International success story Hans im Glück brings unique civic experience to historic setting
The popular international Better Burger concept Hans im Glück reaches a new milestone: the second Dutch branch of the successful full-service hospitality brand will open in The Hague on Wednesday 3 September. After opening in Amsterdam last April, a second location now follows, just a few months later. The Hague branch will be at the famous Buitenhofplein, near De Passage, right in the middle of the historic and vibrant city centre. With this, Hans im Glück continues its international expansion in style, in a place that breathes history and is buzzing at the same time.
Directly adjacent to the Binnenhof, Buitenhof is within walking distance of Hague attractions such as the Mauritshuis, the Gevangenpoort and the Passage. The square is among the Top 100 monuments in the Netherlands and is a lively hub where locals, day-trippers and tourists congregate. 'We couldn't have wished for a better spot for this special opening,' says Bart Claus, Operational Manager Netherlands. 'Overlooking centuries of history and in the middle of The Hague's nightlife, we are going to make both locals and visitors from home and abroad happy here every day.'
As in the other branches, guests in The Hague can enjoy everything that makes a restaurant or bar visit special until late in the evening: delicious food, special drinks and good company. The menu revolves around burgers of all varieties - with meat, vegetarian or vegan - complemented by fresh salads and surprising sides. The drinks menu is at least as versatile, with homemade lemonades, original soft drinks, mocktails and an extensive cocktail menu that really makes a difference. The bar is worth a visit in itself.
The name Hans im Glück ('Happy Hans') refers to the Grimm brothers' fairy tale of the same name. The story shows that happiness does not depend on possessions, but on freedom, fun and good company - exactly what Hans im Glück wants to offer. Although subtle references to the fairy tale can be found in the interior, Hans im Glück is not a themed or fairy-tale restaurant, but a contemporary place where everyone feels welcome.
Since its founding in Munich in 2010, Hans im Glück has grown into a brand with branches in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and now the Netherlands. Around three-quarters of the shops are run by franchisees. Worldwide, more than 3,500 employees ensure a complete experience for some 25,000 guests every day. Sustainability plays an important role here: from expanding plant-based menu items - such as the popular bio-falafel burger - to collaborating with sustainable food-tech innovators like Greenforce. The interior, with lots of wood, natural materials and birch trunks, exudes the same philosophy.
The opening in The Hague confirms that the Hans im Glück concept is also catching on in the Netherlands. "What makes us most proud," says Claus, "is that we make people happy every day - guests, employees and franchisees alike. That's what we do it for."