Barts best of: The tastiest restaurants in Leiden
It was time again for a nice summary list. Because Leiden has a lot: close to the beach, a nice cozy center, wonderful shops (the nicest boutiques) and a pleasant combination of canals and cozy streets. And Leiden also has very good food. Here are our favorite restaurants of the moment.
Lunch, drinks, and dinner—it's all possible at Los Cosmos restaurant. Looking for a Spanish touch amidst all that gray Dutch weather? Then you've come to the right place. The restaurant—Los Cosmos—is located in the heart of Leiden city center, in the former Zara Home building. Los Cosmos's slogan is "Fresco and Sabroso', which means 'fresh and tasty', and you can see, feel and taste that everywhere. The restaurant has paid a lot of attention to both the innovative menu and the atmospheric interior. On the menu you will find dishes from all corners of Spain. Think of authentic Spanish bocadillos, small snacks such as octopus and Padrón peppers, and specialties from the grill. Don't forget the sangria for the ultimate Spanish experience.
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. Together with three other partners, Arie Visscher, the chef, has built a fantastic 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.
Café de Gaper is a popular café-restaurant in Leiden, located on Rapenburg. The owners gained experience in numerous fantastic establishments before embarking on this entrepreneurial venture. It is known for its cozy, relaxed atmosphere and high-quality, refined dishes with modern, international, and French-inspired accents.
The wine list is highly praised by connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike, and the staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and simply very attentive (which is exactly what we wanted). The interior is cozy, with both lovely low tables and high tables for drinks.
Hotel Rumor? Sounds like a place to stay overnight, but nothing could be further from the truth.
This is a vibrant all-day bistro restaurant and bar in the heart of Leiden, right at the foot of the historic Leiden Castle – and yes, it looks like a hotel, but you can't sleep there. The interior and identity have been designed with flair by Studio Modijefsky, giving it a theatrical blend of café, restaurant, cocktail bar, and social hub. During the day, you can enjoy coffee or lunch on the cozy courtyard terrace, in the evening you can enjoy dinner, drinks, and music, and on weekends, with events like Disco Bingo or Club Rumour, it transforms into a place you'll definitely want to linger.
With an internationally oriented cuisine, good wines, cocktails and a buzz that lasts from morning until late at night, Hotel Rumour is exactly the place where you can start an afternoon in Leiden and end a night spontaneously.
Restaurant La Diva is a well-known name in Leiden and the perfect place for a celebration. The expert staff creates a unique menu every evening, so simply sit down and be surprised. For those who aren't so keen on surprises, there's certainly room to let us know what you don't like. Wines are, of course, selected to complement each dish, so that's what makes it so much easier.
Leiden (and surroundings) is not just a lot of fun during the Relief of Leiden. Are you crazy: there is plenty to eat, drink, snack and go out and you can read much more about Leiden here.
Bikini! Your answer to the question: where did Lot en de Walvis go? Insert Bikini. A cozy all-day hotspot in Leiden Harbor where you can enjoy drinks from early morning until late. Start your day with coffee and cake, or a delicious dish from the brunch menu. You can also enjoy lunch or dinner with Mediterranean dishes to share. You can also enjoy drinks until late, whether on the sunny terrace or inside the iconic building. Holiday vibes in the heart of Leiden!
