Browse by Cuisine
Restaurants in Spijkenisse
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsSignature Dishes
The cuisine of Spijkenisse largely mirrors that of the wider Rotterdam area and the South Holland province. Expect simple, fresh ingredients, often reflecting the season. Seafood is important given the proximity to waterways, and potatoes, vegetables, and meat are common staples.
Kibbeling
Bite-sized pieces of battered and deep-fried white fish (typically cod or whiting), served with mayonnaise-based sauces like remoulade or garlic sauce. A popular street food snack readily available throughout the Netherlands.
Haring (Herring)
Raw herring, typically brined and served with chopped onions and pickles. Eaten by holding the herring by the tail and lowering it into the mouth. A quintessential Dutch experience.
Bitterballen
Small, round, deep-fried meatballs filled with a thick, creamy ragout. Usually served with mustard as a snack alongside drinks.
Stamppot
A hearty and traditional Dutch dish made with mashed potatoes and one or more vegetables, such as sauerkraut (zuurkool), kale (boerenkool), or endive (andijvie). Often served with rookworst (smoked sausage).
Poffertjes
Small, fluffy pancakes made with yeast and buckwheat flour, cooked in a special pan with shallow indentations. Typically served warm with butter and powdered sugar.
Local Tips
For a more authentic culinary experience in Spijkenisse and the surrounding area, consider these tips.
Try Local Cheeses
The South Holland region is known for its cheeses like Gouda and Leiden. Look for local farmers selling their own cheeses at markets or farm shops.
Explore Nearby Rotterdam
Rotterdam, easily accessible from Spijkenisse, offers a much wider range of dining options, from Michelin-starred restaurants to diverse international cuisines. It is a culinary melting pot.
Sample Street Food
Don't be afraid to try the street food. Kibbeling, herring, and fries are affordable and delicious options for a quick and easy meal.
Consider a Culinary Tour
Consider taking a guided food tour in Rotterdam or nearby towns to discover hidden culinary gems and learn about the region's food history.
About Spijkenisse
Zuid-Holland
Food History
Spijkenisse, like much of the Netherlands, has a culinary history deeply rooted in its agricultural past and proximity to the sea. Influences from neighboring countries like Germany and Belgium, along with colonial ties, have shaped the local diet. Traditionally, sustenance focused on hearty, affordable staples.
Food Culture
Food culture in Spijkenisse is generally relaxed and informal. Family meals are valued, but eating out is also common, especially for quick lunches and snacks. Markets are a great place to experience local produce and traditions.
Weekly Markets
Visiting the local market is a great way to sample regional cheeses, fresh produce, and street food like kibbeling and herring. It's a social gathering point as well as a place to buy groceries.
Cafe Culture
Cafés (brown cafes or 'bruin cafés') offer a cozy atmosphere and serve traditional Dutch snacks and beers. They're popular places to socialize and unwind.
Eating Out
While Spijkenisse doesn't have an extensive fine-dining scene, there are plenty of restaurants offering international cuisine, especially Indonesian food, a legacy of Dutch colonial history. Fish restaurants are popular near the harbor.