A sleek addition to Rotterdam’s new wave coffee scene. Founded by Jermaine Semil and Benjaro Hitipeuw, the minimalist space seamlessly mixes metal and wood, drawing inspiration from Scandinavian and Japanese design. But what really stands out are the big windows – great for people-watching. Expect excellent coffee from Bonanza and A Matter of Coffee, alongside a thoughtfully curated menu: granola bowls in the morning and a great chicken or mushroom melt sandwich for lunch, as well as a selection of baked goods including almond croissants, lemon poppy seed cake, and chocolate ganache waiting on the counter. 

A relaxed informal atmosphere plays host to a true fine dining restaurant which mixes & matches the best from cuisines around the world, with excellent wine pairings by sommelier Fred de Neef.

Nestled in the Crooswijk of Rotterdam is Bar Alaska, sister of the infamous Café Marseille, sharing the same intimate, cosy and glaringly cool vibes. There's the usual cohort of sharing plates, snacks and bites to munch on aside a glass of chilled pinot noir, though it's the themed nights that set this neighbourhood hangout apart. We're here for the Sicilian Nights, the 1 euro oyster Sundays and the occasional "Rott. Rebel. Run" block party. If a steaming crater-shaped pan of paella is waiting on the terrace, we'll happily run for miles.  

In the sunniest corner spot on Noordplein by the Rotte, Wolly serves breakfast and brunch classics such as loaded pancakes and avocado toast alongside kimchi grilled cheese and soft brioche sandwiches filled with burrata and mortadella. The menu also features their rotating guilty croissants (think raspberry with rose or lemon meringue), plus a solid selection of specialty coffees. With a lively terrace overlooking the water, a laid-back interior and a running club setting off every Sunday at 8:30 am, it’s the ideal stop to start your day in Rotterdam.