The cultural hotspots of the Oude Westen
The place to be for movie lovers, fans and foodies!
With a selection of only five hotspots, we obviously do not do the Oude Westen justice. But this combination of cultural breeding grounds, new initiatives and familiar places that specifically determine the culture of the Oude Westen, shows the neighbourhood’s diversity. From film classics to new bands and from debating to dining, you can easily spend every weekend there for a year without ever being bored.
Leeszaal Rotterdam West
This cultural centre in Rotterdam West is not just for borrowing a book. It took on a social role after the start in 2012 as a counter reaction to the closing of neighbourhood libraries. Local residents – of all ages and nationalities – come to read, for work discussions, a cup of coffee and a chat. All sorts of activities are organised here. There are language lessons, children’s and music programmes, literary meals, book presentations, debates, movie nights and more. Reading room? Cultural meeting place!
Westerpaviljoen
The Westerpaviljoen restaurant, in the charming building on the corner of Mathenesserlaan and Nieuwe Binnenweg, has been a hotspot and the place to be in the neighbourhood for the last twenty years. The large terrace certainly contributes to that unremitting popularity. Just like the extensive menu full of good classics (tip: homemade fish fingers) and of course the drinks. Just relax while the kids let off steam in the play area. The Westerpaviljoen plays a leading role in the Oude Westen, and its popularity is far from over!
Kino
Movie theatre KINO brings culture back to the Gouvernestraat. The historic building has been tastefully renovated and has four cinemas, a bar and restaurant: from matinee to extensive dinner. Moreover, with BURO, KINO offers workplaces for the audio-visual industry, a smart way to attract the right people because quality film is what KINO is all about. From arthouse to classics and blockbusters. There are regular theme nights and parties, so keep a keen eye on KINO.
Rotown
Rotown, pop stage, café and restaurant, has been popular in Rotterdam since 1987. Big names have performed here, often before they really broke through, from Herman Brood to Franz Ferdinand and Fink. Typical, are the intimate performances, of added value for both audience and artist. This thirty-something outgrew puberty and transformed from music café to professional pop stage. Whether there is a concert or not, it’s always swinging. During a lazy Sunday and the all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet too.
Ayla
The building which temporarily housed the once-popular Breakfast Bar was completely renovated and the new occupant became just as popular within a short time. Restaurant Ayla – the brainchild of those behind The Suicide Club and Biergarten – offers residents and visitors a warm place for lunch, dinner and drinks. All this with a Mediterranean touch and lots of smaller snacks for sharing. Settle down on the large terrace in the sun early in the afternoon before it fills up.
