The Best Restaurants in Leiden

One of the most prominent cities in the Netherlands, Leiden is loved for its canals, windmills, and cultural heritage. It is home to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands, founded in 1575. The Bio Science Park and the Leiden University Medical Center make the city a significant place for scientific discoveries. It also has a strong connection to art and history, as world-renowned artists such as Rembrandt van Rijn, Lucas van Leyden, and others were born here. The city hosts the Leiden International Film Festival, where films of different genres are screened in the theatres, museums, a historic church, and an observatory.

Such a city dominated by education, arts, and culture is bound to attract visitors from all over the world. From students aspiring to achieve their dreams to expats preparing to set a new livelihood to locals enjoying the attractive vibes, Leiden is home to a multicultural crowd. Needless to say, the city is a hub for restaurants, cafes, and bakeries serving delicacies of diverse cuisines. From authentic Dutch food to Asian and South American food, Leiden has several hidden gems offering mouthwatering food you cannot miss. A scrumptious meal overlooking the picturesque canals or the Oude Rijn River is the perfect idea to spend a relaxed afternoon with your friends in this city.

To save you the hassle of finding these gems, we have shortlisted some of the best restaurants in Leiden so you can head there straightway for your next meal.

Sabai Sabai

Noordeinde 27

If you want to try authentic Thai cuisine full of fragrant herbs and spices, Sabai Sabai is the place to go. A proud member of the Thai Restaurant Association, Sabai Sabai offers some delicious Thai dishes sure to satiate your tastebuds. Every mouthful is an explosion of flavors, from various soups to appetizers to seafood. Along with the menu, you can also check out the list of spices they use and some of their signature Thai recipes. Head to this place for a warm, scrumptious meal on a cool winter afternoon.

Casa Ramon

Oude Varkenmarkt 1a

Casa Ramon is one of Leiden’s best Spanish restaurants, famous for its grilled meat and fish. The owner, Ramon, decided to bring Spanish culture to the Netherlands after growing up in his father’s restaurant in Tossa de Mar, Spain. They serve an exquisite range of wines which can be paired with some of their mouthwatering specialties such as paella, steak, and traditional Spanish desserts.

Tanoor

Haven 62

Tanoor is a must-try if you’re craving some rich Middle Eastern flavors. Specializing in Iraqi cuisine, Tanoor offers a real taste of the Arab world with its lip-smacking delicacies. You cannot miss trying their speciality “Quizi”, known as Iraq’s national dish, made of slow-cooked lamb and served with their homemade sauce and rice. Their tikkis, kebabs, and hummus are also quite popular among visitors.

Paco Ciao

Stationsweg 25

Paco Ciao is undoubtedly one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in Leiden, with its attractive interiors and cozy vibes. One of their highlights is the entrance- a vintage wardrobe door that opens to the restaurant. Their signature cocktails are not to be missed, along with their delectable bao buns, pancakes, nachos, and bites. They also offer lots of vegan options. You must give this one a try for its unique experience.

Dining Tokyo

Herenstraat 8

Founded in 2022, Dining Tokyo Japanese boasts of serving the most authentic Japanese food focusing on home-style cooking. They serve a wide range of Japanese alcohol to complement their delicious food. From sushi to sashimi to udon to their special pickles, Dining Tokyo has everything to satisfy your Japanese food cravings.

Read Also: The Best Lunch Places in Leiden

Bar Lokaal

Hartesteeg 13

Bar Lokaal is the perfect spot for a cozy meal with your friends or colleagues on a relaxed afternoon. With a lively atmosphere, this bar and bistro has some of the tastiest meals and refreshing drinks. Their Eggs Benedict is top-notch, along with their fish and meat dishes. It is also a great place to lounge with a cup of coffee and a book to read.

Woods

Haagweg 81

Situated right by the Oude Rijn River, Woods is a favorite hotspot among the locals and tourists. The restaurant stands in a warehouse next to De Heesterboom, a sawmill built in 1804. You can enjoy a beautiful view of the surroundings on the terrace while savoring some of the restaurant’s mouthwatering dishes. Their menu boasts some of the most exquisite wines and gourmet food, satiating your appetite for delightful flavors.

Tabú

Rembrandtstraat 27

If you’re hungry for some flavorsome snacks and drinks, Tabú is your place to go. Specializing in Latin American cuisine, Tabú promises a scrumptious, hearty meal with a unique collection of cocktails, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and a vibrant ambiance. You can opt for their delicious sharing platters or tortillas made from organic corn. They have plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans.

We hope we have saved you the hassle of finding a perfect spot for a delicious, satisfying meal. The next time you’re around Leiden craving one of the best restaurants in Leiden, you know where to head.