Each city has it's own joints. Some of them are just not greasy enough to keep you out :-) They may even be in the Lonely Planet. If not I would say it's my job to tell you about it.
Here are two of them, definitely worth the visit while passing though our country.
On the left: De Ballentent, port of Rotterdam
De Ballentent translates something like 'The meatball joint'. It's a port pub, a place for a simple and honest meal and the best meatballs of town. Those balls gave this cafe it's name. Unless we are forced to do so – which seems to be the case lately with some newer structures – we rename Rotterdam architectural buildings even before they are ready. I think the original name – Maaszicht (view over the river Maas) – lasted a little longer but now none remembers that name anymore.
On the right: Simonis, Scheveningen (port of The Hague)
A must go for seafood lovers. A fish factory which I mentioned before somewhere in 2011. Like at a bingo the order-numbers are called out if your meal is ready and the place is always crowded with people from all classes. Brilliant.
In both places the servings definitely will make you think of the dockers. You won't leave with an empty stomach. You will not actually see those dockers and port barons anymore but the ambiance isn't any less. And they get exceptional good reviews too.
