Foodie weekend in Zeeland: the best tips for mussel season in Yerseke

We are crazy about Zeeland. Not only because the vast beaches, the charming seaside resorts and the holiday homes where you wake up to the sound of the sea, but also because you are incredibly can eat well. Especially if you are crazy about fresh fish, Mussels en oysters This is a destination you return to time and time again. The opening of the Zeeland mussel season is therefore the perfect excuse for us to plan another culinary weekend to Yerseke and Goes in Zeeland. From Yerseke, the mussel and oyster capital of Europe, you can discover the best restaurants, sail along on a mussel cutter, and learn all about one of the finest regional products of the Netherlands.

Yerseke: the mussel and oyster capital of Europe

As soon as you drive into Yerseke, you notice it immediately: everything here revolves around mussels and oysters. It is not without reason that the village is called the mussel and oyster capital of Europe. Walk past the oyster beds, see how the oysters are processed, and look out over the fishing boats sailing back and forth. Precisely because you can see up close where everything comes from here, it tastes even better.

raw mussel © Your Little Black Book

The best restaurants for mussels and oysters in Yerseke

A visit to Yerseke is, of course, not complete without thoroughly enjoying everything the Zeeland waters have to offer. At Het Zeeuws Mosselhuis, you can taste classically prepared mussels and fresh oysters. Pekaar and De Oesterij are also highly recommended. Both restaurants are situated right by the famous oyster beds, meaning that while you dine, you literally look out over the basins where the oysters reside. That makes the experience extra special.

The Zeeland Mussel House © Your Little Black Book

In the mood for something more fine dining? Then reserve a table at Vistro Nolet, which is listed in the Michelin Guide and is known for creative fish dishes using local ingredients. Do you really want to go all out during your culinary weekend? Then reserve a table at Inter Scaldes in Kruiningen. This two-Michelin-starred restaurant has been among the culinary elite of the Netherlands for years and is still on our bucket list.

oyster tasting Pekaar © Your Little Black Book

Discover more about mussels: Sail along on a mussel cutter

Would you like to learn more about the Zeeland mussel? Then sailing on a mussel cutter is highly recommended. During the trip across the Oosterschelde, you will see how mussels are cultivated and harvested, while the crew enthusiastically explains the entire process. On board, we got to taste a raw mussel. Had you ever done that before? The texture is a bit reminiscent of an oyster, but it is slightly firmer, and the taste is surprisingly mild and slightly sweet. Absolutely worth trying.

Did you know, by the way, that there are two types of Zeeland mussels? Suspended culture mussels grow on ropes suspended in the water. As a result, they grow faster, are virtually sand-free, and have a tender texture. Bottom culture mussels, on the other hand, grow on the bottom of the Oosterschelde and take about two years to reach maturity. According to experts, you can definitely taste the difference… I am curious to see if you can taste the difference when you take this trip!

raw mussel © Your Little Black Book

Visit Zilte Trots Winery

You might not expect it, but Zeeland It also has its own vineyard. As far as we are concerned, Wijngoed Zilte Trots is a nice stopover during your culinary weekendDuring a tour, you walk among the vines and learn how the salty sea air and the Zeeland clay soil influence the taste of the wine. Afterwards, it is time to taste various wines. An added bonus: the vineyard is run by an enthusiastic family who serve all kinds of homemade snacks during the tasting. For instance, we tasted a mussel dish inspired by a recipe they once discovered themselves during a holiday.
Grintweg 55, Yerseke

Salty Pride © Your Little Black Book

Stay overnight in Goes at Hotel Katoen

Are you looking for a nice base close to Yerseke? Then Goes is highly recommended. You will find many nice restaurants, cozy terraces, and good shops there. Our tip for an overnight stay is Hotel CottonIn addition to hotel rooms, they also have apartments and lodges. Ideal for a romantic weekend for two, a trip with the kids, or a weekend away with friends.
Bleekveld 9, Goes

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Hotel Cotton © Your Little Black Book

More fun things to do in Zeeland

Join a beach safari

Do you want to not only taste Zeeland, but also discover it? Then book a beach safariTogether with an experienced guide, you will go in search of seals and head up the coast with a large trawl net or crab rods. Along the way, you will learn all about the animals, shells, and plants that live in and around the Oosterschelde. 

Book your beach safari here

Did you know that you can gather oysters yourself?

Many people don't know this, but in various places in Zeeland, you are allowed to harvest wild oysters yourself. Bring an oyster knife, a lemon wedge, and perhaps a glove, and enjoy one of the finest products from Zeeland's nature right there on the spot. However, always check beforehand where you are allowed to harvest and take the applicable rules into account. You can read all about it in our comprehensive article. best places to harvest oysters in the Netherlands >>

Discover more culinary hotspots in Zeeland

Did you get a taste for it after a weekend in Yerseke? Then there is much more to discover in Zeeland. From cozy beach pavilions and seafood restaurants to great lunch spots and unique places where local products take center stage. Also check out our guide with the tastiest food hotspots in Zeeland and plan your next culinary stop right away.

© Your Little Black Book