ROTTERDAM, 9 December 2024 – A new pop-up dining venue, Fundamental.eatery, is set to open its doors on 21 December in the Groot Handelsgebouw. The eatery blends gastronomy with art and design, offering visitors an innovative culinary experience rooted in local culture.
A reflection of Rotterdam's ever-evolving identity
Fundamental.eatery introduces a novel dining experience to Rotterdam, embracing the city's dynamic and ever-changing nature. Located in the iconic Groot Handelsgebouw near Rotterdam Centraal, the eatery offers a setting that merges culinary innovation with artistic and architectural exploration. The 120-square-metre venue accommodates 24 guests in a spacious and open environment, featuring an à la carte menu crafted to inspire curiosity and conversation.
Temporary yet impactful
The eatery's concept reflects the fleeting and evolving nature of the city itself. Its creators, chef Merel Charlotte Beelenkamp and host Bastiaan Kalmeyer, have designed a space that challenges conventional dining norms. By intertwining gastronomy with art and design, they aim to foster meaningful connections while addressing global challenges such as biodiversity loss and climate change. According to the duo, their work is inspired by the rhythms of nature, local culture, and their commitment to sustainability.
Fundamental.eatery opens in Rotterdam's Groot Handelsgebouw
Supporting local connections
Fundamental.eatery collaborates with local suppliers and artists to create a unique dining atmosphere. By utilising regional ingredients and creative partnerships, the venue seeks to reconnect visitors with the fundamental ties between gastronomy, art, and community. Beelenkamp and Kalmeyer emphasise that the eatery serves as a platform for conversation and cultural exchange, highlighting the interconnectedness of various disciplines.
Opening details
The pop-up officially launches on Saturday, 21 December, with regular hours from Thursday to Saturday, 18:00 to 01:00. Reservations can be made via the eatery's website, Instagram, or WhatsApp. Walk-ins are also welcome.
About Groot Handelsgebouw
Situated adjacent to Rotterdam Centraal, Groot Handelsgebouw is a hub for over 450 businesses and a symbol of the city’s post-war reconstruction. Built in 1953, the building spans 120,000 square metres and serves as a vibrant community space for multinational corporations, startups, and cultural organisations. Fundamental.eatery's location within this iconic structure underscores its alignment with Rotterdam's spirit of innovation and renewal.
Address and directions
Fundamental.eatery is located at Weena 107, 3013 CH Rotterdam, in the Groot Handelsgebouw. The venue is a short walk from Rotterdam Centraal Station and accessible via public transport, bike, and car. Parking options are available nearby.
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