Le Clochard lies hidden in one of the most picturesque parts of the Museum Quarter and is one of the oldest restaurants in the city and, in my opinion, a culinary institution. As a typical 'you have to know it's there' spot, the entrance can be found in a back street near the beautiful Nieuwegracht and Park Lepelenburg.
To me, the atmosphere is unprecedented. The place is small and cozy, with a fireplace in the middle of the dining room and it's typical for Le Clochard to eat on a couch beside the fireplace, very comfy. On the menu are bistro classics such as snails, frog legs, mussels and entrecôte, along with middle-of-the-road, but very good, comfort food, like spareribs, burgers, fondue and satay.
The prices are crazy, with weekly specials for just € 14, which is a rarity in a city such as Utrecht. For drinks, they serve classic Belgian beers as well as good quality wines.
Book ahead, Le Clochard may be a hidden gem, but a very popular one. They open at five for drinks and stay open till the last guest leaves.
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38 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 38 Insider Tips from our local Spotters