The Hague, with its blend of international influences and Dutch traditions, offers a diverse culinary landscape that rivals Amsterdam’s food scene. From Michelin-starred establishments to cozy local favorites, this diplomatic city serves up exceptional dining experiences for every palate and budget. As a long-time resident and food enthusiast, I’ve compiled this carefully curated guide to the best restaurants in The Hague, Netherlands, highlighting standout dishes, price ranges, and what makes each venue truly special.
Fine Dining Experiences in The Hague
The Hague boasts several exceptional fine dining establishments that showcase the best of Dutch and international cuisine. These restaurants combine impeccable service with innovative culinary techniques and premium ingredients.
Fred
Fred stands as one of The Hague’s culinary crown jewels, boasting two Michelin stars under the direction of Chef Fred Mustert. The restaurant delivers an exceptional fine dining experience with meticulous attention to detail in both presentation and flavor.
Cuisine: Modern French with Dutch influences
Price Range: €€€€ (Tasting menus from €145)
Location: Frederikstraat 12
Standout Dishes: The seasonal tasting menu changes regularly, but the langoustine preparation and venison with local vegetables are consistently exceptional.
The Millèn
Located on the top floor of the Haagsche Toren, The Millèn combines breathtaking panoramic views of The Hague with sophisticated cuisine. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers an elegant dining experience with impeccable service.
Cuisine: Modern European
Price Range: €€€€ (Tasting menus from €125)
Location: Rijswijkseplein 786
Standout Dishes: North Sea turbot with seasonal vegetables, and the signature dessert featuring Dutch cheese and local honey.
Calla's
Chef Marcel van der Kleijn creates inventive, seasonal cuisine at this intimate Michelin-starred restaurant. Calla’s offers a more relaxed fine dining experience with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients and creative presentation.
Cuisine: Modern Dutch
Price Range: €€€ (Tasting menus from €95)
Location: Laan van Roos en Doorn 51A
Standout Dishes: Dutch lamb with seasonal accompaniments, and the North Sea fish selection with local vegetables.
Casual Dining Favorites
The Hague offers excellent casual dining options that deliver outstanding food without the formality or high prices of fine dining establishments. These restaurants provide a relaxed atmosphere while maintaining high culinary standards.
Basaal
Housed in a former garage with an industrial-chic interior, Basaal offers creative cuisine in a relaxed setting. This local favorite combines excellent food with a casual atmosphere and friendly service.
Cuisine: Modern European with global influences
Price Range: €€-€€€ (Main courses €22-32)
Location: Dunne Bierkade 3
Standout Dishes: The seasonal risotto, slow-cooked pork belly, and their rotating selection of fresh fish dishes.
Zheng
Zheng offers some of the most authentic Chinese cuisine in The Hague, specializing in dim sum and Cantonese specialties. The restaurant’s elegant interior and attentive service elevate the dining experience.
Cuisine: Chinese (Cantonese, dim sum)
Price Range: €€ (Dim sum €5-8 per dish, main courses €16-25)
Location: Wagenstraat 67
Standout Dishes: Har gow (shrimp dumplings), cheung fun (rice noodle rolls), and the Peking duck (order in advance).
Full Moon City
A favorite among locals, Full Moon City serves authentic dim sum in a traditional Chinese setting. Located in Chinatown, this restaurant offers an extensive menu of small plates perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Cuisine: Chinese (dim sum)
Price Range: €€ (Dim sum €4-7 per dish)
Location: Wagenstraat 71-73
Standout Dishes: Siu mai (pork dumplings), char siu bao (barbecue pork buns), and crispy duck.
International Culinary Gems
The Hague’s status as an international diplomatic center is reflected in its diverse food scene. These restaurants showcase authentic international cuisines that transport diners around the world.
Suhumi
Suhumi brings the rich flavors of Georgian cuisine to The Hague. This cozy restaurant offers authentic dishes from the Caucasus region in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Cuisine: Georgian
Price Range: €€-€€€ (Main courses €18-28)
Location: Prins Hendrikstraat 98
Standout Dishes: Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), khinkali (Georgian dumplings), and various grilled meat dishes with traditional sauces.
Baladi Manouche
This Lebanese gem specializes in manouche, a traditional flatbread topped with various ingredients. Baladi offers authentic Middle Eastern flavors in a casual setting, perfect for a quick lunch or relaxed dinner.
Cuisine: Lebanese
Price Range: € (Manouche €5-9, wraps €6-8)
Location: Prinsestraat 84
Standout Dishes: Za’atar manouche, cheese manouche, and the falafel wrap with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce.
Kaniway
Kaniway introduces The Hague to the unique flavors of Uyghur cuisine, a blend of Chinese, Turkish, and Central Asian influences. This family-run restaurant offers generous portions meant for sharing.
Cuisine: Uyghur
Price Range: €€ (Main courses €15-22)
Location: Wagenstraat 139
Standout Dishes: Chöqüra (Uyghur dumplings), laghman (hand-pulled noodles), and polo (rice pilaf with meat and vegetables).
Casual Bites and Street Food
For quick, affordable, and delicious meals, The Hague offers excellent casual eateries and street food options that deliver big on flavor without breaking the bank.
Day Dream Deli
Day Dream specializes in Montreal-style pastrami sandwiches that have developed a cult following in The Hague. This small sandwich shop offers hearty, flavorful sandwiches that make for a perfect lunch.
Cuisine: Deli sandwiches
Price Range: € (Sandwiches €8-12)
Location: Papestraat 13A
Standout Dishes: The classic pastrami sandwich and the special with additional toppings.
Netherlands Bagels
For authentic New York-style bagels in The Hague, Netherlands Bagels is the go-to spot. This cozy café serves freshly boiled and baked bagels with a variety of toppings and fillings.
Cuisine: American-style bagels
Price Range: € (Bagels €2-3, sandwiches €6-9)
Location: Prinsestraat 23
Standout Dishes: Everything bagel with cream cheese and lox, cinnamon raisin bagel with cream cheese, and the breakfast bagel sandwich.
Bik Friteswerk
Elevating the humble Dutch fries to gourmet status, Bik Friteswerk offers loaded fries that serve as a complete meal. Their creative combinations and high-quality ingredients make this a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Cuisine: Gourmet fries
Price Range: € (Loaded fries €7-12)
Location: Korte Poten 23
Standout Dishes: Pulled pork loaded fries, guacamole loaded fries, and sweet potato fries with harissa mayo.
Where to Find the Best Restaurants in The Hague
Most of The Hague’s best restaurants are concentrated in the city center, Chinatown, and the Zeeheldenkwartier neighborhood. Here’s a map to help you locate these culinary gems during your visit.
Dining Tips for The Hague
Reservations
For fine dining restaurants and popular establishments, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dinners. Most restaurants accept online bookings through their websites or by phone.
Payment Methods
Many restaurants in The Hague accept only PIN (debit) cards or cash. Credit cards are not universally accepted, particularly in smaller establishments. It’s advisable to carry some cash or a Maestro debit card.
Tipping
Service is typically included in the bill in the Netherlands. However, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected.
Lunch Specials
Many fine dining restaurants offer more affordable lunch menus, providing an excellent opportunity to experience high-quality cuisine at a lower price point.
Market Days
Visit the Haagse Markt (open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday) for international street food options, including Caribbean empanadas and other global treats.
Dining Hours
Dutch dinner service typically begins early, around 5:30-6:00 PM. Many kitchens close by 9:30 PM, so plan accordingly for evening meals.
Experience The Hague's Culinary Diversity
The Hague’s restaurant scene offers something for every palate and budget, from Michelin-starred fine dining to authentic international cuisine and casual local favorites. This diplomatic city’s multicultural character is beautifully reflected in its diverse culinary landscape, making it a fantastic destination for food lovers.
Whether you’re seeking an elegant dining experience with panoramic city views, authentic dim sum in Chinatown, or a quick bite of loaded Dutch fries, The Hague delivers exceptional dining experiences that rival those of its more famous neighbor, Amsterdam. As you explore the best restaurants in The Hague, Netherlands, you’ll discover that this city’s culinary offerings are as rich and diverse as its cultural heritage.
Ready to Explore The Hague's Culinary Scene?
Book your table at one of these outstanding restaurants and experience the best of Dutch and international cuisine in The Hague.
