Delft The Randstad, The Netherlands Travel Guide
Dutch cooking rests on staples: potatoes, various vegetables (carrots, onions, kale, endive, cabbage), abundant dairy products (especially cheese!), and various meats (beef, pork, smoked sausage).
Fish, notably herring, cod, and mussels, is a prominent position due to The Netherlands' coastal location. Flavors are generally savory, with less focus on strong or complex spices, though Dutch colonial history, specifically with Indonesia, has rich, aromatic influences, most notably through "rijsttafel."
Often a quick affair for locals, featuring bread with various toppings. Cafes and hotels present more elaborate breakfast menus.
A casual meal. The "broodje" (sandwich) reigns supreme, often with soup or a small salad. Lunchrooms and cafes are popular spots.
The hot meal of the day, traditionally a combination of meat or fish, potatoes, and a vegetable. Modern Dutch cuisine has embraced lighter, more contemporary interpretations.
A thin waffle cookie with a caramel syrup filling. Best enjoyed fresh and warm from a market stall or bakery, where the caramel remains soft. Consider a Pack of stroopwafels as a souvenir.
A classic Dutch sweet treat.
Crispy, deep-fried spherical snacks (bitterballen) with savory beef ragout, often served with mustard. Kroket is a deep-fried, breaded roll with a creamy meat ragout filling, served on bread or as a snack. Find these at snack bars.
Popular savory snacks.
Raw herring, a quintessential Dutch delicacy. Often served 'Hollandse Nieuwe' style (new herring, available typically from late May/early June), eaten whole or on a soft bun with chopped raw onions and pickles. Find it at fish stands.
A fresh, traditional seafood experience.
Jenever is the traditional Dutch juniper-flavored spirit. The Netherlands boasts a strong brewing tradition, with many local and international beers.
Dutch coffee culture thrives. Try Appeltaart (apple pie with whipped cream) and Tompouce (a rectangular pastry with pink icing).
Delft's upscale restaurants feature modern Dutch cuisine, sometimes with international influences. They focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and refined presentation. Seek options slightly off the main Markt for intimate settings.
Abundant options offer various cuisines: Dutch, Italian, French, Asian, and Indonesian. Many stand around the Market Square, along canals, and on charming side streets. These restaurants present comfortable dining with good food at fair prices.
Snack bars (Snackbar/Cafetaria) stand out for quick, affordable Dutch snacks like fries, bitterballen, and kroket. The Delft Market (Thursdays and Saturdays on the Markt) offers fresh produce, cheese, and herring, ideal for an inexpensive lunch.
Due to its university and diverse population, Delft has a wide range of international cuisines. Indonesian restaurants are notably prominent, a legacy of Dutch colonial history; sampling a "rijsttafel" is a culinary experience.
Also find Italian, Surinamese, Turkish, and various Asian restaurants.
The Delft Market (Thursdays and Saturdays on the Markt) transforms into a lively marketplace with food stalls. Indoor markets are less common for general food sales compared to traditional outdoor markets; supermarkets are the main source for groceries.
Experience the bustling outdoor market for fresh produce and local treats.
These options are increasingly common in restaurants, especially cafes and modern eateries. Menus often mark vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Halal food appears in restaurants catering to specific communities. Kosher options are very limited in Delft; Amsterdam offers more specialized sources.
Restaurants generally have awareness of allergens. Inform staff of your needs. A Translation card for dietary restrictions can be helpful. Supermarkets also stock gluten-free products.
Online resources like HappyCow aid in locating vegetarian/vegan restaurants. Do not hesitate to ask restaurant staff; most offer assistance.
Delft features historic 'brown cafes,' traditional Dutch pubs with dark wood interiors. These present a genuine Dutch pub experience, serving local beers, jenever, and classic Dutch snacks.
They offer a cozy atmosphere for local immersion.
Numerous restaurants and cafes line Delft's picturesque canals, allowing for scenic dining experiences, especially during warmer months.
Enjoy views of historic buildings and passing boats while you dine.
Purchase fresh ingredients from the market or a supermarket for a picnic along a canal or in Delftse Hout park.
Local walking tours often feature food tastings, focusing on traditional Dutch snacks, cheese, or Delft's culinary history. These tours offer cultural context to the food. Specific Dutch cooking classes are less common in Delft; private chefs may offer bespoke experiences.
Opportunities to visit local cheese farms or flower bulb farms (seasonal) are available as day trips from Delft, especially in the surrounding 'Green Heart' region. Some farms conduct tours and tastings.
Delft hosts various food-related events throughout the year, often centered around specific themes like beer, wine, or local produce. Check the Delft events calendar for current happenings during your visit.
Locals often share valuable insights into hidden gems and authentic eateries, enriching your dining experience.
Their suggestions lead to memorable meals.
Seek out seasonal treats like white asparagus in spring or Oliebollen around New Year's Eve for a taste of local traditions.
These offer unique flavors tied to the time of year.
Purchase authentic Gouda or Edam cheese from specialty shops or market stalls to bring a taste of Delft home.
While fresh is best, pre-packaged stroopwafels from supermarkets or souvenir shops make for a portable and beloved gift.
A bottle of traditional Dutch juniper-flavored spirit is a distinctive and culturally significant souvenir.
Delft offers a delightful culinary journey, from traditional Dutch snacks to diverse international flavors. Embrace the local dining customs for a complete experience.
