11 proper lunch spots
Fancy a proper long lunch—something a bit different? In Utrecht you’ll find plenty of welcoming, creative and quirky places where you can happily while away an afternoon. We’ve rounded up 11 great lunch spots, so all you have to do is settle in and enjoy the food.
Stadsjochies
Nestled in the lush greenery of the Rijndijk, you’ll find greenhouse restaurant Stadsjochies. Working in tune with nature, they serve dishes using as much fresh produce as possible from their own greenhouses, fields, vertical garden, herb garden and tea garden. Go for a surprise lunch or multi-course dinner and enjoy the cream of the crop.
Le Jardin
At Le Jardin, vegetables and herbs lead the way. The lunch menu is inspired by the seasons and the harvests of local growers, so the dishes reflect the time of year. The kitchen blends a love of top-quality ingredients with passion, skill and classic French cuisine, occasionally adding a fine piece of meat, fish or poultry. Prefer to go meat-free? They’re happy to adapt any dish on the menu.
Tijm
Tijm is a lovely spot to drop in for breakfast, lunch or a really good cup of coffee. Flick through the paper, play a board game over a beer or sit out in the sun. The city-centre location has a great view over the Oudegracht, which really shines in spring.
Karibu
Set in the distinctive Hooghiemstra building, an iconic industrial landmark, Karibu sits between the leafy Griftpark and one of Utrecht’s main canals. Green and urban at the same time, it’s the perfect place to linger over a generous Mediterranean lunch.
The Streetfood Club
As soon as you step inside The Streetfood Club, you’ll feel at ease. Sink into chairs you won’t want to get out of while you hum to some old school hip-hop tunes. The chefs take you on a culinary journey from the backstreets of Mexico all the way to the bustling streets of Bangkok. So, sit tight and enjoy the ride.
Rabarber
Petit café Rabarber is located on one of Utrecht’s prettiest streets—Zadelstraat. Fancy something hearty? This is the place to be. Rabarber works with local suppliers wherever possible. They serve coffee from Nordkapp, bread from Broei Bakkerij and plenty of excellent Utrecht craft beers. Open seven days a week from 9 am.
Soep-er
Soup is a versatile dish found in all corners of the world—think fragrant Vietnamese pho, spicy Singapore laksa, hearty Italian minestrone and classic Dutch pea soup with smoked sausage. Whether you’re after a light lunch, a quick bite or a hearty evening meal, Soep-er has it all.
De Ontdekking
De Ontdekking is a cosy, laid-back breakfast, lunch and coffee spot in the heart of the city. The building was home to a travel agency for more than 60 years—a theme that is kept alive in both the décor and the menu. The lunch menu includes soups, hot dishes and salads. A little later in the day, why not enjoy a fabulous high tea for two?
Camping Ganspoort
Located in the Rotsoord district, near Utrecht Vaartsche Rijn station, this relaxed waterside hangout is open all day long. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast, enjoy a seriously tasty lunch out on the sunny terrace by the water or invite the whole family for a generous dinner. They use honest, quality ingredients—and best of all, serve delicious ice-cold beer.
Daen’s
This funky spot is right on one of the city’s cosiest squares—Ganzenmarkt. Daen’s is both fashion boutique and a lovely café. From 8 am, you can stop by for breakfast, cake, coffee and tea. In the afternoon, they serve lunch, from filling sandwiches to salads and various homemade soups.
Za’atar
Breakfast, lunch and dinner—but make it Middle Eastern! Everything is homemade and vegetarian. Expect generous mezze platters, flatbread with delicious dips, baklava and truly fantastic falafel. Perfect for sharing. Or not.