Rotterdam, a vibrant and diverse city, offers a culinary landscape as innovative and eclectic as its architecture. During my recent trip, I had the pleasure of exploring some of the city’s best food destinations. From local markets to high-end dining experiences, Rotterdam has it all.
In this blog, I’ll take you through six must-visit food spots in Rotterdam, sharing my personal experiences, the delectable dishes I tried, and tips on nearby attractions.
1. Fenix Food Factory: A Feast for the Senses
Location
Veerlaan 19D, 3072 AN Rotterdam, in the Katendrecht district.
Discounts and Prices
Entry to the food hall is free. Prices for food and drinks vary by vendor. I found that most dishes were reasonably priced, with snacks starting at around €5 and full meals ranging from €10 to €20.
My Experience
Fenix Food Factory, housed in a historic warehouse, is a food lover’s paradise. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by the rich aromas of freshly baked bread, aged cheese, and roasted coffee. The ambiance is lively and welcoming, with long communal tables encouraging conversation among visitors.
I started my culinary journey with a visit to Jordy’s Bakery. Their sourdough bread, baked fresh daily, was simply divine. I paired it with a selection of cheeses from Booij Kaasmakers, where the aged Gouda stood out with its nutty flavor and smooth texture. For lunch, I opted for a hearty pulled pork sandwich from the Kaapse Brouwers, a local craft brewery. The sandwich, made with tender, flavorful pork and tangy barbecue sauce, was a true highlight.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 5/5
Nearby Attractions
– SS Rotterdam: Just a short walk away, this historic ocean liner offers guided tours and a unique dining experience.
– Rijnhavenbrug (Rijnhaven Bridge): A great spot for a leisurely walk with stunning views of the harbor.
Booking Platforms
No booking is required to enter the Fenix Food Factory. However, for special events or tastings, tickets can be purchased on their official website or Eventbrite.
2. Markthal: Rotterdam’s Gastronomic Heart
Location
Dominee Jan Scharpstraat 298, 3011 GZ Rotterdam, close to Blaak Station.
Discounts and Prices
Entry to the Markthal is free. Prices for food and goods vary by vendor, with snacks starting at around €4 and full meals ranging from €8 to €15.
My Experience
Markthal is not just a market; it’s an architectural marvel and a culinary hub. The vibrant ceiling artwork, “Horn of Plenty,” sets the tone for the abundance of food options available. As I wandered through the stalls, I was spoilt for choice with the array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and international cuisine.
One of the highlights was sampling the traditional Dutch stroopwafels from Stroop. Watching the waffle being made fresh on the spot and then tasting the warm, gooey caramel filling was an experience in itself. I also indulged in a seafood feast at Schmidt Zeevis, where the shrimp croquettes and smoked salmon were exceptional.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 5/5
Nearby Attractions
– Cube Houses: These quirky, innovative houses are just a short walk away and offer guided tours.
– Blaak Market: Held on Tuesdays and Saturdays, this outdoor market offers fresh produce, flowers, and more.
Booking Platforms
No booking is required to visit the Markthal. For guided tours, tickets can be booked through Viator or the official Markthal website.
3. Restaurant FG Food Labs: A Michelin-Starred Delight
Location
Katshoek 41, 3032 AE Rotterdam, near the Hofbogen viaduct.
Discounts and Prices
As a Michelin-starred restaurant, FG Food Labs is on the pricier side. Expect to pay around €100-€150 per person for a multi-course tasting menu.
My Experience
Dining at FG Food Labs was a truly unforgettable experience. Chef François Geurds’ innovative approach to molecular gastronomy combines bold flavors with artistic presentation. The restaurant’s industrial-chic decor, set within the arches of the Hofbogen viaduct, adds to its unique charm.
The tasting menu I opted for was a journey of culinary surprises. Each course was meticulously crafted, from the amuse-bouche of foie gras macarons to the main course of wagyu beef with truffle foam. The dessert, a deconstructed cheesecake with liquid nitrogen, was a spectacular finale. The service was impeccable, with knowledgeable staff explaining each dish in detail.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 5/5
Nearby Attractions
– Hofbogen: Explore the shops and cafes nestled within this historic railway viaduct.
– Luchtpark Hofbogen: An urban park located on the roof of the Hofbogen, offering great views of the city.
Booking Platforms
Reservations are essential and can be made through the FG Food Labs website or OpenTable.
4. De Matroos en Het Meisje: Cozy and Creative Dining
Location
Delistraat 52, 3072 ZL Rotterdam, in the Katendrecht district.
Discounts and Prices
De Matroos en Het Meisje offers a fixed-price menu, with a three-course meal costing around €39 and a four-course meal around €49.
My Experience
De Matroos en Het Meisje, translating to “The Sailor and the Girl,” is a charming, intimate restaurant that focuses on seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients. The cozy, nautical-themed decor creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
I opted for the four-course menu, which started with a delicate ceviche of sea bass, followed by a rich mushroom risotto. The main course, a perfectly cooked duck breast with red cabbage and port sauce, was a highlight. The dessert, a creamy panna cotta with passion fruit, was the perfect ending to a delightful meal.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 4.5/5
Nearby Attractions
– Fenix Food Factory: Another great food destination, just a short walk away.
– Walhalla Theater: A cozy theater offering a variety of performances, from plays to concerts.
Booking Platforms
Reservations can be made through the De Matroos en Het Meisje website or OpenTable.
5. BIRD: Jazz and Culinary Fusion
Location
Raampoortstraat 24, 3032 AH Rotterdam, near Hofplein.
Discounts and Prices
BIRD offers reasonably priced dishes, with starters around €7-€12 and main courses between €15 and €25.
My Experience
BIRD is a unique venue that combines live jazz music with a vibrant dining experience. The atmosphere is lively and eclectic, with performances adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the evening.
I started with the mezze platter, which included a variety of Middle Eastern-inspired dips and breads. For the main course, I chose the BIRD burger, a juicy, flavorful burger with caramelized onions and truffle mayo. The combination of good food and great music made for a memorable night.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 4.5/5
Nearby Attractions
– Rotterdam Central Station: A modern architectural marvel worth exploring.
– Hofbogen: Nearby, offering shops, cafes, and the urban park.
Booking Platforms
Reservations for dinner and events can be made through the BIRD website or Eventbrite.
6. Hotel New York: Dining with a View
Location
Koninginnenhoofd 1, 3072 AD Rotterdam, at the tip of the Wilhelmina Pier.
Discounts and Prices
Hotel New York’s restaurant offers a wide range of prices, with starters around €8-€15 and main courses between €20 and €35.
My Experience
Hotel New York, housed in the former headquarters of the Holland America Line, is a historic landmark. The restaurant, with its high ceilings and vintage decor, offers a beautiful view of the Maas River.
I started with the classic Dutch shrimp cocktail, followed by a hearty beef tenderloin with seasonal vegetables. For dessert, I couldn’t resist the Dutch apple pie, which was simply delightful. The combination of excellent food, historic ambiance, and river views made it a standout dining experience.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 5/5
Nearby Attractions
– Kop van Zuid: Explore the modern architecture and waterfront.
– Fenix Food Factory: Just a short ferry ride away.
Booking Platforms
Reservations can be made through the Hotel New York website or OpenTable.
Rotterdam is a city that truly caters to food enthusiasts. From bustling food markets to Michelin-starred restaurants, each dining experience offers a unique taste of the city’s culinary diversity. Exploring these six food destinations provided not only delicious meals but also a deeper connection to the city’s vibrant culture and history.
