Top 6 Places to Eat in Rotterdam

Breathtaking aerial view of Rotterdam cityscape featuring the iconic Erasmus Bridge under a clear blue sky.
Werner Hilversum, Pexels

Rotterdam's dining scene is a vibrant and dynamic culinary landscape, offering a wide array of experiences from innovative fine dining to diverse international street food, catering to foodies, families, couples, and the younger crowd alike.

1. Restaurant Bazar

Cuisine: Middle Eastern, North African

Located on the lively Witte de Withstraat, Restaurant Bazar offers a bustling and colorful dining experience. The interior, adorned with vibrant lamps and souk-style decor, sets the stage for generous portions of Middle Eastern and North African dishes. It is an ideal spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, featuring many vegetarian options.

Price: Main dishes average €15-€17; starters around €7.

Getting There: Situated on Witte de Withstraat, it is easily accessible on foot from many central areas.

2. Supermercado

Cuisine: Latin American (Mexican, Peruvian, Brazilian)

Supermercado combines a cocktail bar with a lively Latin American restaurant, embodying a street food essence. The menu features classic Mexican tacos, Peruvian ceviche, and Brazilian coxinhas, perfect for sharing. Its vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff, and efficient service make it a popular choice for a social outing.

Price: Tacos around €4.25 each; nachos €12.50-€14.

Getting There: The restaurant is centrally located on Schiedamse Vest, within comfortable walking distance from key city attractions.

3. Panzerò

Cuisine: Authentic Pugliese (Italian)

Near Rotterdam Blaak Station, Panzerò provides an authentic taste of Puglia, Italy, with dishes prepared by Italian chefs. This cozy restaurant offers unique culinary creations not commonly found elsewhere, focusing on both comfort and delicate flavors.

Price: Dishes typically range from €10 to €25.

Getting There: Located close to Rotterdam Blaak Station, it is easily reachable by public transport (metro, train) or a short walk from the Markthal.

4. Celest

Cuisine: Refined Seasonal European

Perched on the 58th floor of the Zalmhaven Tower, Celest offers a sophisticated dining experience with refined cuisine and panoramic city views. The interior design draws inspiration from Edgar Allan Poe's narratives, creating a unique and stylish setting. Its cocktail bar is also a notable feature for those seeking an elevated experience.

Price: Expected to be expensive, typically €80+ per person for a multi-course meal.

Getting There: The Zalmhaven Tower is accessible by public transport; for instance, take tram line 8 to 'Willemsplein' or the metro to 'Leuvehaven', followed by a short walk. Taxis are also readily available.

5. Héroine

Cuisine: Modern European with a focus on vegetables and seasonal produce

Héroine delivers a modern gastronomic experience with surprising and refined dishes, emphasizing seasonal and vegetable-focused ingredients. This restaurant is known for its innovative approach to cuisine, offering a creative tasting menu that evolves with the seasons.

Price: Tasting menus generally range from €70-€100+ per person for multiple courses.

Getting There: Situated on Kipstraat, Héroine is quite central and can be reached by walking or a brief tram/metro ride from the city's main areas like the Markthal.

6. Parkheuvel

Cuisine: French (Two Michelin Stars)

Parkheuvel, a legendary two-Michelin-starred restaurant, is set within a charming villa with Art Deco elements and offers expansive views of the surrounding parkland and the Maas River. Chef Erik van Loo’s kitchen focuses on meticulously selected, high-quality ingredients to create exceptional gourmet menus and à la carte options.

Price: Expect fine dining prices, typically €150+ per person for a multi-course meal with wine pairings.

Getting There: Located on the banks of the Nieuwe Maas River, near the Euromast, it is advisable to take a tram (e.g., line 8 to 'Euromast') or a taxi from the city center.