Top 5 things to eat and drink in Düsseldorf, Germany, to get invigorated
Ideoli’s co-founders George and Chris spend a great deal of their time travelling the globe. It’s something they enjoy immensely. And why not? It’s the perfect way to see the world, connect with partners while overseeing production runs and client installations—and get inspired and invigorated by the country and the people around them.
Situated mostly on the right bank of the Rhine River, Düsseldorf is the capital of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and is one of the busiest metropolitan cities in Germany. Originally established in 1135, the city has gone through many renaissances. Although many of the city’s oldest buildings were destroyed during WWII bombings, the city and its people persevered and many new structures were built.
Today, Düsseldorf is a prosperous metropolis, with its avant-garde architecture, thriving shopping districts, myriad museums and theaters, and flourishing bar, pub and restaurant scene. Königsallee (Kö for short) is one of the city’s most elegant and well-known streets lined with shops that range from the world’s top designers to eclectic boutiques to cozy street cafes. Other notable landmarks include Lambertus Church, with its crooked tower; Jägerhof and Benrath Castles; and Feldhofer Cave, where remains of Neanderthal man were discovered in 1856.
Düsseldorf’s Old Town is referred to as “the longest bar in the world,” since there is no shortage of rustic pubs that offer Alt Beer, the local top-fermented beer specialty. Throughout the year, the city hosts numerous festivals held along the Rhine, including a celebration of Japanese culture, a fair in July and the famous Christmas market during Advent season. For Ideoli’s globe-trotting co-founders, spending time in Düsseldorf is an excellent way to get invigorated by Germany’s cultural cuisine. George and Chris believe a visit to the city is not complete without experiencing these five favorites:
1. Wurst
With more than 1500 types of Wurst (or sausage) made in Germany, you may never have the same type twice. Sold at street stalls throughout the city, the most popular kinds of Wurst are Bratwurst, fried sausage made of ground pork and spices; Wiener (Viennese), which is smoked and then boiled; and Blutwurst and Schwarzwurst, which are blood sausages.
2. Himmel un aad
In English, the name of this traditional dish—blood sausage, onions and apple-mashed potatoes—means heaven and earth. Most agree it’s aptly named.
3. Sauerbraten
A well-known and popular dish that’s regarded as one of the country’s national dishes, Sauerbraten features picked roast beef and stewed apples. Its distinct flavor is a result of days-long marinating in vinegar and other spices.
4. Halver Hahn
A simple, yet delicious dish that consists of dark rye bread, cheese and mustard. The English translation of the meal’s name, “one half of a cock,” may make you blush—or smirk!
5. Alt Beer
This is the drink that Düsseldorf is known for and why the Old Town is referred to as “the longest bar in the world.” Step into any pub and bar throughout the city for a taste of this signature brew, a dark beer with a pleasant, mellow flavor.
Cofounders George and Chris agree that visiting Düsseldorf, Germany, and getting invigorated by its food and drink is the perfect way to build upon the key relationships they have with Ideoli’s partners and clients.
