When it comes to food and drink, there’s no rest for the wicked in Het Gooi. From new wine bars and steakhouses to exciting international flavours, the Gooise food scene is keeping us on our toes. And frankly, I’m not complaining.
In fact, it’s one of the many reasons why I like living here as there is always something happening.
In this article I’ll be listing new restaurants in Het Gooi that are on my radar and worth keeping an eye on.
Located at Biersteeg 15, GEES is the concept of chef Gees and host(woman) Kim, who are bringing their own approach to dining in the heart of Hilversum’s city centre.
The concept promises thoughtfully prepared dishes, good wines and a relaxed atmosphere, with room for both a proper dinner and a casual drink accompanied by something tasty.
With its opening scheduled for 22 October, GEES is one of the first newcomers on our list. According to their website it’s already possible to reserve a table.
Address: Biersteeg 15, Hilversum
Located in the former Soof, Wijnbar Druif is a new concept from Ewout Jansen of Il diVino and Paul Hoogermolen of Roast, merging together their experience in wine and hospitality.
The particularly intriguing part is that the bar plans to offer more than 60 wines through a self-service wine dispensing system, allowing guests to pour smaller tasting portions and discover different bottles without committing to a full glass. You can read the full source article here.
It’s a concept that enables those who want to discover different wines, without committing to a bottle.
The opening has been announced for around mid-November, although an exact date has yet to be confirmed. Keep your eyes peeled!
Address: Langestraat 124, Hilversum
Let’s move over to Bussum, where Loft 88 is preparing to open its doors at the former Bel Ami location on Brinklaan.
With locations in Utrecht, Bilthoven, and Ijsselstein, the restaurant’s “all-day restaurant” concept is about to also land in Het Gooi. Think chic, beach-club-inspired vibes with a crowd-pleasing menu of stone-oven pizzas, smash burgers, and much more. Don’t forget about their drinks menu, ranging from specialty coffee to cocktails.
The new location is expected to offer an approachable setting for different occasions, whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee or settling in for a dinner.
Mark your calendars because Loft88 will be officially opening on December 11th, 2026!
Address: Brinklaan 86, Bussum
Laren’s restaurant scene is welcoming a newcomer from The Hague.
Papa Steak, known for its steakhouse concept, is preparing to open a location on De Rijt. As the name suggests, meat takes centre stage, making this a bucket list destination for meat lovers who want a special evening.
Housed in the former Het Visatelier space, this lively second location serves up premium sharing-style cut steaks (their USA Black Angus Ribeye), fresh fish, and crispy fries.
The restaurant’s website has announced December 2nd as their planned opening date.
Address: De Rijt 2, Laren
Vietnamese cuisine seems to be having a moment in Hilversum.
The former Royal Mandarin’s location is about to get a makeover, as Saigon Garden is preparing to bring Vietnamese flavours alongside cocktails and traditional Vietnamese coffee.
This will be Saigon Gardens’ second location, with an existing restaurant in Leiden. The restaurant is expected to feature a French-Vietnamese-inspired interior, bringing together two cultural influences in one dining experience.
With its combination of Vietnamese flavours, drinks and an intriguing new setting, Saigon Garden is certainly one to keep on your radar.
Opening is expected around November, but keep checking their socials for updates.
Location: Emmastraat 9, Hilversum
Out of all the new restaurants in Het Gooi scheduled for opening, I think this one catches my attention the most.
Taking its name from Armenia’s capital, the restaurant promises an intriguing addition to the region’s dining landscape. Armenian cuisine is all about rich traditions, generous hospitality and bringing people together over good food.
I admit I had no idea what Armenian food looked like, so I consulted my bestie Google Search. In a nutshell: lots of meat, legumes, spices, and different types of bread.
There is no official opening date at the moment, but their Instagram says “soon”. So definitely check their socials.
Address: Kampstraat 22, Hilversum
Keep Your Eyes Peeled
With so many new restaurants in Het Gooi, the food scene isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
Of course it can happen that I’ve missed an opening, so please do let me know if there are other locations worth mentioning.
Tot de volgende keer!
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