More than four centuries of In Den Rustwat: from wayside inn to fine dining

Dining at In Den Rustwat means dining in one of Rotterdam's best-preserved historic buildings. The inn dates back to 1597 — more than four centuries of culinary history, and you can taste it.

The 'refreshment room'

In earlier days, In Den Rustwat was affectionately known as the 'verversingslokaaltje' — the little refreshment room where travellers along the Honingerdijk caught their breath. The name still does the restaurant justice: when you leave us, we make sure you feel completely refreshed and enriched.

Relocated, stone by stone

Where the inn once stood at the top of the Honingerdijk, the building was moved in 1959 to its current location, next to the Trompenburg Gardens & Arboretum. On 18 May 1960, mayor Van Walsum festively reopened the premises.

Authenticity in every detail

Many original elements have been preserved: the characteristic tiled floor, the Delft blue wall tiles and the unique 'sagging' thatched roof that catches the eye from afar. Within those centuries-old walls we serve a contemporary kitchen with French foundations — a contrast that keeps surprising our guests.

Since the reopening, our hospitable, stylish 'refreshment room' has grown into one of Rotterdam's most valued culinary destinations, with 15/20 in Gault&Millau.

Curious about the building and its story? You are most welcome — book a table or read more about our history.