Where to Eat: The Best Spots to Get a Dutch Brunch in LondonBy Angelica Malin
Usually eaten as a late morning meal between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., brunch is said to have originated in England’s hunt breakfast, which usually followed a fox hunt and could be held late into the afternoon. Over the years, brunch has gained popularity internationally, with different countries developing their own take on the mid-day meal. And this means that you can now brunch on a variety of cuisines without leaving London. Those looking for unique fare with a sweet twist shouldn’t go past Dutch cuisine. “The Netherlands has a number of outstanding options for brunch. Some of the more popular offerings include bitterballen, or crispy beef croquettes, and poffetjes, which are fluffy pancakes made from yeast and buckwheat flour,” says food expert from adviesjagers.nl, Dirk de Vries. With this in mind, here are the best three spots in London to get your Dutch brunch fix.
My Old Dutch
With branches in Holborn, Chelsea and Kensington, My Old Dutch dates back to 1958 when it was established as a humble pancake house between Covent Garden, West End and the city. Priding itself on its relaxed and friendly vibe, the restaurant chain is a great spot for singles, couples, friends and families. Since its inception, My Old Dutch has been serving both pancakes, as well as a wide range of other Dutch, or Dutch-inspired, dishes. The restaurant offers both sweet and savoury pancakes, as well as vegan, and gluten and dairy-free options. Select from offerings such as the Hot Dutch, pancakes with pepperoni, chorizo, cheese, red chillies and tomato sauce; or choose your own toppings.
Opening Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 10:00 – 22:30
Sunday: 10:00 – 21:30
De Hems Dutch Cafe and Bar
Billing itself as “London’s only authentic Dutch pub,” De Hems serves much more than just drinks. The atmospheric venue dishes out a huge range of Dutch snacks including bitterballen (deep-fried bitesize pieces of beef ragout), kaassouffle (Dutch cheese parcels) and frikandellen speciaal (sausages). Of course, De Hems also serves British favourites such as amber ale pie or chicken schnitzel, and ale-battered cod and chips. History buffs will be pleased to know that De Hems is steeped in history—the venue served as the unofficial headquarters of the Dutch World War II resistance.
Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday: 12:00 – 12:00
Saturday: 11:00 – 12:00
Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30
Where the Pancakes Are
According to the restaurant’s representative pancakes can “trigger memories of growing up; of good times shared around the stove, or, as in many countries, of evenings spent at the local pancake house.” Where the Pancakes Are aims to bring these memories to life, right in London. As pancakes are a Dutch staple, it is only fitting that one of the offerings on the restaurant’s extensive menu is called Dutch Babies. Select between the sweet option with bramley and cox apple, fresh berries, almond flakes and house cream; or the savoury option with soft goat cheese, parmesan, and cheddar with thyme and rosemary.
Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:00 – 18:00
Saturday: 9:00 – 21:00
Sunday: 9:00 – 16:00