DALLAS — With less than two months until the FIFA World Cup, businesses across Texas are preparing for a surge in customers, including a decades-old Dutch restaurant in Dallas that expects to become a gathering place for fans of the Netherlands national football team.
At Henk’s European Deli, Inc. & Black Forest Bakery, reminders of the global tournament are already visible. Co-owner Hubertus Winnubst said the atmosphere during major soccer events brings people together.
“Always fun to see, especially when it’s this time of year,” Winnubst said. “Everybody… just having a great time, which we need more of in this world.”
Winnubst and his siblings continue the legacy of their father, Henk, who immigrated to the United States from the Netherlands in 1959 and later purchased and revived the bakery in 1991. While the menu leans heavily German, Dutch influences remain a key part of the identity.
“It’s mostly German, I’d say. You know, sausages, reubens, what have you, a little Dutch fare as well,” Winnubst said.
Customers say the food and atmosphere have helped build a loyal following.
“The sandwiches are fantastic, all their lunch meat, all of it is just really great,” said customer Tanya Walker.
The family’s connection to international soccer dates back decades. During the 1994 World Cup, the Netherlands played Brazil in a quarterfinal match at Cotton Bowl Stadium. Although the Dutch team lost, Winnubst recalls the experience fondly, especially when members of the team later visited the restaurant.
“A lot of people involved with the Dutch team came here one night, and so that was exciting, especially for my dad, because he knew them growing up over there,” he said.
This year, the Netherlands is scheduled to return to Texas for group stage matches in June, with games set for Dallas and Houston. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 150,000 Texas residents claim Dutch ancestry, a factor that could contribute to strong local turnout.
Winnubst said the restaurant is preparing for large crowds during watch parties.
“We’re going to have probably 10 TVs, maybe one outside,” he said.
Regular customers are also expecting a transformation.
“Don’t know how it’s all going to work out as to how we’re all going to fit in here, but definitely,” Walker said.
Dutch soccer fans are known for their passionate support, something Winnubst expects to see firsthand.
“You probably have never seen that much enthusiasm before; seriously, some people,” he said.
As the tournament approaches, enthusiasm is building, with fans eager to cheer for their national team.
“I would love to see them go all the way, obviously,” Winnubst said.