Looking for a charming restaurant or waterside terrace? Waterland, the water-rich heart of Laag Holland, offers plenty of dining and drinking spots where you can enjoy a cup of coffee, a hearty lunch or dinner with a view of the water. From cosy terraces at historic harbours to restaurants on the Markermeer: every venue has its own atmosphere and story. In this blog, we share our favourite waterside dining spots and inspire you to enjoy a delightful visit to Waterland.
atMirror | Brasserie de Taanketel | Café-Restaurant Land en zeezicht | Eetcafé De Ouwe Blauwe
Restaurant Bij de Poort | Taverne De Visscher | Zeilhoek food & drinks
1. Enjoying the harbour at Marken
The harbour at Marken is perhaps one of the most atmospheric spots in Waterland. Here, historic fishermen’s cottages, heritage-listed wooden façades and the Markermeer set the scene. Whilst boats come and go and visitors stroll along the quay, it’s a lovely spot to settle down for a cup of coffee, lunch or dinner. Along the harbour you’ll find various restaurants and cafés, each with its own character, but all offering the same stunning view over the water.
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Brasserie de Taanketel
Located in the picturesque harbour of Marken, Brasserie De Taanketel is a lovely spot to settle down after a walk across the peninsula. From the terrace, you can look out over the harbour and the Markermeer, whilst inside, Marken’s maritime atmosphere is palpable. Enjoy a cup of coffee, lunch or dinner and let the hustle and bustle on the water drift peacefully past you.
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Tavern De Visscher
Right in the heart of Marken harbour, you’ll find Taverne De Visscher. An inviting spot where the atmosphere of the former island can still be felt. Take a seat on the terrace overlooking the harbour or step inside for lunch, dinner or a drink after a day of exploring Marken.
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Land & Zeezicht
For generations, Land & Zeezicht has been a familiar sight at the harbour in Marken. From the terrace, you can enjoy sweeping views across the Markermeer, whilst the historic harbour always buzzes with activity. A lovely spot to unwind with a cup of coffee, lunch or dinner.
2. On the Markermeer
Along the shores of the Markermeer, you can enjoy peace and quiet, open spaces and sweeping views. From Uitdam and Katwoude, you can look out over the water, where sailing boats glide peacefully by and the horizon seems endless. Whether you’re out on a cycle ride or a walk, or have come specifically for lunch or dinner with a view, everything here is about relaxing and enjoying the waterside.
Restaurant Bij de Poort
Restaurant Bij de Poort is situated at the Uitdam marina, next to Europarcs Poort van Amsterdam. From the spacious terrace, you can look out over the Markermeer and the boats passing by. Whether you’re popping in for a cup of coffee, a leisurely lunch or dinner at sunset, tranquillity, space and the view take centre stage here.
Zeilhoek food & drinks
Zeilhoek food & drinks is situated on the dyke in Katwoude, overlooking the Markermeer. It is a favourite spot for walkers, cyclists and water sports enthusiasts looking to take a break along the way. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the view over the water and lunch, dinner or a drink on the terrace.
3. By the water in Monnickendam
Monnickendam showcases just how diverse Waterland is. In the historic inner harbour, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere amongst historic buildings and passing boats. A short distance away lies the Hemmeland recreation area, where nature, the beach and the Markermeer offer peace and space. Two very different places, but both perfect for stopping off for a bite to eat or a drink by the water.
De Ouwe Blauwe
Situated in the historic inner harbour of Monnickendam, De Ouwe Blauwe is a charming spot to settle down. Whilst boats come and go and the historic façades frame the harbour, you can enjoy lunch, dinner or a drink here. An ideal stop-off during a visit to the historic town centre.
atMirror
Tucked away in the Hemmeland leisure area lies At Mirror, surrounded by nature and water. After a walk along the Markermeer or an afternoon in the leisure area, this is a lovely spot to relax for a while. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, the views and lunch, dinner or a drink in a green, water-rich setting.
