Have a nice lunch in Leiden: the nicest restaurants

Have a nice lunch in Leiden: the nicest restaurants

Leiden, seen by many as the key city. You could rather say: the key to nice lunch places, because they have plenty of them here. And a long list of delicious lunches in Leiden is missing from our collection. Not anymore! Voilà , you ask we run. A list of the best lunches in Leiden, to hangry moments to remain in control.

Do you also want to know where to go for dinner in Leiden? Then take a look at this list. 

Borgman&Borgman

Borgman&Borgman

Started in Leiden as a father-and-son project (hence the double Borgman), this place is now packed several days a week. With the best cup of coffee in Leiden (we think), you can definitely create a little moment of zen here. People come for the coffee, but also for the delicious sandwiches and other lunch dishes. A favorite for lunch is the scrambled eggs with bacon (it's truly delicious, soft and fluffy), but the miso toasted sandwich is also a little different than what you'd normally choose. You see, making a choice is difficult.

Borgman&Borgman

Mami Gourmande

Mami Gourmande

You could almost walk right past it, because it's not very big. However, the smell of fresh bread draws you in.

With a French chanson in the background, it is not a problem at all to wait a few minutes while your sandwich is freshly prepared for you. They always say: 'He who has a sweet tooth gets something tasty' and that is certainly the case with Midi.

There's limited seating, so bring your own sandwich or sit outside. But we also always think strolling through the market along the canals is a good idea.

Midi Marche

French

French

Studying or working hard, looking for a good excuse to stretch your legs and also have a small appetite? Do you meet this checklist? Then a walk towards the Fransoos is not a bad idea at all. You can order delicious sandwiches at this delicatessen. Each sandwich is topped with the products sold in the deli. That's why this quick lunch (to go) is a real treat. If you want to take a moment to enjoy your fresh sandwich, there is a bench in front of the store.

It is definitely recommended to take a stroll through this store. From Tomme au de Raisins to Bleu de Basque, you can easily recapture your three-week summer holiday in France with a short detour along the Fransoos. You have plenty of choice in the store, as there are 250 pieces of foreign cheeses.

The French

ROSE

ROSE

Fancy lunch by the water? ROOS is the place to be. ROOS is known for its delicious coffee (with a cookie, yes!) and its incredibly tasty lunches (but you're also in the right place if you're craving something sweet, like cake).

At ROOS, they don't skimp, so the portions are enormous and delicious, too. A fantastic combination, if you ask us. If you can't get enough of ROOS's cakes (understandably), you can also order your own. Isn't that great for birthdays?

Of course, the building also deserves a treat, and that's exactly what's expected, because the building underwent a renovation in early 2026. And the delightful little shop now has a fresh, bright, new look. We like it.

ROSE

Paco Ciao

Paco Ciao

Located in a monumental building close to the station. The building where Paco Ciao is located has a rich history. A true adventure if you manage to find the entrance, hint, hint. Surprising recipes such as Pink Pancakes, Bao Bun Crispy Chicken or the Okonomiyaki are on the lunch menu. Paco Ciao has a large collection signature cocktails ready for you, which the bar toppers will shake for you with love, because cocktails and lunch can also go well together, right? Very hospitable staff too!

You'll be amazed by the variety of frames on every wall or corner, featuring a fun print or text. Paco Ciao started as a pop-up, then disappeared, but is now here forever. Enjoy!

Paco Ciao

Bikini

Bikini

Bikini! A boathouse restaurant, as they call themselves. We're happy to oblige, as they're situated in Leiden's harbor. That means there's always something to see and enjoy the view from the spacious terrace. For many years, Bikini was known as Lot & De Walvis, a well-known name in Leiden (and the surrounding area).

What's so great about Bikini? Of course, the delicious sandwiches they create are truly works of art. But they deserve a special round of applause for the shared platters they offer. You can order from the raw food bar together, and a delicious plate will be sent your way. Or how about Tour Bikini, a brunch platter for two? A little different from the usual sandwich each.

You are also in the right place for groups and occasions, such as a baby shower, and you are more than welcome.

Bikini Bikini  

Bar Local

Bar Local

In the heart of Leiden, in the Hartesteeg, there is a very picturesque square. Exactly where you want to be on beautiful sunny days (also in winter, because then you can sit nice and cozy inside). The restaurant Bar Local resembles a French bistro. But nothing could be further from the truth, because the lunch menu is very varied with all kinds of worldly dishes. With a mix of meat and vegetarian dishes, from Cilbir to roasted cauliflower to Beefburgers or a sandwich with roasted 'Aunt Door Chicken'; it's all on the map.

Bar Lokaal has new art hanging every so often, which makes it very nice to return regularly. The works of art are from 'From the Art' and you can buy. The interior is very simplistic and light, a bit of an Scandy vibe.

Bar Local

The Blacksmith's Garden

The Blacksmith's Garden

A short bike ride to the park. Towards Cronesteyn to be precise. Because there it is The Blacksmith's GardenIn the middle of greenery and meadows. Is it still Leiden?

Ah, who cares Because at Tuin van de Smid, you can spend the whole day there. If you bring your kids, you'll lose them, whether they're playing at a drawing or in the field with various play equipment: you can enjoy your lunch. Another great thing: Tuin van de Smid is open every day, 7 days a week, and you can visit from early morning until late at night. If you're tempted by brunch instead of lunch, definitely go for it on a weekend. That way, you'll start your day off right.

 

Brasserie Rumor

Brasserie Rumor

The location needs no explanation. Brasserie Rumour has settled in the old castle in the heart of the city center. After extensive renovations, it's a wonderfully relaxed bistro where you can all day You can go there; in the morning for breakfast, in the afternoon for a leisurely lunch, and even for late-night drinks and dinner. You can also easily work there all day, they serve surprisingly good cocktails, organize weekly events, and you can rent the upstairs room for a (large) party. And what other advantages? How about the large terrace on the Binnenhof, directly below the historic castle? Ha!