The iconic Groot Handelsgebouw in Rotterdam will host a unique culinary experience this October, as Het Rondreizende Smaakmuseum (The Travelling Taste Museum) brings its interactive food exhibition to the city.

A culinary exhibition at Groot Handelsgebouw

On Saturday, 14 October, the roof of Groot Handelsgebouw will be transformed into a venue for Het Smaakmuseum, an initiative by artist and Creative Chef Jasper Udink ten Cate. From 12:00 to 15:00, guests can partake in a special lunch that goes beyond the ordinary dining experience.

An artistic lunch experience

The event will feature not just a curated menu, but also an exhibition at the table, complete with a food performance by Jasper Udink ten Cate. The Rooftop, a restaurant located atop Groot Handelsgebouw, one of Rotterdam's most iconic buildings, serves as the backdrop for this unique event.

Het Smaakmuseum brings culinary art to Rotterdam's Groot Handelsgebouw

Promoting biodiversity through food

This Rotterdam edition aims to promote biodiversity by offering a menu that includes rare edible plants from the Netherlands. The event is part of Het Smaakmuseum's ongoing collaboration with prestigious venues, having previously been hosted at locations like Paleis Soestdijk.

A journey through flavours and time

The interactive experience will combine old plant varieties, cooking techniques, and preparation methods to offer a unique blend of flavours. The event aims to raise awareness about authentic food, taste, food cultures, and biodiversity.

 

Directions and location

How to Get There

The Groot Handelsgebouw is easily accessible by public transport and is located near Rotterdam Central Station. The area is known for its architectural landmarks and vibrant atmosphere.

Amidst fluctuating weather conditions and environmental concerns, the first edition of Nationale Klimbosdag (National Climbing Forest Day) is set to take place on 13 September. The event aims to raise awareness about the importance of forests while offering a unique outdoor experience.

The initiative behind the event

The event was initiated by Klimbos Nederland and Fun Forest. The purpose is to encourage people to experience the benefits of nature in a unique and playful manner, while also drawing attention to forest conservation. “We are proud that so many climbing forests are participating in the first edition of the Nationale Klimbosdag. Together, we invite children, young people, and adults to celebrate the climbing forests and nature,” said Ciaran Barsema, director of Klimbos Nederland.

The impact on health and well-being

Being in a forested environment has been shown to reduce stress hormones and increase happiness hormones. Coupled with physical activities like climbing and zip lining, the benefits are amplified.

Aiding forest conservation

Twenty climbing forest locations across the Netherlands, including Fun Forest Rotterdam and Abel Klimbos in Poortugaal, are participating in the event. For every ticket sold, €1 will be donated to Trees for All, contributing to the planting of new trees in areas where they are needed. “The ambition is to attract 1,500 visitors so that we can collectively plant at least 300 new trees,” said David Balhuizen, general director at Fun Forest.

Event details and participation

Date: Wednesday, 13 September
Ticket price: €16, with €1 donation to Trees for All

How to get there

Both locations are easily accessible by public transport and offer ample parking spaces for those who prefer to drive. The areas are known for their scenic beauty, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

Directions to Fun Forest Rotterdam

Directions to Abel. Klimbos in Poortugaal

A monthly residency at The Grit has been established, featuring DJ and producer Baggi as the main act, starting this September. The series, known as Off The Grit, will feature both emerging talents and established names in the electronic music industry. Among the first to join him will be Benny Rodriguez on 9 September.

Club manager Ali Can Sert stated, “Both Baggi and The Grit enjoy pushing boundaries, making this a perfect match.” He added that Baggi's unique style has garnered a loyal following worldwide, making his residency a special treat for The Grit's patrons.

A new chapter in Baggi's career

Having built a strong reputation on international stages and leading music festivals, Baggi is now returning to Rotterdam to host Off The Grit at The Grit monthly. This marks a significant milestone in his career and offers a unique opportunity for music enthusiasts and fans in the region.

“Rotterdam has always been my home. My monthly residency is a way to show my appreciation and share my love for music with the people who have supported me from the beginning,” Baggi said about his new venture.

Upcoming events at The Grit

LIMBO – Every Friday

Enter the club and get lost in time with a mix of 70's classics, today's hits, R&B, hip-hop, Latin, afro, and more.

WAISTLINE – Every Two Months

Expect a blend of afro and Caribbean sounds like dancehall, soca, and amapiano, curated by Nems.

MONDAY AT THE GRIT – Every Last Monday

Designed for those who work weekends. The music will be a mix of R&B, house, Latin, and afro.

PURPLE – Every Two Months

Featuring Afropop, Electronic, Funk, Hip-Hop, Hip-House, Nu-soul & RnB, curated by Feurich.

INFERNO– Every Two Months

Groovy, Funky, Boogie, Disco, House.

How to get to The Grit

The Grit is located in the heart of Rotterdam, easily accessible by public transport and just a short walk from key landmarks. The area is vibrant, filled with other nightlife options, making it a perfect spot for an evening out.

ROTTERDAM, 5 September 2023 – This weekend, WTC Rotterdam will participate in Open Monumenten Dag (Open Monuments Day) for the first time, offering a unique exhibition and guided tours to the public.

A weekend of exploration

More than 50 monuments in Rotterdam will be accessible to visitors on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 September. Among them, WTC Rotterdam is making its debut in the event. The exhibition, titled 'Het monument van de toekomst' (The Monument of the Future), will be open from 11:00 to 17:00.

Guided tours by Ferrie Weeda

Ferrie Weeda, a historian and city guide in Rotterdam, will conduct three exclusive tours, showcasing various special locations within the monumental building. The tours are scheduled for 11:00, 12:00, and 13:00. Advanced registration is available, and eight spots per tour are open for walk-ins.

The evolution of trade in Rotterdam

Trade has been conducted in the city centre since 1598. Initially, a covered place known as the Beurs was established to protect traded grain from bad weather. Over the years, the Beurs moved to different locations within the city, eventually evolving into the WTC Rotterdam.

Transformation and sustainability

The building, which once served as a trading exchange, now houses approximately 100 offices. Since 2016, it has undergone significant revitalisation, designed by Architect Bierman Henket. Attention was paid to the original vision of J.F. Staal, who designed the building in the 1930s. Investments have also been made in sustainability, resulting in an A++ energy label.

A word from the managing director

Eveline Steenbergen, managing director of WTC Rotterdam, stated, "This place has significant historical value. The exhibition and tours demonstrate why this building is rightfully a Rijksmonument."

About WTC Rotterdam

Situated in the bustling city centre and the Central Business District, WTC Rotterdam has been owned by Bouwinvest since 2015. The building offers a range of facilities, including a congress centre, a hotel, and various dining options.

How to get there

WTC Rotterdam is centrally located in the heart of Rotterdam, making it easily accessible by public transport and car. The area is vibrant, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.