ROTTERDAM, 12 September 2025 – By Ami, located on Antoine Platekade at the Kop van Zuid, has been voted Rotterdam’s most beautiful terrace of 2025. The public contest drew more than 2,300 votes, with De Tuin van de Vier Windstreken in Kralingen and De Prins van Terbregge along the Rotte finishing second and third.

By Ami in Rotterdam is a bright and colourful bistro on the Kop van Zuid, right by the water. The place is known for its playful, Instagram-worthy interior and a lively, social vibe. The menu mixes flavours from around the world, with lighter dishes like soups, salads and ceviche during lunch, and shared dining options in the evening. It’s the kind of spot where you can try a bit of everything, whether you go for the By Ami Complete, a spread of small bites, or finish with a slice of Rollo cheesecake or a vegan chocolate date pie with coconut sorbet. Alongside the food, they serve creative lattes, cocktails, and plenty of drinks, making it a place where eating and hanging out go hand in hand.

A city-wide contest

The competition was launched by the municipality this summer. Until 13 August, residents could nominate their favourite terraces, resulting in more than 800 submissions. From these, a jury representing Koninklijke Horeca Nederland (KHN) Rotterdam, food platform De Buik and the municipality selected a shortlist of ten. Criteria included the number of nominations, atmosphere, hospitality, appearance and compliance with municipal quality standards.

Voting was open from 22 August until 7 September. The race remained close until the final day, but By Ami ultimately collected the most votes and secured the 2025 title.

Celebration at Kop van Zuid

Horeca alderman Robert Simons visited the winning terrace on Friday to personally hand over the award.

“Congratulations, By Ami, on being voted the most beautiful terrace in Rotterdam 2025! I am proud of Rotterdam’s hospitality sector and the many terraces our city has to offer. This contest not only highlights the winner but celebrates the city’s entire terrace culture – and that calls for more,” said Simons.

The announcement was celebrated on site with the By Ami team, who marked the occasion with champagne and applause.

Other nominated terraces

The following terraces were nominated for the 2025 award (alphabetical order):

• By Ami
• De Prins van Terbregge
• De Schone Lei
• De Tuin van de Vier Windstreken
• Dudok in het Park
• Juni Rotterdam
• La Cazuela
• Maaskantine
• Vet & Lazy
• Yolo

Practical information

• Winner: By Ami, Antoine Platekade, Kop van Zuid
• Runner-up: De Tuin van de Vier Windstreken, Kralingen
• Third place: De Prins van Terbregge, along the Rotte

Location and directions

By Ami is situated on Antoine Platekade at the Kop van Zuid, overlooking the river and within walking distance of Erasmus Bridge. The location is easily accessible by tram, metro (Wilhelminaplein) and bicycle.

ROTTERDAM, 11 August 2025 – Rotterdam’s salsa, bachata, and kizomba scene is set for a lively September, with new dance courses and multiple social events. Local venues will host both ticketed and free gatherings, giving dance enthusiasts a range of ways to enjoy Latin music and movement.

Latin dance courses begin in September

From 1 to 7 September 2025, trial lessons and courses in salsa, bachata (Dominican, fusion, and sensual styles), and kizomba will commence at two Rotterdam locations. Sessions will be available for various levels, ranging from complete beginners to experienced dancers.

The courses will run from 1 September until 9 November, with different formats including ten one-hour sessions, five two-hour sessions, or five sessions of one-and-a-half hours. Classes will be held at Typical Tropical Studios on Schiekade 830, and at Dansschool Meyer et Fils on Henegouwerlaan 53-B.

Participants will rotate dance partners unless attending as a couple. Organisers note that the courses are intended to provide clear instruction, personal attention, and a welcoming environment.

More details and registration can be found on the Typical Tropical website.

LatinXpress at Podium Grounds

On Saturday 6 September, the monthly LatinXpress event will take place at Podium Grounds on Pieter de Hoochweg 125. The evening will feature separate salsa and bachata rooms, with sets by DJs Virgil, Charlie, Rachella, and El Che.

The event is scheduled from 22:00 to 03:30. Drinks will be available for purchase by cash or card, and food will be provided by Warung Mistique. Entry tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door, with parking free after 23:00.

Free Latincafé Dox at the Nieuwe Luxor Theater

On Wednesday 17 September, Café Dox at the Nieuwe Luxor Theater will host a free Latin-themed evening. DJ Mo will play a mix of salsa, bachata, merengue, and occasional kizomba.

Café Dox, located at Antoine Platekade 9 with a view over Rijnhaven, will be open from 20:30 to 00:30. Admission is free, and parking is complimentary after 23:00 or available at nearby paid locations.

Location details

Typical Tropical Studios – Situated on Schiekade, just north of Rotterdam Central Station, this location is easily accessible by tram and metro. Paid parking is available in the area.

Dansschool Meyer et Fils – Located on Henegouwerlaan in the Middelland district, the venue is close to tram lines and about a 10-minute walk from Rotterdam Central Station.

Podium Grounds – Found on Pieter de Hoochweg in Delfshaven, the venue is near Marconiplein metro station and is surrounded by street parking, which is free after 23:00.

Café Dox at Nieuwe Luxor Theater – Located at the southern foot of the Erasmus Bridge, this spot offers views of the Rijnhaven. Public transport connections are available via Wilhelminaplein metro station.

HAPPENING in October 2025 – Typical Tropical, one of Rotterdam’s leading dance schools and event organisers for salsa and bachata, has announced its October line-up. The programme features parties, courses and a free Latin café.

Whether you are looking to learn new moves, practise at socials or simply enjoy live Latin rhythms, October offers multiple opportunities to connect with Rotterdam’s vibrant dance community.

LatinXpress at Podium Grounds – Saturday 4 October

The month kicks off with LatinXpress, the popular first-Saturday event at Podium Grounds. Guests can enjoy separate salsa and bachata rooms, each with top DJs, along with tropical catering and professional sound and lighting.

• Location: Grounds, Pieter de Hoochweg 125, Rotterdam
• Time: 22:00 – 03:30
• Line-up: Salsa Room – DJs Rachel & Hubert | Bachata Room – DJs Jarzino & Judy
• Food: Huize Wekker | Photography: RH fotografie
• Tickets: Presale €10–18.50 via link, door €17.50 (cash) / €18.50 (pin)
• Facilities: Drinks (cash & pin), cloakroom (€1 cash per item), free toilets
• Parking: Free after 23:00

More info: Typical Tropical agenda

Fast-track salsa and bachata courses – 6 to 12 October

From Monday 6 October, Typical Tropical launches intensive five-week salsa and bachata courses. Styles include Dominican, Fusion and Sensual. Classes take place at two venues in Rotterdam.

• Period: 6 October – 9 November
• Format: 5 x 2-hour or 5 x 1-hour lessons
• Locations: Typical Tropical Studios, Schiekade 830 | Dansschool Meyer et Fils, Henegouwerlaan 53-B
• What to expect: Experienced instructors, clear explanations, mirror-walled studios, partner rotations, socials to practise moves, and a welcoming community.

Register here: typicaltropical.nl/inschrijven

Latin Café Dox – Wednesday 15 October

In partnership with the Nieuwe Luxor Theater, Typical Tropical hosts the monthly Latin Café Dox. DJ Virgil El Gigante plays salsa, bachata and occasional merengue or kizomba. Entry is free.

• Date: Wednesday 15 October
• Location: Café Dox, Antoine Platekade 9, Rotterdam (Rijnhaven waterfront)
• Time: 20:30 – 00:30
• DJ: Virgil El Gigante
• Entry: Free
• Parking: Free after 23:00, or paid parking nearby

More info: Typical Tropical agenda

HAPPENING July & August | Typical Tropical, Rotterdam’s primary Latin dance school since the 1990s, is presenting a packed summer schedule. Expect free outdoor sessions, club nights, and studio-based classes aimed at both newcomers and seasoned dancers.

_{Image: Latincafé Dox at Nieuwe Luxor — Photo credit: Richard van 't Hof.}

Latin dance returns to Grotekerkplein with free outdoor event

A free Latin dance afternoon will be held on Sunday 27 July at the Stadspodium on Grotekerkplein, a popular public stage near Laurenskerk. The event, titled Typical Tropical in the City, welcomes all from 14:00 to 17:00. It begins with an advanced salsa workshop by Clayton & Helen, followed by music from DJ Carlos.

As Rotterdam’s principal school for salsa, bachata and kizomba, Typical Tropical—based on Schiekade—uses gatherings like this to unite its local and expat community. No registration is needed.
More information

LatinXpress transforms Podium Grounds on 2 August

On Saturday 2 August, LatinXpress returns to Podium Grounds (Pieter de Hoochweg 125, Delfshaven), a venue known for international music programming. Organised by Typical Tropical, the night features two rooms: salsa with DJs Rachella & Mo, and bachata with Brian K & El Pequeno Loco.

The event runs from 22:00 to 03:30, with Latin-inspired food by Huize Wekker and event photography by RH Fotografie. Tickets are €15 in advance, or €17.50–€18.50 at the door. Food and drink can be purchased by cash or pin.
More information | Buy tickets

August dance courses at Schiekade studio

Throughout August, Typical Tropical will run structured salsa and bachata courses at its Schiekade 830 studios—an established dance hub near Rotterdam Centraal. From 4 to 31 August, participants can choose beginner classes or the creative “Summer Fun” sessions.

Each option includes four two-hour lessons, priced at €100 per person or €195 per couple. A supplementary Bachata Musicality course is available for €55 per person. The school emphasises clear teaching, community support, and an inclusive atmosphere. Early registration is recommended.
Course info and registration

One of the classrooms at Typical Tropical Studios

Outdoor dance party at Stadion Neptunus on 15 August

On Friday 15 August, Typical Tropical Outdoor returns to Stadion Neptunus, the city’s baseball stadium next to Roel Langerakpark. Attendees can dance under the sky, sip tropical snacks and enjoy Latin beats in a striking stadium setting.

The programme starts at 17:45 with DJ El Pequeno Loco, followed by a Bachata Cool & Sexy Moves workshop by Brandon & Milou at 18:15. Music continues with DJs Phily and El Pequeno Loco through to 23:00.

Tickets are €8.50 in advance; parking is €3.50. Door entry is €12–€13, and parking €5–€6. Toilets are free; wardrobe is cash-only. Note the ground is unsuitable for suede-soled shoes. Refunds available in case of poor weather.
Event details

Directions to Stadion Neptunus

Stadion Neptunus lies in Spaanse Polder, part of a wider sports area. It’s accessible by car, cycling or bus via Marconiplein. On-site parking for 250 vehicles.

Latin Oase replaces Latin Café Dox on 20 August

With Dox temporarily closed in August, Typical Tropical hosts a one-off Latin Oase event on Wednesday 20 August at Oase, located at Schiehaven 15a in the Lloydkwartier. Set on the waterfront, Oase is a casual cultural venue combining an indoor wooden floor and outdoor terrace.

DJ Rachella (also celebrating her birthday) will spin a mix of salsa, bachata, merengue and kizomba. Entry is free, and the space is easily reachable—just ten minutes by bike from the city centre.
Event details

Directions to Oase

Oase sits near the Euromast and Het Park, accessible via tram 8 or cycling from the centre.

About Typical Tropical

Established in the 1990s, Typical Tropical has become a prominent dance school in Rotterdam, offering a diverse range of dance styles and events. The school provides high-quality and enjoyable dance lessons in Salsa, Bachata, and Kizomba, catering to various skill levels. In addition to classes, Typical Tropical organises social practice evenings and events at notable venues such as the Nieuwe Luxor, W70, SS Rotterdam, Grounds, and the Stadspodium.