1. Follia

There’s a reason Follia has built such a loyal following. Tucked away on Frederikstraat, this lively Italian spot has become a go-to for locals and expats alike. The menu covers all the classics: antipasti, pasta dishes like penne all’amatriciana and linguine ai frutti di mare, and, of course, pizza. Thin, crisp and baked in a traditional stone oven, they’re exactly what you hope for from a proper Italian. If you’ve still got room afterwards, the Marsala tiramisu and warm-centred chocolate cake are worth saving space for. Better yet, they’ll bring it all to your doorstep.

📍Frederikstraat 62

2. Karsten & Kuiper

Karsten & Kuiper is one of those places we’re always telling friends about. The formula is refreshingly simple: choose a main ingredient, add a couple of sides and dinner is sorted. There are set menus, surprise menus and plenty of options to mix and match yourself. If you’re after something lighter, there are seasonal soups and sandwiches filled with smoked ribeye, Parmesan, burrata or pesto. And because no meal is complete without something sweet, there’s usually a monthly dessert alongside brownies or banana bread.

📍132 Van Diemenstraat

3. Simon de Vogel

Few names are as familiar in The Hague as Simon de Vogel. For more than four decades, this deli on Frederik Hendriklaanhas been feeding the neighbourhood seven days a week. Walking into the shop can feel slightly overwhelming, in the best possible way, thanks to the endless counters filled with tempting dishes. Fortunately, you don’t always need to leave the house. From sausage rolls and teriyaki skewers to hearty favourites like parmigiana di melanzane, truffle ravioli and slow-cooked ossobuco, there’s enough here to keep you happily fed all week.

📍Frederik Hendriklaan 70

4. The Vegetarian Toko

Who says a traditional Indonesian rice table needs meat? At De Vegetarische Toko, everything is plant-based, but none of the flavour is missing. Their rice tables are officially designed for one, although they tend to be generous enough to share. The soy-based renditions of Indonesian favourites are surprisingly satisfying. The sweet soy-braised smoor and satay with rich peanut sauce are standouts, balancing sweetness with just the right amount of heat. And no order feels complete without a slice of spekkoek to finish.

📍Prins Hendrikstraat 150A

5. Ali’s Incredible Lebanese Sandwiches

Ali’s wraps have developed something of a cult following, and one bite explains why. From his spot on Regentesseplein, he turns humble ingredients into seriously satisfying meals. The signature Incredible wrap packs in falafel, hummus, aubergine, cauliflower, halloumi, coleslaw and pomegranate sauce. It works just as well for dinner as it does for lunch. Prefer to pick and mix? Baba ghanoush, labneh with walnut-stuffed aubergines and silky hummus with tahini, garlic and lemon all make excellent additions. Street food rarely tastes this good.

📍Regentesseplein 228

Fancy trying one of these places? Save them for your next night in, when cooking feels overrated and having dinner delivered sounds like the better plan..