Foodies, here’s a secret: Rotterdam is making a name for itself as a culinary port of excellence. Lured by a certain brand of Dutch cool and a laid-back lifestyle, creatives have been flocking here from around the world. Innovative eateries are now as entrenched in the urban landscape as the city’s award-winning architecture and vibrant art scene. Be warned: most restaurants are closed in typical Dutch fashion on Sundays and Mondays. From Michelin-starred feasts to no-frills ramen joints, here’s our pick of the most tempting restaurants in Rotterdam.
Head here for tacos, creamy frijoles and burritos, or swing by the cobalt-blue bar for a margarita or two.
It’s not fancy, but locals love this place. Follow their lead and order the black tonkotsu.
Set in old warehouses on the cool Katendrecht peninsula, this lo-fi market is a must-try. Sample waffles, craft beer and cider, or share a cheese platter.
Score a table overlooking the water, and linger over brunch: grilled peach with granola, say, or hazelnut-crumbed mushrooms on toast.
This classic address puts its own spin on local seafood, with dishes such as turbot paella.
This stylish address serves up inventive, ever-changing tasting menus: think pumpkin with leche de tigre, or sole with shio koji, fish roe and smoked soy.
Expect bold, playful flavours and ideas at this Michelin-starred eaterie, set in an old railway arch.
There's something for everyone in Rotterdam, from shopping to abseiling down the Euromast.
Rotterdam is a young city with a vibrant nightlife.
From experimental architecture to tempting street food, Rotterdam is a thrill to explore.
Start your adventure from the moment you step off the train, with door-to-door delivery from First Luggage.
An easy way to spend while you’re away. It’s the clever alternative to pockets full of cash or a wallet full of debit cards, making travelling that much easier.
Begin the next chapter of your Eurostar journey with Hertz and receive 10% off your car hire and earn reward points with every rental.
Image credits: © Zeezout; © Zeezout; © Alfredo’s Taqueria; © Masaaki Komori; © Stuart Milne; © Harvest Coffee Brewers; © Zeezout; © Stuart Milne; © Stuart Milne; © S. Hughes; © Image bank; © Rotterdam Marketing; © Shutterstock; © Eurostar; © Getty Images