Maria & Pepe restaurant returns to Rotterdam

ROTTERDAM, 12 April 2024 – Maria & Pepe are set to return to OASE at the Maas this summer, offering a blend of culture and cuisine under the Rotterdam sun from July to August.

Pop-up restaurant returns to Rotterdam's OASE

For the second consecutive year, the pop-up Mexican restaurant and bar, Maria & Pepe, will reopen at the cultural hub OASE along the Maas river in Rotterdam. Following its successful inception in 2023, the venue will once again offer a space where food and culture intertwine from 11 July to 31 August.

A taste of Mexico on the Maas

Set against the scenic backdrop of the Maas, visitors can indulge in an array of Mexican dishes inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Mexico. The evenings will be filled with food, cocktails, and social interactions, alongside salsa dancing, musical performances, and tortilla-making workshops.

Maria, one of the founders, shared, "Mexico is incredibly rich in colours, scents, and flavours. At Maria & Pepe, we aim to showcase this diversity through our responsibly sourced, plant-based menu that prioritises organic and local ingredients."

Born from love and sustainability

The concept for Maria & Pepe was born from a romantic encounter between Maria and Pepe (formerly known as Joost) in Rotterdam's Bergse Voorplas area. Their shared passion for authentic Mexican culture and sustainable living led to the creation of this unique dining experience.

Maria & Pepe (Joost). Photo credit: Michelle Urbiztondo

Commitment to transparency and community involvement

Maria & Pepe is more than just a dining destination; it is a community-centric project that embraces transparency and participation. All team members share in the revenue, reflecting their roles and hours worked. This model fosters a sense of responsibility and unity within the team.

A crowdfunding campaign will kick off in early May to gather the necessary start-up capital. The restaurant also aims to host at least 50 Rotterdam residents for whom dining out is not a common occurrence, with crowdfunding support helping to achieve this goal.

Important dates and opening hours

Crowdfunding starts: Early May
Reservations open: Mid-June
Open: 11 July to 31 August, Wednesday to Sunday.

The restaurant will operate from 17:00 until late, with the kitchen open from 17:30 to 21:30. Sundays will feature finger food and early dining options starting from 14:00, with the kitchen closing at 20:00.

Maria & Pepe restaurant returns to Rotterdam

Directions to OASE at the Maas

Situated at the vibrant cultural hub OASE along the Maas, Maria & Pepe is easily accessible via public transport and offers ample parking nearby. The area is known for its artistic atmosphere and stunning river views, making it a perfect spot for a summer evening out.