As I was looking for a place to work and study, I came across Nieuwe Café, tucked in a corner of the Nieuwe Instituut museum. It's completely accessible without a ticket and offers a fresh take on vegan and vegetarian dining in Rotterdam. The ingredients are mostly local and organic, and the dishes change regularly based on what's in season, so there’s always something new to try. Even the drinks menu offers unique blends, like turmeric lattes or homemade iced teas, perfect for a cozy afternoon or also a sunny terrace hangout.
The interior feels like you are in an art gallery with the institute’s design-forward spirit—minimal yet warm, with big windows overlooking the greenery of the park and The Depot museum. It’s a relaxing place to take a break from museum hopping, to meet friends for a casual brunch, or, like I did get some work done. People come here to read as well, with a coffee in hand, enjoying the calm and inspiring surroundings.
Find your way with 166 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
At Beest Boulders there’s a great mix of routes for all levels, so whether you’re a total beginner or an advanced climber, there’s always some for you.
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This beach along the Maas River is perfect as a quiet, secluded, sandy beach. It's taken over by nature and even has some willow trees! Just bring a towel.
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If you are strolling through the area of Delfshaven in Rotterdam and craving something sweet, you have to try the baklava at "Al-Malek Sweets"...
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"Park Schoonoord" in Rotterdam is one of my favorite hidden secret spots. Once I enter this park, all the noise from the city just disappears - so zen...
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"Aji" is a South-American and Asian fusion restaurant in Rotterdam. Wait, don't stop reading! The combinations here are truly excellent...
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"Jan Bussing Boulangerie" in Rotterdam has delicious French bread. I love the roast beef sandwich and I never leave without a fig & almond bread.
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"By Ami Urban Bistro" is my happy place. It's like no other in Rotterdam. This restaurant is colourful, instagrammable, hip, funky & industrial all in one!
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Shaami Huis in Rotterdam makes shoarma exactly like they do in the Levant! Not a fancy place, but not to miss - their kubba is one of my favorites...
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Mouterbrug is a little floating deck in a canal in Delfshaven, Rotterdam. There's lots to explore around, and the neighborhood shared garden is here, too!
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166 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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