In Pattaya one is spoilt for choice as there is an abundance of international restaurants in town, and an ever growing share is appearing in the suburbs (aka the Darkside). 

So it was a journey along Soi Nern Plab Wan this week to search out a very popular Dutch and Belgian combo restaurant called Holland Belgium House, which is located on side road 5 opposite the now defunct Chenrong market.   This casual and down to earth restaurant and guesthouse has been open for nearly 3 years and is hosted by restaurateur Khun Jane and young son Richard.   Even though Holland Belgium House is spotlessly clean, the decor is quite basic, with space for both hungry diners and thirsty regulars drinking at the bar; so don’t expect the height of luxury, what you get here are good value drinks and exceptionally good value fresh quality food. 

Naturally, the venue is very popular with Dutch expats, (especially the guesthouse) as they serve up a nice selection of mainly Dutch cuisine, with an emphasis on popular and favourite Dutch Snacks such as Kroketten (65 baht), Bitterballen (75 baht), Meatballs (145 baht with Fries), Dutch Pea Soup (80 baht) and some very good Indonesian Sate style dishes at 135 baht.  The menu also contains a selection of international favourite dishes such as Spaghetti Bolognese (135 baht), Schnitzel (145 baht) and Fillet of Fish at 165 baht.  Plus a wide range of Snack type dishes such as Cheeseburgers (75 baht) and homemade Soups such as Tomato or Pumpkin at 75 baht.  Plus, there is a fine collection of bar games to play such as Darts, Pool and Table Football; plus live TV Dutch football games are broadcast every Sunday from 6.30pm.

Drinks are very reasonably priced, with beers such as Chang at 50 baht a bottle, Tiger at 60 baht and Heineken at 65 baht. Very acceptable house wine is also available at 85 baht a glass.

We sampled the Bitterballen, which is a delicious deep fried Dutch meat and mashed potato based Croquette savoury snack, traditionally served with Mustard and deep fried Onion Rings.  This was followed by a very decent Shrimp Cocktail and Smoked Salmon platter (both at 75 baht).

For the main course, a first rate cut of Beef Steak appeared, cooked medium rare, juicy and tender, topped with fried Onion, served with very good tasting Fries, and at 220 baht a very good deal indeed!   Another great deal is the Pork Spare Ribs platter, which one can enjoy ad infinitum, being all you can eat for 260 baht.  A traditional Dutch favourite arrived next, a pile of great tasting homemade Meatballs in a rich tasting Tomato Sauce (190 baht) served with Mashed Potato and Salad.  Finally, one had to try one of the Indonesian dishes; so along came a huge plate full of Babi Panang and Sate (180 baht) served with spicy Noodles and Shrimp Crackers.   Do leave room for the house specialty Desserts, being homemade Belgian Chocolate Mousse, White Chocolate Mousse (70 baht) and a very tempting Advocaat Mousse, laced with that super rich and creamy Dutch liqueur – gorgeous!   So if you are in the area, or live nearby, you won’t go far wrong by a visit to Holland Belgian House and enjoy the hospitality of Khun Jane, Richard and her staff.

Open every day from midday to midnight. Telephone: 086 157 7293.