Insider Restaurants & Bars | Rotterdam

Restaurants & Bars Selected by Tastemakers

Recommended by Erik van Loo | Two Michelin Star Chef | Restaurant Parkheuvel

Judith van Mourik | Interior Architect

& Jorane Cuppen | Gastronomist | Guts to Glory

Putain

Erik van Loo, Rotterdam local and legendary Two Michelin Star chef Parkheuvel, Judith van Mourik, an interior architect both living in Rotterdam, and Gastronomist Jorane Cuppen, share their favourite dinner-, lunch, and bar spots.

Where to eat in Rotterdam

From classics to newcomers, here are the recommendations of the Bearleaders for restaurants in Rotterdam. As tastemakers in food & design, these locals to Rotterdam know all the best spots.

  • RIVER BAR

    The food is delicious, and the kitch brigade in the open kitchen steals the show. This restaurant and bar on the Westerkade is the perfect place for a (romantic) in- and outdoor dining experience.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Judith van Mourik, Interior Architect

  • CAFÉ STOBBE

    A local favourite in district Kralingen. They have been serving classics such as shrimp cocktail and a perfect steak with pepper sauce for decades and will probably do so for many more.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Erik van Loo, Two Michelin Star Chef

  • DE ROODE LEEUW

    Just outside of Rotterdam in the village of Capelle aan de IJssel, you’ll find this charming and easy-going restaurant. Amazing cooking and one of my favourite wines Chassagne Montrachet at a very good value.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Erik van Loo, Two Michelin Star Chef

  • DE BALLENTENT

    The best meatball of Rotterdam, and perhaps of the Netherlands. This is where locals of Rotterdam come for classic dishes and a perfectly tapped beer. An authentic experience.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Erik van Loo, Two Michelin Star Chef

  • PARKHEUVEL

    Two Michelin Star chef’s Erik van Loo’s legendary restaurant, which he runs together with his charming wife and son, is a modernist pavilion in green park surroundings. Awarded with two Michelin stars, the cooking is precise and refined. A true culinary adventure. We recommend dining on the terrace in the summertime.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Erik van Loo, Two Michelin Star Chef, and many of the Bearleaders.

  • AQUA ASIA CLUB

    Incredibly Asian flavours with great views of the city skyline. Incredible fresh lobster, sushi, and sashimi, very tastefully presented.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Erik van Loo, Two Michelin Star Chef

  • TRES

    An incredibly intimate experience, with only 12 seats in this dimly lit and modern yet cosy restaurant. Be surprised by an everchanging menu focusing on minimalist use of the freshest seasonal fruit and vegetables.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Jorane Cuppen, Gastronomist

  • FRED

    Fred Mustert’s culinary delights and relaxed gastronomical atmosphere have netted him two Michelin stars. A must-visit.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Judith van Mourik, Interior Architect

  • BAR BERTA

    From a la carte dishes to delectable pintxos, this tapas bar brings the taste of Spain to the lovely scheepvaartkwartier neighbourhood. A cute terrace and cozy interior make this a great place for long afternoons and evenings with friends.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Judith van Mourik, Interior Architect

  • RESTAURANT ROTONDE

    A progressive all-vegan restaurant that cooks with an open fire. Amazing for those who want all the flavour without any of the guilt.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Judith van Mourik, Interior Architect

  • PUTAINE

    Delicious plates and great design in this hip restaurant in Rijnhaven.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Judith van Mourik, Interior Architect

  • VIS OP DE DIJK

    High quality seafood in the Kralingen neighbourhood. Fresh, light, and simply delicious.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Judith van Mourik, Interior Architect

  • HÉROINE

    Five to seven course fine dining in a retro-modern restaurant that feels both cosy and fresh. Stunning contemporary dishes of great variety, with surprising and extensive use of vegetables.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Jorane Cuppen, Gastronomist

The best wine bars in Rotterdam

  • HARRIES WINE DELI

Great wines by the glass, along with the highest quality of snacks such as Iberico ham and Foie Gras. A real Rotterdam classic with an always lively terrace.

instagram | maps | favourite of Erik van Loo, Two Michelin Star Chef

  • HET EIGENDOM

    In the bustling Witte de With street you’ll find a great selection of bites and wine, with glasses and bottles for every price range.

    instagram | maps | favourite of Erik van Loo, Two Michelin Star Chef

  • JANSEN EN VAN DIJK

    A no-nonsense, sympathetic wine bar with great food to share. High quality service and wine, yet incredibly accessible with a diverse crowd.

    facebook | maps | favourite of Erik van Loo, Two Michelin Star Chef


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