Discover Groningen’s Heart of Hospitality: The International Café
Meet internationals and try out food from all over the world.
If you're new to Groningen, looking for friends, or just in search of a cozy spot to connect with people from around the world, let me introduce you to a true gem: the International Café (ICA). This monthly gathering, held on the last Saturday of each month, is more than a dinner. It’s a heartwarming community of internationals and Dutch locals who come together to share food, culture, and friendship. Founded many years ago by a super sweet and kind Dutch couple, ICA was born out of their desire to create a safe and welcoming space for internationals in a time when, as they said, newcomers to the city weren’t always met with open arms.
Since then, ICA has grown from an occasional gathering into a beautiful monthly tradition. Volunteers help with the cooking and setup, bringing people together for a joyful meal and an unforgettable night of cultural exchange. And guess what? Each dinner has a unique country theme, led by internationals themselves who volunteer to present and share their homeland's flavours and traditions.
A Day in the Life of an ICA Chef
Now, if you’re wondering what it’s like to lead one of these dinners, let me share a bit of my experience. I first attended ICA in 2019, just a few months after arriving in Groningen, and I’ve been a regular ever since. Last October, my husband and I decided to bring a taste of Greece to ICA.
The day began with grocery shopping with a group of volunteers, with all expenses covered by ICA, so no need to worry about cost, just enjoy the experience! Together, we headed to the community centre at Madoerastraat 16, where the cooking magic happens. With music playing and everyone in good spirits, we prepared Greek dishes while sharing stories and laughing. As more friends and volunteers joined, the kitchen filled with chatter, energy and joy.
By the time the people started arriving, my husband and I were so excited to share a genuine taste of Greece and, in a way, open a window into our culture. Watching everyone gather around tables, tasting our food and enjoying each other’s company, was incredibly fulfilling.
An Evening of Fun and Connection
After dinner, ICA hosts an activity unique to each theme. It could be a quiz on the featured country, a cultural presentation, music, dancing, or even a movie. Some nights, it’s as simple as chatting from table to table, catching up with friends and meeting new ones. This is what I love most: there’s no judgment, no formalities, just a welcoming space where everyone can be themselves, share stories, and feel a little more at home in Groningen.
Through ICA, I’ve met so many incredible people from all over the world, forged friendships, and learned about so many different cultures. It’s truly a place where you can feel at ease, knowing that everyone is there for the same reason, to connect, share, and enjoy.
Want to Join?
If this sounds like your kind of night, you’re welcome to join the next ICA dinner! You can find ICA Groningen on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated. Grab a plate, bring a friend, and join the next gathering for a night full of warmth, laughter, and a delicious dive into another culture.
See you there!
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