A ‘National’ feast at the Grote Markt

At the lively Grote Markt in The Hague, a new (yet historic) treasure has recently made its appearance: Café-Brasserie ‘Nationaal’. Settle in at the impressive bar for a Belgian beer, or take a seat in the atmospheric restaurant for an extensive Brussels-style dinner. At Nationaal, you’ll experience international grandeur with warm Belgian hospitality and that unmistakable touch of The Hague’s ‘gezelligheid’. Just what you need for a night out with that little something extra.

From vol-au-vent to Flemish fries

Nationaal is part of the oh-so-famous and ever-vibrant Grote Markt, but stands out with a slightly more upscale look. Picture a classic grand café, complete with high ceilings, elegant details, and a bar that demands your attention. Yet, it doesn’t feel stiff. On the contrary: there’s cheerful music playing, the staff are both professional and laid-back, and you can just pop in for a beer.

The café-brasserie puts the Belgian kitchen center stage. Expect Flemish classics with a nod to the metropolis of Brussels. Think shrimp croquettes, vol-au-vent (creamy puff pastries), and of course, real Flemish fries. And naturally: a Brussels waffle for dessert.

A Name with a Past

Nationaal isn’t just a new name on the square. It’s a kind of rebirth. The stately corner building that now houses the brasserie dates back to the 17th century and has a rich history. For many years, it served as a shop and later as a beer and coffee house. Around 1900, that coffee house already carried the name Café Nationaal.

When the current team – in search of a location for a classic Belgian café – came across this monumental corner building, they decided not only to restore it to its former glory but also to bring back the original name. We think this story is so cool that we’re proud to crown Nationaal as a The Hague treasure. And of course, the menu, the atmosphere (and the cocktails ;)) are just as treasure-worthy.

Settle in at Café-Brasserie ‘Nationaal’ with your Haagse Schatten gift card. And why not gift one to a friend, colleague, uncle, or aunt from The Hague? Or to someone you’d love to send on a journey of discovery through our beautiful city! With each gift card, the lucky recipient also gets a The Hague treasure map to explore the city and all its hidden treasures.

The best part? Every euro you spend on the card is guaranteed to support a local business in The Hague. That way, we can all keep enjoying the city’s hotspots run by passionate and dedicated local entrepreneurs. By now, there are over sixty The Hague treasures where your gift card is welcome – something for everyone!