Athletic-Minded Traveler

These supermarkets are all over town, but don't expect a mega store. Because Rotterdam locals rely on "boutique" food stores that specialize in certain foodstuffs (fish, meats, baked goods), the grocery stores are often not ideal.

Think nighttime convenience store. Advondwinkels are scattered throughout the city and unlike many stores are open on Sundays and late at night. You'll pay for the convenience.
The basic necessities such as milk, eggs, cheese and snacks.
Open 5p to 1a and on Sundays

Despite the name, this place also offers a nice selection of Middle Eastern cuisine, along with the expected assortment of bagels and toppings. In terms of vibe, it's caf

Located in the Hotel Bazaar, this casual Mediterranean restaurant will transport guests to another world with its Middle Eastern decor including Turkish style lanterns, rich Persian rugs, and colorful tables. There are two levels, and the upper level tends to be a little less noisy. Bazar is open for breakfast too. The dinner menu is larger than lunch's but both menus offer kebabs, salads, hummus and other Middle Eastern favorites.

Bla Bla is located in the cute neighborhood of Delfshaven (Rotterdam's Old Town) on the west side of the city. This cozy and warm vegetarian restaurant earns good reviews from locals and visitors for its fresh and tasty cuisine. But the menu is quite limited--to appetizers and several fixed price 2-course meals.

The name pretty much says it all. This is a Chinese quick serve joint that offers some unique udon noodle and wok creations. We also like that vegetarian items are noted on the menu and that there is plenty of protein and veggies to satisfy diverse tastes. It's bright and friendly, but quite small with a few tables, counter and stools. Most get the food to go.

This café is located in the Poortgebouw--a 19th Century monument--and is ONLY open twice weekly; vegetarian on Wednesdays and vegan on Sundays. We recommend this place ONLY for those looking for something really different. The building serves as a residence and host to a variety of cultural, social and performance events (music, plays, poetry readings etc.). The crowd is eclectic, friendly and possibly "bohemian." The food varies, but it is cheap and quite good. Bruchetta, broccoli soup, various currys, pasta, rice creations and vegetables.

Located across the Erasmus Bridge (south side) all the way at the end and situated right on the River is this mid-size, unique hotel. While we don't recommend it for an athletic-minded stay, we do appreciate the 72 room abode's 400 seat caf

It's busy, pretty casual and reliable for good pastas, pizza and other Italian eats. The storefront location affords plenty of natural light via large windows. There are also outdoor tables for when the weather cooperates. We like the salad choices, shrimp cocktail and big selection of both pastas and pizzas. Come here because it's convenient, not too expensive and because you crave Italian food. But don't have super high expectations.

This 100% vegetarian international quick serve eatery offers a yummy selection of pita sandwiches, soup and a salad bar! It's cafeteria style so you can see just what you are going to get--sort of like Subway, but with more upscale ingredients. The vibe is bright and casual with colorful wall paper, wooden tables and wooden benches. Maoz prides itself on its home-baked pita, zero trans fat canola oil, and handpicked fresh ingredients.

Not nearly as big as the Binnenrotte Market, but locals like the natural foods and farm fresh produce much of which is organic.
Along with the fruit and vegetable stalls, you can also buy fish, meats, breads, cheeses, sweets and prepared foods.
Thursdays 11a to 6p