My Rotterdam Little Black Book

As an interior designer who’s been living in Rotterdam since 2017, these are my regular haunts and worst kept secrets in my adopted home town.

For Gifts and Flowers: s’ Zomers 

If anyone is ever stuck for somewhere to buy a lovely gift – I’ll send them here (my husband should have shares!) If you follow me on Instagram you’ll see that s’ Zomers often get tagged. They make big beautiful floral offerings, as well as stocking incredible gifts, perfumes, and more.

Image from @zomersbloemen

For Art + Culture: Kunsthal

After so many years spent in sprawling culture-crammed London, I’m thankful we have the Kunsthal here in Rotterdam. With its ever changing exhibitions, art and culture enthusiasts always have plenty to look forward to.

Patisserie: Le Petitjean Rotterdam

I’m not a big breakfast person, but when the mood takes me you can find me in the queue here for the most incredible almond croissants you could imagine.

Image from @lepetitjeanrotterdam

For dinner: Heroine

My number one date restaurant or for a special night. I love it for the food, the decor and also the music – just great vibes.

Image from yellowtrace.com

Fave local spot: La Cazuela

Basically an extension of our living room so you’ll find us making our way through the best tapas in town or propping up the bar, more often that we care to admit! Great spot for cosy candle lit dates in the winter, and drinks on the terrace all summer long.

Image from @lacazuela.rotterdam

Best for veggies: Klaargemaakt

A regular we frequent, especially to impress guests – another place that I am so lucky to have on my doorstep. I love the variety of food – I am a lifelong vegetarian, and honestly get so bored seeing the same veggie options on most menus, but Klaar never disappoints. An incredible selection of creative and ever changing vegan and vegetarian options on the menu (alongside the various choices for you carnivores).

For the best wine: Verward

A very cool, lowkey wine bar, where you’ll be taken care of and almost certainly learn something about a new wine they have on the menu.

Cinema: KINO

Although it now boasts 6 screens, it still shouts boutique picturehouse to me and reminds me of London nights out at the Ritzy in Brixton or Shoreditch house screening room. A great cocktail bar – and drinks are allowed in your seat.

Image from luukvlamings.nl

Have somewhere to recommend to me? Let me know over on Instagram!