Browse by Cuisine
Restaurants in Hilversum
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsSignature Dishes
The food scene in Hilversum is characterized by a mix of traditional Dutch fare and international influences. You can find classic Dutch dishes alongside restaurants offering cuisine from around the world. Locally sourced ingredients, when available, add a fresh touch to many meals.
Stamppot
A classic Dutch dish of mashed potatoes with vegetables, typically kale (boerenkool stamppot), sauerkraut (zuurkool stamppot), or endive (andijviestamppot). Often served with rookworst (smoked sausage) or spek (bacon).
Bitterballen
Deep-fried meatballs with a crispy breadcrumb coating. Usually served with mustard for dipping, they are a popular snack or appetizer.
Poffertjes
Small, fluffy pancakes cooked in a special pan, traditionally served with powdered sugar and butter. Often enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet treat.
Hollandse Nieuwe (Herring)
Raw herring, traditionally eaten by holding it by the tail and lowering it into your mouth, or served chopped with onions. It's a very Dutch experience, especially during the 'Haringseizoen' (Herring Season).
Kibbeling
Chunks of battered and deep-fried cod, typically served with garlic sauce or remoulade. A popular street food option.
Local Tips
To truly experience the food scene in Hilversum and the surrounding Gooi region, consider these tips.
Explore the Markets
Visit the local weekly markets for fresh produce, cheese, and other regional specialties. This is a great way to experience the local food culture.
Try a 'Broodje'
Order a 'broodje' (sandwich) at a local bakery or deli. These are often filled with cheese, meats, or salads, and are a popular lunch option.
Visit a 'Patatje Oorlog' Stand
For an authentic Dutch street food experience, try 'patatje oorlog' (fries with peanut sauce, mayonnaise, and onions). It's a surprisingly delicious combination.
Gooi Sheep Cheese
While not strictly a dish, the Gooi region is known for its sheep farming. Look for local Gooi sheep cheese (schapenkaas) at specialty shops or markets; the flavor is quite different from the cow's milk cheese that is more common.
About Hilversum
Noord-Holland
Food History
Hilversum's culinary scene, while not distinctly unique, has been shaped by its location in the Gooi region and its proximity to Amsterdam. Historically, the food traditions were rooted in Dutch peasant cuisine, focusing on hearty, affordable ingredients like potatoes, vegetables, and meats. The development of Hilversum as a media city also introduced more diverse culinary influences as people from different backgrounds moved to the area.
Food Culture
Food in Hilversum, as in the rest of the Netherlands, is often a social affair. Eating out is common, and cafes and restaurants are popular meeting places. Dutch cuisine emphasizes practicality and affordability, but there's also a growing appreciation for quality ingredients and diverse flavors.
Coffee Culture
Coffee is a staple, often enjoyed with a 'koekje' (cookie). 'Koffietijd' (coffee time) is a regular social event.
Eating Out
While traditional Dutch food is often eaten at home, dining out is increasingly popular, with a wide range of international cuisines available.
Seasonal Eating
There's a growing trend towards using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, especially at higher-end restaurants.
Grocery Shopping
Weekly markets are a common sight, offering fresh produce, cheese, and other local products.