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Restaurants in Vlaardingen
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsAppelflappen
De Soete Suikerbol / Vlaardingen (NL)
View AppelflappenApple turnovers, a popular Dutch pastry.
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Oliebollen
De Soete Suikerbol / Vlaardingen (NL)
View OliebollenA traditional Dutch pastry similar to a doughnut, often eaten during New Year's Eve.
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Poffertjes
De Soete Suikerbol / Vlaardingen (NL)
View PoffertjesMini Dutch pancakes, often served with butter and powdered sugar.
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Lobster
Nautique / Vlaardingen (NL)
View LobsterFreshly prepared lobster dish.
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Oysters
Nautique / Vlaardingen (NL)
View OystersFresh oysters served with various toppings.
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Fruits de Mer
Nautique / Vlaardingen (NL)
View Fruits de MerA platter of fresh seafood.
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Kipcorn
Sammy's Snackbar / Vlaardingen (NL)
View KipcornA fried chicken snack.
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Friet Speciaal
Sammy's Snackbar / Vlaardingen (NL)
View Friet SpeciaalFries with mayonnaise, curry ketchup, and onions.
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Broodje Shoarma
Sammy's Snackbar / Vlaardingen (NL)
View Broodje ShoarmaShoarma served on a bread roll.
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Stir-fried mixed vegetables in a light sauce.
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Chinese omelette with vegetables and a savory sauce.
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Indonesian fried rice, often with chicken, shrimp, and vegetables.
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Signature Dishes
Vlaardingen's cuisine is characterized by fresh, simple preparations that highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients. Seafood is king, but other local produce also features prominently. Expect clean flavors, a focus on seasonality, and a certain heartiness reflecting the working-class roots of the town.
Haring (Herring)
A staple of Dutch cuisine, Vlaardingen's proximity to the North Sea means that herring is exceptionally fresh. Often served 'Hollandse Nieuwe' style (new herring), it's typically eaten raw with chopped onions.
Kibbeling
Bite-sized pieces of battered and fried white fish, traditionally cod, served with a mayonnaise-based sauce, often remoulade or garlic sauce. A popular street food and snack.
Lekkerbekje
A larger, single fillet of battered and fried white fish, similar to fish and chips but with a lighter, crispier batter. Often served with fries and sauce.
Mosselen (Mussels)
Mussels, often cooked in white wine with vegetables like celery, carrots, and onions. A classic Dutch seafood dish, especially popular during mussel season (July to April).
Paling (Eel)
Smoked eel is a delicacy, though its sustainability is a concern. When available from sustainable sources, it's a rich and flavorful treat, often eaten on bread or as part of a seafood platter.
Zeeuwse bolus (Though technically from Zeeland)
While originating from Zeeland, these sweet, spiraled pastries with a rich, cinnamon-caramel flavor are widely available in Vlaardingen and a popular accompaniment to coffee.
Local Tips
To truly experience the cuisine of Vlaardingen, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Try the Haring at a Fish Stall
For the freshest herring, visit a local fish stall ('viskraam') rather than a restaurant. The turnover is higher, ensuring freshness.
Ask for 'Lekkerbekje met saus'
When ordering Lekkerbekje, specify 'met saus' to get it served with a delicious mayonnaise-based sauce. Each vendor may have their own special recipe!
Embrace the Seasonality
Seafood is best when in season. Ask locals about the best time to try specific dishes like mussels or herring.
Explore Beyond the Markt
While the local market is excellent, look for smaller, family-run fishmongers in the side streets for unique catches and personalized service.
About Vlaardingen
Zuid-Holland
Food History
Vlaardingen's culinary history is deeply intertwined with its identity as a historic fishing town. Its location on the Nieuwe Maas river and proximity to the North Sea shaped its cuisine, with fresh seafood playing a central role. Trade routes also influenced the food, introducing spices and ingredients from other parts of the world.
Food Culture
Food in Vlaardingen is more than just sustenance; it's a reflection of the town's history and identity. The fishing industry has always been central to the community, and this is reflected in the traditions surrounding food and eating.
Vlaardingen Vlaggetjesdag (Flag Day)
Celebrates the arrival of the new herring season. It's a major event featuring food stalls, music, and traditional Dutch activities.
Seafood Markets
Visiting the local fish markets provides insight into the importance of seafood to the local economy and culture. You can find fresh catches and interact with local vendors.
Eating with your hands
Eating herring 'Hollandse Nieuwe' involves holding the fish by the tail, dipping it in chopped onions, and lowering it into your mouth. It's a cultural experience!