Café Visscher in Leiden
Is it a bistro? A brasserie? Cafe? Still a luxury restaurant? We don't really have a clear answer, but we do know that Café Visscher in Leiden is a nice place. And the fact that this animal doesn't have a name yet is actually not so bad. Then there is the possibility to go in all directions. Because this way they can create a bistro vibe, but also serve a plate of stoneware food, and also recommend suitable wines. Café Visscher is a hidden gem, just outside the center of Leiden on the Rijnsburgersingel, and within crawling distance of the central station.
A few days in Leiden? There are plenty of options. Here is a list of the best restaurants in Leiden.
One step over the threshold of this restaurant and the tone is set. A mix-match of colors and patterns awaits you. Yet everything fits exactly into place in the big picture. The red tones of a French bistro return, and then those metro-like lamps above the bar, beautiful! Oh yes, and to top it off, the entire restaurant also has a hint of Cosmopolitan about it. If you know what we mean. A bit Great Gatsby, but slightly different. Well, what can we say, Café Visscher cannot be captured in one word, and that is what makes it so much fun.
Oh, and then we have to talk about Arie. But who is Arie actually? The chef of this restaurant: Arie Visscher (what's in a name, huh). After working as a chef in several star restaurants, such as the library (in Zwolle) and Joelia By Mario Ridder (in Rotterdam), Arie Visscher has now started his own restaurant. Together with three other partners, Arie has built a hell of a restaurant. Because you won't just find something like this in Leiden. What the chef wants to show with his dishes is that good food does not have to be expensive. And they know that good food comes with the right ambiance. The homely feeling is something Chef Arie and his team strive for. And as far as we are concerned, we certainly succeeded.
The way Chef Arie prepares his dishes is not the most traditional. Without too much fuss, this chef tries to keep his dishes accessible, but with a surprising element. On the menu you will find a mix of French and Asian influences. But who knows, more cuisines may be added in the future, because the menu changes regularly. Luckily, because that means we can come by even more often. From a smoked eel steak tartare to farm chicken and a dessert of strawberries, white chocolate and basil ice cream, there is something for everyone. But you've also come to the right place for a classic like steak frites. The feeling of luxury dining out, without too much hassle and craziness.
Even now that summer is coming, we try to soak up all the rays of sunshine. Because, sun = terraces again. And even when the weather is nice, Café Visscher remains a very nice choice. The morning sun shines directly on the terrace of the café. How wonderful is it to people watch while enjoying your cup of coffee? And don't worry about having to leave after your coffee. Because it is also wonderful to spend time outside in the afternoon. Enjoying a plate of oysters and a glass of rosé cava during those long summer evenings. Do you already see yourself sitting there?