The Hague’s Local Eats Beyond Poffertjes & Frites
If you’re planning a trip to The Hague, you simply can’t leave without trying some of the must-try local foods beyond poffertjes and frites. The city’s authentic Dutch flavors and regional delicacies make the local cuisine truly an unforgettable culinary experience. From sweet stroopwafels, to savory kibbeling and hearty erwtensoep, The Hague offers a wide range of unique and flavorful dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. So forget about the touristy eateries and join us on a culinary journey exploring the hidden food gems and popular food spots that make The Hague’s local cuisine so special.
Stroopwafel: A Dutch Sweet Delight
If you have a sweet tooth, then you can’t miss trying a stroopwafel during your visit to The Hague. This classic Dutch treat is a thin waffle biscuit with a layer of sticky caramel syrup in the middle.
Stroopwafels go perfectly with a piping-hot cup of coffee or tea, making for a hearty and satisfying snack. The traditional method of eating a stroopwafel involves placing it on top of a coffee or tea mug, allowing the steam to warm it up and soften the caramel inside.
If you’re wondering where to get the best stroopwafels in The Hague, look no further than the local markets. The Hague Market and the Frederik Hendriklaan Market are both popular spots to find fresh and authentic stroopwafels. Alternatively, pop into one of the city’s many bakeries or coffee shops for a delicious treat.
Where to Find the Best Stroopwafels in the Hague
| Bakery/Coffee Shop | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Banketbakkerij Maison Kelder | Denneweg 120, 2514 CL Den Haag | Homemade stroopwafels |
| Simon Levelt Koffie & Thee | Overtrekpassage 2, 2511 XP Den Haag | Famous for their stroopwafels and coffee |
| Markt | Herman Costerstraat, 2523 Den Haag | Local market selling fresh stroopwafels |
| Van Kleef | Lange Beestenmarkt 109, 2512 ED Den Haag | Stroopwafels with a modern twist |
Whether you prefer your stroopwafels traditional or with a modern twist, you’re sure to find a variety of options to suit your taste buds in The Hague.
Haring: A Dutch Raw Fish Tradition
When it comes to The Hague’s local cuisine, one cannot miss out on haring, a traditional Dutch raw fish dish that enjoys immense popularity among the locals. Known for its unique and flavorsome taste, this delicacy is often served with onions and pickles and is best enjoyed fresh and raw.
One of the best places to try this local favorite is at Simonis aan de Haven, a renowned fish restaurant that has been serving the freshest seafood for over 130 years. Their haring is a must-try, and you can enjoy it with a stunning view of the harbor.
Bite-sized pieces of tender raw haring are a treat so rich, it’s no wonder each catch is met with such excitement.
The Making of Haring
| Ingredients | Method |
|---|---|
| Fresh haring | Remove the head, skin, and bones, and clean the fillets thoroughly. |
| Onions and pickles | Chop the onions and pickles into small pieces and serve alongside the raw haring. |
For a true taste of Dutch cuisine, haring is a must-try when visiting The Hague. Savor the unique flavors of this local dish as you soak in the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Bitterballen: Crispy Dutch Snack
If you’re looking for a crunchy, meaty snack in The Hague, look no further than bitterballen. These crispy Dutch meatballs, usually made of beef or veal, are deep-fried to golden perfection and served hot. They’re often accompanied by a spicy Dutch mustard for dipping.
Although you can find bitterballen on the menu of many Dutch restaurants and bars throughout The Hague, some popular food spots stand out from the rest:
| Food Spot | Description |
|---|---|
| Café de Bieb | This cozy café near The Hague’s city center serves up some of the best bitterballen in town. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a great place to relax and indulge in some delicious snacks. |
| De Ballentent | This laid-back bar and restaurant is known for its selection of Dutch meatballs, including the mouthwatering bitterballen. Enjoy your snacks with an ice-cold beer while watching the boats sail by on the nearby canal. |
| Simonis | If you’re a fan of seafood, Simonis is the place to be. This bustling fish market and restaurant offers a delicious range of fresh fish dishes, including the famous Dutch kibbeling and, of course, bitterballen. |
Make sure to try the bitterballen at these popular food spots in The Hague for a taste of traditional Dutch cuisine. Pair them with a refreshing beer or a glass of wine for the perfect snack break.
Dutch Pancakes: Sweet and Savory Delights
When in The Hague, trying Dutch pancakes is a must! These pancakes come in both sweet and savory variations and are a staple in Dutch cuisine. Thin crepe-like pancakes or thick puffy ones, The Hague has got you covered.
The toppings and flavors are diverse, so prepare to indulge your taste buds in the finest and most authentic Hague dishes around.
For sweet Dutch pancakes, try the local specialty, known as pannenkoeken, topped with stroop (syrup) or powdered sugar. To taste the savory variation, go for a bacon and cheese pancake or a ham and mushroom pancake.
Pro tip: Make sure to visit Pancake House Hans en Grietje in Scheveningen, a famous spot for pancake lovers.
Hagelslag: A Sprinkle of Joy
When in The Hague, a visit to local breakfast spots should include a taste of hagelslag, Dutch sprinkles that come in a variety of chocolate or fruit flavors. This quintessential Dutch topping is a simple yet delightful treat that is widely enjoyed on bread or hot buttered toast. You can also use hagelslag to decorate pastries or desserts for some added sweetness.
But where can you find the best hagelslag flavors in The Hague? Look no further than the city’s hidden food gems, where you can discover a range of unique and delicious options. These lesser-known spots offer a more authentic taste of The Hague’s local cuisine, away from the tourist hotspots. Try sprinkling some chocolate hagelslag on a warm croissant at Lanskroon Bakery or grab some fruity flavors at Hema, a local department store.
Where to Find the Best Hagelslag in The Hague
| Name | Location | Flavors |
|---|---|---|
| Lanskroon Bakery | Potterstraat 93, 2511 LC The Hague | Chocolate, hazelnut, vanilla, fruit flavors |
| Hema | Grote Marktstraat 57, 2511 BH The Hague | Apple, strawberry, raspberry, pear, chocolate flavors |
| Dekkers | De Savornin Lohmanplein 43, 2566 AA The Hague | Dark, milk and white chocolate flavors |
Looking for more hidden food gems in The Hague? Check out our recommendations for other authentic local foods to try.
Pannenkoeken: Dutch-style Pancakes
Are you a pancake lover looking to experience something unique? Treat yourself to pannenkoeken, a type of Dutch pancake that is larger and thicker than the regular ones. These delicious pancakes are made with a batter of flour, eggs, and milk, and enjoyed with different kinds of toppings. Whether you have a sweet or savory palate, pannenkoeken can cater to both with toppings ranging from cheese, bacon, and ham to fruits, chocolate, and honey.
For a unique dining experience, head to Pannenkoekenhuis Oud-
Paradijs, located on a serene street in the city center. This charming restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and an extensive menu of pannenkoeken options, including gluten-free and lactose-free options. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Pannenkoek Oud-Paradijs Special, which is topped with mushrooms, bacon, cheese, and a runny egg for a satisfying breakfast or lunch.
Bij Lot is another great spot for pannenkoeken, located in the trendy Zeeheldenkwartier district. Their menu offers a creative twist on the classic pancake, with options like the Hybrid Surprise featuring both sweet and savory toppings, or the Vegan Red Velvet offering a colorful and healthy option.
Top Places for Pannenkoeken in The Hague
| Restaurant Name | Location | Specialty Pannenkoeken |
|---|---|---|
| Pannenkoekenhuis Oud-Paradijs | Spui 225, 2511BP The Hague | Pannenkoek Oud-Paradijs Special, Lactose- and Gluten-free options |
| Bij Lot | Zoutmanstraat 56A, 2518 GN The Hague | Hybrid Surprise, Vegan Red Velvet |
| Pannenkoe | Fluwelen Burgwal 45, 2511 CH The Hague | Pannenkoek Metworst, Family-sized Pannenkoeken |
Other great spots to try pannenkoeken in The Hague include De Pier Pannenkoeken on the scenic Scheveningen Pier, and De Resident for more upscale dining.
Erwtensoep: Hearty Split Pea Soup
Escape the chilly Hague winters with a bowl of warm and comforting erwtensoep, or hearty split pea soup. This traditional Dutch dish is packed with vegetables, pork, and flavorful herbs, making it a staple on winter menus across the city. For an authentic and delicious erwtensoep experience, head to one of these popular food spots:
| Restaurant | Address | Telephone |
|---|---|---|
| Haagse Bluf | Haagsche Bluf 3, 2511 CN | +31 70 346 6666 |
| De Stadstuin | Laan van Meerdervoort 172, 2517 BM | +31 70 738 5735 |
| ‘t Goude Hooft | Dagelijkse Groenmarkt 13, 2513 AL | +31 70 744 8800 |
Each spot offers their own unique take on this classic dish, so be sure to try them all to find your favorite. Warm your hands and your heart with a comforting bowl of erwtensoep.
Kibbeling: The Dutch Fish Snack
If you’re a seafood lover, you can’t miss out on kibbeling, a classic Dutch fish snack. Made from battered and deep-fried chunks of white fish, this dish has a crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the tender and flaky fish inside. Kibbeling is commonly served with a side of mayonnaise, which gives it a tangy and creamy flavor.
Where can you find the best kibbeling in The Hague? We have some local food recommendations for you:
| Restaurant Name | Address | Price Range | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frens Haringhandel | Dagelijkse Groenmarkt 37, 2513 AL Den Haag | $$ | |
| Catch by Simonis | Gevers Deynootplein 121, 2586 CR Den Haag | $$$ | |
| Vis Karavaan | 2e Scheveningse Bosjesstraat, 150, 2594AV Den Haag | $ |
Frens Haringhandel is a local favorite for kibbeling, serving up generous portions of the crispy snack. Catch by Simonis is known for its premium quality seafood and offers a more upscale dining experience. Finally, if you’re on a budget, Vis Karavaan is the ideal spot for affordable and delicious kibbeling in a cozy outdoor market setting.
Tompouce: A Dutch Pastry Delight
If you have a sweet tooth, you must try tompouce, a classic Dutch pastry that is sure to satisfy your cravings. The pastry is made of layers of crispy puff pastry and filled with sweet custard cream. It is typically cut into rectangular pieces and topped with a layer of icing or powdered sugar.
Tompouce is commonly enjoyed on special occasions, such as birthdays, weddings, or as a delightful treat with your afternoon coffee or tea. If you’re visiting The Hague, you don’t want to miss the chance to taste this delicious Dutch pastry.
Unique Dining Experiences
To have the best tompouce experience in The Hague, check out these unique dining spots:
| Restaurant Name | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| De Vierkant | Grote Marktstraat 34, 2511 BJ Den Haag | Tasty and fresh tompouce with a delightful view |
| Banketbakkerij Maison Kelder | Plaats 16, 2513 AE Den Haag | Exquisite tompouce made with their secret recipe |
| Patisserie Christiaan de Heer | Buitenhof 50, 2513 AH Den Haag | Amazing tompouce with a unique twist |
Each of these locations serves tompouce with its distinctive twist and style, and you won’t regret trying them all.
Don’t leave The Hague without indulging in this sweet Dutch pastry. It’s a delicacy you won’t soon forget.
Haagse Hopjes: The Hague’s Coffee Candy
While exploring The Hague’s culinary scene, you cannot miss tasting Haagse Hopjes, the city’s coffee candy. These small, brown treats pack a powerful punch of flavors, combining notes of coffee, caramel, and various spices.
Haagse Hopjes originated in the city back in the early 18th century, and to this day, they remain one of the most beloved sweet delicacies in The Hague. Many local manufacturers produce their own versions, but some may argue that the best ones come from the original creators, Banketbakkerij Van der Breggen.
Discover the popular food spots in The Hague where you can indulge in these delicious and locally cherished candies. When ordering coffee at many cafes in The Hague, you may receive a complementary Haagse Hopje – an extra touch to sweeten your experience in the city.
Conclusion
If you’re a foodie looking for a new culinary adventure, The Hague is the place to be. Beyond the traditional Dutch favorites of poffertjes and frites, The Hague is home to a diverse range of must-try local foods. We hope our local food recommendations have inspired you to explore the city’s unique dining experiences and savor its regional delicacies.
From indulging in the sweet delight of stroopwafels to savoring the hearty split pea soup, The Hague’s local cuisine offers something for everyone. Be sure to check out the popular food spots in the city where you can taste the most delicious local foods.
So what are you waiting for? Get ready to treat your taste buds to a culinary journey through The Hague’s authentic Dutch flavors and hidden food gems. Bon appétit!
