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.

HAPPENING 24–26 December 2024 | Umami by Han introduces a festive Christmas menu, blending holiday traditions with its signature fusion flavours. Diners in Rotterdam and beyond can enjoy a curated culinary experience this festive season.

Umami by Han celebrates the festive season in Rotterdam

The popular restaurant chain Umami by Han has unveiled its special Christmas menu for the holiday season. The menu combines traditional festive elements with the restaurant’s characteristic fusion approach, offering a unique dining experience for its guests.

The Christmas menu is available for lunch and dinner on 24, 25, and 26 December. Lunch options include two courses for €26 per person and three courses for €34.50 per person. Dinner offerings start with a three-course meal at €48.95 per person, with options to expand to four or five courses for an additional fee.

The menu features dishes such as Ceviche Oysters with passionfruit and avocado cream, Veal Entrecôte sous-vide with watercress sauce, and Black Cod accompanied by crustacean sauce and konjac noodles. A selection of desserts, including Pineapple Meringue with lime sorbet, is also available.

To complement the dining experience, Umami by Han offers tea and wine pairings curated by qualified sommeliers. Guests can choose from a refined array of wines or a selection of special teas, each designed to enhance the unique flavours of the courses.

The restaurant accommodates special dietary requirements, including gluten-free and lactose-free options. Guests are encouraged to inform the staff of any specific needs to ensure a tailored dining experience.

A festive option for groups and families

Umami by Han highlights its suitability for gatherings of friends, family, or colleagues during the festive season. The special menu promises a mix of innovative and seasonal flavours, designed to capture the spirit of Christmas in a distinctive way.

Those interested in experiencing the menu are encouraged to visit the official website for more details and reservations.

Location and directions

The Rotterdam branch of Umami by Han is centrally located, offering easy access for locals and visitors alike. Situated in a bustling area known for its dining and nightlife, the restaurant provides an ideal setting for a festive meal.

ROTTERDAM, 3 December 2024 – A Japanese-inspired karaoke venue in Rotterdam, Duke of Tokyo, has been recognised with the Best New Entertainment Concept award. The accolade was presented at the 2024 Entree Awards, celebrating exceptional contributions to Dutch hospitality.

Award highlights Rotterdam's vibrant hospitality scene

The Entree Awards, often regarded as a benchmark for excellence in Dutch hospitality, recognised Duke of Tokyo's Rotterdam location for its innovative approach to entertainment. The venue was praised for its Japanese-inspired karaoke concept and the seamless blend of creative design, exceptional service, and culinary quality.

The jury, comprised of 23 industry experts, selected Duke of Tokyo for its "wonderful Asian-inspired world," reflecting a vibrant and immersive atmosphere. Jury member Anne de Buck commented on the uniqueness of the venue's design and the warm, international feel of its staff.

A unique karaoke experience

Duke of Tokyo, which opened its Rotterdam location earlier this year, brings the energy and vibrancy of Japan's karaoke culture to the city's Hofplein district. Guests can book private karaoke booths and enjoy an evening enriched by Asian-inspired cocktails and dishes. The addition of a restaurant, Izakaya Duki, further enhances the experience, offering a menu of classic Japanese dishes such as yakitori, takoyaki, and agedashi tofu.

The Entree Awards and its criteria

This annual award ceremony celebrates outstanding concepts in the Dutch hospitality industry. Nominees are rigorously judged on their design, concept, and guest experience. The award for Best New Entertainment Concept acknowledges hospitality venues that elevate their field through originality and innovation.

A growing legacy of Duke of Tokyo

Originally launched in Amsterdam in 2018, Duke of Tokyo has expanded to Utrecht and, most recently, to Rotterdam. Each location maintains the original's spirit while adapting to its local environment. The Rotterdam site stands out with its fusion of karaoke, dining, and nightlife under one roof.

How to get there: Hofplein 19

Located at Hofplein 19, Duke of Tokyo sits in the heart of Rotterdam. This central location is easily accessible via public transport, with Rotterdam Centraal station just a short walk away. Visitors can enjoy nearby attractions, making it a convenient stop for both locals and tourists.