This #beersaturday, I’m writing about Rotterdam. The city is known for its modern architecture and energetic urban life, and it’s also a fantastic destination for craft beer enthusiasts. With its vibrant mix of cafés and breweries, Rotterdam truly has something special to offer. Here are a few places that stood out during my visit.
Fenix Food Factory & Kaapse Brouwers
One of the city’s must-visit locations is the Fenix Food Factory, a repurposed old harbor warehouse now filled with eateries, artisan foods, and a variety of boutique shops.
Enjoy your beer at one of the many picnic tables on the quay, with an amazing view of Rotterdam’s skyscrapers. If the weather isn’t cooperating, there’s plenty of seating indoors as well. It might look busy at first, but take the stairs upstairs for even more seating.
In one corner of the warehouse, you’ll find Kaapse Brouwers, offering a rotating selection of 16 beers on tap. They also have a fridge packed with even more canned varieties: there’s truly something for every taste.
Snacks here are somewhat limited, with a charcuterie and cheese board (the paté is a highlight, don’t forget to order some extra bread) and a few pizzas available. For a truly memorable meal, though, your next stop should be the Foodhallen.
Foodhallen
Just around the corner from the Fenix Food Factory is Foodhallen. A smaller food court compared to the city’s famous Markthal, but still brimming with delicious eateries. From Vietnamese to Korean, European to South American, the Foodhallen offer a little bit of everything. Be sure to try Vietyam for fresh and fried spring rolls.
The real surprise here is the wide selection of quality beers, with options from breweries like Lagunitas and Two Chefs Brewing.
Café de Gele Kanarie
This fun and trendy café brews its own beer and also offers a great selection from Rotterdam-based breweries. They also have a delicious snack menu available until late in the evening!
Brewdog
As a bonus, Rotterdam has two BrewDog bars. One is on the lively Witte de Withstraat, and the other is called the Outpost. I usually do not mention them because they often have a relatively standard selection of well-known beers. Still, the Witte de Withstraat location is worth a visit for its cozy terrace. It is a great spot to relax and scout out your next destination.
In conclusion, if you’re looking to indulge in great food, the harbor area around Fenix Food Factory and Foodhallen is the place to be, full of flavor and atmosphere. For those in search of more refined or diverse craft beers, head into the city center where spots like Café de Gele Kanarie offer an impressive selection in a vibrant urban setting.