Taeki Chan Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Giethoorn village, Restaurant de Grachthof offers an exceptional dining experience that perfectly complements the village’s natural beauty and historical charm. Known as the “Venice of the North,” Giethoorn’s serene canals, quaint thatched-roof cottages, and tranquil ambiance create a unique backdrop for any visit. Beyond its scenic allure, the village boasts a variety of cultural experiences, including several museums that showcase its rich history and vibrant culture.
Immersing in Giethoorn’s History
Our day began with a leisurely boat tour through Giethoorn’s enchanting waterways, offering an up-close view of the village’s iconic scenery. Post-tour, we visited a local museum that provided a deeper understanding of Giethoorn’s fascinating history and traditions. This cultural immersion set the stage for the culinary adventure that awaited us at Restaurant de Grachthof.
Dining by the Water at De Grachthof
Situated along one of Giethoorn’s charming canals, Restaurant de Grachthof is a culinary gem that offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Diners can enjoy their meals inside the cozy, rustic interior or outside on the terrace, with a breathtaking view of the village canal. The gentle lapping of the water and the serene atmosphere make dining here a truly special experience. Many visitors also come to enjoy a simple cup of coffee with apple pie or an ice cream while soaking in the picturesque canal views.
Our family chose to dine outdoors, relishing the beautiful weather and tranquil surroundings. Here’s what we ordered:
My Brother’s Choice: Fish & Chips
Fried cod fish served with fries, salad, and ravigotte sauce. The fish resembled nuggets, and the dish was visually appealing with a generous portion of fries and a fresh salad. The dish tasted good but was fairly standard. The cod was well-cooked but didn’t stand out compared to other versions we’ve had.
My Mother’s Choice: 12 Uurtjes
A diverse plate featuring scrambled eggs, smoked salmon with whole wheat bread, eel croquette with white bread, and tomato soup. The smoked salmon was fresh and flavorful, and the eel croquette provided a delightful taste of local cuisine. My mother’s eel croquette was the highlight, with a distinct flavor that I thoroughly enjoyed. The combination of scrambled eggs and smoked salmon was also delightful.
My Choice: Runderburger & Frites
A hearty beef burger served with fries. While the burger was satisfying, it wasn’t particularly remarkable. However, the mixed salad that accompanied our meals was a pleasant surprise, offering a unique and healthy twist. My burger was enjoyable, but the fries were quite ordinary, especially when compared to the exceptional frites we’ve tasted in Belgium.
A Memorable Dining Experience
Despite some of the dishes being unremarkable, the overall dining experience at De Grachthof was fantastic. The ambiance, enhanced by the beautiful weather and stunning canal views, made our meal truly memorable. The restaurant’s setting in such a calm and beautiful village added an extra layer of enjoyment to our lunch.
In summary, Restaurant de Grachthof offers a charming and serene dining experience in the heart of Giethoorn. Whether you’re enjoying a full meal or simply stopping by for a coffee and dessert, the combination of delicious food and breathtaking views makes it a must-visit spot. Our day in Giethoorn, filled with cultural exploration and culinary delights, was an unforgettable adventure that I highly recommend to anyone visiting this unique village.
