11 Delicious Food in Dusseldorf You MUST Eat

Dusseldorf's culinary scene is a diverse tapestry reflecting the city's rich cultural mix. From hearty traditional German dishes to international flavors, the city offers a palate-pleasing experience for every taste.

In this blog post, we'll navigate the food landscape of Dusseldorf, highlighting must-try dishes and hidden gems that define the city's gastronomic identity.

Traditional Local Dishes Of Dusseldorf (and the region)

Dusseldorf Mustard (Düsseldorfer Mostert)

Dusseldorf Mustard is an iconic part of the regional specialties. This condiment is made from mustard seeds and has its roots deeply planted in the culinary traditions of Dusseldorf.

The flavor profile of this mustard sauce leans towards spicy rather than tangy or sweet. Löwensenf company stands out as a significant producer having been established right at home in Düsseldorf. [1]

In 1726, Germany's first mustard factory sprouted here adding to the rich history that revolves around this traditional cuisine.

In typical dishes like Senfrostbraten and even simpler ones involving kale or sausages, locals love incorporating Mostert for an extra kick of spice.

Some variations have such unique flavors they've earned protected designation across the European Union!

Düsseldorf Senfrostbraten

Düsseldorf Senfrostbraten offers an unforgettable culinary experience. This delicious beef roast is a proud facet of Düsseldorf's traditional German cuisine, savored by locals and tourists alike.

As part of the city's rich gastronomic repertoire, it takes center stage during the much-anticipated Düsseldorf Carnival.

A specialty that sets Düsseldorfer Senfrostbraten apart is its unique preparation. This rump steak gets fried to a perfect medium-rare before being gratinated with a flavourful mustard and onion paste.

The result? An enticing dish that remains juicy on the inside while sporting a crispy exterior - making it quite an irresistible affair for your taste buds!

Halve Hahn

The charming city of Dusseldorf, known for its rich traditional cuisine, offers a local delicacy that captures the heart of every food lover - Halve Hahn.

This regional specialty is nothing short of a culinary delight and goes by another name: Kiesbrütche, or cheese sandwich in English.

The assembly starts with a base of rye bread roll which gets generously topped with creamy Mainz cheese made from cow's milk, crunchy onions, tangy pickles, and zingy mustard. [2]

Over the years it has gained immense popularity in cities like Cologne and Dusseldorf to such an extent that it's now common to find this dish being served in most eateries around these regions; be it restaurants, pubs or beer gardens!

There's also a tasteful twist you might come across where hand-cheese replaces Gouda lending a unique flavor to Halve Hahn.

Himmel un Ähd (heaven and earth)

Himmel un Ähd is a traditional German dish that originates from Dusseldorf and is loved in the region. 

This popular dish combines mashed potatoes with stewed apples to create a unique and delicious flavor combination.

To complete the dish, it is often served with sliced blood sausage. The name "Himmel un Ähd" translates to "Heaven and Earth," referring to the heavenly mashed potatoes (himmel) and earthly apples (ähd). [3]

It's a must-try when exploring Dusseldorf cuisine and experiencing the rich flavors of German culinary tradition.

Killepitsch

Killepitsch is a traditional herbal liqueur from Düsseldorf, Germany. This unique drink is made with a blend of 98 different herbs and spices, creating a rich and complex flavor profile.

Produced by the Busch family since 1858, Killepitsch is well-known for its striking blood red color. [4]

With an alcohol content of over 40%, it can be enjoyed as a schnapps on its own or paired with local dishes like Rhenish Sauerbraten and Altbier.

So if you're looking to try something truly authentic in Düsseldorf, don't miss out on experiencing the distinct taste of Killepitsch.

Altbier

Altbier, meaning "old beer," is the traditional local drink of Dusseldorf. This German beer style has a distinct dark and copper color, often referred to as "Alt."

It is made with German lager malts and can have flavors extracted from blends of pilsner, Munich, caramel, and/or roast.

Altbier falls somewhere between a lager and an ale in terms of brewing process - fermented warm like ales but aged cool like lagers.

With its rich amber appearance and unique taste, Altbier is a must-try when exploring the food and drink scene in Dusseldorf.

Mettbrötchen

Mettbrötchen is a traditional sandwich from Düsseldorf and the surrounding region. It consists of a fresh brötchen (German bread roll) filled with raw pork mince called mett.

The mett is usually seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes garlic when purchased from the butcher.

This local specialty has a savory and smooth taste with a slight smokiness. To add some crunch and tang, it is typically topped with tart onions.

Mettbrötchen is highly popular in Düsseldorf and known for its traditional flavors and ingredients, making it a must-try dish for visitors exploring the local cuisine scene.

Westphalian Pumpernickel

Westphalian Pumpernickel is a traditional German bread that is closely associated with the NRW region, including Dusseldorf.

This specialty food is made from rye flour, sugar beet syrup, and malt extract, giving it a distinctive bittersweet taste.

What sets Westphalian Pumpernickel apart is its unique texture; it has little to no crust and a coarse crumb. When you take a bite, you'll experience its earthy scent and robust flavor.

This heavy and slightly sweet rye bread not only adds depth to local dishes in Dusseldorf but also showcases the culinary heritage of the region.

Rheinischer Sauerbraten

Rheinischer Sauerbraten is a traditional German dish that is a local specialty in Dusseldorf and the surrounding region. This delicious beef roast is marinated in a mixture of spices and vinegar, giving it a unique flavor.

While the original recipe called for horse meat, nowadays beef, pork, venison, or mutton are commonly used as substitutes. The meat is marinated for up to 10 days before being slow roasted to perfection.

Rheinischer Sauerbraten is typically served with dumplings, boiled potatoes, noodles, or Spätzle - a type of German pasta.

It's no wonder this dish has become one of the most famous and beloved delicacies in Dusseldorf and its neighboring areas.

Rievkooche

Rievkooche, also known as Reibeplätzchen or Kartoffelpuffer in different parts of Germany, is a traditional local dish that you must try when visiting Dusseldorf.

This crispy fried potato pancake is a beloved delicacy in the region's culinary heritage. The dish originated in Westphalia, but over time has become popular throughout the Rhineland, where it's often enjoyed alongside local beer at traditional beer gardens.

Made from grated potatoes, Rievkooche is cooked until golden and crispy on the outside while remaining soft on the inside. It is typically served with delicious toppings like applesauce or sour cream to enhance its flavors.

You can find this popular street food in local markets and festivals throughout Dusseldorf, where it adds to the vibrant street food culture of the city.

Westfälische Rinderwurst

Westfälische Rinderwurst, also known as Grützwurst, is a traditional German sausage that is a must-try in Dusseldorf and the surrounding region.

This beef sausage is made with a combination of beef, beef dripping, vegetables, pearl barley or groats, and butter.

It is one of the Rhineland specialties that showcases the rich flavors and traditional cuisine of the area.

When you visit Dusseldorf, be sure to sample this local delicacy and experience the unique taste of Westfälische Rinderwurst for yourself.

Famous Food And Drink Festivals In Dusseldorf

Düsseldorf Street Food Festival (April)

The Düsseldorf Street Food Festival, held in April at the Schwanenhöfe, is a food lover's paradise.

With a wide range of culinary delights on offer, this festival caters to every taste bud.

Indulge in mouthwatering cupcakes, juicy burgers, delectable dim sum, and flavorful Japanese curry.

Hosted by Street Food Festival, this event promises an unforgettable gastronomic experience that will leave you craving for more.

Gourmet Festival Düsseldorf (August)

The Gourmet Festival Düsseldorf is a must-visit culinary event held annually in August. Located along the famous "Königsallee," this open-air festival is the largest of its kind in Europe.

With over 200 exhibitors, it's a gastronomic extravaganza that showcases the best of local delicacies and gourmet cuisine from Düsseldorf.

Visitors can indulge in fine dining experiences, sample new and high-quality dishes, and enjoy an unforgettable culinary showcase.

Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the Gourmet Festival Düsseldorf promises to delight your taste buds and provide a memorable culinary adventure.

Weinsommer in Düsseldorf (August)

Weinsommer in Düsseldorf is a famous food and drink festival held every August in the city of Düsseldorf, Germany.

This exciting event showcases a wide variety of gourmet food and drinks from the region, providing visitors with an opportunity to taste and sample new, high-quality dishes and beverages.

As one of the renowned food festivals in the city, Weinsommer celebrates the art of cuisine and serves as a platform for showcasing exquisite food and refined tastes.

Don't miss out on this chance to indulge in the flavors of Düsseldorf during your visit in August!

Dusseldorf Christmas Markets

The Dusseldorf Christmas Markets in November and December are a magical destination that should not be missed.

These holiday markets create a festive atmosphere with their ornate decorations, carol singers, and winter wonderland ambiance.

Visitors can enjoy the delicious scent of roasted food and mulled wine as they explore the various stalls offering seasonal treats and handcrafted gifts.

With an iceskating rink and traditional crafts on display, these markets truly capture the spirit of Christmas in Dusseldorf.

Conclusion: Food in Dusseldorf

Discover the delectable world of food in Dusseldorf and immerse yourself in the local cuisine.

From traditional dishes like Dusseldorf Mustard and Halve hahn to food festivals that celebrate the culinary delights of the city, there's something for every foodie to enjoy.

Experience the vibrant dining scene, taste authentic flavors, and savor the diverse range of gastronomic experiences that Dusseldorf has to offer.

Key Takeaways

• Dusseldorf is renowned for its traditional local dishes, such as Düsseldorf Mustard, Halve hahn, and Himmel un Ähd.
• The city hosts famous food and drink festivals like the Düsseldorf Street Food Festival in April and the Gourmet Festival Düsseldorf in August.
• Altbier, a traditional local beer with a dark and copper color, is a must - try when exploring the food and drink scene in Dusseldorf.