De Matroos en het Meisje
Restaurant
Rotterdam, Netherlands
De Matroos en het Meisje Wine List
De Matroos en het Meisje Updates
About De Matroos en het Meisje
De Matroos en het Meisje: “the sailor and the girl”. Not too long ago, this area of Katendrecht in Rotterdam was the dodgy end, where the sailors came to dock and the girls were there for their entertainment. Nowadays, those sailors and girls are there only in name – but entertainment aplenty.
After a few nice, neighbourhood restaurants housed in this corner place, only 20 minutes from Rotterdam Centraal station, Eva Eekman took over and turned it into a true neighbourhood gastrobistro (if that’s a thing), with Taco de Vos joining later to look after the wine. It boasts personality and energy with refined yet playful food, accessible pricing, and of course, a lovely wine list with a great selection of small, passionate, artisanal producers.
Mostly organic wines, some natural, but a list for any wine lover. Not too small, not too extensive, just right – for the person that’s just discovering wine to more experienced palates. The warming team will make you feel at home and at ease, so you’re in a position to do whatever you like and ask any questions without feeling uncomfortable. The stemware is great, of course, as are serving temperatures, and the team will help you if you can’t make your mind up.
In all, ‘De Matroos’ is a lovely wine destination in the not-so-dodgy-anymore part of this Dutch riverside city.
[Editor’s note: Taco de Vos, sommelier and co-owner of De Matroos en het Meisje, is also Star Wine List's ambassador in Rotterdam.]
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Located on one of the little islands in the harbour of Rotterdam, this cosy neighbourhood restaurant is set on a corner of a small square with a terrace surrounded by green plants. The interior really gives you the “Dutch” feeling with its Delft blue walls and tables you would recognise from your grandmother’s kitchen. You choose between a set number of dishes that are all mouthwatering and beautifully prepared. You receive a fine dining experience in an informal and warm setting, just the way I like it. The wine list is extensive and full of gems where the focus is on producers who work sustainably and practice low intervention. You will find a myriad of classical, and much loved producers as well as the odd ones that you might not recognise. The somm team led by Taco (and Tom) are down to earth in their approach to wine and service alike. The tone is very informal and guests are expected to treat the staff as they would like to be treated themselves. Something that I find is a refreshing way to look at service.
