Rotterdam is a city full of surprises—its futuristic skyline, bustling streets, and cultural diversity blend harmoniously to create an exciting urban experience. Yet, beyond the towering skyscrapers and modern architecture lies another treasure: a hidden network of cozy cafés and charming bistros tucked away in unexpected corners of the city. During my time in Rotterdam, I made it my mission to explore these hidden gems, sampling local specialties and soaking in the atmosphere.
1. Hopper Coffee
One of the first places I stumbled upon while wandering through the streets of Rotterdam was Hopper Coffee. Nestled in the cool neighborhood of Witte de Withstraat, this café is a haven for coffee lovers. From the outside, Hopper may seem unassuming, with a minimalist exterior and large windows allowing you to peek inside. But once you step through the doors, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods pulls you in.
The interior is industrial yet warm, with exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and wooden tables where people work on laptops or chat with friends. What sets Hopper apart from other coffee spots is its in-house bakery. I couldn’t resist ordering a flat white along with a freshly baked croissant, and I was not disappointed. The croissant was buttery and flaky, while the coffee had a perfect balance of richness and smoothness.
One of the most memorable aspects of Hopper is its outdoor seating. When the sun is out, the small terrace becomes a hub of activity, with locals and travelers alike enjoying their coffee under the shade of trees. It’s a great spot for people-watching and soaking in the relaxed atmosphere of the city.
2. Jordy’s Bakery
Next on my exploration list was Jordy’s Bakery, located just a short walk from Rotterdam Central Station in Nieuwe Binnenweg. If you’re in search of artisan bread and delicious sandwiches, this is the place to be. Jordy’s is one of those hidden gems that doesn’t try to impress you with flashy décor but instead wins you over with the quality of its food.
When I first walked into the bakery, the sight of fresh loaves on display was irresistible. The smell of sourdough and rye baking in the oven was enough to make me want to stay for hours. I decided to sit down for a light lunch and ordered the avocado toast on sourdough, paired with a cup of freshly squeezed orange juice.
The simplicity of the avocado toast was elevated by the quality of the bread—it had a perfect crust and a soft, chewy interior. Jordy’s specializes in using organic and locally sourced ingredients, which you can taste in every bite. What makes Jordy’s special, aside from the food, is the friendly and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or staying for a leisurely lunch, you’ll feel at home.
3. Verward
Tucked away in the historical Delfshaven district is Verward, a small bistro that’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. It was recommended to me by a local, who described it as one of the best-kept secrets in Rotterdam. I was intrigued, so I ventured out to find it.
The first thing that struck me about Verward was its quirky, vintage-inspired décor. The bistro feels like a throwback to another era, with old wooden furniture, mismatched chairs, and shelves lined with books and trinkets. The atmosphere is intimate and cozy, making it an ideal spot for a quiet meal or a romantic dinner.
Verward’s menu focuses on Dutch classics with a modern twist. I ordered their signature dish, bitterballen—crispy, deep-fried Dutch meatballs served with mustard. Paired with a glass of local craft beer, it was the perfect combination of flavors. The crispy outer layer of the bitterballen gave way to a savory, tender filling that melted in my mouth.
One thing I appreciated about Verward was its focus on using seasonal and local ingredients, which means the menu changes frequently. The service was friendly and attentive, and the overall experience felt personal and authentic.
4. Lof der Zoetheid
If you have a sweet tooth like I do, then Lof der Zoetheid (Praise of Sweetness) is an absolute must-visit. Located in the Vroesenpark neighborhood, this charming café specializes in homemade sweets, cakes, and pastries. I initially visited for their famous high tea, which came highly recommended by a friend, but I ended up trying much more than that.
The café itself feels like stepping into a fairytale. The interior is bright and cheerful, with pastel-colored walls, cozy seating, and an inviting display case filled with cakes, tarts, and cookies. It’s the kind of place where you instantly feel happy just by walking in.
I opted for the high tea, which included an assortment of sweet and savory bites—mini sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, macarons, and slices of cake. Every item was beautifully presented, and the flavors were just as delightful as the presentation. The lemon meringue tart was a standout, with its tangy, creamy filling and perfectly crisp crust.
What sets Lof der Zoetheid apart from other dessert cafés is the personal touch that goes into everything they do. You can tell that each cake and pastry is made with care and passion, and the staff is more than happy to explain the different items on offer.
5. Supermercado
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more vibrant and lively, Supermercado is the place to be. Located in the heart of Witte de Withstraat, this bistro brings a taste of South America to Rotterdam with its colorful décor, laid-back vibe, and delicious Latin-inspired dishes.
I visited Supermercado on a Friday evening, and the place was buzzing with energy. The menu is a fusion of Latin American street food, offering everything from tacos and empanadas to grilled meats and ceviche. I decided to try their famous tacos al pastor, which came highly recommended by the server, along with a refreshing Pisco Sour cocktail.
The tacos were bursting with flavor—juicy, marinated pork topped with pineapple, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. The portions were generous, and the vibrant atmosphere made it a fun place to spend the evening. Supermercado is perfect if you’re looking for a casual meal with friends, and it’s also a great spot for enjoying cocktails and tapas-style sharing plates.
6. Bertmans
For those looking for healthy yet delicious food, Bertmans is a fantastic option. Located in the up-and-coming Noord district, this café is known for its focus on fresh, organic, and plant-based ingredients. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking for a nutritious meal, Bertmans has something for everyone.
I visited Bertmans for brunch and was immediately impressed by the variety on the menu. I opted for the buckwheat pancakes with fresh fruit, almond butter, and maple syrup, along with a green smoothie. The pancakes were light and fluffy, and the combination of the sweet and nutty flavors made for a perfect brunch.
The café itself has a clean, modern aesthetic, with lots of natural light and minimalist décor. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a leisurely meal while catching up on some reading or chatting with friends. Bertmans also offers a great selection of healthy bowls, salads, and smoothies, making it an excellent choice for those who want to indulge in guilt-free dining.
Rotterdam’s food scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself, offering everything from cozy hidden cafés to vibrant bistros. Whether you’re in the mood for artisan coffee, local Dutch delicacies, or international flavors, this city has something for every palate. My time exploring Rotterdam’s hidden cafés and local bistros was an unforgettable experience, filled with delicious surprises at every turn.
