In the Pannenkoekstraat, an urban oasis hides some of the food to be had in Rotterdam.

Aji is a South-American and Asian fusion restaurant. Wait, don’t stop reading!  Fusion has been a buzz word and often means confusion. Fear not! Aji proves on every single plate that combining the flavours from two continents where some of the best food on the planet can be found equals sheer genius.

Your journey starts the minute you walk in; you are transported to a place unknown, yet it feels like home. I highly recommend starting with a cocktail; the Pisco Sour is the best in town, in my humble opinion. Their wine list is equally amazing. Massage your taste buds by ordering the pao de queso as a bite. The smaller version of the Brazilian staple is elevated to the next level. There are four and six-course menus available (only six-courses on Saturday evening) which take you on a food experience which is nothing short of magical. The food is visually stunning – the taste, however, is out of this world. The smoked trout with fennel and melon is a great way to start your meal, the steak tartare with dashi and a deep-fried oyster is silky smooth and texturally exquisite, the langoustine with pancetta works against all odds,  and the Santa Rosa dessert is the perfect way to end your meal.

Spoil yourself, sit back,  relax and travel to parts unknown. Destination: foodie heaven.