City Trips

These are the best (food) hotspots in Eindhoven

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Eindhoven may be known as the city of the craziest people, but believe me: it also excels in a whole lot of other things. From the coolest hotspots to the best food, and from hidden gems to a vibrant nightlife. I've lived here my whole life – yes really, full-on Eindhovense – so trust me when I say I know where you need to be. Are you planning to spend a weekend or a day in Eindhoven soon? Let me help you out.

I'll take you to the most fun places in the city: this is your ultimate city bucket list for a day, weekend, or (who knows) a future move to 040.

Breakfast at The Happiness Café

First up: If your breakfast doesn't look Instagrammable, is it even a breakfast? Well, if you ask me: no. At The Happiness Café, you don't have to worry about whether your breakfast is aesthetically pleasing enough. From açai bowls to cappuccinos with oat milk and hearts in them that make you fall in love (with your breakfast, not the barista). Bonus: goodbye processed food and hello fresh foods – everything is homemade, delicious, and also nutritious. So breakfast feels instantly like a self-care moment? Want to make delicious breakfasts yourself? check the tastiest recipes here.


Lunching here

Ooh – where can you have the best lunch? My favorite spot to go with the whole family (not just because I've worked there, but also because it's really true): Zoet & Zout. It's one of those places in Eindhoven that everyone knows. The portions are large and the staff is friendly (always ready for a chat). The view from the terrace is a prime spot for people-watching with your slightly oversized sunglasses on.

Not in the mood for a warm big lunch? Then Bagels & Beans is always a safe choice.
My top 3 bagels?
– The one with salmon and quark
– The one with cottage cheese
– Whole grain bagel with roast beef, pesto, alfalfa, and cherry tomatoes (my mouth is watering)

A tea break while shopping

Tea and terrace at the Markt? Yes please. We stay in chill mode for a bit longer, because after – or during – shopping (Bijenkorf, hello; and that mega beautiful new ZARA? Yes please) it's lovely to plop down on the Markt. Just pick a cozy terrace – many places look alike, but that makes it fun. De Vooruitgang is always a good choice. Spacious, cozy atmosphere, and you can enjoy people-watching with a steaming cup of tea in front of you. And you know what makes it extra nice? In winter, it's cozy here too. With heaters and blankets, you feel instantly comfy. And let's be honest: tea tastes a hundred times better when it's a bit meh outside?

Dining out & endless drinks on the Kleine Berg

To continue on those terraces... Here you eat and drink the best until the end of the day: Lucie Cocina on the Kleine Berg. One word: favorite. My absolute favorite, if I could choose. The coolest tapas bar in all of the Netherlands (yes, really). This Spanish eatery is so beautiful that you feel like you're in Barcelona. Think: Iberico ham, tortilla, brioche with anchovies (yes, really: don't skip it), Spanish wines from small family-owned wineries, and an atmosphere to fall in love with.

Craving sushi or seafood? De Kreeftenbar is your go-to. Here you eat lobster, sashimi, tempura, and bisque as a starter. The sushi boat is top-notch – and if you love Instagram: camera eats first, because this is photogenic.

Or you just stroll over the Kleine Berg, see what's pleasantly busy, and settle there. My tip: the fuller the terrace, the better the food. You might have to wait a bit longer, but then you've often really chosen something good.

Cocktails & going out

Are you not one to go home early? Want to keep the night going until deep into the night? Then you must go to Stratumseind – a hundred percent. This 225-meter-long street with over 50 cafés is the longest nightlife street in the Netherlands. Really. The atmosphere is laid-back, cozy, and especially delightfully crazy.

Which place you really can't miss on Stratum? ’t Lempke of course. A classic among Eindhoven students. This pub with club vibes is also familiar territory for other Brabant party-goers. The average age is around 20/21, be prepared for glitter tops, vodka Red Bulls, and worn-out sneakers. Just saying: there's something happening here every night (except on Mondays), and you always run into someone you know – or wish you had known. ’t Lempke is the only pub on Stratumseind that is always packed.

Furthermore, De Thomas is also a really nice spot. On Fridays and Saturdays, you can only enter from 20 years old, which is why the average age here is also a bit higher than the average on Stratum. De Thomas is a bit fancier and really a great place to drink cocktails. You can even attend a cocktail workshop here, and in November, December, and January, there are mega fun winter domes where you can eat and drink under the stars.

Got some time left? Do a gin-making workshop or a tasting at Bottle Distillery – great for a couple or a group of friends.