El Gaucho: Argentinian steak house
First night in Leiden walking to small harbor area from train station about 730pm. No reservations or inside tables available until 830 pm, but waiter offered us an outdoor table that was one of 3 available. We shared an app, each had a glass of wine, a steak dinner ( me 220g filet) ( him 300g Ribeye) that came with veg and choice of side, each had an expresso and each had a dessert. Total about 114 Euros. For some reason the international credit card machine did not have ability to leave a tip. Usually in Europe we round up or leave a 10% tip. Sometimes we left a cash tip if we had small bills. Other times, the staff said no problem.
We liked the chimichurri sauce so much we returned on our last night. Unable to get a reservation, but arrived at 5 pm to empty restaurant ( opened at 4). Allowed to dine inside if we agreed to be out by 7pm.
Lots of locals in El Gaucho even though it's in a tourist location.
Fratelli's: I ate solo here. No reservations but able to get a table upon arrival around 645pm. Excellent veal Saltimbocca and homemade tiramisu. I also had bruschetta, 2 glasses of wine and a double espresso. Total 58 Euros.
Lavendi cafe: nice brunch spot with lots of locals and students. Order and pay at counter then be seated. I had to ask if I could join another party of 1 so I could sit down on a regular chair. The person was accommodating and said yes. I did not have to explain my aversion to stools. 16 Euros for pancakes with fruit salad and an iced cappuccino.
Tabu: we found this latin/ Mexican restaurant while walking along the canal after Rembrant square, and some of the university buildings. We did not eat here, but again the restaurant was full on a Wed night around 730pm. The food we saw looked delicious. Beautiful view of canal.