Rotterdam is often known for its innovative architecture, vibrant arts scene, and modern atmosphere, but one of the city’s hidden treasures is its exceptional food scene. I can confidently say that Rotterdam is a haven for food lovers. From Dutch specialties to international delicacies, this city offers something for every palate. Over the course of my recent trip, I embarked on a culinary journey, discovering some of the best eateries Rotterdam has to offer.
1. The Culinary Delight at ‘Fenix Food Factory’
Location: Veerlaan 19D, 3072 AN Rotterdam, Netherlands
Cuisine: Local, Artisan, International
Ambiance: Casual, Trendy, Industrial
My foodie adventure began at the Fenix Food Factory, a vibrant market in the Katendrecht district, housed in a former warehouse with an industrial chic vibe. As soon as I walked into this food haven, I could feel the energy and creativity that permeates the space. Fenix Food Factory is not just a place to grab a bite; it’s a celebration of local, sustainable food.
The food stalls here offer a diverse range of options, from fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and freshly baked bread. I first stopped by Noordzee, a seafood stand known for its Dutch herring and other fresh fish. I ordered a traditional Dutch herring sandwich, which was a perfect combination of tender fish and tangy onions. It was a delightful treat to taste this Dutch delicacy in its native environment.
Next, I tried the charcuterie at Charcuterie de L’Oeuvre, where I could sample an assortment of cured meats that included flavorful salamis and spicy chorizo. For a drink, I went to Kaapse Brouwers, a local brewery offering craft beers brewed in Rotterdam. I paired my meats with a crisp, hoppy IPA, which was the ideal complement.
What I truly love about Fenix Food Factory is its commitment to sustainability. Many of the food stands offer locally sourced, organic produce. You can even grab unique Rotterdam-made products, like locally crafted cheeses, freshly roasted coffee beans, and baked goods. This is a place where you can truly taste the passion of local food makers.
2. The Modern Twist at ‘The Fat Dog’
Location: Mariniersweg 115, 3011 NJ Rotterdam, Netherlands
Cuisine: American, Gourmet Hot Dogs
Ambiance: Casual, Fun, Playful
If you’re in the mood for comfort food but want something a little more unique than the usual, I highly recommend heading to The Fat Dog. This trendy hot dog joint is a haven for anyone looking for a gourmet take on the classic American hot dog.
As soon as I entered, I was greeted by a funky atmosphere with colorful murals and a relaxed, upbeat vibe. The menu at The Fat Dog isn’t just about regular hot dogs – it’s all about creative, mouth-watering combinations of flavors. I ordered their signature Fat Dog – a hot dog topped with crispy onions, bacon, melted cheese, and a sweet, tangy sauce. It was a simple yet flavorful dish, combining crunchy, savory, and tangy elements that hit all the right notes.
The great thing about The Fat Dog is the variety. You can choose from an array of unique toppings, such as jalapeños, mac and cheese, or even truffle oil. They also offer vegetarian options, so it’s a great spot for everyone. I paired my hot dog with their hand-cut fries, which were perfectly crispy and seasoned with sea salt.
One of the highlights of my visit was the milkshakes – rich and indulgent, they are the perfect way to wash down your meal. The Fat Dog really takes classic American comfort food and gives it a gourmet spin, making it a must-visit for anyone craving something different in Rotterdam.
3. A Taste of Italy at ‘Bacco’
Location: Witte de Withstraat 27, 3012 BP Rotterdam, Netherlands
Cuisine: Italian
Ambiance: Cozy, Elegant, Inviting
Rotterdam has a wide range of international flavors, and one of the most unforgettable experiences I had was at Bacco, an Italian restaurant in the heart of Rotterdam. I had heard rave reviews about this place, and it definitely lived up to the hype.
Walking into Bacco, I was immediately struck by its cozy, intimate atmosphere, with low lighting and a rustic, yet modern décor. The open kitchen added a lively touch to the setting. The menu here is simple, yet full of authentic Italian dishes, and I knew I was in for a treat when I saw the extensive wine list.
I started my meal with a Caponata, a Sicilian-style eggplant dish with tomatoes, capers, and olives, which was bursting with flavor. It was a delightful combination of sweet and savory. For the main course, I opted for the Tagliatelle al Tartufo – homemade tagliatelle pasta in a rich truffle cream sauce. The pasta was cooked perfectly al dente, and the truffle flavor was wonderfully aromatic without overpowering the dish.
Bacco’s attention to detail is remarkable, and I could tell that the ingredients used were top-quality. The restaurant is a great choice for anyone craving authentic Italian food in Rotterdam. Whether you’re a pasta lover or a fan of Italian wines, Bacco offers an unforgettable experience.
4. The Asian Fusion Experience at ‘Héroïne’
Location: Schiedamse Vest 191, 3012 BC Rotterdam, Netherlands
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ambiance: Chic, Trendy, Elegant
For those who love Asian flavors, Héroïne offers a chic and modern twist on traditional Asian dishes. This restaurant is a hidden gem that blends a variety of Asian influences, creating unique and flavorful dishes that will surprise your taste buds.
I was drawn to Héroïne because of its trendy, minimalist decor, with clean lines and an industrial feel. The menu is inspired by the rich flavors of Japan, Korea, and Thailand, but with a modern, artistic twist. I started with a Tuna Tartare, a fresh dish that combined creamy avocado with delicate slices of tuna and a flavorful soy-based sauce. It was a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
For the main course, I had the Korean BBQ Short Ribs, which were tender and juicy, grilled to perfection, and served with a spicy, sweet Korean sauce. The ribs were accompanied by pickled vegetables and rice, making for a comforting and filling dish. The fusion of flavors was stunning – sweet, savory, and spicy all at once.
What sets Héroïne apart is its innovative cocktails. I ordered their signature Matcha Mojito, which was a refreshing twist on the classic, combining matcha, rum, and mint. It was the perfect accompaniment to my meal.
Héroïne is ideal for anyone who enjoys creative and modern Asian cuisine, and I can’t recommend it enough for a night out in Rotterdam.
5. Vegan Delights at ‘Spirit’
Location: Zwart Janstraat 76, 3012 BN Rotterdam, Netherlands
Cuisine: Vegan, Plant-based
Ambiance: Bright, Modern, Healthy
As someone who loves exploring different diets and cuisine, I couldn’t leave Rotterdam without visiting Spirit, a plant-based restaurant that serves delicious and healthy vegan food. Located in the bustling Zwart Janstraat, Spirit offers a vibrant and modern dining experience.
What I love about Spirit is the concept – it’s a buffet-style restaurant where you can choose from a wide selection of vegan dishes, all made fresh and in-house. I was immediately drawn to the variety of options available: salads, stews, casseroles, soups, and a whole section of raw foods. I filled my plate with a colorful selection of dishes, including a hearty lentil stew, roasted vegetables, and a refreshing quinoa salad. Everything tasted so fresh and wholesome, and I could feel that the ingredients were of the highest quality.
Spirit also offers delicious smoothies and fresh juices, which I paired with my meal. I tried their Green Detox Juice, a blend of kale, spinach, apple, and lemon, which was both refreshing and energizing.
The vibe at Spirit is calm and welcoming, with lots of natural light flooding through the windows. It’s a great spot for anyone looking to eat healthy, whether you’re vegan or not.
6. The Sweetest Ending at ‘Koekela’
Location: Maasstraat 50, 3071 TZ Rotterdam, Netherlands
Cuisine: Bakery, Patisserie
Ambiance: Cozy, Homely, Aromatic
No foodie tour is complete without a visit to a bakery, and Koekela is the perfect spot for a sweet ending to your day. This quaint little bakery is renowned for its decadent cakes, pastries, and artisan cookies. As soon as I entered, I was greeted by the irresistible smell of freshly baked goods, and I knew I was in for a treat.
I couldn’t resist trying their famous Carrot Cake, which was light, fluffy, and perfectly spiced, with just the right amount of sweetness. I also picked up a Chocolate Chunk Cookie, which was gooey, rich, and absolutely indulgent. Koekela’s pastries are made with love, and you can tell from the first bite that only the finest ingredients are used.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or want to treat yourself to a decadent dessert, Koekela is the place to go. The charming atmosphere and the incredible selection of baked goods make it a must-visit spot for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Rotterdam is a city that has something to offer for every type of foodie. Whether you’re craving local delicacies, international flavors, or healthy plant-based meals, this city is a culinary haven that shouldn’t be missed. My time exploring the Rotterdam food scene was a true delight, and I hope my guide helps you find some amazing dining experiences on your next visit. From trendy hot dogs to fine Italian dining and Asian fusion, Rotterdam has truly earned its spot as one of Europe’s top foodie destinations.
