Since 1938
From Gerrit Schaap to the fourth generation
A Leiden institution — founded in 1938
For almost ninety years, a small, cosy fish shop on Herenstraat in Leiden has fed, delighted and connected generations of Leiden residents. Schaap's Vishandel is not just a shop — it is a piece of Leiden history.
The beginning
Gerrit Schaap opens his fish shop at Herenstraat 48 in Leiden. At a time when fish truly came fresh from the boat and every Leiden resident had their own fishmonger, Gerrit lays the foundation for what would grow into a city institution.
Cor Haasnoot takes the helm
Young Cor Haasnoot starts working for Mr Schaap at just thirteen years old. He learns the trade from the ground up and takes over the business in 1957. The name 'Schaap' stays — a tribute to the founder who has become inseparably linked to the shop.
The third generation: Aldert Haasnoot
Aldert Haasnoot — known simply as 'Schaap' in the neighbourhood — has stood behind the counter his entire life. In 2009 he officially takes over from his father, bringing the shop into the 21st century while preserving the atmosphere Leiden residents cherish: personal, warm, honest.
“People come here not just for the fish, but for the conversation. Sometimes it's like a village pub in here. — Aldert Haasnoot”
80 years!
On 1 January 2018, Schaap's Vis turns 80. The whole city celebrates. Customers send in photos and memories for an anniversary book. One of the most charming: Ria Verburg, who collected kibbeling monthly for the nursery and always came back for Mr Schaap's joke.
“When picking up he always said: 'a box of kibbeling for the orphanage!' It always made me laugh. — Ria Verburg”
Today — ready for the next generation
Schaap's Vis is preparing for its fourth generation. Alongside the shop on Herenstraat, the team now also appears at the Leiden market (Wednesday and Saturday) and at Hoogvliet in Voorschoten on Fridays. The range has grown — but the warmth has remained.
“We are a lovely old little shop. Not everything has to be brand new and spick and span.”— Aldert Haasnoot