Dordrecht is always on the move. New entrepreneurs are opening their doors and bringing fresh energy to the city center—from specialty coffee and extensive brunches to a unique combination of a coffee shop and home decor store. And soon, you’ll also be able to grab a table at a brand-new restaurant with American influences on Houttuinen.
Calling all coffee lovers! 30ML is coming soon. Starting in mid-June, the popular coffee chain will open its doors in Dordrecht. 30ML is known for its specialty coffee and extensive brunch menu—it’s a place where guests quickly feel at home. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, a fresh smoothie, or a good cup of coffee, you’re welcome here all day long. It’s no wonder that 30ML describes itself as a living room away from home.
René Visser is the driving force behind the new location. After 25 years in the IT industry, he decided to change course and pursue his passion for coffee. When he was introduced to the 30ML concept, he was immediately enthusiastic. “I really wanted something different. I’m a huge coffee lover, so when I came across this, I thought: this looks like a lot of fun.” Above all, René hopes that guests will feel right at home. Whether it’s catching up with friends or working quietly with a good cup of coffee within arm’s reach!
“Everything is for sale, except the hostess,” jokes owner Femke Verbeek. And with that, the tone at Gespuis is immediately set. In her shop on Grote Spuistraat, she combines a passion for interior design, unique finds, and good coffee. Amid vintage furniture, home accessories, tableware, and original gifts, there’s always something new to discover. Femke is constantly on the hunt for unique items and loves to give old finds a second life.
Is a piece of furniture for sale? Then it naturally makes way for something else. That’s why every visit to Gespuis feels just a little different. After browsing, you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a treat in the coffee corner. It’s a combination that perfectly matches Femke’s idea of a cozy atmosphere: taking your time to look around, finding inspiration, and enjoying a good cup of coffee while you’re at it.
Sometimes a new restaurant starts out as nothing more than a notebook full of ideas. For Thomas and Nick, those plans became a reality this summer with the opening of The Woodpecker Diner on Houttuinen (scheduled to open in late July). Before there was a location, there was first a notebook full of ideas. On their Sundays off, Thomas and Nick worked on plans for their ideal restaurant.
The Woodpecker Diner draws inspiration from American cuisine, with a modern twist. Think of influences from Louisiana and Nashville, combined with the chefs’ expertise, which prioritizes accessibility and quality. So it’s not a classic diner, but a contemporary gathering place where everyone feels welcome. They also have big plans beyond the kitchen. In addition to lunch, dinner, and an outdoor patio, Thomas and Nick want to host live music, events, and fun evenings.