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Utrecht is a food lover's paradise that flies under the radar. While Amsterdam hogs the spotlight, locals know that Utrecht's food scene punches well above its weight. From cosy wharf cellar restaurants to buzzing street food markets, here's your insider guide to eating well in the city.

1. The Wharf Cellar restaurants

Utrecht's most unique dining experience happens at water level. The medieval wharf cellars along the Oudegracht have been converted into atmospheric restaurants where you eat literally at the canal's edge. Try spots like Oudaen (which brews its own beer) or Graaf Floris for classic Dutch dishes in a setting you won't find anywhere else in the world.

2. Markt (Vredenburg)

Every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, Vredenburg square transforms into one of the Netherlands' largest outdoor markets. Fresh stroopwafels made in front of you, kibbeling (fried fish), Surinamese roti, Turkish gözleme: it's a world tour on a single square. Arrive hungry.

3. De Rechtbank

Housed in a former courthouse on Korte Nieuwstraat, De Rechtbank serves creative European cuisine in a stunning interior. The high ceilings and original details make it feel grand without being stuffy. Their three-course menu is excellent value.

4. Broodje Mario

Ask any Utrecht student where to get the best sandwich and they'll point you to Broodje Mario on Voorstraat. This legendary spot has been serving overflowing sandwiches for decades. Cash only, no-nonsense, absolutely delicious.

5. Blauw

The Netherlands' colonial past means Indonesian food is a staple of Dutch cuisine. Blauw on Springweg serves the best rijsttafel (rice table) in Utrecht: a feast of small dishes that showcases the incredible variety of Indonesian cooking.

6. The Streetfood Club

On Ganzenmarkt, this stylish spot brings together street food flavours from around the world in a sharing-plate format. The atmosphere is lively, the cocktails are strong, and it's perfect for a casual evening with friends.

7. Typical Dutch snacks to try

No visit to Utrecht is complete without trying some classic Dutch street food. Look out for:

• Bitterballen: crispy, deep-fried meat ragout balls, best enjoyed with mustard and a cold beer.
• Stroopwafels: two thin waffles sandwiched with caramel syrup, best when warm from the market.
• Haring: raw herring served with pickles and onion. An acquired taste, but a true Dutch tradition.
• Poffertjes: mini fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar.

8. Neighbourhood gems

Venture beyond the centre for some of Utrecht's best-kept food secrets. The Lombok neighbourhood along Kanaalstraat is packed with affordable, authentic Turkish, Moroccan and Surinamese restaurants. In the east, the Biltstraat area offers trendy bistros and wine bars.

Hungry after your walking tour?

Our guides love sharing food tips during the free walking tour in Utrecht. We pass many of these spots along the route, and your guide is always happy to recommend the perfect lunch spot for after the tour. Book your tour and start your Utrecht food adventure every Saturday & Sunday at 10:30!