Taste
What to do in Düsseldorf
Christian Clerx has traveled the world for his work. His platform CityZapper.com is packed with free city guides with the best tips for a city trip. In this edition he shares his tips for Düsseldorf. Are you looking for a nice destination close to home? Then the capital of the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia is the perfect location.
EAT & DRINK
Lovely home brewery
“This is the place to be for beer lovers. Uerige is one of Düsseldorf’s most famous breweries and a household name in the city. Here you can drink locally brewed Altbier in a lively and authentic setting. The menu is simple but good: hearty German dishes such as bratwurst, schnitzel and the traditional combination of mashed potatoes and black pudding (Sky and Earth). Highly recommended if you want to experience the atmosphere of a Düsseldorf brewery.”
Zwanzig23
“Regional, seasonal, zero waste: At Lukas Jakobi’s Zwanzig23, sustainable fine dining is not a marketing gimmick, but a lived conviction. Around 80 percent of the products come from the region. Two set menus are served: ‘Vegan’ and ‘Not vegan’, consisting of six or nine tasteful courses. ‘Taste the Waste – Some sexy stuff’, for example, shows the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability. With a variety of components, it contributes to waste reduction and presents ‘leftovers’ in a refined culinary way. The food is served at counter seats right next to the open kitchen, or you can opt for a standard table.”
Nagaya
“Are you looking for refined Japanese cuisine at the highest level? Then Nagaya is the place to go in Düsseldorf. This Michelin-starred restaurant combines traditional Japanese techniques with modern influences. The sushi and sashimi are of high quality, the Wagyu beef is buttery soft. The dishes are prepared with the utmost precision and beautifully presented. The atmosphere is calm and stylish, perfect for a special night out.”
Brasserie townhouse
“This brasserie brings French cuisine to Düsseldorf in a classic and atmospheric setting. The restaurant is located in a historic building and has a charming, almost Parisian feel. The menu includes well-known French dishes such as coq au vin, steak frites and tarte tatin. The cuisine is solid and traditional, without unnecessary frills. A great place for those who love a timeless, French brasserie experience.”
Little Tokyo District
“Düsseldorf has a large Japanese community and you can see that in the lively Little Tokyo District. Here you will find many authentic Japanese restaurants, ranging from small ramen bars like Takumi to robatayaki restaurants like Kushi-Tei. The choice is great. An ideal district for lovers of Japanese cuisine and culture who like to discover new flavors.”
To the key
“In this traditional home brewery in the old town, you can experience Düsseldorf’s brewing and drinking culture in its most original form. Only here is the traditional 100-litre wooden barrel still tapped. The specialities, especially the award-winning Altbier, are among the highlights of Rhineland brewing mastery. And this has also been recognised by experts: Original Schlüssel has already been awarded the gold medal for the best Altbier twice at the European Beer Star.”
SHOPPING
Breuninger
“The most famous luxury department store in Düsseldorf! A great place for those looking for exclusive purchases or just want to browse. Here you will find an extensive collection of clothing, shoes and accessories from high-end brands such as Gucci, Balenciaga and Saint Laurent. The store exudes class, with spacious departments and a pleasant atmosphere. In addition to fashion, Breuninger also has a wide range of cosmetics and lifestyle products.”
Konigsallee
“The 'Kö', as it is also called, is the luxury shopping street of Düsseldorf. It is also one of the most exclusive shopping locations in Germany. Along the wide boulevard with the characteristic canal you will find boutiques of top brands such as Chanel, Prada, Louis Vuitton and Hermès. The street has a chic appearance and is a nice place to stroll, even if you don't buy anything. Here everything revolves around fashion, style and exclusivity.”
Beyond Studios
“For lovers of minimalist fashion and sleek design, Beyond Studios is a must-visit. This stylish boutique focuses on Scandinavian brands such as Acne Studios and Ganni, with clothing, accessories and interior items in a timeless and functional design. The store has a calm, uncluttered layout and personal service. A nice place to find something unique that is not hanging in every big chain.”
Heinemann Confectionery
“Heinemann Confiserie is a household name in Düsseldorf and a favourite among chocolate lovers. This family-run business has been making top-quality luxury pralines, truffles and pastries for decades. The house speciality is the champagne truffle, which has a rich, creamy flavour. In addition to chocolate, they also sell artisanal cakes and other sweets. Perfect to take home as a souvenir or to enjoy on the spot.”
Antique Gallery Düsseldorf
“Antique Galerie Düsseldorf is a must-visit for anyone looking for unique vintage and antiques. Here you will find a carefully curated collection of furniture, artwork, jewelry, and curiosities from different periods. The store is a great place for lovers of history and special objects. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth taking a look around and discovering the stories behind the pieces.”
MUSEA
Art Collection NRW
“The Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen is the place to be for lovers of modern art. Spread over three locations (K20, K21 and F3), the museum offers an impressive collection with works by Picasso, Klee and Warhol, among others. K20 focuses on classic modern art, while K21 shows contemporary art and installations. An inspiring place where you always discover something new.”
Kunstpalast Museum
“The Kunstpalast combines classical and modern art under one roof. From old masters to contemporary artists, the collection is broad and varied. Here you can admire paintings, sculptures and glassware, with regularly changing exhibitions. The museum has a clear layout and a pleasant atmosphere, ideal for a relaxed cultural afternoon.”
NRW Forum
“Are you interested in photography, digital art and contemporary culture? Then the NRW Forum is the place for you. The exhibitions are often experimental and stimulating, with attention to social themes. This is not a classic museum with permanent collections, but a place where you are constantly surprised by innovative art forms.”
Goethe Museum
“This museum, housed in the beautiful Schloss Jägerhof, offers an in-depth insight into the life and work of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. With letters, books and artworks, you get a good idea of the influence of this literary great. Even if you don't know much about Goethe, it is an interesting and atmospheric museum to visit, thanks in part to the historical setting.”
Film Museum Düsseldorf
“A fascinating museum for film lovers, where you can discover the history of cinema – from the first silent films to modern productions. You can see old cameras, costumes and sets and also experiment with film techniques yourself. An interactive and educational experience, ideal for those interested in the history behind the silver screen.”
