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AfghanKop Van Zuid
An Afghan restaurant near Rijnhaven serving ashak dumplings, lamb qorma, and bolani flatbread in a relaxed dining room. Located in Kop Van Zuid.
OrderAshaak dumplings and the lamb qorma.
TipCall ahead: the kitchen sometimes closes early when produce runs out, especially the ashak.
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ThaiCentrum
An authentic Thai family restaurant on Nieuwe Binnenweg with laab, som tam, and massaman curry at prices below their quality level. Located in Centrum.
OrderGreen curry and the pad see ew.
TipOrder the green mango salad as a starter; it cuts through the richness of the curry.
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ItalianCentrum
A Neapolitan pizza and trattoria on the Meent using San Marzano tomatoes and 00 flour in a wood-fired oven. The city's most serious Neapolitan-style pizza.
OrderPizza Margherita and the spaghetti alle vongole.
TipThe tiramisu is homemade and better than it looks; order it early as it runs out.
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ItalianRotterdam Noord
A long-running pasta specialist on Nieuwe Binnenweg with handmade fresh pasta from tagliatelle al ragu to cacio e pepe. Located in Rotterdam Noord.
OrderCacio e pepe and the daily pasta special.
TipThe pasta-lunch on Saturday is one of the better deals in Rotterdam Noord: three courses under 20 euros.
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IndianRotterdam West
An Indian and Pakistani buffet restaurant on Schiedamseweg in Delfshaven serving biryani, curries, and fresh naan. Located in Rotterdam West.
OrderThe all-you-can-eat buffet at 24.50 euros per person.
TipThe buffet is refilled fresh at 12:00 and 18:00; arrive at either time for the best selection.
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SurinameseCentrum
A Surinamese canteen on Jonker Fransstraat serving moksi meti (mixed meats with rice), roti, and saoto soup from a short menu that changes daily.
OrderThe moksi meti mixed-meat rice plate and the saoto soup as a starter.
TipBring cash: this is a card-optional kitchen. The roti sells out by mid-afternoon on Saturdays.