When I arrived in Rotterdam, a city known for its innovative architecture and rich history, I was excited to see if the food scene would live up to the same high standards. Spoiler: it did. From hidden local gems to world-class dining, Rotterdam has a diverse and delicious offering that caters to every type of palate. Let me take you on a journey through the best local eats I had the pleasure of experiencing during my stay.
1. Fenix Food Factory
Located in the up-and-coming Katendrecht neighborhood, Fenix Food Factory was my first stop on my Rotterdam food journey. This former warehouse, turned into a vibrant food hall, is a paradise for anyone who enjoys artisanal food and drinks. Walking into Fenix Food Factory felt like stepping into a foodie’s wonderland—cheese, freshly baked bread, local brews, and more, all under one roof.
I decided to start with a charcuterie board from Kaapse Brouwers, one of Rotterdam’s most beloved craft breweries. Their selection of local cheeses paired beautifully with their beers, and I couldn’t resist ordering their signature bitterballen (Dutch meat croquettes). These crispy, savory bites were the perfect introduction to Dutch snacking culture. The friendly staff also recommended I try a glass of cider from CiderCider, another local producer in the hall. It was refreshing and the perfect complement to the rich flavors of the cheese and charcuterie.
Fenix Food Factory is the kind of place where you can spend an entire afternoon sampling, sipping, and people-watching. It’s a must-visit for any food lover, whether you’re looking for a light snack or a full meal.
2. De Matroos en Het Meisje
For dinner, I wanted something a little more refined, so I headed to De Matroos en Het Meisje, located on the trendy Deliplein square. This cozy, intimate restaurant offers a unique dining concept called “the surprise menu,” where you don’t choose from a menu—rather, the chef crafts a multi-course meal based on seasonal ingredients and your dietary preferences. This sounded like an adventure I couldn’t pass up!
When the first course arrived, I knew I was in for a treat. I was served a beautifully plated dish of scallops with a rich beurre blanc sauce and crispy seaweed. The combination of flavors was subtle but perfectly balanced, and it set the tone for the rest of the meal. Each subsequent dish was equally impressive, from the succulent lamb with roasted vegetables to the creamy panna cotta dessert with a tangy fruit compote.
What I loved most about De Matroos en Het Meisje was the personal touch. The chefs and waitstaff were passionate about the food, and it was clear that a lot of care went into every dish. If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Rotterdam, this is the place.
3. Markthal Rotterdam
Of course, no visit to Rotterdam is complete without a stop at Markthal, the city’s iconic indoor market. Part food market, part architectural marvel, Markthal is where locals and tourists alike come to sample the best of Rotterdam’s culinary offerings. The horseshoe-shaped building is as famous for its design as it is for its food, with colorful murals of fruits and vegetables decorating the ceiling.
My first stop inside Markthal was at Bram Ladage, where I ordered a cone of their famous fries, served with the classic Dutch accompaniment of mayonnaise. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection, these fries are some of the best I’ve ever had. Next, I headed to Vishandel Atlantic for some fresh seafood. I couldn’t resist trying a herring sandwich, which is a Rotterdam specialty. The fresh herring, topped with onions and pickles, was surprisingly light and delicious.
For dessert, I wandered over to De IJsmaker, a local ice cream stand known for its creative flavors. I opted for the stroopwafel-flavored ice cream, which perfectly captured the essence of the classic Dutch cookie with its caramel sweetness. It was the perfect way to end my tour of Markthal.
4. Bazar Rotterdam
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more exotic, Bazar Rotterdam on Witte de Withstraat is a must-visit. This vibrant, colorful restaurant specializes in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine, and the atmosphere is just as lively as the food. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the scent of spices and the sight of intricately decorated lamps hanging from the ceiling.
I started with the mezze platter, which came with an array of small dishes, including hummus, baba ganoush, and tabbouleh. Each bite was packed with flavor, and I couldn’t get enough of the freshly baked flatbread that accompanied the dips. For my main course, I ordered the lamb tagine, which was slow-cooked to perfection and served with couscous and roasted vegetables. The lamb was tender and flavorful, with just the right amount of spice.
Bazar is a great option if you’re looking for a fun, casual dining experience with a group of friends. The portions are generous, the service is friendly, and the food is a delicious departure from the usual Dutch fare.
5. Restaurant Fitzgerald
For a more upscale dining experience, Restaurant Fitzgerald in the Old Harbor area is an excellent choice. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers modern European cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant itself is sleek and sophisticated, with a minimalist interior that lets the food take center stage.
I opted for the tasting menu, which offered a delightful journey through some of the best dishes the chef had to offer. The standout dish for me was the poached lobster, served with a delicate lemon beurre blanc and fresh herbs. The lobster was perfectly cooked, and the sauce added just the right amount of richness without overpowering the natural flavor of the seafood.
The wine pairings at Fitzgerald are also worth mentioning—the sommelier recommended a series of Dutch and international wines that complemented each course beautifully. It’s definitely a splurge, but for a special occasion or a romantic night out, Fitzgerald is worth every penny.
6. Burgertrut
For something a little more casual but still delicious, I made my way to Burgertrut, a quirky burger joint that’s a favorite among locals. What sets Burgertrut apart is their commitment to serving homemade, organic, and locally sourced ingredients. They also have a great selection of vegetarian and vegan options, which was perfect for me as I was trying to cut back on meat during my trip.
I went for their signature veggie burger, made with a black bean and sweet potato patty, topped with avocado, salsa, and homemade vegan mayo. It was packed with flavor and surprisingly filling. The sweet potato fries on the side were crispy and delicious, making this one of the best vegetarian meals I’ve had in a while. The laid-back atmosphere, complete with funky décor and local art on the walls, made it a great spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
7. Restaurant Parkheuvel
On my last night in Rotterdam, I wanted to treat myself to something truly special, so I made a reservation at Restaurant Parkheuvel, another Michelin-starred gem. Located in a beautiful park near the Euromast, Parkheuvel offers stunning views of the Maas River and a dining experience that is both luxurious and intimate.
The menu is a celebration of French cuisine with a modern twist, and every dish was a work of art. I started with the foie gras terrine, which was paired with a sweet fig compote and crispy brioche. The contrast between the rich, buttery foie gras and the sweetness of the figs was heavenly. For my main course, I had the Dover sole, which was expertly filleted and served with a lemon butter sauce. It was one of the best seafood dishes I’ve ever had.
The service at Parkheuvel was impeccable, with the staff going above and beyond to make sure every aspect of the meal was perfect. If you’re looking to splurge on a fine dining experience in Rotterdam, Parkheuvel should be at the top of your list.
Rotterdam’s food scene is as diverse and exciting as the city itself. From casual street food at Markthal to high-end dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s something for every taste and budget. During my trip, I was constantly impressed by the quality and creativity of the dishes I encountered.
