ROTTERDAM, 26 November 2024 – A new addition to Rotterdam’s Stadhuisplein is set to elevate the city’s burger scene. Drippy’s, a restaurant specialising in smashburgers, will open its doors on 30 November, bringing a modern twist to this popular culinary trend.

Drippy’s to open at Stadhuisplein in Rotterdam

Drippy’s, a burger restaurant focused on smashburgers, is preparing to open at Stadhuisplein, a vibrant spot in the heart of Rotterdam. Smashburgers, known for their crispy crust and savoury flavour, will be the star of the menu, paired with fresh ingredients and contemporary surroundings.

The restaurant is the brainchild of a team with strong connections to Rotterdam. Co-founder Kaj Gorgels, recognised for his work as a TV presenter and online personality, grew up in the city, while Ad Schaap, CEO of the De Beren restaurant chain, has been a key figure in Rotterdam’s dining scene for years. Culinary influencer Colin Knopper, also part of the team, has designed the unique recipes that will set Drippy’s apart.

“Rotterdam has always been close to our hearts, and it feels right to open here first,” the team shared. Drippy’s aims to bring something fresh and exciting to the area while laying the foundation for future expansion.

Drippy’s smashburger restaurant opens in Rotterdam. Photo credit: Jasper Mulder

What makes smashburgers special?

Drippy’s menu revolves around smashburgers, a cooking style that originated in the United States. The name comes from the process of pressing beef patties onto a hot grill, creating a flavourful crust through a process known as the Maillard reaction. At Drippy’s, the patties are made with grass-fed beef, the buns are baked fresh daily, and the fries are hand-cut and prepared on-site.

“Our focus is on quality and flavour,” explained the team. “Every detail, from the ingredients to the cooking process, is about creating the best possible burger experience.”

A prime location at Stadhuisplein

Drippy’s will open at Stadhuisplein, a lively square known for its restaurants and nightlife. The location is central and easily accessible, just a short distance from Rotterdam Central Station and well-connected by public transport. Parking facilities are also available nearby, making it a convenient spot for both locals and visitors.

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.

ROTTERDAM, 16 October 2024 – A new culinary experience is set to take Rotterdam’s dining scene to new heights as Celest prepares to open its restaurant and bar atop De Zalmhaven tower. The menu will focus on local ingredients, served with views that span the city skyline.

Michelin expertise comes to Celest in Rotterdam

Celest, the highly anticipated restaurant and bar located on the 57th and 58th floors of De Zalmhaven in Rotterdam, is nearing its final stages of development. The kitchen team, led by chef Lars Drost, brings Michelin-level expertise to the table, aiming to serve refined dishes crafted from primarily local ingredients.

The ambitious kitchen team includes two sous chefs, Frank van Rijsbergen and Leonardo Sussi, both of whom have backgrounds in high-end dining. Drost, who previously worked as a sous chef at the two-Michelin-starred Ciel Bleu in Amsterdam, explains that the strength of the team lies in the combined experience of its members. “When you're working with such skilled sous chefs, everyone brings a few people from their network, which naturally creates a strong team,” says Drost. He adds that working at Celest involves becoming an ambassador for the concept, with each team member committed to delivering an exceptional culinary experience.

Local ingredients, global cuisine

Celest’s kitchen team will offer both à la carte and seasonal menus at the restaurant on the 58th floor. Guests can expect international cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Drost emphasises that the team’s approach is different from traditional sourcing methods: “Instead of purchasing what is already harvested, we work directly with local suppliers ahead of time to secure the freshest ingredients. This way, our menu can constantly evolve, offering something new for returning guests.”

Meanwhile, the bar on the 57th floor will be open from 10:00 in the morning, offering an array of drinks and light meals that cater to different times of the day. Guests can also enjoy a selection of cocktails while taking in one of the most panoramic views of Rotterdam.

Zalmhaventoren meets moon. Photo credit: Kimo Grashuis

A nod to Rotterdam’s history

Celest’s concept is deeply rooted in local culture. The restaurant is inspired by “The Unparalleled Adventure of One Hans Pfaall,” a short story by Edgar Allan Poe that tells the tale of a Rotterdammer who embarks on a journey to the moon in a homemade balloon. Elements from this story are subtly woven into the dining experience at Celest. Drost notes that the narrative of Hans Pfaall is reflected not only in the restaurant’s décor but also in the dishes themselves, leaving it to visitors to discover how.

The restaurant is set to open later in 2024, although the exact date depends on the completion of renovation works. However, it has been confirmed that Celest will welcome its first guests before the holiday season.

About the location: De Zalmhaven

De Zalmhaven is situated in Rotterdam’s Scheepvaartkwartier, one of the city’s most iconic neighbourhoods. Rising above the city, the tower offers some of the best views in the region. It is easily accessible via public transport, with tram and metro stops nearby, and parking facilities are also available. For those planning to visit Celest, the unique setting atop Rotterdam’s tallest building promises a memorable experience.