Gouda After Dark: Top 12 Local Bars and Nightlife Spots

Cozy craft beer bar with knowledgeable owner. Wide selection of local and international beers on tap and bottled. Friendly bartenders offer recommendations. Perfect spot to spend a few hours in Gouda. Small garden for summer relaxation. Visitors praise the variety, from IPAs to stouts and sours. Some found rare beers unavailable elsewhere.

Some visitors found the owner rude and unhelpful. Complaints about expensive, obscure beer options and mocking responses to questions. Language barrier noted, with owner reluctant to speak English. One review described it as a 'horrible back alley sewer water hole.' High prices and poor food quality mentioned in one instance.

Cozy bar with excellent beer selection and friendly atmosphere. Owner is knowledgeable and helpful, offering personalized recommendations. Over 180 beer types available, including options for wine drinkers. Lovely biergarten and warm fireplace add to the ambiance. Reasonable prices and delicious cheese plates. Even non-beer drinkers find interesting options.

One reviewer reported a negative experience with the owner, describing him as rude and prejudiced. They were allegedly ejected from the bar without justification. This contrasts sharply with other reviews praising the owner's friendliness, suggesting an isolated incident or misunderstanding. No wine available, which may disappoint some patrons.

Diners rave about the exceptional duck dishes, particularly the signature crispy duck breast. Many praise the attentive and friendly service, cozy atmosphere, and the chef's innovative use of local ingredients. The extensive wine list and knowledgeable sommelier recommendations are frequently mentioned as highlights of the dining experience.

Some visitors find the prices slightly high for the portion sizes. A few reviews mention longer wait times during peak hours, and occasional inconsistencies in service quality. Some diners with dietary restrictions note limited options for vegetarians or those with specific food allergies.

Welcoming cafe with great food and atmosphere. Roasts own coffee. Offers diverse seating for locals and travelers. Serves fresh, filling meals with sharing options. Staff friendly and hospitable. Preserves authentic environment after renovation. Quick lunch options and tea service available. Healthy fare and special sandwiches praised.

Can get very busy, so reservations recommended for good seating. Language barrier might lead to ordering mix-ups for non-Dutch speakers. Limited negative feedback in reviews, mostly positive experiences reported.

Visitors praise the warm, welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. The homemade apple pie is frequently mentioned as a standout item. Many appreciate the authentic Dutch cuisine and reasonable prices. The outdoor seating area is popular during summer months. Guests often commend the café's location, perfect for people-watching in the heart of Gouda.

Some reviewers mention longer wait times during peak hours. A few customers found certain Dutch dishes too heavy or unfamiliar for their taste. Occasionally, guests report that the interior can feel cramped when the café is busy. Some international visitors noted a language barrier with some staff members.

Visitors praise the unique atmosphere filled with happiness and beautiful Art Deco. Staff are consistently described as friendly, attentive, and polite. Food receives high marks for taste, portion size, and presentation. Coffee is noted as delicious. The restaurant offers a variety of desserts and cheese options, allowing guests to sample different flavors. Prices are considered reasonable, and the overall experience is often described as pleasant and unexpected.

One reviewer mentioned that the desserts were served ice cold, which they found unpleasant. Another guest experienced a small issue with an unclear menu item, though it was promptly resolved. Some visitors stumbled upon the restaurant by chance, suggesting it may not be well-known or easy to find intentionally. Limited negative feedback indicates generally positive experiences, with minor issues being the exception rather than the norm.

Excellent location near church and museum. Friendly, efficient staff. Relaxed atmosphere. Tasty, healthy food including roasted chicken salad and grilled veggie sandwich. Part of a chain employing people with Down's Syndrome. Homely vibe with small shop. Freshly prepared dishes like salmon sandwich and uitsmijter. Affordable prices. Large tables for family lunches. Unique tea service. Massive dessert portions.

Some dishes were overly oily and greasy. Filter coffee tasted stale. Dry bread in sandwiches. Sauce on some dishes was unnecessary and unpleasant. Pre-ordered sandwiches for large groups led to uneven dining experiences. Brownie portion too large after a full meal.

Visitors praise the friendly, enthusiastic staff and the café's social mission. The brownies are consistently described as delicious, with many calling them the best they've ever had. Guests appreciate the cozy atmosphere and the opportunity to support a meaningful cause while enjoying quality food and drinks. The location in central Gouda is also frequently mentioned as a plus.

Some reviewers mention that the café can get crowded, especially during peak hours, leading to longer wait times. A few customers found the prices slightly high, though many acknowledge the social mission justifies the cost. Occasionally, visitors note that the menu options are limited, particularly for those with dietary restrictions.

Cozy craft beer bar with knowledgeable owner. Extensive selection of local and international beers on tap and bottled. Friendly service and helpful recommendations. Nice garden for summer. Great spot for beer lovers to spend a few hours. Customers appreciate the owner's expertise and enjoy chatting about beer options.

Some find the owner rude and unwelcoming. Complaints about high prices and unhelpful responses when asking for recommendations. Reports of mocking attitudes towards customers who don't order expensive or obscure beers. Language barrier issues noted. Some customers felt treated poorly and unwanted in the establishment.

Cozy bar with excellent beer selection and friendly atmosphere. Owner is knowledgeable and helpful, offering personalized recommendations. Impressive variety of over 180 beers, including options for non-beer drinkers. Lovely biergarten and warm fireplace add to the ambiance. Reasonable prices and delicious cheese complement the experience. Dog-friendly establishment.

One reviewer reported a highly negative experience with the owner, describing them as rude and prejudiced. The reviewer and their friend were allegedly ejected without cause, leading to a strong recommendation against visiting. This stands in stark contrast to other reviews praising the owner's friendliness and knowledge.

Visitors praise the extensive beer selection, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and cozy atmosphere. Many reviewers highlight the opportunity to try unique local and Belgian beers. The bar's authentic Dutch ambiance and central location are frequently mentioned as positives. Patrons also appreciate the staff's helpful recommendations and willingness to offer samples.

Some reviewers note that the bar can get crowded, especially on weekends, leading to slower service. A few mention limited seating and suggest arriving early to secure a spot. Occasional complaints about higher prices for specialty beers are mentioned. Some visitors find the food options limited, as the focus is primarily on drinks.

Guests rave about the excellent food, particularly the steak and cheese soup. Portions are generous. The café boasts a great view of city hall and a welcoming terrace. Staff are friendly and accommodating to English speakers. The cocktails and beer selection receive praise. Overall, it's described as a perfect spot on the square for hearty meals and drinks.

Consistency issues were noted by one repeat visitor, who found their second experience less impressive than the first. This suggests potential variability in food quality or service. No other significant negative feedback was provided in the reviews, indicating generally positive experiences for most guests.

Grand Cafe Central in Gouda offers a prime location in the town center. Many enjoy their beers and apple pie. The cheese soup is highly recommended, and the roast beef and smoked salmon sandwich is a pleasant surprise. The cafe provides a pleasant atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating. Some find the food well-prepared and reasonably priced.

Service quality varies, with some reporting long waits and rude staff. Pricing inconsistencies have been noted, with menu prices sometimes differing from the final bill. Payment issues have occurred due to malfunctioning machines. Some consider it a tourist trap with subpar, overpriced food. The mocktails are criticized for being overly sweet and icy.

Visitors praise Cafe Central for its excellent food quality, generous portions, and reasonable prices. Many highlight the friendly and attentive staff, cozy atmosphere, and prime location. The diverse menu, including vegetarian options, receives high marks. Patrons particularly enjoy the outdoor seating area and the cafe's cleanliness.

Some guests mention longer wait times during peak hours, especially for outdoor seating. A few reviewers find certain dishes slightly overpriced compared to similar establishments. Occasionally, customers report inconsistent food quality or preparation. Limited parking in the area is also noted as a minor inconvenience by some visitors.

The restaurant impresses with its open space, open kitchen, and ample lighting. Food quality is generally good, with fresh ingredients and typical dishes. The bar offers a relaxing atmosphere for late-night drinks, featuring phenomenal house red wine and good beer selections. Service can be friendly, with staff providing smiles and helpful suggestions.

Long wait times for food and drinks are common complaints. The restaurant enforces strict time limits on tables, which can feel unwelcoming. Accessibility is poor, with narrow stairs and limited toilet access. Food quality is inconsistent, with some dishes being overpriced and poorly prepared. The open space can be noisy, and some find the decor more interesting than the meals. Staff attitudes vary, with some customers experiencing unpleasant service.

Guests praise Het Klooster for its excellent food quality, innovative dishes, and beautiful presentation. Many highlight the romantic atmosphere and attentive staff. The outdoor seating area receives particular acclaim, especially during summer months. Visitors often mention the good value for money and the impressive wine selection.

Some diners find the portions small for the price. A few reviewers note that the service can be slow during busy periods. Occasional complaints mention limited vegetarian options and difficulty in making reservations during peak tourist season. Some guests feel the ambiance is a bit too formal for casual dining.

De Zalm offers a fun, festive atmosphere with activities like bowling and karaoke. The newly renovated spot serves delicious food with well-balanced flavors and artful presentation. Friendly staff provide excellent service. The restaurant boasts a pleasant ambiance, good wine selection, and a prime location with views of the City Hall. Many praise the high-quality cuisine at reasonable prices.

Some guests found the food disappointing, particularly the steak tartare, which was poorly seasoned and possibly made with meat nearing expiration. A steak sandwich also fell short of expectations. The restaurant's prices were considered high relative to food quality. One customer was surprised by being served the most expensive rosé without seeing the wine menu first.

Guests rave about the excellent food quality and presentation. Many praise the attentive and friendly staff, noting their knowledge of the menu and wine list. The historic ambiance and prime location on the market square are frequently mentioned as highlights. Diners appreciate the use of local ingredients and the creative twists on traditional Dutch dishes.

Some visitors find the prices high for the portion sizes. A few reviews mention slow service during busy periods. Occasionally, guests report that the historic building can feel cramped or noisy. Some international travelers note that the menu could benefit from more English descriptions.

Swing in Gouda offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music on weekends. The cocktails, especially the sangria, are praised for their freshness. The staff is welcoming and attentive. The menu caters to various dietary needs, including vegan options. The restaurant's beachy, colorful decor and central square location add to its appeal. Many enjoy the lively ambiance and casual dining experience.

Some diners found the food quality inconsistent. The Swing Burger received criticism for being dry and poorly assembled. One reviewer mentioned unripe tomatoes and questioned the pairing of mac and cheese with the burger. While the atmosphere is generally praised, the food quality, particularly certain menu items, may not meet everyone's expectations.

Located on Gouda's main square, this restaurant offers great views and ambiance. Friendly staff provide efficient service and speak good English. The menu features a good beer selection, tasty curly fries, and decent desserts. Convenient phone charging lockers are available. Despite mixed food reviews, the location and atmosphere make it a popular choice.

Food quality is inconsistent, with some dishes lacking flavor or having limited vegetable options. Portions can be small, and prices may be higher due to the prime location. Some guests felt they were paying more for the view than the food quality. While the atmosphere is pleasant, the cuisine might not be enticing enough for return visits.

Patrons rave about the cafe's cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. The creative menu receives high praise, with many highlighting the delicious breakfast options and unique sandwich combinations. Visitors appreciate the use of fresh, local ingredients and the frequently changing specials. The outdoor seating area is often mentioned as a pleasant spot for enjoying meals on sunny days.

Some reviewers note that the cafe can get quite busy, leading to longer wait times during peak hours. A few customers mention that prices are slightly higher than average for the area. Occasionally, patrons express disappointment when popular menu items are unavailable due to the seasonal rotation. Limited indoor seating is sometimes cited as an issue during colder months.

Nice decor with good seating area. Cozy atmosphere ideal for groups. Close to city center. English pub-like interior. Friendly staff in some instances. Chilled vibe. No loud music. Near a brown bar. Pretty brown pub aesthetic.

Indoor smoking allowed. Unfriendly landlady. No food or snacks. Rude and unwelcoming bartender. Poor customer service. Bad local beer. Lack of hospitality. Bartender ignoring customers. No phone charging without asking. Passive-aggressive staff attitude. Overall hostility towards patrons.

Visitors praise the intimate atmosphere and high-quality jazz performances. Many appreciate the friendly staff, excellent drink selection, and the opportunity to experience live music in a cozy setting. Patrons often mention the authentic Dutch pub feel and the cafe's contribution to Gouda's cultural scene. The mix of local and international acts is frequently highlighted as a major draw.

Some reviewers note that the venue can get crowded on popular nights, making it difficult to find seating. A few mention that the drink prices are slightly higher than average. Occasional comments suggest that the music volume can be too loud for conversation during performances. Some non-Dutch speakers report minor language barriers with staff.

Michelin-starred restaurant in charming town. Cozy ambiance, attentive service. Exceptional dishes with fresh ingredients. Thoughtful menu, great wine pairings. Experimental flavors mostly impress. Chef greets diners. Outdoor seating with square view. Filling courses, delicious food. Worth visiting the picturesque location.

Some experimental flavors miss the mark. Limited vegetarian and non-alcoholic options. Expensive, especially for lunch. A few dishes could use improvement, like the Iberico pork dim sum and coconut dessert. Four to six course menu may be too much food for some diners. Town is small, might not have much else to do.

Diners rave about the exceptional cuisine, particularly the oyster with bone marrow and crab dishes. The chef's menu and amuse-bouches impress with creative flavors and presentations. Staff provide attentive, friendly service. The intimate setting on a beautiful square adds charm. Guests appreciate the wine pairings and celebrate special occasions here.

Some guests note the owner's uneven attention, favoring certain tables. The wine selection disappoints a few patrons. Newcomers to seafood find some dishes challenging. Limited Sunday openings frustrate locals. While most aspects receive high praise, these minor issues prevent a perfect experience for some diners.

Visitors praise the authentic Dutch cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Many highlight the friendly staff and excellent service. The traditional dishes, especially the stamppot and erwtensoep, receive high marks for taste and portion size. Patrons appreciate the selection of local beers and the cafe's prime location near Gouda's main attractions.

Some reviewers mention long wait times during peak hours. A few customers find the prices slightly high for casual dining. Occasional complaints about limited vegetarian options appear in reviews. Some international visitors note that the menu is primarily in Dutch, which can be challenging for non-Dutch speakers.

Stunning hotel in Gouda's heart. Impeccable service, including staff doing personal laundry. Superb breakfast with many menu choices. Rooms are spacious, comfortable, and full of character. Exemplary customer service and ambience. Personalized touches for special occasions. Original stroopwaffels offered at check-in. Comfortable beds and fun room designs.

Inconvenient bathroom layout with separated facilities. Limited services: no room service, warm breakfast, or restaurants. Parking more expensive than advertised. Cold, unfriendly staff. Rooms don't match online photos. Ground floor looks abandoned. Late checkout expensive. Problems with restaurant not addressed satisfactorily. Unwelcoming atmosphere for special occasions. Doesn't meet expected Relais & Chateaux standards.

Historic Dutch hotel with stunning decor and attention to detail. Friendly staff, unique rooms, and exceptional food. LIZZ restaurant offers an experience beyond dining. Breakfast exceeds expectations with fresh, high-quality options. Whimsical yet elegant ambiance throughout. Ideal location for Gouda's Christmas lighting. Staff's hospitality and local history-inspired design create a memorable stay.

No significant negative aspects were mentioned in the provided reviews. All feedback was overwhelmingly positive, focusing on the hotel's strengths in design, service, food quality, and overall experience.

Guests rave about the exceptional service, describing it as attentive and personalized. The food receives high praise for its creativity and quality, with many noting the chef's skillful use of local ingredients. The building's unique history and thoughtful restoration are frequently mentioned as highlights, adding to the overall dining experience.

Some visitors find the prices high, even considering the restaurant's upscale nature. A few guests mention that the portion sizes can be small. Occasionally, diners report that the atmosphere feels too formal or stuffy for their liking, preferring a more relaxed dining environment.

Staff members are friendly and efficient, providing quick service for loading and unloading. The company is described as 'mooi' (beautiful in Dutch), suggesting a positive overall impression. The swift handling of cargo indicates a well-organized operation that values customers' time.

No negative aspects were mentioned in the provided reviews. The limited number of reviews and lack of detailed feedback make it difficult to identify any potential drawbacks or areas for improvement. More comprehensive reviews would be needed to assess any negative aspects of the experience.

Diners praise the innovative dishes, attentive service, and unique ambiance. Many highlight the creative presentation of food and the use of fresh, local ingredients. The industrial setting receives compliments for its character and charm. Guests often mention the friendly staff and the restaurant's ability to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Some visitors find the prices high for the portion sizes. A few reviews mention long wait times during busy periods. Occasional complaints about noise levels during events or when the restaurant is full. Some diners feel the menu could offer more vegetarian options. A minority of reviews note inconsistencies in food quality or service on different visits.