Once the heart of Rotterdam’s Chinatown and red-light district, Katendrecht has transformed into one of the city’s most exciting neighborhoods, filled with great restaurants, bars, and cultural hotspots. Right in the middle of it all, you’ll find Fenix Food Factory, a small but lively food market where I love to spend my time.
This spot is home to Blije Wijnen, where you can pick up natural wines, Kaapse Brouwers, known for their craft beers, and Fenix Kitchen, serving delicious food. My go-to order? A crispy grilled cheese with kimchi (tosti) paired with a glass of wine or a local beer. If you have a sweet tooth, Sophia’s offers excellent coffee and baked goods. And for book lovers, Bosch & de Jong is a cozy bookshop to browse.
With seating downstairs, upstairs, and a huge terrace overlooking the river, you get stunning views of Rotterdam’s skyline, Hotel New York, and even my favorite outdoor swimming spot. Plus, it’s right next to the new Migration Museum Fenix, making it a perfect stop for food, drinks, and culture in one go!
Find your way with 168 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
A Rotterdam institution for the diversity of dishes catering to all dietary requirements including those who do not have any.
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If, like me, coffee to you is life, then Harvest Café and Bakery will be your vibe. With beautiful views and a sleek design, it is a coffee lover's dream.
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"30ml Rotterdam Centrum" is a little oasis on busy Nieuwe Binnenweg. Their coffees are caffeinated elixirs and their desserts & breakfast burritos perfect.
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"Cafe LaBru" in Rotterdam is an artful cafe/bar that feels like a friend's living room. There's always art & photographs that define its style...
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"Little Italy" in Rotterdam is exactly like a deli of any Italian city. They even have ready-made meals like trout lasagne. Dessert is homemade tiramisu...
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"Hinoki" makes the most authentic noodle soup you could possibly find in Rotterdam. Looks unimpressive, but I won't allow you to miss it!
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"Sajoer Cafe" in Rotterdam is great for having a break from sight-seeing. I always go there on Saturdays after yoga for a chai latte & a mangolicious bowl.
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"Boguette" is my prime spot to recuperate so I can continue exploring Rotterdam. This café/snack bar is known for its bubble tea and Vietnamese baguettes.
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"Kleine Kapitein" is a lovely children book & toy shop in central Rotterdam. Not only is it my dream childhood shop, it's unexpectedly good for souvenirs!
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"Heilige Boontjes" in Rotterdam is a welcoming coffee shop that gives youngsters who've had problems with crime a second opportunity to get back on track.
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"Boudewijn" in Rotterdam is for people who really can't get enough of beer. What has really captured by heart at this Belgian beer cafe is the food...
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168 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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