Utrecht and the surrounding area :- Part 7

Places to eat and drink around Utrecht

The wharfside restaurants on the Oudegracht are an obvious place to explore for dining options. However, they better known for its views than the quality of their food. That’s not to say you will be disappointed but as long as you know what you are looking for then there will not be a problem. If you are looking for Utrecht' s better restaurants then your search should start elsewhere.

Gys is where you will find everything' s organic in this bright and airy bistro, from the burgers which are tofu or lamb to the sandwiches. Try the smoked mackerel with beet mousse or the tempeh with sweet potato, avocado and watercress.

Kimmade is Vietnamese and is basically a hole in the wall on a lane full of restaurants. However, this one is especially appealing for its authentic style dishes and low prices. The noodle salads are a work of art that is a pleasure to both the eyes and the mouth. It' s primarily a takeout but there are a few small tables and a counter at the back.

Opium is a high concept restaurant with a stunning interior. It takes flavours from across Asia and mixes them with locally sourced ingredients. Everything is presented with an eye for drama right down to the exotic cocktails.

Polman' s Grand Café is a former gentlemen' s club. It has ceiling frescoes, extravagant floral displays and plenty of ambience. French and Italian flavours dominate the menu along with an impressive wine list.

Lokaal Negen is French with a difference. It is just around the corner from the Domtoren. It offers intimate dining in the living room of a sturdy old house with an interior garden. I think that the best option is not to order but let yourself be pleasantly surprised by the multi-course set meals. Each comes with an assortment of original starters and you are unlikely to be disappointed.

Blauw is the place to go if you like stylish Indonesian food in Utrecht. They have a large range of customers from all walks of life which seems to confirm their quality and range of options. I can defiantly recommend that you should try the superb rijsttafels which is an array of spicy dishes served with rice. All this is presented in a very reddish decorated restaurant that seems to mix vintage art with a type of hip minimalism. Funnily enough, it all seems to work out OK.

Continued in part 8