Best-kept secrets: 15x Restaurants off the beaten track

It’s pretty easy to find all the hotspots in the city center.. But where do the locals hang out? Look no further; we have gathered the best-kept secrets for foodies. What are you waiting for? Book yourself a table! 

Frank

Gather your fellow food enthusiasts and head to Frank for a shared dining experience in the heart of Woensel-West. This hotspot has it all: a quirky interior, lots of veggie dishes, natural wine galore, and exceptional flavors. Keep an eye on this district; it's gradually becoming the trendiest spot in town, thanks to gems like Frank.

Sala Thai

Tucked away in a residential neighborhood, Sala Thai is a true hidden gem. Located on the corner of Staringstraat, this cozy spot feels like dining in someone’s living room—perfect for a relaxed evening out. The name ‘Sala Thai’ translates to ‘Thai room,’ and the menu is packed with authentic, flavorful dishes. From fragrant curries to fresh seafood and rice specialties, there’s something for every taste. And since sharing dishes is a hallmark of Thai cuisine, it’s the perfect place to try a little bit of everything.

Gusto-040

Locals love to go to Gusto-040, especially on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Because they’re in on a little secret: there's a special menu available these days. Great when you don't feel like cooking but still want a nutritious meal. Another must-try are the (vegetarian) tapas. Enjoy!

Restaurant Iris

If you scroll through the Insta-feed of restaurant Iris, you know: it's cozy up there. This restaurant is in the Iris neighborhood (hence the name), and has the atmosphere of an old-school pub with food that makes you come back. Buckle up, and be amazed by the great atmosphere, the hidden courtyard(!), and the monthly changing menu with seasonal vegetables in the lead. Yummy!

Spaans Centrum

It doesn't get more authentic than this: Spaans Centrum, or Spanish Center, is the place to enjoy everything the Spanish cuisine offers. Their specialty: seafood. As befits a hidden gem, they don’t have a website or a digital menu. And you can’t make reservations. Just go to Strijp and have a taste! 

Django's

On the Gestelsestraat, you can now indulge in delicious pizzas and more(!) at pizzabar Django's. Just about every type of pizza is represented here. Besides the red ones like the puttanesca and the white ones like the quattro formaggi, you might also want to try an 'orange' pizza, for example with sweet potato.

Saffraan

Craving the flavors of the Middle East? Look no further than Saffraan, where the rich and aromatic Persian kitchen takes center stage. From hearty stews to fragrant pilafs, and from pomegranate to (you guessed it) saffron, the menu is a feast for the senses. Can’t decide? Treat yourself to a Persian tasting menu featuring a selection of Iranian and Afghan dishes. Want more? You can add grilled dishes and desserts for an even richer experience. Bonus: every dish is available in vegetarian or vegan versions, so everyone can enjoy ‘em!

Kam Po

An adapted version of the Chinese-Indonesian cuisine is quite popular in the Netherlands, but for authentic Chinese dishes, you should go to Kam Po on the Kruisstraat. The menu is almost ridiculously large and requires some detective-like skills. You could save time by blindly trusting our favorites: roasted pork belly, Ha Kaw (glassy steamed dumpling), and scallops. 

Chomicha

You know you're in for a treat when a restaurant is named after the chef's mother. Mo's Moroccan restaurant Chomicha in Woensel-West is a fusion of traditional dishes, new flavors, aromas, and colors. The menu says it all: the bastilla with chicken is a must, and the tagine with lamb and the date cake make our hearts beat faster.

Babette

L'Avenue and Le Cozy have a little sister now called Babette, located on the Hoogstraat. And just like her older sisters, she has a knack for wine, snacks, and ambiance. Our recommendation: start at the bar with some bubbles and an oyster or two (make that three) and definitely end up on the delightfully cozy couch. You can thank us later.

Super MARKT

Let's start by saying that the Woenselse Markt is already a great recommendation with all its flavors and cultures. The funny thing is that bistro Super MARKT is the odd one out here. But owner Nikki knows how to combine shared dining, natural wine, and the typical Woensel sense of community like no other. Settle in for coffee and homemade apple pie after your market round or make a reservation and stay until the lights go out.

Turkoise

Eindhoven’s vibrant food scene reflects its international community, and Turkoise has been a proud part of it since 1997. This restaurant celebrates the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine. Whether you’re a fan of meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes, you’ll find classics like köfte, iskender, and of course, traditional baklava. Yummy! 

James

James is the French little brother of Django's. Or, well, they at least have the same owner and as it turns out, they know a thing or two about entrepreneurship. Bistro James is an excellent example of that. Nice decor, robust wines, and food that makes your mouth water. Here's a small preview: steak tartare, mussels, fries from the Frietbar, and don't forget to order dessert. Who could resist a tarte tatin, anyways? 

Casa Pepe

Could you use some vacation vibes, but don't have a trip planned? Well, that summer feeling is just around the corner at Casa Pepe on Leenderweg. Chorizo croquettes, patatas bravas, pulpo ... you get the idea! Spanish tapas as they're meant to be.

Valli's Corner

Last, Valli's Corner, named after its owner Valli. In her tropical restaurant on the Edisonstraat, you'll get to know all kinds of Asian influences, including those from her homeland Malaysia. Her food is a tribute to traditional recipes passed on from generation to generation. Would you like to cook as well as the chef herself? Then check out her workshops!