Bistro Vieux Hilversum

Welcome to Bistro Vieux Hilversum, where the interior has been carefully designed to reflect authentic French elegance, making the building’s historical character palpable.

You’ll feel like you’re back in the 90s. A summer vacation in Paris, Lyon, or Provence. Or perhaps that first time with your parents at a French restaurant in the Netherlands?

Our spacious terrace is perfect for enjoying a delicious meal in the sun. Thanks to the large sunshade, you can sit comfortably outside even on the hottest days.

Menu Reservations

History

The story behind Bistro Vieux Hilversum & Restaurant-Herberg Nieuwe Graaf van Buren.

In the heart of Hilversum stands a remarkable building that has played a central role in the local hospitality industry for nearly three centuries. What once began as a modest inn, where according to the facade sign even an ancestor of our current king stayed overnight, evolved over time into a beloved meeting place. Later, part of the building was repurposed as Sociëteit De Jonge Graaf van Buuren.

After the death of the resident of the adjacent house, the owner of the society bought her home, merged the buildings, and started three separate restaurants: Jonghe Graef Van Buuren, De Buuren, and Een Eindje Verderop. After about twenty years, he sold the three restaurants. Een Eindje Verderop became De Open Keuken and the other two continued under the names Jonghe Graef van Buuren and Zilt en Zo. Later, these were merged into one large restaurant: De Gulle Graef.

In 2025, it was time for a new phase, which is an ode to the rich past. Eva van Boxmeer bought De Gulle Graef and split the building back to the original idea: two different restaurants under one roof. Thus, Restaurant-Herberg Nieuwe Graaf van Buren and Bistro Vieux Hilversum were born. The inn is a contemporary continuation of all the Counts who previously adorned the building, while the bistro is a tribute to the classic French cuisine, where dishes are served in a refined three-course menu.

With these two new concepts, we hope to embrace and perpetuate the history of this special place, with respect for everyone who made hospitality an art here before us.

Our Story

Running a restaurant is a true passion. I am closely involved and present, not behind the scenes, but right in the heart of our business. For me, hospitality means the harmonious interplay of craftsmanship, genuine involvement, and creating a welcoming environment where every visitor feels special.

The feeling of being pampered is very important to me.

Expert and honest advice from our staff about dishes and matching wines or drinks enriches the culinary experience and elevates your evening to a higher level. This is exactly what we want to offer our guests.

A refined atmosphere, personal attention, and culinary excellence – that is the essence of our hospitality.