1. Catch by Simonis
Located in the harbor area of Scheveningen, Catch by Simonis epitomizes upscale seafood dining. Renowned for its array of fresh catches, this restaurant sources its fish directly from local auctions, ensuring both freshness and quality. The decor presents a chic, nautical theme with expansive windows that offer panoramic views of the bustling harbor.
Menu highlights include King Crab legs served steaming hot, and a flawless turbot baked on the bone. For a unique experience, opt for their seafood platter that boasts a medley of shellfish, fine oysters, and North Sea treasures. Their wine list is curated to enhance the seafood flavors with choices that complement the saltiness of the ocean fare.
2. Encore by Simonis
Set slightly away from the main tourist rush, Encore by Simonis brings a touch of Asian flair to traditional seafood dishes. It serves as an intriguing alternative within the Simonis family of dining establishments. The ambience is a blend of East and West, featuring dark, elegant wood furnishings set against warm lighting.
Specializing in both sushi and innovative seafood dishes, Encore offers an extensive menu that includes spicy tuna tartare and a notable black cod miso. The sushi is impeccably fresh, crafted with precision. Their fusion dishes, like the teriyaki salmon, merge Dutch seafood cooking styles with Asian spices and techniques, providing a delightful culinary surprise.
3. Restaurant Lemongrass
Tucked away near the stately international embassies of The Hague, Restaurant Lemongrass is an intimate culinary gem. Its proximity to the coast allows for an impressive daily selection of fresh seafood. The restaurant’s ambiance is cozy, making it ideal for romantic evenings or quiet business dinners.
Patrons highly recommend starting with the zeebaars carpaccio (sea bass carpaccio) followed by the lobster bisque, which is rich with flavor. Main courses such as seared scallops served with seasonal vegetables and a saffron sauce showcase the chef’s ability to highlight natural flavors without overpowering them. Their carefully selected wine pairings add an extra touch to the meal, enhancing each dish’s flavors.
4. Mero
Located on the Visafslagweg near Scheveningen’s beach, Mero excels at serving straightforward yet exquisitely prepared seafood. With a focus on sustainability and the support of local fishing practices, Mero offers a seasonal menu that adapts to the “catch of the day,” ensuring each visit is a unique dining experience.
The environment in Mero is relaxed and unpretentious, favoring comfort which allows the food to take center stage. Favorites include perfectly grilled sea bass and a robust bouillabaisse packed with fresh fish, mussels, shrimps, and a perfect saffron broth. Their open kitchen allows diners the pleasure of watching chefs at work, adding an element of entertainment to the meal.
5. De Dagvisser
De Dagvisser, situated near the main fish market of Scheveningen, serves traditional Dutch seafood with a modern twist. This family-run restaurant prides itself on a friendly atmosphere and dishes that reflect the deep-rooted fishing culture of the area.
The restaurant’s specialty is the mosselen (mussels) cooked in various styles, though their traditional Dutch style with butter, celery, and onion is particularly popular. For a hearty choice, the fisherman’s pot, filled with various types of fish, potatoes, and vegetables in a creamy sauce, encapsulates the essence of Dutch seafood cuisine. Desserts here stay close to Dutch traditions, with a must-try being the homemade apple pie served with fresh cream.
Each of these establishments in The Hague offers its unique twist on seafood, catering to varied palates and preferences, setting the city as a remarkable destination for seafood lovers worldwide.
