Old Dutch (restaurant)
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Restaurant, Bodega |
| Founded | 1932 |
| Founder | Toon Mannes, Wim Mannes |
| Headquarters | Rotterdam , Netherlands |
| Products | Food, Drinks |
Old Dutch is a bodega and dining establishment located in Rotterdam, Netherlands.
History
Established in 1932 by Toon and Wim Mannes as Bodega Old Dutch at Coolsingel 103, it quickly became popular among Rotterdam's affluent residents. The original premises were destroyed during the Rotterdam Blitz on 14 May 1940. Subsequently, the Mannes brothers reopened the venue at Rochussenstraat 20 on 29 December 1940.
Old Dutch was among the founding members of the Alliance Gastronomique Néerlandaise in 1967, with M.W. Mannes representing the restaurant. Ownership remained with the Mannes family until 1975.
Building
The structure, designed by architect J. Lelieveldt, features a farmhouse-inspired design and stands as the sole surviving building from a post-World War II temporary shopping center that replaced bombed-out stores. Although originally planned as a provisional solution, it eventually became the permanent home for the restaurant.
The bodega has capacity for 200 patrons, while the restaurant area accommodates 60 guests. The interior has been preserved with minimal alterations since its opening. Due to its cultural importance, the building is designated as a protected municipal monument.
Clientele
During the 1960s, Old Dutch was well-known as a favored dining spot for shipowners, prominent demolition contractors, builders, industrial leaders, and sea captains. Its regular visitors primarily comprised businessmen and affluent individuals in middle age.
Awards
From 1957 to 1974, Old Dutch was awarded a Michelin star, underscoring its prominence in gourmet cuisine. Notable dishes featured on its menu included ‘Escurion’, ‘Mixed grill de poissons’, and ‘Huitres imperiales de Zélande’ (large oysters sourced from Zeeland). Additionally, the restaurant secured a shared third-place award at the Salon Culinaire held during the Horecaf exhibition in Amsterdam in 1950.