30s Magazine

I have a new favourite hang-out: Brasserie Buitenhuis. This lakeside restaurant opened the beginning of July and is bound to become very popular, mark my words. Officially, the brasserie is located just across the border of the municipal Leiden, in adjacent village Valkenburg, but that’s just a minor detail. Due to its location at the Valkenburger Lake, it attracts people from Leiden, Voorschoten, Valkenburg and Wassenaar. No matter where you’re from, Brasserie Buitenhuis is a lake house for everyone.

The interior design

The interior is beautiful with four different spaces. The owner mixed and matched vintage finds with wicker pendant lamps and chairs, natural woods, and industrial accents. The premise was to create a lake house atmosphere where people could feel at home. A nature retreat where they can gather around the fire place, relax on the terrace, or sit in the living room. Therefore the brasserie is divided into 4 spaces: the conservatory, the living, the dining area, and the terrace + veranda.

The conservatory

The conservatory is light and airy with a natural colour scheme and use of many natural materials.

The Bar and open kitchen have a more robust look and feel to it. Here you can dine or read the morning news paper on the large communal table. The bar is centered in the space and anchors the otherwise large space. In the back there’s a charcuterie counter.

The living room has a cozy seating nook with mismatched armchairs and a soft couch to land into.

The dining room is robust and light with as a focal point a wall covering open cabinet displaying accessories.

The outside terrace: sunset gazing spot

The outside terrace is so good to relax! In summer it is the ultimate spot for an al fresco breakfast, lunch or dinner. You have a beautiful view on the lake. In the evening they turn on fire pits to enhance that summer lake house feeling. It’s the perfect spot for sunset gazing!

The food at Brasserie Buitenhuis

The food is versatile and full of flavour. There is also plenty of choice for vegetarians. I love the scallops with pork, or the cold Asian duck wrap as an appetizer! As a main I recommend the grilled dorade fish or the sticky ribs. The desserts are also worth a try. Opt for the cheesecake!

Breakfast

I also had breakfast at Brasserie Buitenhuis which feels like being on vacation. While basking in the sun on the terrace, with a view on the lake, I indulged in super fresh croissants that will instantly transport you to France. Amidst nature all your senses are elevated. Their mixed freshly pressed juice is also excellent! The menu is online for your perusal.