The Hague, a city rich in history and charming landscapes, has always attracted travelers from all over the world with its unique political and cultural allure. While most tourists flock to famous landmarks like the Peace Palace and Madurodam, the city hides many delightful restaurants that offer a truly unique dining experience, far from the bustling crowds. If you’re willing to stray a little off the beaten path and explore the quieter corners of the city, you’ll find that The Hague is home to a number of wonderful hidden gems where you can enjoy pure culinary bliss. Today, we will take you on a journey to discover these secret spots, offering an entirely different dining experience.
1. De Hagedis: A Perfect Blend of Street Culture and Cuisine
Nestled near the heart of The Hague, De Hagedis is a restaurant that perfectly integrates local street culture into its ambiance. From the outside, it might not look like much, but as soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by an atmosphere filled with artistic touches. The walls are adorned with works by local artists, and the old wooden tables and chairs blend harmoniously with the street art on the walls, creating a warm, personal, and creative environment.
The menu, though compact, offers a delightful selection of dishes where every meal is prepared with fresh and diverse ingredients. One of their signature dishes, the Dutch-style stewed beef, is a must-try. The beef is slow-cooked until tender, and paired with mashed potatoes, it’s the epitome of comfort food. In addition to local Dutch fare, the restaurant also serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes like eggplant with braised beef, with rich spices and tender meat making it a surprising delight for many diners. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch or enjoying a relaxed dinner in the evening, this restaurant is an excellent choice.
2. Restaurant Bodega de Posthoorn: A Meeting of History and Delicious Cuisine
Restaurant Bodega de Posthoorn is located in The Hague’s historic district and is a restaurant-bar with a long history. Its exterior resembles an ancient building, with traces of time visible in the walls. Each brick tells the story of the city. Inside, the atmosphere is low-key yet elegant, with wooden wine cabinets displaying a wide variety of wines.
The restaurant specializes in Dutch regional specialties, with a menu that highlights traditional Dutch flavors. One of their standout dishes is the mackerel with apple mashed potatoes. The mackerel is fresh with a slight smokiness, perfectly complemented by the homemade mashed potatoes, creating a rich, unforgettable taste. The extensive wine list, featuring reds, whites, and regional specialties, perfectly complements the food, making for an ideal pairing.
Although this restaurant is steeped in history, it has captured the hearts of both locals and a select few tourists who appreciate its exquisite dining experience. Dining here is not just about food but also about experiencing the collision of history and modernity.
3. Het Gouden Hooft: A Taste of Traditional Dutch Flavors with a Unique Twist
If you’re looking for authentic Dutch flavors, Het Gouden Hooft is a place you cannot miss. Located on a quiet street in The Hague, this restaurant has a traditional Dutch architectural style with a sophisticated yet welcoming exterior. The restaurant’s signature dish is braised ox knee, where the meat is tender and flavorful, slow-cooked in a rich sauce, and served with roasted vegetables and crispy potatoes. In addition to that, they offer a unique seafood platter, which features fresh seafood caught from local waters, including oysters, shrimp, and mussels—an absolute treat for seafood lovers.
The restaurant’s interior is quiet and elegant, providing a relaxed atmosphere for a perfect dining experience. Whether you’re dining alone or enjoying a meal with friends, Het Gouden Hooft offers a peaceful space where you can savor your meal at your own pace.
4. Piperi: A Hidden Greek Culinary Gem in The Hague
Piperi is a small, tucked-away restaurant in a quiet corner of The Hague, serving authentic Greek cuisine. Despite its modest size, every dish here offers an intense burst of flavor that will leave you craving more. Their grilled lamb chops are a must-try, cooked to perfection with a crispy exterior and juicy interior, flavored with Greek spices and accompanied by a tangy yogurt sauce.
For those seeking an unforgettable Mediterranean experience, Piperi is the place to be. The Greek salad, lamb dumplings, and handmade filo pastry are incredibly popular here, prepared with fresh ingredients and skillful seasoning. The warm lighting and cozy atmosphere of the restaurant make it feel as though you’ve been transported to a small village by the Aegean Sea, allowing you to indulge in the flavors of Greece.
5. La Scala: A Taste of Italy in the Heart of The Hague
If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, then La Scala will surely become one of your favorites in The Hague. Located in the city’s old town, the restaurant has a simple yet stylish appearance, with an ambiance that evokes the warmth of Italy. The owner, an Italian chef, brings authentic Italian flavors to The Hague with his superb culinary skills.
One of the highlights here is their handmade pizza, which boasts a perfectly thin and crispy crust, topped with fresh ingredients. Their Margherita pizza, made with ripe tomatoes and rich mozzarella cheese, is a classic that never disappoints. Besides pizza, La Scala’s Italian pasta dishes are equally impressive, with fresh seafood or tomato-based sauces that blend perfectly with the al dente pasta. The Italian wine selection at La Scala is also worth noting, providing an ideal complement to your meal.
6. Seaside Restaurants in Kijkduin: The Perfect Fusion of Seafood and the Ocean
If you’re a seafood lover, a seaside restaurant in Kijkduin is the perfect place for you. Located in The Hague’s coastal area, these restaurants offer not only fresh seafood but also spectacular views of the sea. The restaurant interiors are simple yet cozy, decorated with ocean-themed elements that bring the refreshing sea breeze indoors.
The seafood platter here is a popular dish, featuring a selection of fresh clams, shrimp, crabs, and locally caught fish. Each bite carries the unmistakable taste of the ocean, making it an unforgettable meal. For those who prefer more intense flavors, the grilled lobster and seafood stews are also exceptional choices.
7. Hidden Gems Along Noordeinde Street
Noordeinde Street is a relatively quiet area in The Hague, known for its historical buildings and unique boutiques. Along this street, there are several small, charming restaurants that are hard to spot, tucked away in the alleys and corners, giving them a secretive and mysterious vibe.
These eateries often offer local Dutch delicacies, such as classic stews, hearty soups, and a variety of small bites. Dutch smoked sausage and cheese platters are frequent features on the menu, bursting with flavor and perfect for sharing with friends.
Through these restaurant recommendations, you’ll discover a side of The Hague that’s different from the typical tourist attractions. In these hidden gems, each dish reflects the rich local flavors, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s unique atmosphere. If you’re tired of the crowded tourist hotspots, consider visiting these restaurants for a more intimate and memorable experience of The Hague.
