finally, if you want to discover Dutch cheese culture we recommend Kaas aan de Maas, where you can try a slice cut directly from the large wheels. There also offer tastings and an eclectic selection of cheeses from all over the world.
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