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.

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.