Theatercafé The Bastard

Theatercafé De Bastaard has been a beloved constant in Utrecht's nightlife since 1984. For over four decades, this iconic venue has been operated by the same dedicated owners, creating a unique atmosphere that defies conventional café culture and celebrates individuality.

Founded on the Twentse philosophy of "doe maar gewoon, dan doe je gek genoeg" (act normal, that's crazy enough), the café quickly attracted a crowd with the opposite conviction: "doe maar gek, dan doe je gewoon genoeg" (act crazy, that's normal enough). This playful inversion of expectations perfectly captures the spirit of De Bastaard – a place where eccentricity is celebrated and conformity is questioned.

Located in the heart of Utrecht's theater district, this legendary café serves as both a pre-theater meeting spot and a destination in its own right. The longevity of its ownership has created a rare continuity and genuine character that's increasingly hard to find, making it a treasured institution for locals and visitors alike.