The Hague Food & Drink Guide: From Dutch Classics to International Flavors

The Hague (Den Haag) offers a surprisingly diverse culinary landscape that reflects its status as the Netherlands' administrative capital and one of its most international cities. From traditional Dutch kibbeling (fried fish bites) at the harbor to authentic Indonesian rijsttafel and fresh herring from street vendors, The Hague's food scene rewards curious eaters. This guide covers the essential dishes, best restaurants, and local food experiences you shouldn't miss.

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kibbeling

The Hague's most iconic street food, kibbeling consists of battered and deep-fried white fish chunks, traditionally served with a tangy garlic sauce (knoflooksaus) or tartar sauce. While available throughout the Netherlands, The Hague claims some of the best, particularly at Simonis aan de Haven near the fishing harbor.

Where to try:

Simonis aan de Haven (Visafslagweg 20, Scheveningen) — The most famous spot, operating since 1880. A portion costs around €8-10. Open daily 10:00-20:00.

Hollandse Nieuwe (Dutch New Herring)

Between May and July, you'll find Hollandse Nieuwe — the first herring of the season, caught and prepared according to traditional methods. Locals eat it raw, holding the fish by the tail and lowering it into their mouths with their heads tilted back.

Where to try:

Simonis Vis locations throughout the city
Street vendors at the Grote Markt and Plein

Broodje Kroket

A quintessential Dutch snack, the broodje kroket is a bread roll stuffed with a deep-fried ragout croquette. The crispy exterior gives way to a creamy meat filling — perfect for a quick lunch.

Where to try:

Slagerij Dungelmann (Frederik Hendriklaan 87) — Famous for their kroketten since 1912. A broodje kroket costs around €3.50.

Poffertjes

These small, fluffy Dutch pancakes are traditionally served with butter and powdered sugar. They're a beloved treat at markets and festivals, though several cafes serve them year-round.

Where to try:

Café Vroeger Was Je Anders (Frederik Hendriklaan 99) — Cozy cafe famous for their poffertjes
Will's Pancake House (Noordeinde 93)

Indonesian Rijsttafel

The Netherlands' colonial history with Indonesia has left an indelible mark on Dutch cuisine. The rijsttafel (rice table) is an elaborate feast featuring dozens of small dishes served with rice — from satay and rendang to sambal and pickles.

Where to try:

Toko Frederik (Frederikstraat 15) — Excellent rijsttafel with adjustable spice levels. Set meals from €18-25. Open Tue-Sun 16:00-22:00.
Toko Dian (Badhuisstraat, Scheveningen) — Locals swear this is the best Indonesian in the area.

Best Restaurants by Category

Fine Dining & Special Occasions

Het Gouden Kalf

Address: Denneweg 46
Cuisine: Modern Dutch/French
Price: €€€€ (mains €35-50)
Hours: Tue-Sat 18:00-22:00
Why go: Elegant dining in a historic building, seasonal tasting menus featuring local ingredients.

Seafood Specialists

Simonis aan de Haven

Address: Visafslagweg 20, Scheveningen
Cuisine: Dutch seafood
Price: €€ (mains €15-25)
Hours: Daily 10:00-20:00
Why go: The legendary fish restaurant serving the freshest catch. Try the kibbeling, herring, or whole grilled fish. The harbor location adds to the experience.

Vigo Seafoodbar

Address: Stationsweg 82
Cuisine: Modern seafood
Price: €€€ (mains €22-35)
Hours: Tue-Sun 17:00-22:00
Why go: Contemporary take on seafood with excellent wine pairings.

International Flavors

Kaniway (Uyghur/Chinese)

Address: Gedempte Gracht 87
Price: €€ (€15-20 per person sharing)
Hours: Daily 12:00-22:00
Why go: Authentic Uyghur cuisine — a fascinating blend of Chinese, Turkish, and Central Asian flavors. The dumplings (chöqüra) and chicken dishes are exceptional. Portions are generous and meant for sharing.

De Peper Authentic Thai Food

Address: Fahrenheitstraat 90
Price: €€ (mains €12-18)
Hours: Tue-Sun 17:00-21:30
Why go: Hidden gem in the Bomenbuurt neighborhood. Authentic Thai flavors with well-sized portions. The interior transports you to Thailand.

Krishna Villas (South Indian)

Address: Weimarstraat 13
Price: € (mains €10-15)
Hours: Tue-Sun 12:00-21:00
Why go: Specializes in enormous, delicious dosas (crispy rice crepes) with multiple chutneys and sambar. Excellent value.

Casual Eats & Street Food

Mingle Mush

Address: Stationsplein 5 (next to Den Haag Centraal)
Price: € (€8-15 per meal)
Hours: Mon-Sat 11:00-20:00, Sun 12:00-18:00
Why go: Food hall with rotating vendors — Surinamese, African, Lebanese, and more. Perfect for groups with different tastes.

Bik Friteswerk

Address: Prinsestraat 8
Price: € (€3-6)
Hours: Daily 11:00-21:00
Why go: Artisanal Dutch fries with creative toppings and sauces. Try the oorlog (war) fries with peanut sauce, mayo, and onions.

Dutch Traditional

Café De Kleine Witte

Address: Nobelstraat 10
Price: €€ (mains €15-22)
Hours: Daily 10:00-01:00
Why go: Traditional brown cafe (bruin café) atmosphere. Famous for gehaktballen (Dutch meatballs) and other hearty Dutch comfort food.

Food Markets & Shopping

Haagse Markt

The largest open-air market in Europe, held Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 09:00-17:00. Over 500 stalls sell everything from fresh produce and cheese to street food. Don't miss:

Fresh stroopwafels (syrup waffles) made to order
Empanadas from South American vendors
Dutch cheese tastings
Seasonal fruits and vegetables

Location: Herman Costerstraat, near Den Haag HS station

Frederik Hendriklaan ("De Fred")

This upscale shopping street in the Statenkwartier is lined with specialty food shops:

Slagerij Dungelmann — Famous kroketten and artisanal meats
Het Bakkertje — Traditional Dutch pastries and banket (almond pastries)
Various cheese shops and wine merchants

Local Drinks

Genever at Van Kleef

The Netherlands' traditional juniper-flavored spirit, genever is the ancestor of gin. Van Kleef is Den Haag's only surviving distillery, operating since 1842.

Van Kleef Distillery

Address: Lange Beestenmarkt 109
Hours: Thu-Sat 12:00-18:00
What to try: "Old" genever (herb-heavy, traditional style) vs "young" genever (lighter, modern style). Also try Kruìde Baggâh, a herbal bitter.
Price: Tastings from €12

Dutch Beer

The Hague has a growing craft beer scene:

De Zwarte Ruiter (Grote Markt 19) — Traditional brown cafe with excellent beer selection
Paard (Turfmarkt 225) — Live music venue with good beer

Coffee

Dutch coffee culture is strong. Try:

Day Dream (Frederik Hendriklaan 123) — Specialty coffee and light bites
Various cafes along Plein and Grote Markt

Practical Tips

Payment: Many smaller restaurants and traditional eateries are PIN-only (Dutch bank cards) or cash-only. International credit cards are not always accepted — carry cash (euros) as backup.

Tipping: Service is typically included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated.

Lunch vs. Dinner: Many restaurants offer excellent lunch deals (lunchmenu) that are significantly cheaper than dinner.

Dining Hours: The Dutch eat early by Southern European standards — many restaurants open at 17:00 or 17:30 for dinner and kitchen hours often end by 21:30 or 22:00.

Reservations: Recommended for fine dining and popular spots, especially on weekends. Casual places typically don't require booking.

Seasonal Food Events

May-July: Hollandse Nieuwe herring season
December: Oliebollen (Dutch doughnuts) at markets and special stalls
Year-round: Weekly markets offer seasonal specialties

Budget Breakdown

Budget meal: €8-12 (street food, market snacks, casual lunch)
Mid-range meal: €20-35 (restaurant main course with drink)
Fine dining: €50-80+ (tasting menu or multiple courses)

The Hague's food scene punches above its weight for a city often overshadowed by Amsterdam. Whether you're craving traditional Dutch herring, an elaborate Indonesian feast, or innovative international cuisine, you'll find memorable meals here.