Eat, drink, dance and shop your way through Düsseldorf
From Maseratis to Martinis: a glimpse inside the artist’s studio
The future of dance: the next generation at Ballett am Rhein
From food to culture – exploring the diversity of Oststraße
Fresh talent and flavours shaping Düsseldorf’s culinary scene
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Nine editions of THE DORF – and still there is so much more to discover. Düsseldorf is in constant flux, yet always remains true to itself. It is precisely this exciting contradiction that fascinates us: the young voices boldly setting the tone, and the places that have been part of the city’s symphony for decades. Together, they tell the story of who we are – and where we are heading.
In this issue, too, we turn our focus to the Young Voices from music, fashion, art and design. Their perspectives, ideas and visions are reshaping Düsseldorf’s vibe. They are loud, quiet, colourful, experimental –translating the city’s spirit into their very own languages. This becomes visible in the design of our magazine as well: the headlines in this edition bear the signature of ‘G2 Ciao’, created by the Düsseldorf design collective Gruppo Due. A typeface that transforms voice into form – at times rhythmic, at times powerful, at times flowing.
Of course, our love for culinary explorations remains as strong as ever: we are continuing to expand What’s cookin’, our series launched last year, and aim to make it a permanent feature of THE DORF. Here, we present young talents and new worlds of flavour that enrich Düsseldorf’s food scene. We are also carrying on with the THE DORF playlist, which premiered in 2024: offering a snapshot of the current music scene, this time once again bringing together young, zeitgeist-driven musicians whose wild mix of genres is shaping the city’s sound.
Yet THE DORF would not be THE DORF without also looking back. At what is enduring, handcrafted and good – things that unfold their strength in stillness. We met Masanori Kobayashi, who has been writing a piece of culinary city history with his restaurant Naniwa for 40 years. And we visited the bookbindery Mergemeier – a place where books have been bound since 1950, combining craftsmanship and art.
Our cover stories also reflect this blend of renewal and conti-
#THEDORF
#THEDORFTHEMAG
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nuity: we open the door to Katja Tönnissen’s studio near Wehrhahn, where she shapes ceramics, paints pictures and writes songs – a space where cultural exchange is as natural as the paint-splattered, colourful floor. Welcomed by her dog Kitti, who accompanies her everywhere, we immerse ourselves in a world where personal memories, family stories and motifs such as shells, palm trees and vulvas shape her art.
We accompany three dancers of the Ballett am Rhein, who came to Düsseldorf from Argentina, Italy and Brazil to seize their future in dance. And we let Oststraße speak for itself – one of the city’s most vibrant streets. Our photographer, Sabrina Weniger, spent several days capturing the vibe and diversity of the approximately 1.2-kilometre-long street with her analogue camera.
As always, we have also updated our address section –with all the latest discoveries in gastronomy, shopping and culture that make Düsseldorf so exciting. We hope you enjoy trying, discovering and exploring them just as much as we did in curating them.
We also had great fun putting together our Düsseldorfer Allerlei table for this year’s cover shoot. Together with photographer Domenik Broich and food stylist Torsten Hülsmann, we created a THE DORF table that showcases Düsseldorf’s culinary diversity—from Mettbrötchen to oysters, ramen and sushi. The motif will soon be available as a poster in the THE DORF shop –perhaps it will even find its way into your kitchen.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to our wonderful team of authors, photographers, designers and helpers – and of course to our partners and supporters, who make this independent publication possible.
We wish you much joy with THE DORF • THE MAG #9.
Tina Husemann & David Holtkamp
(Founders
and editors-in-chief of THE DORF)
Dressed in black, velvet loafers, sunglasses: Katja Tönnissen is a real character. Anyone who meets her soon realises she’s either just back from Mallorca, Chongqing or Miami – or about to set off on her next big trip. Her dark clothing contrasts with her art and her demeanour: colourful and cheerful!
“For me, the glass is always half full, not half empty.” Glasses actually appear in her work: a white ceramic martini glass lies on the sofa, and the same shape hangs on the wall as an oil pastel drawing. The martini paintings were created during a residency in China, which she tells us about enthusiastically. Thanks to her open manner, she quickly gets to know new people and, in a country that no one would immediately associate with wild techno parties, she has discovered precisely that scene.
Cultural exchange is extremely important to Katja and feeds directly into her work. She is based in Düsseldorf, where she produces ceramics, paints pictures and writes songs in a studio near Wehrhahn. The floor is littered with colourful splashes of paint, her dog Kitti greets us with a bark, and before we start our interview, we first have a coffee with a studio neighbour. Kitti, named after Katja’s nickname Kitti von Kleve, is always there with her, wherever she goes. Family and close ties shape not only her life, but also her art: many of her works take up themes from her childhood and are reminiscent of relatives, friends and personal experiences. She repeatedly works with three specific motifs: shells, palm trees and vulvas.
The sculptor grew up in Kleve, where she often visited her father’s Spanish aunts at their petrol station. A few years later, the chatter and cackling of the ladies inspired her to create works with shells. When slightly open, shells look as if they are talking. She continues to explore these themes in her series of works, which include the shell tower Bora Bora, a water-spouting fountain figure with numerous shells stacked on top of each other, and the mystical-looking Miami, from whose shells golden light emanates. Could there be treasure here? The Kunstpalast has purchased a shell work from the series Dear Miami for its collection. Katja Tönnissen’s objects invite you not only to look at them, but also to experience them: she built a bar for Lantz’scher Park, where new people could meet at the counter. Animals were also considered: in the lower area of the bar, large shells offered an animal drink. Cin Cin!
She repeatedly explores the body and shows our gut feelings in Gut Feelings. When the world came to a standstill and we had to retreat to our homes, she ex-
changed ideas with other people about their gut feelings. The results are now displayed as flat discs lined up on the studio wall. Sometimes the navel looks like a small mouth, on another belly you can see a whole face. The Gut Feelings series also includes two chairs that correspond in colour to the bellies. The chairs stand in the middle of the studio, are oversized and covered with ceramic tiles. “They are a man and a woman sitting naked on a terrace in the Bahamas, enjoying life. The work was created for an exhibition at Ringenberg Castle and is reminiscent of a throne. The nudity breaks down the sense of grandeur.” Here again is the shell. It lies open on the male chair and reveals a bright white pearl.
The palm trees are also a childhood legacy: “My parents had a palm tree in their garden, and I find it a beautiful object. Palm trees are sexy! The leaves are hard, but at the same time graceful. And for centuries they have been a symbol of peace and fertility, and today they trigger longing.” The sexy palm leaves became part of the work after a visit to Düsseldorf’s botanical garden. Back in her studio, she cast a palm leaf in bronze.
The palm tree motifs also form a whole series. Under Palm Trees no longer refers only to German garden palm trees but is the result of her worldwide explorations. Katja Tönnissen prefers to travel to real places
of longing in the south, because warmth, sun and beach are not only relaxation for her, but the basis of her art. A large-format triptych hangs in her studio.
Dark green palm tree crowns bulge across the picture against a bright orange sunset. It’s hard to believe, but even her fascination with this evening display of colours comes from Kleve: “It may be a strange connection: dream destinations in the south and the Lower Rhine. But everything is so flat in the Lower Rhine region, and when the sun sets there, it’s a multifaceted colour play. That has always fascinated me so much that I started working with colour gradients.” Today, she brings this colour play not only to the canvas, but also to floor lamps she has designed herself. She makes the stands and bases out of ceramic and covers the lampshades with fabric. She upholsters some of the lamp stands, inspired by her father’s furniture factory. From dark to light, the colour gradients stretch towards the sky and reflect the southern European colour play in the Rhineland light. She wants to build a lamp for every sunset of her residency in Israel ten years ago – an ongoing project.
Katja recently expanded her artistic spectrum to include music. As Tante Spumante, she produces danceable art criticism with Svenja Höttler. The martini glass also appears in the logo and, as the band name suggests, the songs Daddy Rhein, Art Pussy and Too Cool for Art School are to be taken with a pinch of salt. At their concerts, they sing “Too cool, too cool for art school. Never say hi, never look me in the eye” behind dark glasses, humorously criticising the arrogance of some artists. As much as the audience sings along at their concerts, everyone knows how much truth there is in the fun lyrics. But Katja notes, the vibe at the Kunstakademie Düsseldorf is changing. As a lecturer, she is in regular contact with academy life and observes that the relationship
between students and professors is changing: “When I studied at the Kunstakademie, it was still very maledominated. That annoyed me immensely and I wanted to do something that would really provoke.”
“I’M A SUNGLASSES FETISHIST.”
So, one day she marched into the ceramics workshop and moulded her first vulva. A little flat, she says with a laugh, but exactly the right statement at that moment. A feminist act that did not go down well with her fellow male students at the time. Today, the vulvas are very popular with her female collectors. Since that first outburst in the ceramics workshop, numerous large and small, standing and reclining, pink and gold-plated vulvas have been created – all part of her series Detox. “It always annoyed me that women’s magazines always write about how you should detox.” Even today, there are still men who are irritated by the sculptures, as in her work Sexy Maserati. While Babyman’s song of the same name blared through the exhibition space at a vernissage, a real Maserati steering wheel hung on the wall. On it lay comfortably gilded ceramic labia. Instead of understanding the humorous criticism, some visitors gave her mansplaining lectures about what exactly the steering wheel was and which car model it belonged to. They didn’t find the vulva on the steering wheel funny at all. “These conversations should have been filmed,” Katja sums up, showing with Sexy Maserati how important feminist art still is.
From left to right:
‘BoraBora’ by Katja Tönnissen at the exhibition ‘Sexy Maserati’, Ackerstraße 2025
© Kai Werner Schmidt
‘BoraBora’ by Katja Tönnissen at Künstlerverein Malkasten
© Kai Werner Schmidt
‘Sexy Maserati’ by Katja Tönnissen 2025
© Kai Werner Schmidt
‘Detox Fountain’ by Katja Tönnissen
© Ludger Paffrath
‘Tante Spumante’, Svenja Höttler & Katja Tönnissen
© @anotherwayrico
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The new season opens with »The Blizzard« by Vladimir
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Kirill Serebrennikov
Premiere on September 12 at Düsseldorfer Schauspielhaus
Co-production of Düsseldorfer Schauspielhaus, Salzburg Festival and Kirill & Friends Company
Upcoming dates and tickets: www.dhaus.de
Gloria Hasnay, a curator with a clear artistic vision and international experience, is taking over as director of the Kunstverein für die Rheinlande und Westfalen, Düsseldorf. After formative years at the Kunstverein München, where she most recently served as interim director and made a significant mark with exhibitions such as Key Operators, she is now returning to Düsseldorf – a place that has already played an important role in her career. Hasnay sees the Kunstverein not only as a traditional institution, but also as a resonance space for contemporary issues, a place where artistic practice, social discourse and institutional self-reflexion intertwine. In an interview with THE DORF, she talks about the challenges and opportunities of this task and how new forms of public engagement can be opened up in times of upheaval.
Gloria, congratulations on your new position! What does the Kunstverein mean to you – and what particularly appeals to you about this role?
Thank you very much, I am very much looking forward to this new role! I am particularly excited about developing the Kunstverein further as an active space for exchange, supported by its members and various audiences. For me, it offers a space where aesthetic experience and discourse interact, with an international outlook, while firmly anchored in its local context.
What do you want to focus on in your work at the Kunstverein?
My work centres on long-term collaboration with artists, whom I regard not merely as producers ‘for’ the institution, but as allies in reimagining institutional structures and histories. I aim for a collaborative, transdisciplinary approach that connects contemporary and historical positions, with a focus on production conditions, feminist perspectives and institutional critique.
I am especially drawn to artists whose practices negotiate the liminal space between the publicity of the exhibition and the privacy of its production and administration. Ultimately, I want to position the Kunstverein as an active agent that fosters open discourse while remaining poetic and resilient.
You worked in Düsseldorf before – as director of the Galerie Max Mayer. How do you remember that time and what particularly influenced you back then?
Düsseldorf has shaped a significant part of my professional career: in addition to my work at the gallery, I also co-founded the project space Linden on Ackerstraße at that time. Back then, I perceived the art scene as loyal,
very invested and curious – and I still feel that way today. The city and the region are an incredibly rich cultural location, even if Düsseldorf is not always perceived as a classic art centre by some. In my experience, it was precisely this ambivalent position that was exciting for many artists and resulted in a very free, unbound form of art-making.
The Kunstverein is moving into temporary premises during the renovation of the building it shares with the Kunsthalle. What opportunities do you see in this transition?
I see the renovation of the building on Grabbeplatz as a great opportunity. The upcoming move opens not only new spatial but also conceptual possibilities for revealing and reorganising institutional processes. For me, this is an opportunity to set the Kunstverein’s self-image in motion, to try out new forms of publicity and to renegotiate its relationship with the city – especially since the Kunstverein will then be occupying its own building for the first time.
Is there an exhibition or project that you have been planning for a long time and that you might now be able to realise in Düsseldorf? What exhibitions or projects are you currently planning?
Before the move into temporary premises in 2026, I will present the Closing Act at Grabbeplatz – a transitional project initiated by my predecessor Kathrin Bentele, featuring, among others, a performance and installation by Solomon Garçon. In the new space, I am planning a group exhibition under the working title I, etcetera, bringing together a cross-generational selection of artists.
READ THE WHOLE STORY ON THEDORF.DE
Düsseldorf pulsates with art, culture and creativity. The city looks back on a rich history that is still alive today and can be experienced anew at every turn – whether in galleries, museums or off-spaces. Artists, designers and creative minds also regularly open their doors and invite visitors to immerse themselves in their work. Painting, photography, film, performance, dance or theatre: the diversity is limitless and makes Düsseldorf a place of wonder, discovery and inspiration.
URBAN ART GALLERY
GALERIE 1900
Ellerstraße 155
40227 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberbilk instagram.com/1900artshow
GALLERY
GALERIE 3AP
Fürstenwall 74
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk galerie-3ap.de
COLLECTION
AKADEMIE-GALERIE –DIE NEUE SAMMLUNG
Burgplatz 1
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt kunstakademie-duesseldorf.de/ galerie
GALLERY
ANNA LAUDEL
Mühlenstraße 1
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt annalaudel.gallery
GALLERY
ART EDITION-FILS
düwell | 1st floor
Grünstraße 15
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte fils-fine-arts.de
EXHIBITION SPACE
AURA KUNSTRAUM
Birkenstraße 67 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern aura-kunstraum.de
GALLERY
BECK & EGGELING
Bilker Straße 4-6 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt beck-eggeling.de
GALLERY
BLOOM
Birkenstraße 56 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern bloomduesseldorf.de
GALLERY BOA BASEDONART
GALLERY
Birkenstraße 112 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern boa-basedonart.com
GALLERY
GALERIE CONRADS
Kirchfeldstraße 2
40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk galerieconrads.de
GALLERY
GALERIE CLARA MARIA SELS
Poststraße 3
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt galerie-claramariasels.de
GALLERY COSAR
Birkenstraße 39 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern cosar-gallery.com
GALLERY DBCA
Lindenstraße 167 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern d-b-c-a.com
GALLERY
GALERIE DROSTE
Birkenstraße 104
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern galeriedroste.de
MEMORIAL ERINNERUNGSORT
ALTER SCHLACHTHOF
Münsterstraße 156
40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf erinnerungsort-duesseldorf.de
OFF-SPACE
ES365
Erkrather Straße 365
40231 Düsseldorf ∙ Lierenfeld es365.de
MUSEUM FILMMUSEUM DÜSSELDORF
Schulstraße 4
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt duesseldorf.de/filmmuseum
FORUM FOR FILM AND MEDIA ART FILMWERKSTATT
Birkenstraße 47
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern filmwerkstatt-duesseldorf.de
OFF-SPACE FREIBAD
Worringer Platz 8 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte freibad.co
GALLERY GRÖLLE
Platanenstraße 11
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern groelle.de
GALLERY GALERIE KELLERMANN
Cheruskerstraße 105
40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel galerie-kellermann.de
MUSEUM
HAUS DER PARLAMENTSGESCHICHTE
Johannes-Rau-Platz 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt hdgnrw.de
URBAN ART GALLERY
HOOD PROJECTS
Hüttenstraße 150
40227 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberbilk hood-projects.de
GALLERY
HWL GALERIE & EDITION
Düsselthaler Straße 8
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort hwl-galerie.de
GALLERY
IT'S ART, BABY!
Hohe Straße 35
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt itsartbaby.de
PRIVATE COLLECTION
JULIA STOSCHEK FOUNDATION
Schanzenstraße 54
40549 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel jsfoundation.art
GALLERY
JVDW GALLERY
Marienstraße 35
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte jvdw.gallery
GALLERY
KADEL WILLBORN
Birkenstraße 3 & 20
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern kadel-willborn.de
ART FOUNDATION
KAI 10 ∙ ARTHENA FOUNDATION
Kaistraße 10
40221 Düsseldorf ∙ Hafen kaistrasse10.de
GALLERY
KONRAD FISCHER
Platanenstraße 7
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern konradfischergalerie.de
ART ASSOCIATION
KÜNSTLERVEREIN WP8
Kölner Straße 73
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte wp8.org
ART ASSOCIATION KÜNSTLERVEREIN
MALKASTEN
Jacobistraße 6a
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte malkasten.org
MUSEUM
K20 | KUNSTSAMMLUNG
NORDRHEIN-WESTFALEN
Grabbeplatz 5
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt kunstsammlung.de
MUSEUM
K21 | KUNSTSAMMLUNG
NORDRHEIN-WESTFALEN
Ständehausstraße 1
40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk kunstsammlung.de
MUSEUM
KIT – KUNST IM TUNNEL
Mannesmannufer 1b
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt kunst-im-tunnel.de
MUSEUM
KUNSTHALLE
DÜSSELDORF
(Closed for renovation from spring 2026)
Grabbeplatz 4
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt kunsthalle-düsseldorf.de
MUSEUM
KUNSTPALAST
Ehrenhof 4-5
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort kunstpalast.de
EXHIBITION SPACE
KUNSTRAUM
PEMPELFORTER
Schloßstraße 65
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf kunstraumpempelforter.com
ART ASSOCIATION KUNSTVEREIN FÜR DIE RHEINLANDE UND WESTFALEN
Grabbeplatz 4
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt kunstverein-duesseldorf.de
ART FOUNDATION
LANGEN FOUNDATION
Raketenstation Hombroich 1 41472 Neuss ∙ Holzheim langenfoundation.de
GALLERY
LEICA GALERIE
DÜSSELDORF
Kö Galerie / Königsallee 60
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ leicastore.duesseldorf
GALLERY
LINN LÜHN
Birkenstraße 43-45
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern linnluehn.com
GALLERY
LUCAS HIRSCH
Birkenstraße 92 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern lucashirsch.com
GALLERY LUDORFF
Königsallee 22 40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte ludorff.com
MUSEUM
MAHN- UND GEDENKSTÄTTE DÜSSELDORF Mühlenstraße 29
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt gedenkstättedüsseldorf.de
GALLERY MEIERBACH
Schwanenmarkt 14
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt meierbach.xyz
GALLERY NOIR BLANCHE
Hermannstraße 31
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern noirblanche.de
MUSEUM NRW-FORUM
Ehrenhof 2
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort nrw-forum.de
OFF-SPACE
OFF SPACE BY STADTSPARKASSE DÜSSELDORF
Steinstraße 17
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte sskduesseldorf.de
ART ASSOCIATION ONOMATO
Birkenstraße 97 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern onomato-verein.de
GALLERY GALERIE PETER TEDDEN Mutter-Ey-Straße 5
URBAN ART GALLERY PRETTY PORTAL
Brunnenstraße 12
40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk prettyportal.de
GALLERY PRODUZENTENGALERIE PLAN D
Dorotheenstraße 59
40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern galerie-plan-d.de
GALLERY RINDE AM RHEIN
Kreuzstraße 49
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte rind3.de
GALLERY RIZZUTOGALLERY
Ackerstraße 34
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern rizzutogallery.com
GALLERY RUPERT PFAB
Ackerstraße 71
EXHIBITION SPACE
NAILS PROJECTROOM E.V. / NEXUS EXHIBITION SPACE
Birkenstraße 44 40547 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern nails-room.com
EXHIBITION SPACE
NEBN.GALLERY
Eisenstraße 91 40227 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberbilk nebn.info
OFF-SPACE NILSSON
Martinstraße 58 40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk martinstrasse58.de
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt galerie-tedden.de
GALLERY
PETRA RINCK GALERIE
Birkenstraße 45
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern petrarinckgalerie.de
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern galeriepfab.de
GALLERY RUTTKOWSKI;68
Grabbeplatz 2
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt ruttkowski68.com
PRIVATE COLLECTION
SAMMLUNG PHILARA
Birkenstraße 47
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern philara.de
GALLERY SCHÖNEWALD
Lindenstraße 182
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern schoenewaldkunsthandel.de
GALLERY SETAREH
Königsallee 27-31
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte
Hohe Straße 53
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt setareh.com
MUSEUM
STIFTUNG SCHLOSS UND PARK BENRATH
Benrather Schloßallee 100-106
40597 Düsseldorf ∙ Benrath schloss-benrath.de
INTER MEDIA ART
INSTITUTE | FOUNDATION
ART SPACE THE POOL
Tersteegenstraße 63
40474 Düsseldorf ∙ Golzheim the-pool.space
GALLERY THISTHAT GALLERY
GALLERY SIES + HÖKE
Poststraße 2 + 3
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt sieshoeke.com
EXHIBITION HALL SKULPTURENHALLE / THOMAS SCHÜTTE STIFTUNG
Lindenweg, corner of Berger Weg ∙ 41472 Neuss thomas-schuette-stiftung.de
MUSEUM STADTMUSEUM DÜSSELDORF
Berger Allee 2
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt duesseldorf.de/stadtmuseum
MUSEUM | ART FOUNDATION
STIFTUNG INSEL HOMBROICH
Minkel 2
41472 Neuss inselhombroich.de
STIFTUNG IMAI
Birkenstraße 47
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern stiftung-imai.de
MUSEUM
STORAGE MUSEUM DÜSSELDORF
Himmelgeister Straße 107
40225 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk storagemuseum.org
PROJECT SPACE
STUDIO FOR ARTISTIC RESEARCH
Ackerstraße 33
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte studioforartisticresearch.com
MUSEUM THEATERMUSEUM
DÜSSELDORF
Jägerhofstraße 1
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort theater-museum.de
Hansaallee 22 40547 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel thisthatgallery.com
GALLERY TÖCHTER & SÖHNE
Reisholzer Werftstraße 73 40589 Düsseldorf ∙ Holthausen toechter-soehne.de
GALLERY UTE PARDUHN
Kaiserswerther Markt 6a 40489 Düsseldorf ∙ Kaiserswerth galerie-parduhn.de
GALLERY VAN HORN
Ackerstraße 99 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern van-horn.net
GALLERY GALERIE VOSS
Mühlengasse 3 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt galerievoss.de
GALLERY WILDPALMS
Gerresheimer Straße 33
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte wild-palms.com
ART FOUNDATION
ZERO FOUNDATION
Hüttenstraße 104
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt zerofoundation.de
DISCOVER MORE PLACES TO BE INSPIRED BY: THEDORF.DE
ART & MUSIC BILKER BUNKER
Aachener Straße 39 40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk bilkerbunker.de
WELTKUNSTZIMMER
Ronsdorfer Straße 77a 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern weltkunstzimmer.de
DANCE
TANZHAUS NRW
Erkrather Straße 30 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern tanzhaus-nrw.de
MUSIC
MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC HALLE
Siegburger Straße 15 40591 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberbilk mitsubishi-electric-halle.de
TONHALLE
Ehrenhof 1 40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort tonhalle.de
MUSIC, LECTURES, CULTURAL EVENTS, PARTIES
AREAL BÖHLER
Hansaallee 321 40549 Düsseldorf ∙ Heerdt areal-boehler.de
NRW AKADEMIE DER WISSENSCHAFTEN UND DER KÜNSTE
Palmenstraße 16 40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk awk.nrw
ZAKK
Fichtenstraße 40 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern zakk.de
MUSIC & SPORTS MERKUR SPIEL-ARENA
Arena-Straße 1 40474 Düsseldorf ∙ Stockum merkur-spiel-arena.de
MUSIC & SPORTS PSD BANK DOME DEG-Platz 1
Theodorstraße 281 40472 Düsseldorf ∙ Rath psd-bank-dome.de
OPERA & BALLET DEUTSCHE OPER AM RHEIN
Heinrich-Heine-Allee 16a 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte operamrhein.de
VARIETY SHOW & MUSICAL RONCALLI’S APOLLO VARIETÉ
Apollo-Platz 1
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk apollo-variete.com
CAPITOL THEATER
Erkrather Straße 30
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern capitol-theater.de
THEATRE CENTRAL
Worringer Straße 140 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte dhaus.de
DÜSSELDORFER
SCHAUSPIELHAUS
Gustaf-Gründgens-Platz 1
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte dhaus.de
FFT – FORUM
FREIES THEATER
Konrad-Adenauer-Platz 1 (KAP1)
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte fft-duesseldorf.de
JUNGES SCHAUSPIELHAUS
Worringer Str. 140
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte dhaus.de
KOM(M)ÖDCHEN
Kay-und-Lore-Lorentz-Platz
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt kommoedchen.de
THEATER AN DER KÖ
Schadow Arkaden
Schadowstraße 11
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte theateranderkoe.de
THEATER AN DER LUEGALLEE
Luegallee 4
corner of Burggrafenstraße 40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel theaterluegallee.de
THEATERFABRIK DÜSSELDORF
Luisenstraße 120
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt theaterfabrik.org
THEATERKANTINE (Alte Farbwerke)
Ronsdorfer Straße 74 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern theaterkantine.de
Gabriele Beveridge Gwenneth Boelens
Elio J Carranza
Kasia Fudakowski
Paul Hance
Annika Kahrs
Yaël Kempf
Mischa Kuball
Katharina Maderthaner
Narges Mohammadi
Leonor Serrano Rivas
Mathilde Rosier
Jeremy Shaw
Slavs and Tatars
Jeanine Verloop
Melanie and we were brought together by a bird: the crow Piri. Melanie Loureiro’s studio is located on the edge of Südpark. One day, on her way to a walk in the park, our author suddenly found herself standing in front of a young woman in a black dress who was talking to a hedge. Briefly confused, she then recognised the painter whose exhibition she had recently visited at KIT. When asked if everything was alright, Melanie replied that her crow Piri had flown away and was sitting frightened on the hedge.
TEXT LAURA DRESCH PHOTOGRAPHY NATASHA AUF’M KAMP
Piri had a broken leg and was unable to fly. A vet took care of the little wild animal and the artist decided to take it in, feed it and release it back into the wild after a few weeks. Melanie knows the flora and fauna of her neighbourhood perhaps better than biologists and is treated like a friend by the crows. Sometimes the birds wait for her at the tram stop in the morning and hop along with her to her studio.
However, the crow gang from Südpark did not like her taking in a strange bird and they began to bully Piri. On this day, too, they made it impossible for the young bird to fly back across the big road to the safety of the studio. So our author stayed with the bird and kept watch while Melanie ran to the studio and returned with a long painting stick and a basket. Trustingly, the crow climbed from the hedge into the basket and allowed itself to be rescued.
During our second meeting, Melanie talks for hours about her observations of animal social behaviour and biological processes: “The mimicry of the passionflower is fascinating. The plant develops small dots on its crown that imitate butterfly eggs. This prevents real butterflies from laying their eggs on the leaves, from which voracious caterpillars would otherwise hatch and consume the flower.”
Hairy caterpillars and spiders appear on the canvases in her studio with an elegance that transforms these otherwise not appealing looking insects into fascinating creatures. Visitors to the KIT exhibition, she reports with shining eyes, told her that her paintings had inspired them to stop swatting or killing creatures and instead to rescue them gently. Nevertheless, living insects are not allowed in the studio, as they could get stuck in the fresh oil paint and die. She avoids this even with the windows wide open by using styrax, a natural resin that, when burned, envelops the entire room. Styrax not only keeps beetles and flies away but is also said to ward off evil spirits and negative thoughts. This turns the studio into a refuge that is as gentle as the flora and fauna in her paintings. She also painted Piri, crying loudly for food. During her ‘studio residency’, the crow was given fresh chicken, insects, scrambled eggs and nuts several times a day and was then able to preen its feathers in a small basin. The daily cries for food gave rise to a series of close-up por-
traits of the bird’s head. Piri appears aggressive in these portraits, in stark contrast to the animals in the other paintings. The milky pupils are due to an anatomical feature: crows have a nictitating membrane, a second fold of conjunctiva that covers the eye for protection. The series captures the ambiguity of the moment when the young animal, with its throat wide open, looks like a Hitchcock bird, but is just following its survival instinct and wants to be fed.
When Piri moved into the studio, Melanie was busy preparing for a major exhibition, for which she was creating new works. She stood at the easel for 14 hours a day and painted for weeks. “During this phase, I spent more time with the crows from the neighbourhood than with people. What happened then is a biological phenomenon: when you care intensively for a member of another species, they develop a kind of imprinting on you. So, the birds accepted me as one of their own and treated me accordingly.”
When she works, she forgets the world around her, disappearing symbiotically among Madonna lilies, swallowtails and pomegranate seeds. She spent New Year’s Eve with baked cheese in front of her canvas. She was already hard-working and structured as a teenager: going on a school trip for €400? She preferred to buy a reflex camera with the money and took portraits of friends and acquaintances for their Facebook pages. She learned the technique and studied image composition, soon began to paint and captured these first works with her own camera. She even had her first exhibitions as a teenager by approaching venues and asking for opportunities. She has also always had a strong connection to nature. She grew up between Germany and Portugal. While she went horse riding and caught bats in the cellar in Germany, she helped her family in Portugal with the harvest and learned about plants and their properties.
For Melanie, animals and plants are not just subjects for her perfectly staged and technically flawless paintings. Her work stems from a deep affection and intense engagement with the abilities and characteristics of animals, especially insects. She is interested in the networks in which they all coexist and benefit from each other. While working, she listens to audiobooks about ants for hours, observes the crawling and creeping in the park, takes photographs and films, and builds her compositions as beautiful insights into nature.
Südpark is not only part of her commute to work. It has also had a significant influence on her work. When
“I see myself as a method actor and my knowledge of biology helps me to understand insects better.”
“I worked abstractly for a long time, but Südpark inspired me to start painting plants and insects. I felt the need to put myself iN their perspective.”
she was still at art school and cycling to her studio, she stopped in the middle of the park at a snow-drop. A green caterpillar was crawling up the purple flowers. She pulled out her mobile phone, filmed the moment, later took a screenshot of a scene and transferred this film still to the canvas: Melanie Loureiro’s first insect-plant painting. Her own photos and impressions are the templates for her works. When she finds a dead insect, she takes it with her to study the fine details of its patterns. She also sometimes consults anatomical drawings to depict the arthropods realistically.
She learned how to work with materials, based on old master techniques, while studying at the Dresden Academy of Fine Arts: making primer from bone glue, mixing oil paints herself, and engaging with the art of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Dresden gave her the traditional tools of the trade, which she later took with her to the progressive Kunstakademie Düsseldorf.
At graduation, she exhibited insects on oversized medicinal and poisonous plants, thus combining contemporary hyperrealism with medieval healing traditions, such as those of Hildegard von Bingen. Herbalism in pastel!
Her way of painting is so flawless that it looks as if it has been sprayed on. She achieves this effect through masking, a wide variety of brushes, including very fine ones, layers of glaze and engravings. Fluffy butterflies drink from speckled tiger lilies with their proboscis, glittering dewdrops wait on a pupated caterpillar to evaporate, and wiry ant legs climb a raspberry. Is this kitsch? “Beauty is often frowned upon in art. In nature, it is functional and a result of the struggle for survival.”
Melanie Loureiro’s colourful flower paintings are decorative without being kitschy. It’s a balancing act that few succeed in, and one that is possible because Melanie Loureiro’s paintings dig deep below the surface.
29 October 2025–8 March 2026
As artistic director of the Philara Collection, Julika Bosch has been shaping one of Düsseldorf’s most exciting private art institutions since 2022. After studying and working at renowned institutions such as the Kestner Gesellschaft, she returned to her hometown – and by chance found her way to Philara. Since then, she has set new priorities by bringing international positions to Düsseldorf, deepening the collection’s content and addressing social and ecological issues. Looking ahead to Philara’s 10th anniversary in it’s own museum space in 2026, we spoke to Julika about her work, approaches and future perspectives.
Julika, you grew up in Düsseldorf, studied internationally and worked at renowned institutions such as the Kestner Gesellschaft. What ultimately brought you back to Düsseldorf and the Philara Collection?
Friends and family drew me back to Düsseldorf. The fact that I then started working at the Philara Collection was actually a big coincidence: the former artistic director Katharina Klang and I knew each other already from an opening by artist Nevin Aladağ and she was also my new neighbour, so we met up for a beer. That’s how the conversations developed and led to a job interview with Katharina and Gil Bronner – a stroke of luck!
You have been the artistic director of the Philara Collection since 2022. How would you describe your curatorial approach – and how does it differ from that of your predecessor?
Our biggest task is to keep our actual and our desired audience happy, as well as the artists of the collection, a collector and our team – if even one part of this equation is missing, it won't work. Not an easy task! I find this idea that you have to emphasise the differences and set yourself apart very artificial at times; basically, we’re all dealing with similar issues.
The Philara Collection has been housed in the former Lennarz glassworks since 2016. The glassworks opened exactly 150 years ago. To mark the anniversary, from October 2025 onwards, you will be showing the exhibition Melting Sands, which explores glass in all its contradictions. What can visitors expect?
Glass is an incredible material: a liquid solid, a resource known for its immateriality (a contradiction in terms!) and containing both orderly and chaotic structures. Glass is very idiosyncratic and can hardly be worked on alone; its production requires collaborative chore-
ography and international connections. What’s more, it is in a permanent state of potential transformation! No wonder many contemporary artists continue to engage with it again and again.
Are there any positions that particularly fascinate you at the moment or that are guiding your work at Philara?
I have recently developed a strong interest in Dutch positions. Geographically, we are not far apart. We recently had Lili Huston-Herterich, a great artist from the Rijksakademie in Amsterdam, in our house, who wrote a new script for characters from the Düsseldorf Marionette Theatre.
The Philara Collection sees itself not only as an exhibition venue, but also as a place of exchange – with concerts, performances and collaborations. Why is this diversity so important to you?
Through festivals such as the asphalt Festival and collaborations with the Transculturalism studies program at HHU, we have had fantastic lectures, music acts and performances at the museum that we could not have achieved on our own. I find this exchange incredibly enriching, and I learn something new with every collaboration.
Who – dead or alive – would you like to have an Altbier with, and what would you talk about?
I would have loved to share an Altbier with the artist Dorothy Iannone. Unfortunately, she passed away at the age of 89, shortly after we received confirmation of our exhibition See Yourself As Lovers See You through her gallery. I would have loved to talk to her about her time in Düsseldorf.
Skateboarding. Fashion. Photography. Sebastian Trägner is hard to pin down –and that’s exactly what makes him so exciting. This multi-talented individual has never planned his life but has always followed his impulses: from a travel agency to subculture, from burnout to photography, from Berlin to Düsseldorf. Today, he exhibits his work in galleries, has published his first photo book – and yet remains a seeker. Because what really drives him is not the image. It’s the feeling behind it.
TEXT KAROLINA LANDOWSKI PHOTOGRAPHY SEBASTIAN TRÄGNER
Alife in chapters. Or rather: in fragments. Dropped out of high school. Internship at a travel agency. Then professional skateboarder. Store manager at Titus. Model at Tomorrow Is Another Day. Sebastian Trägner was all these things. He walked the catwalk for fashion brands, became influencer of the month, graced campaigns, worked for longboard and skate brands in sales and as a menswear retailer at Herr von Eden. And after a burnout, he finally, ended up in photography. Today,
Trägi – as everyone calls him – exhibits his work in galleries, collaborates with Leica, has published his first photo book and still says: “To this day, I don’t know exactly what I’m doing. But I’m doing it.”
Trägi came to photography as a self-taught artist and at the right time. A new focus. Concentration. A means of dealing with burnout and depression. He documented life among the homeless and in the red-light district: “I was living in Cologne at the time, in the Belgian Quarter. The same people sat outside my door every day. We greeted each other, talked – and at some point I asked: “May I take your picture?” For years, Trägi accompanied a small group of people through moments of happiness and difficult times. “I wanted to give the people in the photos a face, not create a platform for myself.”
But that’s exactly what happened. The images, raw, intimate, relentless and tender at the same time, made him famous overnight. Interviews, television reports and his first gallery exhibition were followed by commissions and fashion spreads for various magazines. A meteoric rise.
And because standing still is not his style, Trägi changed the subject. Not because he wanted to turn his back on the street, but because he felt he had “said all there was to say” on the subject. He didn’t want to repeat himself. He sought and found new images, new forms. He experimented with commercial photography,
turned to colour after pure black-and-white photography, and developed a versatile style that blends documentary and artistic elements. In his work cycle Liquid Dreams, he focused on the body – lots of skin and latex, a play of closeness and distance. The reactions? Polarising. “Suddenly I was the latex photographer. People love pigeonholing.”
For Trägi, it’s not about provocation, but about forms. And about respect. People, things, nature – he treats everything with the same honest gaze, whether it’s a floral still life or a female body dissolving into abstract shadows. “I want to photograph nature as if I were portraying a person. That way, I realise that at the end of the day, the body and the world are somehow in harmony. Nature heals, just as the body heals. But what remains in the end are distinctive marks that constantly
remind you of what once was.” Scars. It is the cracks in the image that fascinate Trägi. His photographs, whether vast, barren landscapes in the USA or urban still lifes, whether Iceland’s only garlic farmer Hörður or his partner and muse Esther on the Baltic Sea beach, always remain distilled – radically clear and direct. “I don’t have a classic career path. I taught myself everything based on my feelings and work extremely carefully,” he says of himself. Some series take a year or two to complete, and in the end there may be 10 or 15 images. But these images then convey everything.
“The beginning was raw and naive,” says Trägi about his first steps in photography. “I had a digital camera and no idea – so I just did it.” The images were high-contrast, harsh, monochrome – “too extreme,” he would say today. But it was precisely this phase that was important: it led him to his role models. Photographers such as Sebastião Salgado, Steve McCurry, Bruce Davidson, James Nachtwey, Annie Leibovitz, Vivian Maier – they all influenced him. He even met some of them in person. “I wanted to know why their images were so effective. What they do differently. How they see.” To this day, he is particularly fascinated by the documen-
tary depth, the social relevance, but also the boundaries between fashion, art and journalism. He does not have a fixed style – quite deliberately: “I won’t have one for the rest of my life. I am constantly evolving.”
What has changed most recently is his environment. His move from Berlin to Düsseldorf in early 2025 was a turning point for Trägi. “Düsseldorf changed everything,” he says. It’s nicer here, more human and more respectful. “For me, Düsseldorf is so driven by art, culture and creativity. People are enthusiastic, there’s just so much going on here and I really like that.” The city has slowed him down, but above all his photography. His partner had an old analogue camera, a Rollei. The Optik Oldschool photo lab in Pempelfort was just around the corner. Trägner brought over his first film –and couldn’t stop. Today, he is a partner in the lab, shoots almost exclusively analogue again, scans himself, develops, teaches workshops and is planning “various things” with Optik Oldschool.
He also showed the exhibition Fragments of Childhood here. In the mountain village of Laiban near Manila, he photographed for the NGO Art Meets Education’s project of the same name – together with Filipino children. Their pictures were exhibited and sold in Germany to finance their school education. “It’s the best feeling when a child can create a future for themselves through photography,” says Trägi. When asked if he considers himself an artist today, he hesitates: “I didn’t choose it. It just happened.” And yet: he is represented by the 30Works Gallery, and Leica lists him as a Signature Artist.
His first photo book, Euphoria in Fragments, has just been published by Snap Collective. It is not a classic portfolio, with no chapters. Instead, it is a visual diary. Seven years of photography – condensed, curated, fragmented into 200 images. “It was like a confrontation with myself,” he says of the work on the book, whose title could also describe his life: euphoria, yes – but in fragments. Not linear, but erratic and wild. “Some say I don’t know what’s coming on the next page. It ends too abruptly. That’s exactly how it should be, because that’s how a moment of euphoria ends. Without warning.”
“I didn’t take these pictures to remember. I took them to feel something again.”
In his freelance work, Trägi now goes further than classic photography allows. He works with acrylic, freezes images, puts them in wax, tears them up, reassembles them. When Trägi talks about the future, he sounds both very clear and very open. He wants to teach, pass on knowledge, open up perspectives. He is giving his first masterclasses with the Association of Professional Portrait Photographers (BPP). Would he advise a young person to become an artist? “As a realist? No way. As a romantic: definitely!” And Trägi is a romantic. For him, the camera is not just a tool, but an outlet. In his book, which uses few words, there is a sentence in bold letters that explains almost everything: “Sometimes I shoot just to breathe.” For Trägi, photography has always been a form of self-rescue.
Photography as emotion. As access to something that is otherwise difficult to grasp. Perhaps that is the true essence of Trägi’s work – not the light, not the sub-
ject, but the feeling. Shortly after our conversation, he leaves for Berlin, having just returned from Scotland. Trägi travels a lot – both artistically and geographically. Despite all the changes, despite all the themes he has explored in recent years, photography seems to be the place where he has arrived. Who would he like to have an Altbier with? ”If I could do it again: Sebastião Salgado.” He met the exceptional photographer during his lifetime, together with his wife, at the Bene Taschen Gallery. “An incredible aura, very respectful... full of love.” He would ask him to explain his world, talk about the jungle that Salgado rebuilt. About responsibility and photographs that are more than just images. What else does he want to photograph? Crisis regions, to highlight important injustices and document current events. “I want to understand. To tell stories. To provide context. But I know that takes time.”
Until then, he is discovering his new home in Düsseldorf. With his camera and without an agenda. Among fragments of trees, bars and concrete.
‘Euphoria in Fragments’ by Sebastian Trägner, published in English by Snap Collective (ISBN 9788776204648), available at snapcollective.com for €129
Düsseldorf lives and breathes art. From the Rhine to the Hofgarten, the Ehrenhof to the Königsallee, a creative network of museums, exhibition venues and offspaces makes the city an exciting destination for lovers of art and culture. If you want to experience the art scene and discover the city at the same time, check out the Art:walk museum pass.
48 HOURS, SIX VENUES, ONE PASS
Art:walk – your gateway to the art scene in Düsseldorf
For 25 euros, the Art:walk museum pass opens the doors to six centrally located venues: Kunstpalast, Kunstsammlung NRW K20 | K21, Kunsthalle Düsseldorf, NRW-Forum and KIT – Kunst im Tunnel. For two whole days, you can enjoy drifting from classical modernism to contemporary art, from media art to pop culture. Everything is within walking distance, so you can explore at your own pace.
The Art:walk museum pass is more than just an admission ticket – it is curated access to Düsseldorf’s art scene. For anyone who wants to experience art, not just consume it. For those who want to be inspired –spontaneously, intensely, and right in the heart of the city.
Whether you have just moved to Düsseldorf, are looking for inspiration or fancy a weekend full of art: Art:walk will take you to the city’s most exciting places. And afterwards, if you’re still up for more, you’ll find the perfect place to unwind in the cafés, bars and shops around the museums.
The pass is available as a digital or printed ticket. Accompanying persons under the age of 18 enter for free, making it perfect for visits with friends, family or guests. The museums are closed on Mondays, which gives you time to discover the rest of the city. Whether you want to take a spontaneous art tour or visit a specific exhibition, Art:walk makes it all possible.
2026 will bring highlights for all art lovers. The Kunstpalast will show the Scharf Collection for the first time – a German private collection of 19th- and 20th-century French art and international contemporary art. Works by Monet, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso and Goya will be displayed alongside pieces by Daniel Richter, Katharina Grosse and Sam Francis. The exhibition runs from 12 March to 9 August 2026.
From 12 September 2026, the Kunstsammlung NRW will be presenting a major retrospective of Franz Marc, one of the leading figures of Expressionism. This exhibition promises to offer new perspectives on colour, form, and nature, and is a must for anyone who loves modern art.
Oststraße is a phenomenon – perhaps one of Düsseldorf’s most idiosyncratic streets. For decades its character has barely changed: a little unreal, hard to pin down, treeless – and yet brimming with life. There were times of standstill when decline felt inevitable. And then, just as reliably, new projects – often small and offbeat – returned to breathe new life into the street. Oststraße thrives on this ebb and flow, this constant pulse between downturn and renewal. That very dynamic makes it one of the city’s most authentic thoroughfares. No stylish backdrop, no picture postcard – but a distinctly urban axis where Düsseldorf feels most like itself. Because for all the clichés about the Kö, glamour and a pinch of stuffiness, the true Düsseldorf is something else: a working city with a long industrial tradition, written far deeper into its fabric than you might assume at first glance.
Starting at Wehrhahn, Oststraße runs for roughly 1.2 kilometres through the city – via Klosterstraße and Immermannstraße, right through Little Tokyo, past FriedrichEbert- and Bismarckstraße, before it comes to an end at Graf-Adolf-Straße. Originally known as Petersstraße, it was the easternmost street of Düsseldorf’s inner city in the 19th century – hence the name.
Over time it was renamed several times – including Karl-Rudolf-Straße and Straße der SA – before regaining its original name in 1945. More than 80 percent of the buildings were destroyed during the war; from 1947 onwards, reconstruction happened at pace – and not always with great finesse. To this day, Oststraße mirrors both the pragmatism of the post-war rebuild and the city’s appetite for renewal.
Hard to believe that in the late 19th century this was all fields and farmsteads. In 1853, Franciscan monks founded a new monastery on a former farm at the junction of Oststraße/Klosterstraße/Immermannstraße, then still outside the city. Only with the construction of the main station was the area fully opened up. The monastery and church were destroyed in the Second World War, but a modern rebuild followed in the 1950s. In 2014 the Franciscans decided against renovating the now dilapidated monastery, establishing instead a smaller community within the parish of St. Marien – just 137 metres away, centred around the church of St. Mariä Empfängnis. A thread of continuity in a street that otherwise never stops changing.
Between Tradition and TikTok Oststraße wears many faces: long-standing institutions rub shoulders with trending TikTok cafés, international restaurants and smart retail concepts. First among the
stalwarts is the Schumacher Brewery. Founded in 1838, it’s Düsseldorf’s oldest house brewery – firmly rooted in the city’s history, with its original home right here on Oststraße. Famous for its honest, unadulterated Altbier, Schumacher stands for a living brewing tradition and genuine Düsseldorfer culture. Today Thea Ungermann, together with her mother Gertrud Schnitzler-Ungermann, leads the brewery in the sixth generation – with respect for the family legacy and the courage to push things forward. Metzgerei Schlösser is now in its fourth generation and is regarded as one of Germany’s most renowned butchers. Few businesses of its kind have stood the test of time – Schlösser was founded in 1902 and survived two world wars. Early on the family focused on in-house production, regionally sourced meat and uncompromising quality. Since 2004 Schlösser has also run a stall at Carlsplatz – by now an integral part of Düsseldorf’s culinary landscape.
Another institution is Parfümerie Förster – a familyrun perfumery that has weathered every storm since 1966. Known for an exceptional selection of niche brands and a finely tuned sense for scent, it’s long been more than a shop: a destination for perfume lovers with a feel for the special. Blumen F.U.S.S. likewise ranks among the city’s most traditional florists. For decades this family business has stood for fresh bouquets, lush plants and creative floristry – adding a welcome dash of green to Oststraße time and again.
Pubs, Lore & Little Legends
Almost a classic in its own right: the Finanzämtche. The name and modest façade might mislead you – behind it lies Pozangmatcha, a Korean pub concept that has called this spot home for many years. It was once famed for its late-night kitchen, serving until 2 a.m. and drawing a
colourful crowd of night owls. Those late-night hours may be gone in the post-Covid era, but the atmosphere – and the idea – remain.
A fun fact: In the WDR documentary ‘Die Millionendiebe der Metro – Ein spektakulärer Coup’ (The Metro’s Million Thieves – A Spectacular Heist), Manfred Vowinkel –one of the two scammers who embezzled around 36 million D-Mark in 1980/81 – recalls Finanzämtche. After serving his sentence, he worked at the pub – its cheeky name suiting his story all too well.
A few metres further along sits Schicke Mütze –still young, yet already a cult favourite among Düsseldorf’s cyclists. Part shop, part workshop, it’s a meeting point for anyone who sees cycling as a way of life. Alongside high-quality bikes, fine accessories and top-notch service, the ‘Mütze’ is famed for its ‘Mützenrunden’: weekly Friday-evening rides spanning 50 to 80 kilometres, depending on the season.
Culinarily, Oststraße punches well above its weight. Around Immermannstraße, one Asian concept follows the next – with genuine highlights and the odd delicious curiosity. A true classic is Naniwa – among Düsseldorf’s first Japanese restaurants. Masanori Kobayashi took over
some 40 years ago and still draws queues with authentic cooking and much-loved ramen – long before social media and TikTok hype shaped the food scene.
DongWu brings the flavours of Sichuan and Chongqing to Düsseldorf. Loved for aromatic, spicy signatures like dandan noodles and bold soups, the small restaurant has become a word-of-mouth favourite for anyone seeking the real taste of regional Chinese cooking.
In early 2025, +852 Bar & Kitchen opened opposite the Schumacher brewery – bringing Hong Kong vibes to Oststraße. In its neon-drenched bar you’ll find soju and drinks like Hong Kong-style iced lemon tea, plus proper late-night food – almost like a quick detour to Kowloon.
Curious about Uyghur cuisine? You’re in luck: Oststraße is home to three places devoted to it. The first was Tengri Tagh. Building on that success, the owner opened Soupday in 2024 – a soup house that went viral on TikTok and Instagram and still inspires serious queuing.
Speaking of TikTok: Chan Bai Mei Hawthorn specialises in ‘tanghulu’ – candied fruit on a stick – and pairs it with stir yoghurt ice cream and other sweet inventions. A trending hotspot that social media propelled straight onto the city’s must-try list.
And behind the K4U Korean Convenience Store is the team from Soboro Bakery, which expanded and
moved just around the corner. K4U brings a slice of everyday Korea to Düsseldorf – from snacks and readymeals to drinks and classic sweets. You can even make instant noodles with hot water from the kettle – arguably the city’s most unpretentious quick lunch.
From Burgers to Tasting Menus
Bulle Bäckerei may be young, but the bakery is now firmly established on Oststraße. From the window, the in-house concept Bulle Burger serves handmade burgers and smash burgers – with bakery-fresh buns, organic beef and crisp ingredients. Straightforward, no frills – big on flavour.
On the subject of burgers: a few steps towards GrafAdolf-Straße stood Düsseldorf’s very first McDonald’s, opened in 1973 and in operation here until 2020 – once a late-night snack hotspot and a legendary rendezvous for party people and night owls alike. Another perennial favourite is Shawarma City. Expect queues well into the night – many swear it’s the best shawarma in town.
Almost unbelievably, Oststraße also faces down fast food with proper fine dining. The still-young WELA brings Thai fine dining to Düsseldorf – in a form and quality the city hasn’t seen before. Behind it are Wirun
and Nicha Lawang, who chose passion and perfection over the safer option of continuing the renowned Sila Thai – and built something entirely their own.
Meanwhile Setzkasten, the restaurant in the lower ground floor of EDEKA Zurheide, received another Michelin star this year – recognition for Egor Hopp and his team. Fine dining in a supermarket basement? Unusual, perhaps – but it works. With creativity and care, Hopp turns simple ingredients into bona fide flavour fireworks.
Between sushi and shawarma, soju, ramen and starred cuisine, Oststraße shows what makes Düsseldorf special: variety, contrasts – and the courage to reinvent itself again and again. Walk the street and you’ll hear many languages, catch a thousand aromas, see old next to new – and really get a sense of it: Oststraße never stands still. It breathes, it vibrates, it tells stories of change, roots and tomorrow. And so Oststraße, with all its flaws and facets, remains what it has always been: a phenomenon –hard to grasp, never picture perfect, and perhaps the most honest face of Düsseldorf.
METZGEREI SCHLÖSSER
EDITOR’S CHOICE
OUR EDITOR’S CHOICE
SHOWS YOU THE MOST EXCITING PLACES ALONG OSTSTRASSE.
RESTAURANTS & BARS
+852 BAR & KITCHEN
Bar and restaurant Oststraße 116 40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/852.dus
BRAUEREI SCHUMACHER
Brewery and restaurant Oststraße 123
40210 Düsseldorf schumacher-alt.de
BULLE BURGER
Burger restaurant Oststraße 113 40210 Düsseldorf bulle-burger.de
DONGWU CHINESE KITCHEN
Chinese restaurant Oststraße 63
40210 Düsseldorf dongwu-oststrasse.eatbu.com
EATDOORI RESTAURANT
Indian restaurant Immermannstraße 20 40210 Düsseldorf eatdoori.com
GISELLE BAR
Bar and club
Oststraße 147
40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/giselle.dus
JAIPUR
Indian restaurant Alexanderstraße 35 40210 Düsseldorf jaipurprime.de
KYO BURGER
Asian fusion burger restaurant
Oststraße 137
40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/kyo.burger
MY NOODLEHOUSE
Ramen restaurant Oststraße 109 40210 Düsseldorf mynoodlehouse.de
NANIWA NOODLES & SOUPS
Japanese restaurant Oststraße 55 40211 Düsseldorf naniwa.de
NANIWA SUSHI & MORE
Japanese restaurant
Klosterstraße 68a 40211 Düsseldorf naniwa.de
POZANGMATCHA | FINANZÄMTCHE
Korean restaurant Oststraße 139
40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/pozangmatcha
RESTAURANT SETZKASTEN DÜSSELDORF @ EDEKA
ZURHEIDE FEINE KOST
Fine dining restaurant Berliner Allee 52 40212 Düsseldorf setzkasten-duesseldorf.de
SHAWARMA CITY
Arabic fast food Alexanderstraße 36 40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/schawarma_city
SOUPDAY BY
TENGRI TAGH UIGUR
Uyghur restaurant
Bismarckstraße 54a 40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/tengritagh_uigur
SUSHIBAR FUJIYAMA
Sushi restaurant Bahnstraße 62 40210 Düsseldorf sushibar-fujiyama.de
TAKUMI 2ND TONKOTSU
Ramen restaurant Oststraße 51 40211 Düsseldorf brickny.com
TENGRI TAGH UIGUR RESTAURANT
Uyghur restaurant Oststraße 120 40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/tengritagh_uigur
WELA
Thai fine dining restaurant Oststraße 158 40210 Düsseldorf welarestaurant.de
AFEW STORE
Sneaker store
Oststraße 36 40211 Düsseldorf afew-store.com
BLUMEN F.U.S.S.
Flower shop
Oststraße 61 40210 Düsseldorf blumen-fuss.de
DER BÜCHER OBER
Bookshop
Steinstraße 34/ corner Oststraße 40210 Düsseldorf buecher-ober.de
EAST 59
Comic store
Oststraße 59 40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/east_59_shop
LILA MODEN
Second-hand clothing store Oststraße 150 40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/lila_moden
PARFÜMERIE FÖRSTER
Perfumery
Oststraße 162–164 40210 Düsseldorf foerster-parfuemerie.de
PREDIGER LICHTBERATER
Light concepts
Tonhallenstraße 14-15 40211 Düsseldorf prediger.de/showrooms
SCHICKE MÜTZE
Bicycle shop
Oststraße 119 40210 Düsseldorf schickemuetze.de
DELICATESSEN
BULLE BÄCKEREI
Bakery
Oststraße 113 40210 Düsseldorf bulle-baeckerei.de
CHAN BAI MEI
HAWTHORN
Dessert shop
Oststraße 89 40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/ chanbaimei.duesseldorf
FOOD JUNG
Korean grocery store Oststraße 76 40210 Düsseldorf foodjung.de
METZGEREI SCHLÖSSER
Butcher shop
Oststraße 154
40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/ metzgerei_schloesser
ALIGN
Speciality café
Oststraße 54
40211 Düsseldorf instagram.com/align_cafe
BUNI CAFÉ
Dessert café
Oststraße 107 40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/buni_duesseldorf
K4U KOREAN
CONVENIENCE STORE
Korean convenience store
Oststraße 65
40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/k4u_convenience
KAFFEERÖSTEREI
RÖSTZEIT
Café and coffee roastery
Oststraße 115 40210 Düsseldorf roestzeit.de
KUMO | DORAYAKI & SOFTEIS
Dessert café
Oststraße 109 40210 Düsseldorf instagram.com/ kumo_duesseldorf
SOBORO KOREAN BAKERY
Korean bakery and café
Immermannstraße 18 40210 Düsseldorf
TENTEN COFFEE
Café
Oststraße 57 40210 Düsseldorf tenten-coffee.com
BECYCLE DÜSSELDORF
Fitness studio
Oststraße 54–56 40211 Düsseldorf becycle.de
HEAVENSGATE
DÜSSELDORF
Hair salon
Steinstraße 34 40210 Düsseldorf heavensgate.info
LIVING ILLUSTRATIONS
TATTOO & PIERCING ATELIER
Tattoo and piercing studio
Oststraße 114
40210 Düsseldorf livingillustrationstattoo.com
NEW SOUL STUDIO
Fitness and wellness
Oststraße 54 40211 Düsseldorf newsoul.de
STUDIO NO.54
BY ILKA THIEME
Beauty studio
Oststraße 54
40211 Düsseldorf instagram.com/studio.no.54
CO-WORKING
BEEHIVE
DÜSSELDORF CITY
Co-working space
Oststraße 10
40211 Düsseldorf beehive.work
ME AND ALL HOTEL
DÜSSELDORF BY HYATT
Hotel
Immermannstraße 23
40210 Düsseldorf hyatt.com
MOXY
DÜSSELDORF CITY
Hotel
Oststraße 86
40210 Düsseldorf moxy-hotels.marriott.com
The pictures for this article were photographed on analogue film and created in friendly collaboration with Optik Oldschool. Sincere thanks for the generous provision and development of the films.
Optik Oldschool
Augustastraße 14
40477 Düsseldorf optik-oldschool.com
Kunsthalle Altstadt
Kunsthalle Angermund
Kunsthalle Benrath
Kunsthalle Bilk
Kunsthalle Carlstadt
Kunsthalle Derendorf
Kunsthalle Düsseltal
Kunsthalle Eller
Kunsthalle Flehe
Kunsthalle Flingern-Nord
Kunsthalle Flingern-Süd
Kunsthalle Friedrichstadt
Kunsthalle Garath
Kunsthalle Gerresheim
Kunsthalle Golzheim
Kunsthalle Grafenberg
Kunsthalle Hafen
Kunsthalle Hamm
Kunsthalle Hassels
Kunsthalle Heerdt
Kunsthalle Hellerhof
Kunsthalle Himmelgeist
Kunsthalle Holthausen
Kunsthalle Hubbelrath
Kunsthalle Itter
Kunsthalle Kaiserswerth
Kunsthalle Kalkum
Kunsthalle Knittkuhl
Kunsthalle Lichtenbroich
Kunsthalle Lierenfeld
Kunsthalle Lohausen
Kunsthalle Lörrick
Kunsthalle Ludenberg
Kunsthalle Mörsenbroich
Kunsthalle Niederkassel
Kunsthalle Oberbilk
Kunsthalle Oberkassel
Kunsthalle Pempelfort
Kunsthalle Rath
Kunsthalle Reisholz
Kunsthalle Stadtmitte
Kunsthalle Stockum
Kunsthalle Unterbach
Kunsthalle Unterbilk
Kunsthalle Unterrath
Kunsthalle Urdenbach
Kunsthalle Vennhausen
Kunsthalle Volmerswerth
Kunsthalle Wersten
Kunsthalle Wittlaer
Hungry for something new? Düsseldorf’s grub is never boring – from bold plant-based bites and global flavours to Michelin sparkle, juicy burgers, hearty German comfort and Little Tokyo magic. Sadly, we had to say goodbye to favourites like NOA Foodbar and Cucina Vitale, but the city’s appetite for fresh, exciting spots is bigger than ever. Look out for the asterisk – it marks all new additions to the scene and maybe your next foodie crush.
MICHELIN-STARRED 2025/26
1876 – DANIEL DAL-BEN
Michelin-starred creations of reimagined classics and fine dining.
Grunerstraße 42a 40239 Düsseldorf ∙ Düsseltal 1876.restaurant
AGATA’S
Fine dining restaurant with creative tasting menus by Michelin-starred chef Agata Reul. Kirchfeldstraße 59 40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk agatas.de
IM SCHIFFCHEN
The cuisine of Michelin-starred chef Jean-Claude Bourgueil has been delighting diners far beyond Düsseldorf since 1977. Kaiserswerther Markt 9 40489 Düsseldorf ∙ Kaiserswerth im-schiffchen.de
A young fine dining concept by former Michelin-starred chef Jörg Wissmann, where modern European cuisine meets Korean influences. Keplerstraße 13 40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt jae-restaurant.de
BY THOMAS
A new fine dining experience inspired by nature, farmers and their produce, the experiences of founder Thomas Bühner and the European style of cooking. Schlüterstraße 1 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern laviebythomasbuehner.de
Michelin-starred chef Yoshizumi Nagaya – where Japanese tradition meets modern European haute cuisine. Klosterstraße 42
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte nagaya.de
A gourmet restaurant in the basement of one of Europe’s largest food markets, serving creative modern dishes made from selected ingredients and prepared with refined clarity.
Zurheide Feine Kost Berliner Allee 52 40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte setzkasten-duesseldorf.de
YOSHI BY NAGAYA
Opened in 2017 by Yoshizumi Nagaya as his second restaurant, built on the concept of a ‘return to the roots of Japanese cuisine’, and honoured with multiple Michelin stars. Kreuzstraße 17 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/yoshi_by_nagaya
ZWANZIG23
An unconventional and distinctive fine dining restaurant by chef Lukas Jakobi, awarded the first Green Michelin Star for sustainability. Brunnenstraße 35 40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk zwanzig23.com
INTERNATIONAL CUISINE & FINE DINING
ASHLEY’S GARDEN
A little insider tip: a boutique hotel and restaurant combining global flavours with local ingredients.
Karl-Kleppe Straße 20 40474 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf ashleysgarden.de
ALCHEMIST BISTRO & BAR
European bar and bistro culture with traditional cuisine –rediscovered, homemade and elegantly presented.
Graf-Adolf-Straße 61 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte alchemist-bistro.de
An absolute favourite of crossover cuisine, featuring Italian, Asian, French and Mediterranean influences, set in the old freight depot.
Schirmerstraße 54
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort bar-olio.de
BYLINY
Modern traditional German cuisine in a stylish yet cosy atmosphere in Unterbilk. Konkordiastraße 85
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk byliny.de
CHIC
CHIC opened in spring 2025 and has already become one of the most popular places around. You better come early! Birkenstraße 49
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/chic.duesseldorf
EM BRASS
Modern mash-up cuisine, now even bigger on Moltkestraße. Moltkestraße 122
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort Lorettostraße 47
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/em.brass
EN DE CANON
Regional specialties and wines from Baden, served in a historic half-timbered house.
Zollstraße 7
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt endecanon.de
ESSBAR
Modern German-French cuisine with Asian influences.
Kaiserstraße 27
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort hm-essbar.de
Playing with heirloom and rediscovered vegetables, modern techniques and complex flavours.
Tannenstraße 23a
40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf finnswinebar.de
FISCHHAUS
A classic under the new management of chef Florian Conzen, serving fresh fish dishes and seafood in the bistro, restaurant or on the terrace.
Berger Straße 3–7 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt fischhaus.de
Rhenish-Westphalian cuisine meets the finesse of French brasseries from the last century. Fleher Straße 254
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flehe fleherhof.de
Modern small dishes and exceptional Neapolitan pizza creations, plus a superb selection of fine drinks and wines. Selected breakfast is available on weekends.
Wilhelm-Tell-Straße 1a 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk forum-dus.de
Exquisite, seasonal and experimental fine dining crafted by chef Tobias Rocholl, served in a perfectly designed interior. Adersstraße 8a 40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt fritzs-frau-franzi.de
LE FLAIR
A culinary journey with Michelin-starred share plates. Marc-Chagall-Straße 108 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort restaurant-leflair.de
LIDO IM HAFEN
Gourmet cuisine in a minimalist glass setting, directly above the water with views of the harbour basin.
Am Handelshafen 15
40221 Düsseldorf ∙ Hafen lido1960.de
Artistic interior and sophisticated cuisine in the historic setting of the Malkasten artists’ association, with a beautiful terrace overlooking Malkasten Park.
Jacobistraße 6
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte lido1960.de/malkasten
LOKARL
Modern home cooking reinterpreted with international influences by Karl Romboy.
Friedenstraße 2a
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/daslokarl
MASSI
A creative blend of national and international cuisine.
Moltkestraße 110
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort massi-restaurant.de
MÜNSTERMANN KONTOR
Iconic bistro, restaurant and wine bar in the heart of Carlstadt. Hohe Straße 11
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt muenstermann-kontor.de
NØRDS
Creative cuisine without frills – modern, fresh and Scandinavian-inspired. Lindenstraße 73
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern nordsrestaurant.com
OKTOPUSSY
Modern Düsseldorf crossover cuisine – regional, international, creative with a touch of rock ’n’ roll.
Gneisenaustraße 69 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort oktopussy.de
OY
The former William's bar is now home to Oy – serving a great selection of wines and modern international cuisine.
Friedrichstraße 115a 40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk instagram.com/oy_dus
RESTAURANT SCHORN
A true Düsseldorf institution, where young head chef Lukas Schild creates an artful fusion of French and international cuisine.
Martinstraße 46a 40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk restaurant-schorn.com
ROSS & REITER
Creative and seasonal cuisine meets a feel-good atmosphere, combining the best of casual and fine dining with a focus on enjoyment and taste.
Roßstraße 39 40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf rossundreiter-restaurant.de
RUBENS
Austrian cuisine with excellent Wiener Schnitzel and Kaiserschmarrn (shredded sugared pancake).
Kaiserstraße 5 40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort rubens-restaurant.de
SALT.
International cuisine with a focus on Mediterranean lightness, simplicity and purity, served in a hip interior.
Blücherstraße 53 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/salt_duesseldorf
SHIZEN
Japanese-Scandinavian natural cuisine with great attention to detail, crafted with passion by chef Sofian Neubauer.
Ackerstraße 79 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern shizen-duesseldorf.de
SCHILLINGS
Modern European cuisine and wines – plus currywurst with a Hofgarten view.
Gustaf-Gründgens-Platz 1 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte schillings-restaurant.de
STAPPEN
Culinary institution in Oberkassel with Chateaubriand, Lobster Thermidor and changing four-course menus. Luegallee 50 40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel stappen.de
STAUDI’S
Modern German cuisine beneath a stucco ceiling. Münsterstraße 115 40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf staudisrestaurant.de
THE BULL STEAK EXPERT
Small, elegant and delicious steakhouse.
Taubenstraße 14 40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort thebullsteakexpert.de
THE KITCHEN
Crossover bistro cuisine with a great selection of wines and drinks.
Tußmannstraße 46 40447 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort thekitchenduesseldorf.de
VENTE
Mediterranean delicacies and international tapas with a Rhenish touch.
Lambertusstraße 10
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt vente-event.de
WEINHAUS TANTE ANNA
Contemporary regional cuisine and fine wines in the Old Town.
Andreasstraße 2
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt tanteanna.de
ZUR SENNHÜTTE
Cult restaurant with pub flair, terrace and German–Austrian classics.
Rethelstraße 96
40237 Düsseldorf ∙ Düsseltal zur-sennhuette.de
BOB & MARY
Homemade burgers inspired by flavours from around the world.
Hammer Straße 26 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Hafen
Berger Straße 35 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt bobmary.de
BULLE BURGER
Best burger patties and buns with ever-changing creations – delicious!
Oststraße 113
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte
New: Rondell at Staufenplatz 40629 Düsseldorf ∙ Grafenberg instagram.com/bulle_burger
HULALA
Plant-based and meat burgers, crispy fries and fresh salads. Carlsplatz 24
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt hulala.org
KYO BURGER
Asian fusion burger restaurant. Oststraße 137
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/kyo.burger
SPACE BURGER
Intergalactic burgers since 1997 –now with a retro ’80s vibe.
Neustraße 41
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt
Pfalzstraße 15
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort spaceburger.eu
BURGERMEISTER
Founded in Berlin in 2006, Burgermeister is known for its homemade buns, patties and fries. Today, the cult burger chain brings its taste to Düsseldorf with two locations.
Am Wehrhahn 2a
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte
Mertensgasse 12
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt burgermeister.com
“The best bad food in town” – a Berlin original by founders from the starred kitchen. Serving smash burgers and more, with a clear focus on the finest ingredients and uncompromising quality.
Neustraße 29
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt goldies-smashburger.de
WHAT’S BEEF
Street art, burgers and giant milkshakes.
Immermannstraße 24
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Mitte whatsbeef.de
ALTE METZGEREI
Delicious lunch in a former butcher’s shop. Hoffeldstraße 48 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern altemetzgerei.de
Wine bar and restaurant –from small plates to champagne currywurst for two. Hermannstraße 64 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern cuvee-flingern.de
DREIRAUM
Cosy dinners, quick lunches, sunny terrace in summer or weekend breakfast – something for every taste.
Volksgartenstraße 15 40227 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberbilk dreiraumbistro.de
HITCHCOQ
Nashville hot chicken, biodynamic wine and craft beer –including the home-brewed Altbier ‘Altfred’. Nordstraße 30 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort hitchcoq.de
HERR KNILLMANN
Modern German homestyle cooking in the heart of Gerresheim. Alter Markt 1a 40625 Düsseldorf ∙ Gerresheim herr-knillmann.de
MAYERS DAILY
Daily changing dishes with seasonal produce in a former steamroller factory.
Rethelstraße 47
40237 Düsseldorf ∙ Düsseltal mayersdaily.chayns.site
NOOIJ
Dutch deli offering breakfast, chicken, bitterballen and more, with a stylish interior and a large terrace.
Erkrather Straße 30 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern nooij.de
POMMES UND WEIN
Fries, wine and cool people at the former snack bar on Graf-AdolfPlatz by sommelier #asktoni. Graf-Adolf-Platz 1 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk pommesundwein.de
SASSAFRAS
Trendy gastro pub with drinks, fusion food and the occasional dance – for over 50 years. Düsseldorfer Straße 90 40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel sassafras-bar.de
WAYA KITCHEN
North American comfort food with Asian and South American influences. Platanenstraße 21 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern waya-kitchen.de
GASTRO PUBS & BEER GARDENS
3 LITTLE BIRDS
One of the most beautiful and laid-back beer gardens in town, with an incredible view of the Rhine and sunset. The small selfservice hut offers wines, hot and cold drinks, and light snacks.
Joseph-Beuys-Ufer 33 40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort threelittlebirds.bar
BEETHOVEN
Neighbourhood bistro pub with a sunny terrace in Flingern. Ackerstraße 106 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern beethoven-flingern.de
BISTRO ZICKE
French bistro meets Berlin pub: decorated entirely with movie posters. Perfect for a delicious breakfast, coffee and cake or a glass of wine.
Bäckerstraße 5a
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt bistro-zicke.de
BRAUHAUS
ALTER BAHNHOF
The brewery offers home-brewed Alt with home-style cooking in the rustic dining room or outside under the chestnut trees.
Belsenplatz 2
40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel brauhaus-alterbahnhof.de
CAFÉ MODIGLIANI
Cosy bistro with vintage posters and terrace – a true classic. Am Friedensplätzchen
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk cafemodigliani.de
DAUSER
Traditional Rhenish soups and stews, made in Düsseldorf. Carlsplatz
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt
Ulmenstraße 118
40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf dauser-online.de
DESTILLE
Old-school jazzy pub with bistro cuisine.
Bilker Straße 46 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt destille-duesseldorf.de
EIGELSTEIN
Since 2005, a Kölsch classic where Altbier, Kölsch and German cuisine come together –now featuring the in-house wine bar ‘Schlafendes Auge’. Hammerstraße 17 ∙ Unterbilk 40219 Düsseldorf eigelstein-duesseldorf.de
GALERIE BURGHOF
A classic: the Burghof features one of the most beautiful beer gardens in the city, with views of the Rhine, right next to the old Kaiserpfalz and the historic city centre of Kaiserswerth.
Burgallee 1
40489 Düsseldorf ∙ Kaiserswerth galerie-burghof.de
HAMMER BLICK
A beer garden with a great view of the Rhine. Fährstraße 253a
40221 Düsseldorf ∙ Hamm instagram.com/hammerblick
IM ALTEN BIERHAUSE –MEUSER
German home-style cooking in a rustic atmosphere.
Alt-Niederkassel 75 40547 Düsseldorf ∙ Niederkassel meuser1853.de
TANNENBAUM
Rustic bar and bistro dishes from around the world in a newspaperdecorated restaurant.
Tannenstraße 3
40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf tannenbaum-duesseldorf.de
TIGGES
13 beers on tap, plus wine, coffee, aperitifs and soft drinks. Homemade international dishes, weekend breakfast and plenty of space – 300 seats in the beer garden.
Brunnenstraße 1
40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk tigges-duesseldorf.eatbu.com
OKRA
Ethiopian recipes with vegetables, meat and beer – in a colourful raffia-decorated restaurant.
Ackerstraße 119
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern okra-restaurant.de
YATANA
Eritrean-Ethiopian restaurant. Worringer Straße 67 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte yatana.de
+852 BAR & KITCHEN
Hong Kong–style bar and kitchen.
Oststraße 116 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/852.dus
1ODER8
Tachinomiya or ‘Japanese standing bar’ – a great spot for drinks and snacks. Klosterstraße 53 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/1oder8
ĂN BÁNH MÌ
Delicious Vietnamese street food and sandwiches. Ackerstraße 161 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern Friedenstraße 65 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk Friedrich-Ebert-Straße 45 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte anbanhmi.de
AH-UN
BANH BOYO
Pho and other Vietnamese street food, snacks and dishes. Grafenberger Allee 51 40237 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte banhboyo.com
BIBIMCUP
Korean mandu dumplings and rice bowls.
Friedrich-Ebert-Straße 3 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte bibimcup.de
CHI BAY
Authentic Vietnamese cuisine featuring the highly recommended pho. Oberbilker Allee 176 40227 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberbilk instagram.com/ chibayduesseldorf
CHINESE SKEWER BAR
Chinese restaurant with spicy skewers in many flavours. Dorotheenstraße 104 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/ chinese_skewer_bar_0731
COMBO
Creative Asian delicacies and sushi.
Weseler Straße 35 40239 Düsseldorf ∙ Düsseltal restaurant-combo.de
DUCK & DUMPLING S
Chinese dumplings and Peking duck – the name says it all. Birkenstraße 69 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/ duck.and.dumplings
Yakiniku – the Japanese technique of grilling meat. Hansaallee 246 40547 Düsseldorf ∙ Lörick ah-un.eu
BAMIHOUSE
Vietnamese banh mi, bowls and summer rolls. Herzogstraße 10b 40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt instagram.com/ bamihouse_duesseldorf
DIM SUM GOURMET
Dim sum and dumplings in every variation. Brunnenstraße 13 40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk dimsumgourmet.de
DODO & JOJO
Korean street food deli – fancy corn dogs and desserts. Gerresheimer Straße 12 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ dodoandjojo_seouldeli
DONGWU
Modern Chinese cuisine at two locations.
Kaiserstraße 29
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort
Oststraße 63
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ dongwu_chinese_kitchen
DREI CHINESEN
Hand-pulled Biang Biang noodles, baos, jiaozi and much more.
Bahnstraße 72
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ drei_chinesen_restaurant
EAT TOKYO
Japanese food straight from London to THE DORF.
Immermannstraße 40 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte eat-tokyo.com
FINANZÄMTCHE –POZANGMATCHA
Korean kimchi, bibimbap and chicken wings – served in a former pub. Oststraße 139
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/pozangmatcha
FU BY MEISTER WANG
Modern and healthy Chinese cuisine.
Pionierstraße 24 40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt instagram.com/fu_restaurant
FUNKY RAMEN
Modern ramen, sushi and snacks – all halal.
Münsterstraße 33 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf instagram.com/funky.ramen
GREEN LIGHT DISTRICT
Surprising modern Chinese cuisine in an extraordinary atmosphere – now serving food until 2 am.
Klosterstraße 38
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte green-light-district.de
GUSAN
Traditional Korean meat dishes, vegetarian dishes and sushi.
Stresemannstraße 31
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/gusan_restaurant
HASHI
Traditional Chinese cuisine with a modern twist.
Ackerstraße 182
40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern hashi-mahlzeit.de
HESO
Coming soon: Contemporary Japanese fine dining by Lukas Jacobi.
Schwerinstraße 40
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf instagram.com/heso_restaurant
HUTONG BISTRO
Peking style noodles and authentic Chinese food. Adersstraße 24
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt hutongbistro.com
ILHA FORMOSA
Taiwanese ‘xiaochi’ – street food snacks straight from Taiwan. Charlottenstraße 50
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte ilhaformosa.de
JAY BY SILA THAI
Thai cuisine and cocktails. Nordstraße 31
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/jay.by.silathai
KAGAYA
A cosy little Japanese restaurant, ideal for lunch.
Charlottenstraße 60
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ kagaya_dusseldorf
MARUKIN KARAAGE
Authentic Japanese snack bar serving deep-fried chicken in a special Marukin sauce. Marienstraße 34 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/karaage_marukin
KENNY’S KITCHEN
Snack bar serving Japanese fried chicken. Birkenstraße 72 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/kenny.s_kitchen
KUSHI TEI OF TOKYO
A classic: traditional Japanese grill restaurant. Immermannstraße 38 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ kushiteiduesseldorf
KYODAINA
Sushi and poke bowls. Lorettostraße 60 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk kyodaina.de
LA NOODLE
Hand-pulled noodles from the open kitchen. Kölnerstraße 1-3
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort la-noodle.de
LÊVY
Authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Hüttenstraße 47a
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt levy-dd.com
LILA MOND
Chinese restaurant with authentic Shanghai specialities.
Dorotheenstraße 5
40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern
LILY'S ASIAN CUISINE
Vietnamese, Thai and Chilean cuisine – all in one place.
Bilker Allee 64
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/ lilys_asian_cuisine_dus
LITTLE LAMB DÜSSELDORF
Authentic Chinese hot pot dining. Kölner Straße 14
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte littlelamb.de
MÂM CHAY
Vegan and vegetarian Vietnamese dishes. Lorettostraße 6
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk mamchay.de
MAMA GYOZA
Colourful gyozas in many flavours – also vegetarian, vegan and halal.
Friedrichstraße 118
40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/mama.gyoza.dus
MANDU
Tasty Korean snack bar with vegan options like dumplings, vegetable and tofu dishes. Eisenstraße 88
40227 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberbilk
MARUYASU
Maruyasu – the pioneer of takeaway sushi in the city, known for top ingredients, excellent quality and authentic Japanese service. Find all locations online.
Schadowstraße 11
Schadow-Arkaden UG
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte maruyasu.de
NAGOMI
Sushi, sashimi and noodles in a modern izakaya style.
Bismarckstraße 53
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte nagomi.de
A place for innovation, culture and diversity.
NANIWA
Famous for ramen with the longest queue in town – opposite, Naniwa’s cool sushi restaurant. Oststraße 55 ∙ Klosterstraße 68a 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte naniwa.de
NARUMI SUSHI
Sushi, bowls and seafood. Takeaway and delivery available.
Hüttenstraße 83
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt New: Bilker Allee 79 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk narumisushi.de
PHOX –FEINE PHÓ KÜCHE
Super fancy Vietnamese restaurant specialising in pho –one of the best in town!
Stresemannstraße 32 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte pho-x.de
Family-run restaurant featuring popular dishes and regional delicacies from Central Vietnam.
Grafenberger Allee 149 40237 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern querestaurant.de
RAMEN SOUL
Traditional cuisine from the western and eastern regions of South Korea.
Franklinstraße 24
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort Roßstraße 87 40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf ramensoul.de
RIKA
Cosy family-run restaurant serving ramen, teriyaki, gyoza and more.
Gehrtsstraße 16
40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Grafenberg instagram.com/cafe_rika
ROKU
Japanese wining and dining by Nagaya. Schwerinstraße 34
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort restaurant-roku.de
SAKURAGIYA RAMEN
Authentic Japanese ramen straight from Akita, Japan. Luegallee 118
40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel instagram.com/sakuragiya118
SEOUL KITCHEN
Korean cuisine at the harbour –traditional recipes with fresh ingredients like bibimbap, bulgogi, kimchi and more. Neckarstraße 4
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Hafen seoulkitchenimhafen.eatbu.com
SCARAMANGA’S
Diverse Vietnamese ‘tapas’ and dishes.
Oberbilker Allee 31
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt scaramangas.de
SHINJU SUSHI & GRILL
Asian fusion cuisine featuring sushi and grill. Fürstenwall 120
40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk shinjuduesseldorf.de
SILA THAI
Fancy traditional Thairestaurant – a real classic! Bahnstraße 76
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte silathai.com
SIMPLE:KITCHEN
Korean and Japanese cuisine.
Ackerstraße 188
40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/ simple.kitchen.dus
SOBA-AN
Unique Japanese homemade buckwheat soba dishes.
Klosterstraße 68
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ sobaan_duesseldorf
SOJUBAR DÜSSELDORF
Bar with plenty of Korean fried chicken, beer and (of course) soju. Charlottenstraße 49 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte sojubar.com/dusseldorf
SULBAM KOREAN PUB
Authentic Korean pub with great tteokbokki (rice cakes), established in 2021.
Bismarckstraße 37
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ sulbamduesseldorf
SUMI
Sophisticated Japanese cuisine and izakaya in a stylish interior. Schinkelstraße 28
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/sumi.duesseldorf
TENGRI TAGH UIGUR
Uyghur restaurant with noodles, dumplings and Central Asian specialities. Oststraße 120
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/tengritagh_uigur
TAKEZO
Japanese ramen bar with homemade noodles. Immermannstraße 48 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte takezo.de
TAKOYAKI TEPPACHI
Authentic Japanese takoyaki restaurant.
Immermannstraße 32
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ takoyaki.teppachi
TAKUMI
Homemade Japanese ramen soups and gyozas.
All restaurants on brickny.com
TAM TAM
Vietnamese cuisine with healthy and exotic South-east Asian specialities.
Ackerstraße 88
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern tamtam-restaurant.de
THREE KINGDOMS
Authentic Chinese restaurant.
Stresemannstraße 4
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte
TOKYO RAMEN
TAKEICHI
Authentic Japanese ramen. Immermannstraße 18
Bismarckstraße 67
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte takeichi-ramen.eu/de
TOI JAPANESE
IZAKAYA BAR
Japanese izakaya pop-up serving vegan tapas and sake every Monday at 1ODER8. Klosterstraße 51
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/toi.izakaya
TONKATSU GONTA
Specialising in the fine art of preparing Japanese pork schnitzel – tonkatsu.
Immermannstraße 28
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte tonkatsu-gonta.de
TSUKIJI
Fresh sushi, seafood and more. Bahnstraße 63
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte tsukijidusseldorf.de
UMAIMON
It’s Japanese and means ‘tasty’ – just like the chicken ramen and other dishes.
Hansaallee 244
40547 Düsseldorf ∙ Lörick daidokoro-umaimon.de
VAREETHIP
THAI NOODLE BAR
Thai noodle bar and traditional dishes.
Derendorfer Straße 9
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/ vareethip_thainoodle_bar
WELA
An exciting fine dining concept that reinterprets traditional Thai cuisine.
Oststraße 158
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte welarestaurant.de
WEN CHENG
A Chinese hand-pulled noodle chain from Berlin.
Nordstraße 49
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort wenchengnoodles.com
YABASE
Chic and authentic Japanese sushi and cuisine – among the very best.
Klosterstraße 70
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte yabase-ddf.com
YAKI THE EMON
Japanese teppan grill restaurant with a wide selection of sake and cocktails.
Klosterstraße 72
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte yaki-the-emon.de
YAKITORI NUMATA
Authentic Japanese yakitori and ramen restaurant.
Bismarckstraße 96
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/yakitori_numata
YOGI
Korean restaurant with deep-fried dishes, noodles, stews and more.
Grupellostraße 5
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/yogirestaurant
ZERO-BANCHI
Japanese izakaya-style restaurant by Kushi Tei of Tokyo. Immermannstraße 34
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/zero.banchi
FRENCH CUISINE & BISTRO FOOD
BISTRO ERMINIG
Breton crêpes, galettes, cidre and croissants.
Mutter-Ey-Straße 5
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt instagram.com/bistroerminig
BISTRO FATAL
French seasonal cuisine and natural organic wines.
Hermannstraße 29
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern bistro-fatal.com
BRASSERIE HÜLSMANN
Traditional French brasserie in the heart of Oberkassel.
Belsenplatz 1
40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel brasserie-huelsmann.de
CAFÉ DE BRETAGNE
Authentic French seafood and Breton specialities.
Benrather Straße 7
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt cafe-de-bretagne.de
CAFÉ DE FRANCE
Popular French café and bistro – back with a new team. Luegallee 7
40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel cafedefrance.de
CHEZ CLAUDE
French bistro cuisine in a cosy, enchanting backyard atmosphere.
Wiesenstraße 32
40549 Düsseldorf ∙ Heerdt instagram.com/chezclaude32
CHEZ LIO
Breton bistro at Barbarossaplatz – French food and international wines by the makers of Restaurant Hülsmann. Barbarossaplatz 4
40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel chez_lio.de
GRANDE ÉTOILE
French cuisine in Parisian Art Deco atmosphere.
Bastionstraße 16
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt grande-etoile.com
JANOT’S BAR BISTRO
French bistro café with natural wines, exquisite food and a beautiful terrace.
Flurstraße 74
40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern janotsbarbistrot.de
ROBERT.
It’s a classic: an authentic French brasserie with a beautiful view of the Rhine, founded by Robert Hülsmann.
Rathausufer 10
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt restaurantrobert.de
LA BOUILLABAISSE
Traditional French cuisine with a maritime focus – and of course, bouillabaisse. Since 2025 no longer in the Old Town, but at a new Oberkassel address.
Oberkasseler Straße 79 40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel la-bouillabaisse-duesseldorf. eatbu.com
LE BOUCHON
French bistro, restaurant and wine bar.
Blücherstraße 70 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort lebouchon-duesseldorf.de
ROCAILLE
Charming Derendorf bistro with fine wines, cheese and patisserie.
Weißenburgstraße 19 40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf rocaille.de
REINHARDT’S RESTAURANT
Fine interpretations of classic brasserie dishes with modern crossover influences from around the world.
Schloßstraße 82 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort reinhardts-restaurant.de
THE DUCHY
French brasserie cuisine with regional influences at the Breidenbacher Hof. Königsallee 11 40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte theduchy-restaurant.com
French bistro cuisine and bar with spectacular views over Düsseldorf from the 16th and 17th floors of the 25hours Hotel. Louis-Pasteur-Platz 1 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort theparisclub.de
ALMATOVARI
Georgian wine bar with small dishes.
Völklinger Str. 4 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/ almatovari_restaurant
PEPELLA
Georgian cuisine with a modern twist.
Augustastraße 30 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort pepella-duesseldorf.eatbu.com
SO RE
Georgian cuisine with German influences, fine wines and a terrace in Flingern.
Hoffeldstraße 37 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/sore_flingern
ASKITIS GREEK CUISINE
Sophisticated Greek restaurant refined fish and meat dishes.
Herderstraße 73 40237 Düsseldorf ∙ Düsseltal askitis.com
BLÉ GREEK RESTOBAR
Greek fish specialities and fine delicacies.
Bismarckstraße 69 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte ble-restobar.de
ESTIA
Greek specialities and wines –named after the goddess of the hearth.
Heerdter Landstraße 245 40549 Düsseldorf ∙ Heerdt estia-restaurant.de
TAVERNA IRODION
Authentic Greek snack bar since 1997.
Flurstraße 34 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern irodion-pizzarella.de
TAVERNA ELEON
‘Mezedopolio’ – meze only! Eleon serves reinterpreted classics of Greek-Mediterranean cuisine in meze-sized portions for sharing.
Kaiserswerther Straße 17 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort taverna-eleon.de
TAVERNE PEGASOS
Traditional Greek cuisine –a classic since 1979. Kirchfeldstraße 50
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/tavernepegasos
TAVERNE SAVAS
Exuberant Greek atmosphere with authentic food served until late at night. Heresbachstraße 21
40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk taverne-savas.de
THE BLACK OLIVE
Greek-Mediterranean fusion with fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. Morsestraße 1
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt theblackolive.de
ITALIAN CUISINE
485GRAD
485 Grad is back: Neapolitan pizza made with 72-hour dough, baked at 485 degrees in 60 seconds.
ONE METRO Campus
Schlüterstraße 1
40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Grafenberg 485grad.de
AMUNI
Sicilian wine and cheese bar. Liefergasse 9
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt amuniwinebar.de
A TAVOLA
Cosy Italian restaurant with seasonal cuisine. Wallstraße 11
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt
ALDO GENOVESE
Traditional Italian trattoria offering classics, pasta and wine.
Schirmerstraße 17
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort aldo-genovese.de
AURORA & VITO’S
SÜSSHOLZ PIZZERIA
Authentic Neapolitan pizza and antipasti in a colourful setting. Sommersstraße 19
40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf auroraundvitos.de
ANTICHI SAPORI
Italian delicatessen with antipasti, pasta and fine wines. Am Wehrhahn 71 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ antichisaporidusseldorf
CASA LUIGI TRATTORIA
Fine Italian cuisine since 1997 –with a Mediterranean terrace in the courtyard. Hohe Straße 33 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt casaluigi.de
CASA PALMIERI
Italian trattoria with modern cuisine and an outdoor area on the lawn of the Hofgarten. Inselstraße 1 40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/casa_palmieri
CECINO’S
Homemade pasta, fresh fish and Mediterranean-Italian specialities in the elegant ambience of the Dreischeibenhaus – plus a stunning palm terrace. Dreischeibenhaus 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte cecinos.de
COLOMBELLA
Café, trattoria, vino bar and pizzateca. Sonderburgstraße 27 40454 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel colombella.de
DA NOI
Wood-fired pizza with Fior di Latte mozzarella – plus gluten- free options.
Graf-Adolf-Straße 25 40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte danoi-duesseldorf.de
DEVONA
Tiny Italian restaurant with sophisticated cuisine. Schwerinstraße 13 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort devona.de
DE LUCA
Italian hospitality with handmade pasta and everchanging creations. Hansaallee 228 40547 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel deluca-restaurant.com
GALLO NERO
Trattoria and wine trade since 1998.
Binterimstraße 27 40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk gallo-nero.de
GIOIA RISTORANTINO
Mediterranean specialities with a feel-good factor in the heart of Grafenberg. Staufenplatz 7 40629 Düsseldorf ∙ Grafenberg gioia-restaurant.de
LUCIANOS PIZZERIA
Original Neapolitan pizza in Derendorf – so good. Spichernstraße 56 40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf instagram.com/lucianos.pizzeria
MENTA
Simple yet excellent pizza, pasta and wines by Gino. Lorettostraße 25 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk menta-cucina.de
OLIO E POMODORO
Small Italian neighbourhood restaurant.
Bruchstraße 64a
40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/olio.e.pomodoro
OSTERIA EMILIA
Italian cuisine in a charming little restaurant with a beautiful ambience.
Alt-Niederkassel 32
40547 Düsseldorf ∙ Niederkassel osteria-emilia.de
OSTERIA MOSSIMO MILANO
Very special and ultra-thin pizzas. Delicious!
Düsselthaler Straße 22 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort osteria-mossimo.com
PIZZA AL PRIMO PIANO
Your brand-new, sophisticated pizza place on the first floor of Hotel Hotel.
Andreasstraße 13
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt instagram.com/ pizzapizza__________
PIZZA DÜSSELDORF
Neapolitan pizza with fresh ingredients straight from Italy. Färberstraße 100
40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk instagram.com/pizza_dus
PIZZERIA MAURIZIO
Italian food à la mamma!
Collenbachstraße 3
40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort pizzeria-maurizio.eatbu.com
PIZZERIA PESTO – DA FABIO
Small restaurant with a rich selection of pizzas, Italian classics, wine and beer.
Pionierstraße 54
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt pizzeria-pesto.de
PIZZERIA PINOCCHIO
A true classic from the ’80s and one of the favourite authentic Italian pizza restaurants.
Altestadt 14
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt
PIZZERIA ROMANTICA
Traditional family pizza from Palermo since 1921.
Düsselthaler Straße 48
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort
Moltkestraße 117
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/ pizzeriaromantica.duesseldorf
PRIMITIVO
Italian ristorante and wine bar. Mauerstraße 7
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/ primitivoduesseldorf
PRINCIPALE PIZZABAR
Bere – mangiare – parlare: pizza and pasta at their best.
Lindenstraße 66
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/ principale_pizzabar
RISTORANTE
L’ARTE IN CUCINA
Traditional Tuscan cuisine with fresh, high-quality products.
Gerricusplatz 6
40625 Düsseldorf ∙ Gerresheim arteincucina.de
SAN LEO
A true Italian classic with pasta, fish and meat – among the best in town.
Wallstraße 31
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt instagram.com/ sanleo_duesseldorf
SU NURAGHE
One of the best Italian takeaways – an institution. Am Wehrhahn 69 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte Schloßstraße 2 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort su-nuraghe-due.de
TRATTORIA CARISSIMA
Italian trattoria since 1987 Luegallee 17 40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel trattoria-carissima.com
TRATTORIA EMILIANA
Pizza, pasta and vino on redand-white chequered cloths.
Adlerstraße 42 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte trattoriaemiliana.de
TRATTORIA LUISA
Family-run trattoria with authentic Italian dishes and wines.
Luisenstraße 7 40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt luisa-trattoria.de
TRATTORIA POSITANO
Authentic Amalfi Coast cuisine since 1990.
Freiligrathstraße 36 40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort trattoria-positano.de
TRATTORIA VIA APPIA
Light Italian cuisine in a pleasant atmosphere.
Flügelstraße 56 40227 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberbilk trattoria-via-appia.de
ZERO GRADI
Alternative pizzeria with ultrathin pizza dough, pinsa Romana and pasta.
Wielandstraße 54 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort zero-gradi.de
ARABESQ
Delicacies from One Thousand and One Nights.
Ludenberger Straße 1 – 1a 40629 Düsseldorf ∙ Grafenberg arabesq.de
BONA’ME
Kurdish-Turkish cuisine with oriental influences and an open kitchen.
Kasernenstraße 39 – 49 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt bona-me.de
BYBLOS
Traditional Lebanese dishes with a modern twist – a true classic. Markenstraße 7-9
40227 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberbilk Friedrichstraße 8 40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt byblosrestaurant.de
DIE KURVE
Israeli-Mediterranean cuisine. Goebenstraße 18 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort die-kurve.com
EAT DOORI
Modern Indian cuisine and street food.
Immermannstraße 20 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte eatdoori.com
FATAYER AL TAYER
Lebanese savoury pastries –manaqish, fatayer and more. Graf-Adolf-Straße 72–74 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/fatayeral_tayer
LA GRILLADINE
Family restaurant with Moroccan couscous, tajines and charcoal-grilled dishes. Dreieckstraße 26 40227 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberbilk
LIBEIRUT
Lebanese dishes in a modern ambience.
Belsenplatz 3 40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel instagram.com/libeirut.de
JAIPUR PRIME
Authentic Indian cuisine in an upscale ambience. Alexanderstraße 35 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte jaipurprime.de
KIRTI’S DHABA
Authentic Indian cuisine –vegan, vegetarian and nonvegetarian.
Düsselthaler Straße 1a 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort kirtisdhaba.de
RESTAURANT SAFRAN
Persian restaurant with grilled meats, meze and curries.
Pempelforter Straße 45 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort safran-duesseldorf.de
SANNIN
Authentic Lebanese cuisine –small but mighty.
Kölner Straße 61 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte sannin-restaurant.de
POLISH CUISINE
MALINAS
Polish cuisine with pierogi. Tannenstraße 31 40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf malinas-restaurant.de
SPANISH, PORTUGUESE & LATIN-AMERICAN CUISINE
20GRAD RESTOBAR
Majorcan tapas by Michelin-starred chef Macarena de Castro.
Mutter-Ey-Platz 3 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt 20grad.com
CAFÉ LUSO
Fish and meat from Portugal. An der Icklack 2 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern
CASITA MEXICANA
Modern Mexican cuisine from mama’s recipes. 4 restaurants, all addresses at casitamexicana.de
CAVE TAPAS
Portuguese tapas bar. Erkrather Straße 218b 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern cavetapas.de
RESTAURANT CELIA
Modern Mexican cuisine with fish tacos and guacamole. Gladbacher Straße 15 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk celiarestaurant.de
CLUBE PORTUGUÊS
Traditional Portuguese restaurant with a cosy atmosphere – a classic.
Erkrather Straße 197
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern clube-portugues.de
EL LAZO
Steaks, Spanish dishes & wines. Bolkerstraße 11 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt el-lazo.de
RESTAURANT
FRANGO PORTUGUÊS
Large Portuguese restaurant with decorated interior and sun terrace.
Erkrather Straße 224 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern frango-portugues.de
FRIDA TAPASBAR
Mexican-style restaurant with breakfast, Mediterranean food and tapas.
Bilker Allee 4
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk tapasbar-frida.de
HALA EMPANADA
Our favourite empanadas –handmade with locally sourced ingredients, now finally with their own bistro.
Münsterstraße 7
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort hala-empanada.de
LIMAS RESTOBAR
Peruvian ceviche, stews and
grilled dishes in a casual setting.
Münsterstraße 242
40470 Düsseldorf ∙ Mörsenbroich limasrestobar.de
PALITO
South American and Cuban cuisine in a colourful ambience with historic tiles.
Berger Straße 14
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt palito-duesseldorf.de
SECRETO – TAPAS & VINO
Spanish homemade tapas and selected wines. Goebenstraße 2 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort secreto-tapas.de
HEALTHY & VEGAN
GREENTREES THE JUICERY
Australian superfoods, coffee and bowls – from late summer 2025 also with a large deli in Oberkassel.
Lorettostraße 54
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk
New: Luegallee 43
40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel greentreesthejuicery.de
HIN UND WEG
Healthy salads and snacks at Carlsplatz. Carlsplatz 22 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt instagram.com/hinundweg_salate
BEETS & ROOTS
Seasonal wraps, salads and bowls. Immermannstraße 20 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte beetsandroots.de
BIRDIE & CO.
Deli café featuring juices, salads, bowls, smoothies, breakfast and lunch. 5 locations, all addresses on birdieco.de
FRUCHT & GENUSS
Fruit, delicacies and lunch. Stresemannstraße 29 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte fruchtundgenuss.de
KATE’S DELI
Health-food deli and café.
Duisburger Straße 90 40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/katesdeli.de
LAURA’S DELI
Healthy food in a stylish atmosphere. Carlsplatz 1 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt laurasdeli.de
OAKBERRY
Vegan açaí bowls with natural toppings. Kapuzinergasse 8
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt oakberry.com
SATTGRÜN
Vegan café with two Düsseldorf locations. Brückenstraße 12 40221 Düsseldorf ∙ Hafen Hoffeldstraße 18 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern sattgruen.com
SHARI’S KITCHEN
Vegan and vegetarian dishes with oriental influences. Collenbachstraße 41 40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf instagram.com/shariskitchen
To1980 VEGAN
Vietnamese vegan kitchen in the heart of the Japanese Quarter, in Pempelfort and on Graf-Adolf-Straße. All addresses on to1980.de
22 November 2025 to 8 March 2026
restraumraumrest
Miriam Bornewasser
Tunnel
URBAN GORILLAS
Go vegan: bowls, wraps and burgers.
Oberbilker Allee 23
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt urban-gorillas.de
BÄCKEREI BULLE
Artisan bakery – one of the best in town.
Birkenstraße 55
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern
Oststraße 113
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte baeckerei-bulle.de
BÄCKEREI HINKEL
One of Düsseldorf’s most traditional and delicious bakeries.
Mittelstraße 25 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt
Hohe Straße 31 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt baeckerei-hinkel.de
BERNSTEIN & INBAR
French-inspired bistro with international delicatessen.
Lorettostraße 16
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk bernstein-inbar.de
CARLSPLATZ
Traditional market with 60+ stalls – from fresh produce and delicacies to flowers and plants.
Carlsplatz 26
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt carlsplatz-markt.de
CHEZ OLIVIER
Natural French wines and delicacies from the producer. Hermannstraße 24
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern chezolivier.de
FEINISA
Cheese, wines, gifts, chocolate, coffee and more – this cute little store is all organic.
Moltkestraße 95
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort feinisa.de
FROMAGERIE
Cheese from around the world and French delicacies. Lorettostraße 43
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/fromagerie_laas
GHORBAN
‘Fine food manufactory’ with its own range of delicatessen such as oils and olives plus a counter featuring cheese and ham specialities, along with an on-site restaurant and café.
Heinrich Heine Allee 17
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt ghorban.de
KOCHDICHTÜRKISCH
Turkish cooking school with delicacies in-store and online. Flurstraße 5
40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern kochdichturkisch.de
KIM PHI ASIA FOOD
Wholesale market with Vietnamese street food on Saturdays. Höherweg 313
40231 Düsseldorf ∙ Lierenfeld kimphiasiafood.de
LA BOTTEGA DEL GUSTO
Italian delicatessen with wines, prosecco and catering.
Ackerstraße 155
40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern labottegadelgusto.shop
LAIKON
Greek foods and roasted nuts.
Brunnenstraße 20
40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk laikon-finefoods.de
Düsseldorf’s first address for liquorice lovers.
Dorotheenstraße 12 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern lakritz-boutique.de
LETTINIS
Italian wine and delicacies. Jahnstraße 36
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt lettinis.de
MANDELBRENNEREI
GAGLIARDI
Long-established Düsseldorf company offering roasted almonds.
Kapuzinergasse 2 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt
MERCADO TROPICAL
Food, drinks and spirits from Latin America.
Münsterstraße 7 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort mercadotropical.de
MINAS-FEINKOST
Delicacies from the Balkans.
Stresemannstraße 30 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ nasaradnja_minas
NATURBURSCHEN
Organic groceries plus regular wine, gin and champagne tastings.
Birkenstraße 129
40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern
New: Duisburger Straße 5 40477 Düsseldorf · Pempelfort naturburschen.shop
NIK THE GREEK
Greek specialities, fine foods, daily fresh fish and excellent sushi by sushi master Hideki Matsumoto.
Heesenstraße 90 40549 Düsseldorf ∙ Heerdt nikthegreek.de
PIPCO’S WEIN COMPILATION
A playlist from a vast selection of wines.
Helmholtzstraße 28 40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt instagram.com/pipco_s_wein
PRIZRENI
Bakery and confectionery from the Balkans.
Erkrather Straße 109
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/bk_prizreni
SI! SUPERMERCATO
Italian supermarket featuring exclusively Italian products and a deli counter.
Tichauer Weg 11
40231 Düsseldorf ∙ Lierenfeld instagram.com/ sisupermercatoduesseldorf
SPANISCHER GARTEN
Spanish groceries, wines and delicacies.
Fichtenstraße 74 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern spanischer-garten.de
TASTE GREECE
Greek delicacies: wine, olives and oil.
Volmerswerther Straße 21 40221 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk tastegreece.com
TERRA MIA
Handmade cheese specialities from Düsseldorf featuring fresh daily mozzarella and burrata, as well as a great selection of Italian delicacies.
Lindenstraße 90
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/ terramia_feinkost
THE GANGNAM
Ultra-modern Korean supermarket with photo booth and special features.
Stresemannstraße 33
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte
New: Friedrichstraße 133
40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk thegangnam.de
TISCHDAME
Fine delicacies and ‘petite fromagerie’.
Blücherstraße 1
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort tischdame.com
UMEE
Asian market with sushi and homemade cuisine.
Brunnenstraße 37 40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk umee.de
VINO TINTO & FRIENDS
Superb wines, spirits and craft beer.
Bagelstraße 124
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort vtandf.de
WEINFORCE
May the force be with you – one of our favourite wine dealers.
Himmelgeister Straße 70 40225 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk weinforce.de
ZEIT FÜR BROT
Every loaf, bun and pastry is baked in-house by hand, using only certified organic ingredients.
Nordstraße 48
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort
New: Flinger Straße 7 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt zeitfuerbrot.com
TAKEAWAY & SNACK BAR
AKROPOLIS
Legendary Greek takeaway in Oberkassel – always busy. Dominikanerstraße 8 40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel instagram.com/akro_oberkassel
AL AGHA
Delicious shawarma and falafel – one of the best Arabic snack bars.
Kapuzinergasse 6
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt instagram.com/alagha_imbiss agha-imbiss.de
BERLINER ECKE
AM CARLSPLATZ
Family-owned snack bar with currywurst, bratwurst and fries. Carlsplatz
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt carlsplatz-markt.de
CEMO
Turkish snack bar with cult-status
pizza and vegetarian appetisers.
Bilker Allee 178
40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt instagram.com/cemoduesseldorf
CURRY
Star-chef currywurst with homemade fries and sauces.
Hammer Straße 2
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Medienhafen curry-deutschland.de
GRILLHOUSE 56
Greek grill, salads and more –for takeaway or delivery.
Bismarckstraße 56
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte grillhouse56.de
HAM HAM BEI JOSEF
Original Schweinshaxe and grilled dishes in Düsseldorf’s Old Town since 1961
Kurze Straße 5
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt hamham-duesseldorf.de
KRICHEL SEAFOOD
Fresh fish, seafood and sandwiches to go. Nordstraße 112
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort krichel-seafood.de
KOSTAS & SONS
Greek snack bar with gyros and fries.
Aachener Straße 46
40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk
LUPO
Old Town classic, perfect for a late-night pizza.
Bolkerstraße 52
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt pizzerialupo.de
MADINA TASTE OF ORIENT
Afghan & Oriental specialities.
Friedrichstraße 133
40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk instagram.com/ madinatasteoforient
MÜNSTER GRILL
Legendary address for gyros pita. Münsterstraße 42 40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf
PANIMANO
Freshly made Italian sandwiches. Mühlenstraße 5 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt instagram.com/ panimano_duesseldorf
PAUL'S TELE GRILL
Rustic snack bar with grilled dishes.
Liebigstraße 15 40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort paulstelegrill.de
PAPAI’S
Signature rollos, steak & falafel sandwiches and fresh flavours –a new take on the döner.
Kölner Straße 25 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte papais.de
GYROS MANUFAKTUR PEPE
Homemade gyros and snack classics.
Harffstraße 30 40591 Düsseldorf ∙ Wersten instagram.com/ pepegyros_duesseldorf
POULARDE
One of the oldest chicken restaurants – daily spit-roast chicken.
Münsterstraße 145 40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf
SATTUNI
Arabic cuisine with a modern twist.
Johannstraße 40 40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf sattuni.de
SHAWARMA CITY
Cult fast food spot with one of the best shawarma in town.
Oststraße 153 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/schawarma_city
SCHWEINE JANES
Rotisserie grill on Bolkerstraße since 1970 – legendary Schweinebrötchen.
Bolkerstraße 13 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt schweinejanes.de
SERDAR LAHMACUN
One of the best traditional lahmacun in the city.
Graf-Adolf-Straße 43 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/serdar.lahmacun
SMOKE BBQ
American smokehouse with first-class low & slow BBQ. Mündelheimer Weg 31 40472 Düsseldorf ∙ Lichtenbroich smokebbq.de
DISCOVER MORE PLACES TO EAT: THEDORF.DE
If any restaurant in Düsseldorf could be considered the inventor of queues outside the door, it would be Naniwa. Long before ‘food hype’ and trendy Asian cuisine took the city by storm, people were patiently queuing here to get their hands on a steaming bowl of ramen. Naniwa has been a fixture on Oststraße for 40 years – and in 2004 , it expanded with the addition of a sushi restaurant directly opposite, serving ‘Nouvelle Cuisine Japonaise’. In both restaurants, a cool, urban interior meets relaxed (jazz) music – creating an atmosphere that stands out pleasantly from the often austere severity of other Japanese restaurants. Behind this success is Masanori Kobayashi. The 58 -year-old comes from Niigata, learned to cook in Osaka and has been running Naniwa for decades with the same restraint with which he presents himself: he doesn’t like to be in the lime-light, preferring to stay in the kitchen. On the occasion of the anniversary, he spoke to us about the early days – when ramen broth still came out of a packet and he began producing the noodles himself without further ado – about the development of the Japanese community in Düsseldorf and why consistency is more important to him than any food trend.
What was your personal journey to Düsseldorf – and how did you come to take over the restaurant?
After my training, I worked in a small ramen restaurant in Osaka, where the owner of Naniwa was a regular. He often invited us to dinner, and over time we got to know each other. One day he asked if I would like to fly with him to Germany to see his restaurant. I was sceptical, but my wife immediately said: “You should definitely do it!” So I went with him to Düsseldorf.
There I realised much was wrong: a manager came only in the mornings to count money, the staff had no respect, and the ramen soup came from a packet – nothing was homemade. No wonder sales were poor. The owner told me he had opened Naniwa so that he and other business people in Düsseldorf could eat ramen like in Japan, but he lacked expertise. Finally, he asked me to work for him and improve the quality.
And the rest is history – but let's go back, how did you get started?
Less than 24 hours later, we were back on a plane to Japan, and during the long flight I had time to think. I finally agreed – and became managing director. The employees were anything but enthusiastic, as I was completely different from my predecessor: I worked from morning to night, helped everywhere and changed many things. From then on, we cooked the broth traditionally, produced fresh noodles in-house and even made dumplings from scratch.
It was a lot of extra work, but for me it was natural –I didn’t know any different. The owner greatly appreciated my efforts and one day asked if I wanted to take over the restaurant completely. After a brief hesitation, I realised this was my chance – and so I became the owner of Naniwa.
What does the word ‘Naniwa’ mean?
Naniwa was the old name of the Japanese city of Osaka before it was given its current name. Even in ancient times, Naniwa was considered a gateway to the world: a port where traders, travellers and cultures came together. It was a place where exchange, encounters and enjoyment went hand in hand. By naming our restaurant Naniwa, we remember where this tradition comes from and, at the same time, how important it is to carry it into the present: a piece of Japanese culture in the middle of Düsseldorf.
Your son Masao now works alongside you. What was it like for you to run the restaurant together as a family? I didn’t imagine this task would be easy – and it wasn’t. But I was able to grow step by step with the restaurant. Everything I did was my responsibility, and I had to iron out every mistake myself. I think every second generation has a hard time. You are thrown into something that already exists and is continuing to grow. You have to cope with it more quickly – often more quickly than you or your employees would like.
This year, Naniwa is celebrating its 40th anniversary –what memories of the early days have stayed with you in particular?
In the beginning, it was difficult to introduce Japanese cuisine to the locals. Japanese restaurants were mostly frequented by Japanese businessmen, and at first, ours was no different. I wanted to win over German guests and realised that Chinese cuisine was much better known. So I started with familiar dishes like wonton soup, fried rice or noodles – combined with our speciality, ramen. A lunch menu of fried rice and shoyu ramen made it easier for sceptical guests to try something new. Over time, their curiosity turned into enthusiasm, and ramen grew in popularity not only with Japanese customers but also with Germans – proof that tradition and new ideas can be combined sustainably.
How would you describe your cuisine and your philosophy today?
My philosophy is to run a restaurant where guests can sit down even after 30 years and say, “Nothing has changed.” By that I don’t mean stagnation, but consistency in quality, taste and atmosphere. My cuisine should inspire confidence – guests should know that they will always get what they expect from us: authentic, honest Japanese cuisine, just like you would find in
Japan. At the same time, I am convinced that tradition and craftsmanship are more important than trends. I want to create something that lasts – a piece of home for Japanese people in Germany and a place where locals can experience authentic Japanese food culture.
Is there a dish on the menu that has special meaning for you or has become something of a signature dish?
Yes, there is one dish that has very special meaning for me. In my hometown of Niigata, you often had to drive for miles to visit a restaurant. But there was one ramen restaurant that we children went to again and again. That’s where I ate miso ramen with minced meat and onions for the first time. It was so incredibly delicious that I still remember the taste to this day. Based on this memory, I put a similar dish on the menu – the ‘N9 Tokusei Miso’. For me, it’s more than just a dish: it’s a piece of my childhood, a connection to my roots and, at the same time, my very own signature dish.
What are your hopes for the future of Naniwa and for Japanese cuisine in Düsseldorf?
My greatest wish is to continue running Naniwa with the same quality, consistency and passion. It would be wonderful if today’s children returned one day with their own families and said: “We enjoyed our meal very
much again.” For me, that is true confirmation. For Japanese cuisine in Düsseldorf, I hope for more variety and courage – for new concepts and dishes to find their way here, giving locals an even deeper experience of Japanese food culture.
Do you have a favourite restaurant in Düsseldorf?
When I think of my favourite restaurant in Düsseldorf, the Brauhaus Joh. Albrecht in Niederkassel immediately comes to mind. It’s a place that combines honest food and great beer – no frills, no false promises. I’m particularly fond of the Düsseldorf mustard roast: strong, spicy, just the thing after a long day. Add a
freshly tapped beer and the world suddenly feels a little simpler and better.
If you had the choice, who – dead or alive – would you like to have an Altbier with?
And as I sit there, I imagine I have company – not just anyone, but John Lennon. I’ve always been a big Beatles fan. Their early years, when they were still raw, full of energy and perhaps a little impetuous, had a profound influence on me. The Beatles not only made history in England but also inspired countless rock bands far away in Japan.
Düsseldorf’s food scene continues to evolve, driven by creative minds who bring fresh perspectives, passion and flavour to the table. For this year’s edition of What’s Cookin’, we introduce the people behind five inspiring projects that are adding new dimensions to the city’s culinary landscape. Get ready to discover the stories shaping Düsseldorf’s latest tasty offerings.
With OY, Düsseldorf has gained one of the most exciting new restaurants in 2025. Behind it are two people who know what they are doing – and, above all, why:
Joscha Rozsa, a native of Bilk who has been at home in Düsseldorf’s kitchens for years, and Robin Yeoman, a hotel specialist from southern Germany who has spent the last four years here on the Rhine. The two met in the restaurant business – and instead of leaving it at a good working relationship, they forged plans for their own project. The result: a restaurant that brings honest craftsmanship, decent products and the vibe of the neighbourhood to the plate!
Describe your cuisine in a few words. In a nutshell: Food for the people!
What is your philosophy?
Decent products and solid craftsmanship in a neighbourhood atmosphere.
What inspires and motivates you?
The vibe in the shop and all the positive feedback motivates us a lot.
Your personal signature dish?
We find it difficult to commit to one. We try to bring our own signature style to the entire menu. Although –our salty milk ice cream is very good ;-)
What is your personal definition of enjoyment? Consciously taking time for things.
What makes good food for you? Authenticity.
What has been the highlight of your professional life so far?
When the shop is bursting at the seams and we pause for a second to soak up the atmosphere.
What dish have you ever eaten that you will never forget? Where did you eat it?
Laksa in front of the Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang, Malaysia – a local seafood soup.
If you could eat Düsseldorf, what would it taste like?
Like oysters with tiger milk granita and coriander oil (which happens to be on our menu right now).
Your favourite restaurant in Düsseldorf?
Dschunke on Charlottenstraße.
Who, dead or alive, would you like to drink an Altbier with?
Asterix & Obelix.
What would be your last meal?
The Cordon Bleu at Robert.
What should our readers not miss?
We’ve made our outdoor area a bit cosier so that you can still sit outside in autumn.
What is your all-time favourite restaurant in Düsseldorf?
Cemo on Bilker Allee.
Do you have an insider tip for our readers?
Sannin on Kölner Straße (Lebanese).
Ukrainian cuisine is so much more than borscht and varenyky – and thanks to Oi lèle Catering, Düsseldorf can now enjoy the full range. Behind the project are Iryna, Liza, Mariia, Semen and Phil, who together show how diverse, creative and modern the cuisine of their homeland is. With a mix of tradition and contemporary influences, they bring stories, memories and flavours from Ukraine directly to the plate. Whether it’s a new interpretation of Chicken Kyiv, canapés with horseradish or sweet Lviv cheesecake, every dish carries a piece of identity. In an interview with THE DORF, the five talk about their culinary philosophy, personal highlights –and reveal why Düsseldorf tastes like truffle pasta and ramen to them.
Please introduce yourselves briefly: Who are you, what do you do and where are you from?
We are Oi lèle Catering, a Ukrainian culinary project from Düsseldorf. Our aim is to showcase the diversity of Ukrainian cuisine by combining tradition with modernity. We reinterpret classic recipes in a creative and accessible way, sharing a piece of our culture with the local community and showing how delicious Ukrainian food really is.
What was your career path? How did you get to where you are today?
We come from different backgrounds – corporate marketing, creative agency and gastronomy. Yet we bonded over a passion for Ukrainian cuisine and a desire to make it present internationally.
Describe your concept in a few words. Our inspiration lies in our roots, in culinary diversity and in the joy of experimentation. Familiar, trusted ingredients in new pairings – have you tried horseradish with roast pork? With our head chef Larysa, a true Ukrainian mama, every dish tastes like home.
What has been the highlight of your professional life so far?
A special highlight for me and Liza was the invention and co-creation of PODIYA in Düsseldorf – an event that brought Ukraine closer through markets and experiences. That’s also where the idea for Oi lèle was born. (Mariia)
What is your philosophy?
We want to make Ukrainian cuisine accessible and connect people through our culture and creativity. For us, food is more than just a meal – it carries memories, emotions and heritage. We bring them from our kitchen to the plate.
What is your personal signature dish?
Our signature dish is Chicken Kyiv, which we constantly reinterpret to make it a special experience.
If you could eat Düsseldorf, what would it taste like?
For Phil, Düsseldorf would taste like truffle pasta, and for Liza, like ramen.
What would be your last meal?
Our last meal would definitely be a dish made by our mum or grandma – we all agree on that.
What’s new with you at the moment? What should our readers not miss?
We are currently preparing for the Christmas season –with special dishes such as spiced pumpkin and Lemberg cheesecake. The party season is just around the corner, so book your caterer in good time.
Do you have an insider tip for our readers?
Our tip: be sure to try the ‘Kyjiw Mule’ cocktail at Ghorban.
What do street food and fine dining have in common? With his Arabic Gourmet Popup food truck, Tarek shows how well the two styles can be combined – and that you don’t need to go to a Michelin-starred restaurant for a special meal. His creations go far beyond that: they blend cultures and Arabic influences with Tarek’s personal story and his love of gourmet cuisine. In this interview, he talks about the challenges that have shaped his journey and continue to inspire his success. Tarek also shares his favourite Syrian dishes, his signature dish, and his insider tips for dining out.
What is Arabic Gourmet Popup all about, and where can people find you?
Arabic Gourmet Popup is a project born from friendship and passion, where we work with love to share unique food experiences. We are currently based at Areal Böhler. We serve street food from our food truck, and at events I create fine dining, Michelin-inspired dishes. My goal is to bring gourmet cuisine directly from the food truck to the world.
What is your philosophy?
My philosophy is to prove myself through my cooking, showing that I can succeed and excel despite the doubts others had about me. Cooking is not just about nourishment – it’s part of quality living. Sharing meals, talking, and enjoying moments together make it truly special.
What’s your personal signature dish?
My signature dish is a vegetarian spinach dumpling that combines Asian and Syrian flavours. It may look simple, but it’s colourful, flavourful, and unforgettable for those who try it.
What has been the highlight of your professional life so far?
The highlight of my career has been graduating from a culinary academy in the Netherlands with excellent marks. After fleeing my home country and being separated from my family, this achievement gave me
immense pride. Despite losing so much, I was able to succeed and follow my passion for cooking.
What is a dish you have eaten that you will never be able to forget? Where did you eat it?
A dish I will never forget is Mujaddara, a simple Syrian vegetarian dish my mother used to make. We enjoyed it at home in winter, sitting by the stove.
If you could eat Düsseldorf, what would it taste like?
If Düsseldorf had a taste, it would be a mix of diverse street foods and fine dining, reflecting the city’s many cultures, cuisines, and flavours from around the world.
Your favourite restaurant in Düsseldorf?
My favourite restaurant is Shawarma City in Düsseldorf.
What would be your last meal?
For my last meal, I would choose traditional Syrian Molokhia.
Do you have an insider tip for our readers when it comes to dining out?
Be open-minded and don’t limit yourself to familiar flavours or restaurants. Try new tastes and dishes –you’ll discover experiences you’ve never had before.
Scherin Rajakumaran’s label Anill combines many things: her Tamil heritage, her family history, the Ruhr region and Düsseldorf. The focus is on authentic Jaffna Tamil cuisine. Together with her parents, Scherin creates sambals, spice blends, drinks and much more, which can be found on the Anill website. With tips and inspiration for home cooking, she wants to introduce everyone to the complex range of flavours from the region. The story behind Anill is also complex – shaped by Scherin’s personal experiences, life in the diaspora as the past and present of Jaffna. In her cooking classes, she provides insights into this background, which is closely linked to Tamil cuisine. In this interview, Scherin talks about why this is, how important openness and cultural exchange are – and what role cooking together plays in this.
Please tell us in a few sentences: What is Anill?
‘Anill’ means ‘squirrel’ in Tamil. I founded a small label under this name last summer. My aim is to showcase authentic Jaffna Tamil delicacies, which I prepare together with my parents in the Ruhr area. The focus is on foods such as spice mixes, sambals and various pickled uurukais. The range is complemented by Tamil handicrafts made by women in Sri Lanka, whom I want to support with my work.
For those who are unfamiliar with Tamil cuisine, how would you describe it?
Tamil cuisine is rooted in the philosophy of Ayurvedic medicine. That’s why we work a lot with spices that have a specific effect on the body and mind. It’s fresh, complex – and often extremely spicy. There are two ethnic groups living in Sri Lanka: Tamils and Sinhalese, who were at war with each other for almost fifty years. While Sinhalese cuisine is strongly based on coconut milk, Jaffna Tamil cuisine is characterised by water-based preparation that offers a pure basis for spices to unfold the essence of their aroma. This, to us, leads to flavours that are complex, more intense, fiery, and unique. I want my products to remain as authentic as possible. That’s why, with Anill, we try to avoid adapting to European tastes.
How do your family history and the culture of Jaffna influence you and your work?
My parents experienced the civil war and its consequences first-hand. Through Anill, I spend a lot of time with them – and have learned to talk about their experiences with more patience. In the past, my German influences often stood between us, as my parents grew up in a completely different world. Today, we have begun
to forgive each other, understand each other better and develop more acceptance for one another.
What should readers of THE DORF definitely not miss out on when it comes to Tamil cuisine?
Anyone who has ever been to Sri Lanka knows Veechu Roti – a street food that can be found all over the island, but which originally comes from Jaffna. ‘Veechu’ means ‘to spin’: the dough, prepared with plenty of oil, is spun until it is almost transparent, then folded and fried. This is the typical Jaffna Tamil method of preparation – and one of my absolute favourites! My favourite Anill products also include our tea, Jaffna powder and garlic uurukai.
If Düsseldorf were a dish, what would it taste like?
If Düsseldorf were a dish, it would taste of fusion. Thanks to the many independent import markets, there is access to products from all over the world here. Combining these with what you like to eat – that’s typical Düsseldorf for me. For example, a friend of mine once cooked Japanese food with Anill products – and it was incredibly delicious.
Your absolute favourite restaurant in Düsseldorf?
Samui on Kölner Straße – a super authentic Thai restaurant. The absolute hit there? Laab Ped!
Who, dead or alive, would you like to drink an Altbier with?
I would drink a Kürzer with Esther Perel. I couldn’t think of anything I wouldn’t want to talk to her about – maybe it would even be a whole night full of Altbier.
New culinary destination in Flingern: With ‘chic’, Tim Brosius has opened an exciting restaurant and bar on Birkenstraße this year, which is already considered an insider tip. After working in Michelin-starred kitchens and trendy restaurants, the trained chef has realised his dream of owning his own place. In this interview, he talks about his journey, the idea behind chic, his passion for good produce, wine and travel – and why it’s perfectly acceptable to eat prawns with your fingers at his restaurant.
You are a trained chef and this year you opened your first restaurant and bar, ‘chic’. How did that come about – and how did you get to where you are today? Actually, having my own restaurant has always been my dream. I completed my apprenticeship at the Schlosshotel Hugenpoet in 2012 and then worked in various Michelinstarred and trendy restaurants. I learned a lot there, but after a few years I wanted to realise my own ideas of a straightforward and product-oriented gastronomy. It was important to me to offer my guests high-quality food – in a way that was affordable for everyone. I also wanted guests to have the opportunity to discover and try new things, both in terms of food and, above all, wine. After a long search (about four years), I came across ‘chic’. We spent about six months renovating and refurbishing the premises, and I did most of the work myself, with the support of my friends and family. The old snack bar, which was in really poor condition, was transformed into my own beautiful chic.
‘chic’ opened on Birkenstraße in Flingern – why there? What appeals to you about this neighbourhood, and what does ‘chic’ actually mean to you? Birkenstraße is still quite rough in places, which I like –there’s always something going on here and it’s a great neighbourhood. Add to that all the new galleries, and the neighbourhood is really changing. The name ‘chic’ is a little ironic in itself. Of course we’re chic ;) but we also like it when people eat our Argentine wild-caught prawns with their fingers or slurp the ceviche from the lime. And chic rolls off the tongue nicely.
Is there a signature or must-try dish at ‘chic’ that guests can particularly look forward to? Our arancini and croquetas as starters, followed by homemade tagliatelle with Parmesan and butter or organic mussels in their own broth with bread.
What excites you about gastronomy and your profession as a chef – and what drives you every day?
Gastronomy is really versatile. Of course, there’s the contact with guests and the joy of making them happy. I enjoy searching for the right products and talking to different suppliers. I enjoy visiting winegrowers in the Rheingau or Mosel regions and finding the right wines. You’re constantly interacting with people. It’s great to have a team that works well together – and sometimes even the stress ist fun.
Whether it’s quality, creativity, ambience or concept –what makes a really good restaurant for you today? Good, honest food, of course. That everyone feels comfortable. You should let yourself go a little and trust that the restaurant will give you a great evening.
If you could eat Düsseldorf, what would it taste like? I don’t think you can really say that in general terms. We really do have a wide range of options. But for me personally, maybe like a delicious Altbier and a pork knuckle.
Your favourite restaurants in Düsseldorf – what are your top tips? For breakfast, Bulle Bistro, or after a hangover, a Bulle Burger at Staufenplatz. If you want something special, Olio – and definitely Nørds. For a good wine, Janot’s or Chez Olivier.
Who, dead or alive, would you like to go for an Altbier with? Udo – and maybe an ‘Eierlikörchen’ (egg liqueur) instead.
In Düsseldorf’s cafés people meet for a coffee break with friends, a relaxed work session or a leisurely Sunday brunch. ‘Going for a coffee’ has become the new going out – whether it’s matcha in the latest hotspot, a cup from an in-house roastery or Japanese tea creations served with freshly baked cakes, beautifully decorated pastries or savoury bites.
60+ coffee varieties, roasted in Zooviertel. Rethelstraße 98–100
40237 Düsseldorf ∙ Düsseltal cafe-nikan.de
ROASTED KAFFEEBAR
Speciality coffee shop with all-day breakfast and the finest homemade cakes.
Moltkestraße 75
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/ roasted_kaffeebar
RVTC | RÖSTEREI VIER
Rösterei Vier is now RVTC –a new space dedicated to the world of coffee, now featuring its own in-house radio station.
Wallstraße 10
BAZZAR CAFFÉ
Renowned café and coffee roastery in the heart of the Old Town – the place to see and be seen.
Heinrich-Heine-Allee 53 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt bazzar.de
BREW
Latvian roasted speciality coffee.
Aachener Straße 58 40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk brewroast.de
CARL FERDINAND RÖSTFABRIK
Local coffee roastery with a delightful selection of cakes.
Düsselthaler Straße 39 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort Wupperstraße 3 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Hafen carl-ferdinand.de
CØFFE
Nordic coffee culture at Carlsplatz – now with a roastery in Heerdt.
New: Wiesenstraße 32 40549 Düsseldorf ∙ Heerdt
Benrather Straße 6b 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt dascoffe.store
COPENHAGEN COFFEE LAB
Coffee, sourdough bread and sweets from Copenhagen. All addresses on copenhagencoffeelab.com
DIE KAFFEE
Coffee roasting and workshops with Olga Sabristova. Schwerinstraße 23 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort die-kaffee.de
KAFFEESCHMIEDE
In-house private roastery and café located at Belsenplatz. Belsenstraße 11 40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel kaffeeschmiede.de
KYTO CAFÉ
Specialty coffee, unique sandwiches and delicious sweets. Am Wehrhahn 42 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte
LIGHTROAST
Micro roastery – enjoy sweets and coffee specialties in a very unique backyard setting on Saturdays and Sundays. Hoffeldstraße 104 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern lightroast.de
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt rvtc.com
SCHVARZ
Micro roastery and café with urban flair.
Ronsdorfer Straße 74, Halle 31 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern schvarz.com
WOYTON
Coffee, bagels and sweets to go. Schadowplatz 16 40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte woyton.de
CAFÉS & DELIS
ANNEGRETE
Cosy breakfast café in Gerresheim.
Benderstraße 84
40625 Düsseldorf ∙ Gerresheim instagram.com/annegretedeli
AIKO'S MOCHI
Homemade daifuku mochi by Aiko.
Immermannstraße 30
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/aikosmochi3
ARTA CAFÉ
Deli serving cakes, breakfast, matcha, iced lattes, eggies and lunch.
Berliner Allee 30
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ arta_duesseldorf
ALIGN
Coffee, matcha and healthy bites – your new coffee spot. Oststraße 54
40591 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/align_cafe
B12
Speciality coffee and fine food. Brunnenstraße 12
40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk instagram.com/coffee.b12
BARISTAPAS
Tapas brunch, coffee and cakes – all halal.
Volmerswerther Straße 2
40221 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/baristapas
BARISSIMO
The espresso bar at HSD university serves handcrafted coffee drinks and tasty snacks.
Rather Straße 34
40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf barissimo-cafe.de
BAKERS
Charming café in the heart of Heerdt, named after Josephine Baker.
Nikolaus-Knopp-Platz 26
40549 Düsseldorf ∙ Heerdt instagram.com/bakers_heerdt
BBLO
Korean cakes and sweets, beautifully made.
Blücherstraße 3
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort bblo.eatbu.com
BIRDIE & CO.
Coffee bar and deli with several locations across the city. All addresses available on birdieco.de
BULLE BISTRO
Backyard café by Bäckerei Bulle, set within the Philara Art Collection.
Birkenstraße 47
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern bulle-baeckerei.de/bulle-bistro
BUNKER. CAFÉ
Coffee, bites and sunshine in Heerdt’s old bunker.
Pastor-Klinkhammer-Platz 1
40549 Düsseldorf ∙ Heerdt instagram.com/bunker._cafe
CAFÉ BISTRO À MIDI
French flair with breakfast, lunch and cake in a peaceful courtyard.
Nordstraße 80
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort bistro-amidi.de
Coffee, matcha, and Japanese soufflés and pancakes served in a cosy atmosphere.
Himmelgeister Straße 56
40225 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk instagram.com/calma.dus
CAFÉ CERESIER
Japanese cakes, pastries and drinks.
Immermannstraße 51 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte cafe-cerisier.com
CAFÉ CHILLKRÖTE
Lunch, dinner, cakes –and gin nights.
Viersener Straße 34 40549 Düsseldorf ∙ Heerdt cafe-chillkroete.de
CAFÉ DE FRANCE
French café classic in Oberkassel – now renewed.
Luegallee 7
40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel cafedefrance.de
CAFÉ HÜFTGOLD
Flingern’s hotspot for breakfast, cakes and more.
Ackerstraße 113 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern cafehueftgold.de
CAFFÈ MA
Sicilian espresso, ciabattas and cannoli.
Bilker Allee 38 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/caffema_
CAFÉ REKORD
Coffee, drinks and vintage vibes in Flingern.
Ackerstraße 204 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/caferekord
CASANONNA
Modern Italian flavours and Nonna’s coffee. Immermannstraße 13 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte casa-nonna.com
COCO CAFÉ
Coffee and chocolate with a Korean twist.
Friedrich-Ebert-Straße 10 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ cococafe_duesseldorf
COFFEE BREW
Coffee and snacks at The Code Agency Escape Room. Stresemannplatz 4 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte coffeebrew.de
COVENT GARDEN
Coffee, cakes and paninis –fresh and homemade.
Bilker Allee 126 40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk _coventgardencoffeehouse
DAERO CAFÉ
Eritrean coffee culture.
Worringer Straße 83 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/daero.cafe
DAS ALFREDS
Café and restaurant at Zoopark serving breakfast, lunch and homemade cakes.
Brehmplatz 1
40239 Düsseldorf ∙ Düsseltal instagram.com/dasalfreds
DAS LILO
Drinks, snacks and events at Volksgarten.
Emmastraße 36a 40227 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberbilk instagram.com/daslilo.cafebar
DREAM POTTERY CAFÉ
Breakfast, cakes, smoothies –and handmade pottery. Dianastraße 1 40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk dreampotterycafe.com
DOLCINELLA
Lunch, coffee and cake in a Gründerzeit townhouse. Tannenstraße 35 40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf dolcinella.de
DON MELONE
Weekend and event café with a charming little backyard.
Bilker Allee 6 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/ donmelone_unterbilk
GREENTREES THE JUICERY
Experience the Australian way of life with delicious superfoods, coffee specialities and smoothie and salad bowls. Discover now the brand-new deli in Oberkassel.
Lorettostraße 54 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk New: Luegallee 43 40545 Düsseldorf · Oberkassel greentreesthejuicery.de
GREGER AM HAFEN
Former Woyton in the harbour district, serving sandwiches, snacks, sweets, salads and excellent coffee.
Erftstraße 1
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk greger.cafe
HOMEMADE WE EAT FINE
Beyoncé loves owner Sonja’s fancy cupcakes and sweets – and we adore the all-pink interior.
Klosterstraße 62 40211 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte eatfinecafe.com
JAENNER
MODERN COFFEE
Tiny café by Lightroast roastery with in-house speciality coffee and sweet treats.
Ackerstraße 80
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/ jaennermoderncoffee
KASBAH
Classic café by the old harbour basin with coffee, teas, pastries and oriental flair. Rheinort 2
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt instagram.com/cafe_bar_kasbah
KASPER
Brand-new cool café and morning spot with Greek influences. Am Wehrhahn 55 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/kasper.coffee
KAUSAL
Delicate coffee, fresh food and homemade cakes served in an urban interior.
Flurstraße 1
40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern kausal-cafe-bar.eatbu.com
KIOKI CAFÉ
Cheesecake, matcha and coffee craft – now also on Gustaf-Gründgens-Platz. Wagnerstraße 3
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte New: Gustaf-Gründgens-Platz 1b 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte kiokicoffee.com
Cosy Italian café with a small selection of Italian delicacies.
Ackerstraße 75
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram/cafe_kleinod
KUMO
Dorayaki and soft ice –Japanese café style. Oststraße 109
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ kumo_duesseldorf
LAEKKERT DELI
Garage café with coffee, matcha and a Nordic touch.
Ackerstraße 137
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/laekkert.deli
CAFÉ LEMONADE
Colourful café with homemade lemonades, fairtrade coffee and sweet and savoury bites.
Bilker Allee 180
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt lemonade-cafe.com
CAFÉ LIEBE
Cosy breakfast and brunch spot that truly lives up to its name.
Platanenstraße 22
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern cafe-liebe.eatbu.com
LINA’S COFFEE
Healthy and vegan breakfast and lunch at the brew bar and deli.
Fürstenplatz 1
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt instagram.com/linas_coffee
LITTLE BENRATH
Cosy Benrath café with coffee specialities and homemade cake.
Sophienstraße 19
40597 Düsseldorf ∙ Benrath instagram.com/littlebenrath
MANUFACTUM
BROT & BUTTER
From quiche to San Marzano soup – all dishes made with products from the bakery, fresh counter and Manufactum selection.
Steinstraße 4
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte manufactum.de
MARNY’S
Vegan and vegetarian lunch dishes, served with coffee.
Kruppstraße 28
40227 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberbilk marnysgruenzeug.de
MATCHA CAFÉ
WAKABA
A Japanese café specialising in matcha desserts and drinks. Hansaallee 113
40549 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel instagram.com/ wakaba_matcha_cafe
MERCY
COFFEE COMPANY
Coffee, cakes and waffles in Flingern and Unterbilk. Birkenstraße 73
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern
Neusser Straße 121
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk mercycoffeecompany.de
MUSAME
From coffee and cakes to wine and tapas – a café by day, bar by night.
Fürstenplatz 5
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt musame-bar.de
MOMANIA
Concept store meets café with French and Australian drinks, speciality coffee, smoothies and fresh pastries.
Drakestraße 2
40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel momania-conceptstore.de
MIAO'S SWEET WONDERLAND
The sweet taste of Taiwan. Charlottenstraße 44 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ miaossweetwonderland
MR. BENS CAFÉ
Coffee, tea and homemade dishes in the heart of Kö-Bogen. Gustaf-Gründgens-Platz 9a 40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte mrbenscafeduesseldorf.de
NAMU CAFÉ
Korean deli with bingsu, desserts and sweet specialities. Oststraße 124
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/namu_cafe
NEBENAN CAFÉ
Neighbourhood café with international flavours from English sandwiches to Italian panini.
Grafenberger Allee 145 40237 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern nebenan-cafe.de
NORDPARK CAFÉ
Cakes, tapas and music in Nordpark.
Kaiserswerther Straße 390a 40474 Düsseldorf ∙ Stockum nordpark.cafe
NO WORRIES COFFEE
Unique coffees from some of the world’s finest roasters.
Lindenstraße 142 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/no_worriescoffee
N0 18
Beautifully decorated Asian mousse cakes, known as the cutest in town.
Bendemannstraße 18 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/ number18.duesseldorf
NOOIJ
Dutch deli serving breakfast, chicken and bitterballen, with cool design and a large summer terrace.
Erkrather Straße 30 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern nooij.de
NOOIJ BOOIJS
From the Nooij Dutch Deli team: new Flingern café with cake classics, dishes and an upcoming night tapas concept. Birkenstraße 110
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/nooijbooijs
ONEONE11
Japanese pastries, cute and aesthetic.
Grafenberger Allee 368 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Grafenberg oneone11.de
OMA ERIKA
Authentic Flingern café serving homemade cakes and sandwiches – a local classic. Hermannstraße 34b 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern oma-erika.com
ORANGE –FINEST COFFEE
SCHVARZ coffee with brunch, sandwiches and pastries – Gerresheim and close to Carlsplatz.
Neusser Tor 17a 40625 Düsseldorf ∙ Gerresheim
Benrather Straße 18 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte orange.coffee
PI TO GO CAFÉ
Coffee, bubble tea and sweet treats at an Asian-inspired café. Liesegangstraße 10
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/pitogocafe
PLÄTZ
#theplätztobe – serving delicious homemade cakes, coffee and fresh breakfast bites.
Birkenstraße 130, corner Dorotheenstraße
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/cafeplaetz
PYC CHEESECAKE & GALLERY
Coffee, art and homemade cheesecakes – now at two Düsseldorf locations.
Weseler Straße 65
40239 Düsseldorf ∙ Düsseltal
Belsenstraße 18
40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel pyc-cheesecake.de
RAUM
Matcha, coffee and Japanese bites.
Münsterstraße 11
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/raum_dusseldorf
REMÉ
Backyard café and bistro serving cakes, coffee, bowls and vegan treats.
Kronprinzenstraße 97
40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk reme-cafe.de
SEVEN SUNDAYS
All-day breakfast, every day of the week.
Lorettostraße 7
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk thesevensundays.de
SOUL’S CAFÉ
Authentic vegan café and restaurant in Rath, also hosting yoga classes.
Liliencronstraße 1a
40472 Düsseldorf ∙ Rath souls-cafe.de
STOAK
Speciality coffee spot with a lovely terrace to linger on.
Adersstraße 48
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt instagram.com/cafe.stoak
SULI’S
Neighbourhood spot in Pempelfort – café, deli and bar in one.
Tußmannstraße 5
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort suliscafe.de
SWEET TEDDY
Japanese cakes and sweets. Hüttenstraße 42
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt instagram.com/sweetteddycafe
TAMMANI CAFÉ
Japanese deli and café with lunch dishes and coffee, run with care.
Bilker Allee 1
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/tammani.cafe
WAKABA JAPAN SHOP AND CAFÉ
Mix of café and retail: enjoy matcha lattes, Japanese tea and coffee in the café, and browse Japanese stationery and goods in the shop.
Marienstraße 26
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/wakaba_ matcha_cafe
WEIRD SPACE
Favourite café for speciality coffee, cakes and regional snacks – weird?
Volmerswerther Straße 53
40221 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk Hüttenstraße 76
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt weirdspace.bigcartel.com
WUNDERHAUS
DELI & FRIENDS
Breakfast, cake or wine –the deli in Kaiserswerth is open all day.
Kaiserswerther Markt 38
40489 Düsseldorf ∙ Kaiserswerth mein-wunderhaus.de
ZUM KWADRAT
Neighbourhood café serving coffee, cakes, breakfast and lunch in a relaxed setting.
BUSCHMANN 1846
175 years of patisserie tradition –with coffee and cake to go on Saturdays.
Akademiestraße 8
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt buschmann1846.de
AUX MERVEILLEUX DE FRED
From Paris to New York – the French pâtisserie brings its meringue and brioche here too.
Kasernenstraße 15 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt auxmerveilleux.com
ISABELLA PÂTISSERIE
Parisian-style gluten-free pâtisserie with a touch of bistro flair.
KONDITOREI
HEINEMANN
Legendary cakes, chocolate and dining – Düsseldorf icon. Martin-Luther-Platz 32 40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte konditorei-heinemann.de
PÂTISSERIE TANGER
Arabian delicacies with petit fours and baklava – sweet and authentic.
Ellerstraße 89 40227 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberbilk patisserie-tanger.com
PURE FREUDE
Colourful tarts and the pâtisserie’s signature macarons. Hohe Straße 15, in the backyard 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt purefreude.de
PURE PASTRY
BY TIM TEGTMEIER
Handcrafted, sophisticated fine pastries, pralines and baked goods in the heart of Düsseldorf’s Carlsplatz – now also in Unterbilk.
Carlsplatz
TENTEN COFFEE
Coffee shop offering muffins and cake creations as well as coffee, matcha and smoothies. Oststraße 57
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte tenten-coffee.com
TOMO CAFÉ
Coffee with veggie, vegan and halal bites.
Klosterstraße 67
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte tomocafe.de
VELVET
Canteen, café and bar with modern food, natural wines and midweek & weekend music.
Stresemannstraße 8
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte velvetcollective.com
Blücherstraße 51
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/zum_kwadrat
Arnulfstraße 4 40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel
Königsallee 60 (Kö-Galerie) 40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte isabella-patisserie.de
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt New: Bilker Allee 74 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk. pure-pastry.de
ROCAILLE
Derendorf bistro with wines, cheese and plenty of pâtisserie. Weißenburgstraße 19 40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf rocaille.de
Nina Kroschinske builds bridges between fashion, theatre and her hometown of Düsseldorf. She lived in Berlin for over 25 years, worked in PR for a long time and designed costumes as a freelancer for major theatres such as the Volksbühne and the Komische Oper in Berlin, the Burgtheater in Vienna and the Schauspiel Frankfurt. Her work has shaped plays such as Gott and Die Physiker at the Düsseldorfer Schauspielhaus, as well as productions by René Pollesch, Sebastian Baumgarten and Meg Stuart. She returned to Düsseldorf in January 2025 and has since been head of the costume department at the Schauspielhaus – ready to redesign the city’s stages with her unmistakable signature style.
Nina, you were born and raised in Düsseldorf, lived in Berlin and Vienna for a long time. Since January 2025, you are head of the costume department at the Düsseldorfer Schauspielhaus. What does this step mean to you – and what was the appeal of starting here?
After travelling through the theatre world for over 20 years as a freelance costume assistant and later as a costume designer, I was looking for a new challenge. Here, I can expand my wealth of experience and pass on my knowledge at the same time. And, of course, returning home was also a decisive factor – after 25 years in Berlin, it certainly eased the transition.
Your studies at the UdK in Berlin were a formative time –especially in Vivienne Westwood’s master class. What did you learn from her about fashion, attitude and even rebellion that you still bring to the theatre today? The time with Vivienne was a formative experience for all of us. She was keen to educate us to be intelligent, cosmopolitan and stylish people. For example, she would give us holiday reading assignments that we had to interpret and present. In addition to her, we had other influential teachers such as Klaus Unrath and Gundula Wolter. Anyone who has followed Vivienne’s fashion knows that she was one of the first to translate historical cuts into modern, extravagant designs. This attitude had a strong influence on me. One of her sayings has stayed with me to this day: “Go as big as you can – and then you can go smaller.” This has proven true in many areas of life and work.
Do you see yourself as a fashion punk in theatre or costume design?
No, I don’t see myself as a punk, neither privately or artistically. I would describe my style more as ‘over and out’.
Let’s talk about your work: How would you describe your aesthetic in costume design – more as a visible statement or as an invisible translation of a character?
My costumes clearly bear the hallmarks of my background in fashion. I move between a visible statement and a subtle translation of a character. I like to work with logos or slogans that can be both loud and subtle. Fashion icons can also refer to a person’s social background or character traits. I love the absurdities of everyday life and try to break the classic rules of costume design in order to create new worlds of my own.
Berlin vs. Düsseldorf style: How does the fashion scene here differ from Berlin?
That’s difficult to answer without stepping on Düsseldorf’s toes. I would say: individuality versus mainstream. Of course, there are also exciting, individual styles in Düsseldorf, especially in the art and theatre scene, but you have to look more closely. In Berlin, it’s almost too much, here it’s rather too little.
Düsseldorf is considered both a fashion city and an art city. If you had to transform the city into a costume, what would it look like?
For me, Düsseldorf would be a huge, floor-length brown hat with a Louis Vuitton print, combined with high heels.
Where can we find you in Düsseldorf when you’re not at the theatre?
You can find me at Olio, Embrass, Sennhütte – or on the ICE train to Berlin.
Ballet is no longer just about pointe shoes and rigour. It stands for fresh choreographic perspectives, body awareness and new narrative forms. And a community that comes to Düsseldorf from all over the world to perform together: 45 dancers from over 20 nations on a stage that unites two cities. Because what few people know is that Düsseldorf and Duisburg have shared an opera house for almost 70 years – a model that is unique in the German cultural landscape. At the heart of it all is the Ballett am Rhein, a young and very international company that made a fresh start at the beginning of the 2024/25 season under the direction of ballet director Raphaël Coumes-Marquet and chief choreographer Bridget Breiner. A leadership team that knows how to lead ballet into the future with relevance.
Dance is everywhere – a universal form of communication, it connects people worldwide, and with the participatory project ‘Tanz mit!’ (Dance with us!), the Ballett am Rhein invites people to professional ballet lessons, workshops, behindthe-scenes insights and shared experiences around the passion for dance. Speaking of the future: Düsseldorf is expecting a monumental project. From 2033, a new opera house is to be built right at the city centre on Wehrhahn – designed as an open meeting place with a focus on sustainability and digitalisation. A cultural centre with two stages, a music school and a music library. Sustainable, modern and lively. Ballett am Rhein already stands for a new generation of dancers, for internationality and a lot of movement in the city. We present three of them here.
NAME ORAZIO DI BELLA
BALLET DANCER
PROFESSIONAL
EDUCATION
GRADUATED AT
ELMHURST BALLET
SCHOOL (TRINITY
COLLEGE LONDON
DIPLOMA )
@ORAZIO_DB
At the age of 14, Orazio Di Bella left his native Sicily to pursue his big dream of training as a ballet dancer in England. Since then, he has danced his way across Europe –from Bratislava to Hanover – and is now in his eighth season as a permanent member of the Ballett am Rhein. Anyone who meets Orazio encounters a dancer with discipline and a quiet melancholy that is palpable on stage. Whether as Romeo in the rush of emotions or during a chilled Netflix evening with his partner, cat and homemade cake –Orazio knows both worlds. On and off the stage. For him, movement is more than just a vocation: it is liberation, connection, expression and a way to release tension. In Düsseldorf, he loves shopping and discovering new places. His wish for the city: that the planned new opera house will be a place that brings dance, art and people even closer together.
You grew up in Italy – what brought you from there to Düsseldorf?
I grew up in Italy, Sicily to be exact, but I was only 14 years old when I decided to leave my country to persue my dream of becoming a ballet dancer. And so, I moved to England, obtaining my diploma in professional dance, and then worked as a professional dancer first in Slovakia, then Germany. Staatsballett Hannover was my first German company and after 3 seasons I moved to Düsseldorf. And I’m now in my 8th season with Ballett am Rhein. What brought me to choose Düsseldorf is first the facilities that the company offers to the dancers. Some of the best out there, really. Then of course the vast variety of repertoire that we have every season and the opportunity to work with many of the best choreographers out there. And finally, the city is super nice, especially in summer.
What does the stage mean to you – is it more of an expression, a challenge, or a home?
The stage surely is many things for me. It is a place of challenge, sometimes can be scary, a place where I always try to give 100 % but definitely a place where I can be myself, where I can feel vulnerable and free.
Is there a role or a scene that has moved you emotionally in a special way?
The role that has moved me the most has to be the one of Romeo. I used to have chills every time I got to dance this ballet and together with Prokofiev’s score it is pure magic. I still remember not being able to stop crying while still performing on stage during my last performance in the last scene of the ballet.
What do movement and dance mean to you – also outside of ballet?
For me, movement and dance are a strong form of expression and connection. A great way of letting go of stress and nerves. Even outside of ballet movement really is a big part of who I am. It allows me to feel relaxed and it definitely lightens my mood.
How do you experience Düsseldorf as a city – what do you particularly like here, and where can we find you when you’re not in the ballet studio?
Whenever I'm off work and performing I like to just stroll around the city, trying to discover new parts I still don’t know and try out new restaurants. Living just outside of the city, I also enjoy driving around the nearer towns which usually have a more relaxed atmosphere. I have a soft spot for shopping so you can find me strolling around the city centre. That said, a lot of the times I’m exhausted so I also like to spend quality time at
home with my husband and cat, baking and watching lots of stuff on Netflix and if the weather allows it, I enjoy a nice BBQ and spending time in my garden.
How do you find balance between rehearsals, training and performances?
I'm not gonna lie, it isn’t an easy task. As a dancer, I invest so much time in my profession that finding a balance between rehearsals and performances can be challenging. Ballet is definitely not a nine to five job. It’s a career that requires focus and work even outside of studio hours, but that dedication is also what allows me to grow and deliver my best on stage.
The planned new opera house is bringing a lot of movement into the city’s cultural scene. What do you wish for the future of dance in Düsseldorf?
I hope the new opera house will continue to carry the spirit of art in Düsseldorf, inspiring more people from everywhere to come to the theatre and experience the power and beauty of sharing art together.
Emilia Peredo Aguirre conquered world-famous stages such as the Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires at the age of 15. Today, the Argentine-born dancer performs with exquisite intensity at the Ballett am Rhein. Born in northern Argentina, she says that ‘fate’ led her to Düsseldorf. Since childhood, dance has not been a profession for Emilia, but a way of understanding the world. She took her first dance steps at the age of three, studying the movements of ballet stars such as Baryshnikov and Ferri in front of the VHS recorder. Today, she herself dances on international stages – and yet dance always remains an inner process for her, a reconnection with herself. And a daily practice. Emilia is not a prima ballerina in the traditional sense. She is an artist with depth, influenced equally by Shakespeare, Charly García, David Lynch and Krishnamurti. On stage, she approaches life with openness and radical presence, with a spiritual clarity that makes her movements seem like thoughts. She appreciates the tranquillity and nature of Düsseldorf, between Florapark and the Rhine, which reminds her of her hometown. But her favourite place in the world is and always will be the stage.
Where are you originally from – and what brought you to Düsseldorf at the time?
I was born in the city of Resistencia, Chaco Province, Argentina. During the pandemic, I felt the desire to have the experience of living outside the country where I had spent my entire life, and given the circumstances, fate brought me to Düsseldorf to work with the Ballett am Rhein.
Where and how did you develop your dance language –and who inspired you along the way?
I began developing my dance language at a very young age, starting at three years old, with my teachers in Resistencia, Chaco. I grew up inspired by artists such as Baryshnikov, Makarova, Altinay Asylmuratova and Alessandra Ferri. From a young age, I had a collection of ballet VHS tapes featuring these dancers, which I watched repeatedly, and they became my first and greatest inspirations. But I believe that the development of your own dance language never truly ends. Even now, I continue to build and discover new ways of expressing myself through dance. That is the work: a constant practice, every day, as if it were the very first. That is how I live it.
What does it mean to you to be on stage?
For me, being on stage is like being at home. It is an almost indescribable place where all kinds of forces converge, and one faces them in the moment.
I find it powerful, yet familiar; it is where I feel I can see things clearly, from my soul.
Do you remember a moment on stage that changed you?
A moment that marked me deeply happened when I was only 15, performing my first production at the Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires. The theatre, golden and imposing, was overwhelming. I was a coryphée in La Sylphide, and even the final bow was choreographed: a semicircle where each dancer knelt in canon. I began the action and was the last to rise. As the house lights slowly turned on, an immense dark space lit up with countless lamps shining like stars. Kneeling at the edge, I froze, completely absorbed, until the others from the troupe called: “Emilia, get up!” For me, it was like a dream – dissolving into the space, surrendered to the stage and the magic of that moment.
How do you experience Düsseldorf – what are your favourite places or perhaps your hidden gems?
Düsseldorf is a very beautiful city, calm and safe, and I am deeply grateful for that. I enjoy walking by the river and thinking, it reminds me of the river in my hometown. I also love the parks: Florapark is one of my favourites, perhaps because I can see it from the largest window in my home. There is a bridge there with a large willow tree cascading over it, and it invites me to poetise whatever reality I am going through. I like walking beneath it in that moment, as if time itself stood still. And without a doubt, my favourite place is the stage: feeling the heartbeat as the breath flows in and out just before stepping into the light. For me, that too is Düsseldorf –and so much more.
Are there artists or personalities – also outside the world of ballet – who have shaped you in a special way?
One of my greatest influences – shared by many of my generation in Argentina – has been music. The national rock scene is powerful and unique, with artists like Charly García, Gustavo Cerati, Federico Moura, Babasónicos, Gabo Ferro, Mercedes Sosa and Juana Molina, as well as contemporary voices such as Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso. This remarkable diversity continues to inspire me in ever new ways. Beyond music, I’ve long drawn from Carl Jung, Krishnamurti and Alejandro Jodorowsky, whose ideas have deeply shaped my perspective. I’m also inspired by astrologers like José Millán and by filmmakers such as David Lynch and Gaspar Noé. Together, these worlds –music, philosophy, literature, astrology and cinema –remain a vital source of inspiration for me.
At the age of 17, Norma left her native Brazil to study ballet in Mannheim. She later moved on to Düsseldorf, where she has now been performing with the Ballett am Rhein for over ten years. Even as a child, dance was her only option: it is a way of life, a form of expression, movement in every sense of the word. What drives her is not only perfection, but also risk. New roles, unfamiliar processes, unknown territory –Norma consciously seeks out challenges. For her, dance is a space without fixed boundaries, open to development and new beginnings. Her inspiration does not come from outside influences, but from working with the people around her – from exhausting rehearsals, shared doubts and moments of courage. Also off stage, Norma is open to anything that can nourish her artistically: museums, yoga, music and the Bistro Zicke with its creative vibe. And even though Düsseldorf was only a stopover at first, it has long since become her home.
You’re originally from Brazil – what was your journey from there to Düsseldorf like?
At the age of 17, I received a scholarship to study ballet in Mannheim. It wasn’t until a few years later, at the age of 22, that I arrived in Düsseldorf and joined Ballett am Rhein. It was a bit of a cultural shock at first, with Brazil and Germany being so obviously different; however, Düsseldorf is such a warm and welcoming city, and I’ve found my second home here.
Do you remember the moment you knew: I’m going to be a dancer?
My parents say that I’ve been sure I’d become a professional dancer since I was 4 years old, so I don’t really remember this moment. I guess they thought it was just a childhood dream, but it’s always been clear to me that that’s what I was going to be. In my mind, there was just no other option.
What do you particularly love about the ensemble at the Deutsche Oper am Rhein?
I love how eclectic and versatile my colleagues are. Every single one of them in special their own way. One is never bored watching them; there’s always something new to learn and get inspired by.
Apart from dance – is there something you’re equally passionate about as ballet?
Ballet already occupies such a big space in my life that it’s a bit hard to find the time and energy to be equally
passionate about something else. But I do love art in general. Visiting museums, photo galleries and music concerts, etc. Anything where I can watch or create different kinds of art.
How much of your heritage or culture is reflected in your dance style?
Brazilians are known for being very intense and passionate people. Also, dance and rhythm are all around there. You can’t escape it. So I sure hope one can see that through my dance.
How have you experienced Düsseldorf as a city – what surprised you? What inspires you here?
What surprised me the most was that Düsseldorf is a small city with big city feels. I didn’t expect a city where you can get anywhere within a 30-minute bike ride to have so many things to see and do. There are so many great restaurants, museums, fairs, festivals, and entertainment in general. I love Düsseldorf. It’s been my home for the past 10 years and counting :)
Do you have a favourite place in Düsseldorf? Where can people find you off stage?
When I’m not working, I’m probably trying a new restaurant or café. But my go-to is Bistro Zicke. I just love the artsy vibe it has and how it’s surrounded by nature.
Dance is a peak physical activity – how do you find balance or take care of your mental wellbeing?
It’s really important, physically and mentally, to know how to switch off and recover whenever possible. This can be a great challenge for us dancers. To me, participating in completely different sports from dancing, such as climbing or yoga, helps my mind unwind, even if my body remains active. Also, therapy is a huge tool for maintaining mental well-being.
What vision do you have for your future as a dancer?
I’m always seeking new challenges, whether that’s a role I never imagined myself in or approaching a creative process in a completely new way. My goal is to remain hungry and curious, open to exploring places I haven’t been to yet as an artist. Dance is this infinite place for growth, there’s never really a limit to it.
Between algorithm and craftsmanship, between digital vision and physical materiality: Simon Toni Rowas and Ümüt Yildiz’s Düsseldorf-based studio Uramaki moves confidently in the spaces between. Their vases and lamps appear organic, almost alive – and yet they are influenced by AI. For Rowas, an object designer, and Yildiz, an AI artist, technology is not merely a tool, but a creative partner. Together, they shape objects that irritate and fascinate, defy categorisation and live on in the digital space as well as in the physical world. Their name says it all: at Uramaki, design is conceived ‘from the inside out’ – as a visible translation of inner thoughts that unfold between craft, art and technology.
The name ‘Uramaki’ refers to a sushi roll that is designed ‘from the inside out’. What fascinates you about this metaphor – and what does it say about your approach to design?
This metaphor describes our way of working quite well. We are inspired by experiences and emotions and bring what is inside to the outside. Since we work virtually a lot, this also applies to our work. We use Uramaki to reveal what remains hidden in the digital world. This results in art and design that does not fit into familiar categories – and that is precisely its value.
What brought you together as a duo, and what drives your collaboration?
We met during our studies over 10 years ago. The studio was founded out of a need to publish our shared ideas on a platform. What connects us is, of course, our friendship, but also a shared fascination with form, movement and technology.
Uramaki designs objects that appear organic yet are shaped by algorithms. How would you describe the tension between these two elements in your work?
We see AI as a versatile tool that allows us to bring out qualities that appear almost analogue. The tension arises from the complexity of the design and, in turn, the limitations of what is realistically feasible and makes sense. What begins digitally becomes real at Uramaki: printed, polished, supplemented, emphasised. Transferring the digital into the visible or tangible is always at the centre of our work.
The discussion about AI is often characterised by scepticism. What do you say to critics who fear that technology will supplant creativity?
AI opens spaces that we would never have entered on our own. It expands the realm of possibilities, yet it is still limited to the digital realm. We believe that creativity is not disappearing – it is becoming more complex, more fragmented, more unexpected. That is why we do not see technology as a substitute for creativity, but rather as a brush that needs to be guided.
Your lamps and vases oscillate between sculpture, functional object and digital aesthetics. Would you place yourselves more in the tradition of design, art or craftsmanship – or do you see your place somewhere in between?
We feel right at home in between and play with the question of when art ends and design begins. Our objects may irritate, touch, shine, be used – but they don’t have to. They are autonomous, open and yet functional.
On social media, you literally bring your objects to life –as snakes, lava, blossoming flowers. What role does this digital storytelling play in your work?
The digital images are part of our expression. They show fantasies, let’s say an extension of perception, to move people. For us, this is a second creative space. Here we continue to tell the story of our objects – as beings, as landscapes, as transformations. The digital becomes a medium for bringing things to life.
Where can potential customers currently purchase your vases and lamps?
Via our website uramaki.de – and you can send us enquiries on Instagram. We are currently working on an exhibition concept, where it will be possible to see more of us and our collaborations.
Between charming boutiques, hip design spots, sleek showrooms and tiny concept stores, hidden treasures are waiting to be found. Whether you’re into bold colours, clean minimalism, timeless classics or playful quirks – here you’ll stumble upon furniture, décor, books, vintage gems and design must-haves in every shape and shade. From brand-new to preloved, iconic to unexpected, it’s a playground of unique pieces and future favourites. For you, your crew – and yes, even your four-legged sidekicks.
HOUSE OF LITTLE LABELS
Smart storage for kitchen, pantry, kids’ rooms and wardrobes.
Herzogstraße 82-84 40215 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte houseoflittlelabels.com
JASPER
Interior design store offering the finest furniture and accessories.
Haroldstraße 14
40213 Düsseldorf · Carlstadt jasper-kuechen.de
OUT OF ALLTAG
Unique design ideas and lesser-known furniture brands –just as the name suggests.
Ackerstraße 150
40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern instagram.com/out.of.alltag
SMOW
Furniture and interiors with a focus on designer pieces and style.
Lorettostraße 28
40219 Düsseldorf · Unterbilk smow.de
SOFACOMPANY
From sofas to coffee tables –Scandinavian design for every room.
Erkrather Straße 228a 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern sofacompany.com/de-de
STAURAUM
ANTIQUES & VINTAGE
In-house crafted furniture paired with rare finds, vintage and contemporary. Birkenstraße 88
FURNITURE & INTERIOR
69 M2
Vintage, design and records in one store.
Lindenstraße 186 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern 69m2.de
BOLIA
Brand for Scandinavian-inspired interiors and design pieces.
Breite Straße 7 40213 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte bolia.com
CITIZENOFFICE
Vitra and beyond – from design classics to limited editions.
Speditionstraße 17 40221 Düsseldorf · Hafen citizenoffice.de
CUBIT
Premium modular furniture and shelving with timeless design. Ronsdorfer Straße 74 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern cubit-shop.com
Designer furniture and art for sale.
Birkenstraße 45 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern designgallerypearce.com
FARROW & BALL
Wallpaper and colour experts with tradition since 1946
Hohe Straße 37 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt farrow-ball.com
FAUSEL BISKAMP
Creating extraordinary living spaces with high-quality interior design.
Ludenberger Straße 11 40629 Düsseldorf · Grafenberg fauselbiskamp.de
FELIX THONET SHOP
From designer classics to lighting and accessories –all in one store.
Ernst-Gnoss-Straße 5 40219 Düsseldorf · Unterbilk felixthonetshop.com
LICHT BY HORST
Extraordinary lamp shop with unique pieces sourced worldwide.
Backyard, Bilker Straße 16 40213 Düsseldorf · Carlstadt lichtbyhorst.de
MATRI BY FENNOBED
Premium Scandinavian boxspring beds, customised and made to measure.
Ernst-Gnoß-Straße 3 40219 Düsseldorf · Medienhafen matri.de
NEUREICH
Owner Frank has a keen eye for cool vintage furniture and design classics.
Mendelssohnstraße 3 40233 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte
NORMAN HENRY
Design classics and collector’s pieces – second-hand from leading designers.
Parkstraße 67a & Ludwig-Wolker-Straße 1 40477 Düsseldorf · Pempelfort normanhenry.de
40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern stauraum-duesseldorf.de
WANDEL
1,300 sqm of vintage furniture from almost every decade. Friedenstraße 62
40219 Düsseldorf · Unterbilk wandel-antik.de
BEAUTIFUL STUFF & DESIGN ITEMS
ANMO
Artisanal Japanese tea meets contemporary art. Bendemannstraße 18 40210 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte anmo-art-cha.com
Concept store for handcrafted treasures – interiors, fashion, lifestyle & delicacies from Morocco. Ackerstraße 184
40235 Düsseldorf · Flingern instagram.com/beldiliving
BOESNER
40 years as a leading supplier of professional artists’ materials. Wiesenstraße 72
40549 Düsseldor · Heerdt boesner.com
DILLE & KAMILLE
Simple, natural design for home, garden and kitchen from the Netherlands. Flinger Straße 28
40213 Düsseldorf · Carlstadt dille-kamille.de
.DRUCKBAR
Streetwear, graffiti art and prints all in one place. Ackerstraße 191
40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern diedruckbar.de
HOOD COMPANY
Graffiti supplies alongside T-shirts, sweaters and hoodies. Oberbilker Allee 101 40227 Düsseldorf · Oberbilk hood-company.com
KAMI
Japanese stationery and balloon shop in Little Tokyo. Steinstraße 35 40210 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte shop-kami.de
KYOTO BY JAPAN ART DECO
Japanese interior accessories with timeless elegance. Immermannstraße 26 40210 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte instagram.com/kyotobyjapan
MANUFACTUM
Artisanal products for living and working, complemented by a café, bakery and fromagerie. Steinstraße 4
40212 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte manufactum.de
Handcrafted ceramics from Portugal – each piece one of a kind.
Hohe Straße 27 & Grabenstraße 6
40213 Düsseldorf · Carlstadt motelamiio.com
OPTIK OLDSCHOOL
Your place for analogue photography.
Augustastraße 14
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort optik-oldschool.com
RIKIKI.
GRAFIK & PRODUKT.
Concept store dedicated to graphic design and curated design pieces.
Hermannstraße 36 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern shop-rikiki.de
ROTHBILD
Store combining design, illustration and carefully chosen treasures.
Degerstraße 18 40235 Düsseldorf · Flingern isabellarothillustration.de
SABA*S
From toys to gadgets – fun finds for big and small.
Lorettostraße 36 40219 Düsseldorf · Unterbilk instagram.com/sabas_laden
SCHEE
Gifts, silkscreen prints, design and interiors – all in one colourful store.
THE BIRD WHO TOLD
Concept store dedicated to design and graphic culture.
Düsselstraße 52
40219 Düsseldorf · Unterbilk thebirdwhotold.de
THE GREAT BLOSSOM Store for crystals, incense and CBD, also offering mindful workshops.
Brunnenstraße 44 40223 Düsseldorf · Bilk thegreatblossom.de
Home accessories and gifts –soulful pieces full of character.
Benrather Straße 18-20 40213 Düsseldorf · Carlstadt torquato.de
Two floors of comics, manga, records and vintage treasures. Flingerstraße 45 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt toysundhelden.de
PAPER & TEA
Modern tea culture with design pieces, fine teas and thoughtful gifts.
Mittelstraße 11
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt paperandtea.de
PHILELI
Curated concept store offering delightful finds for all ages.
Roßstraße 9
40476 Düsseldorf · Derendorf phileli.de
PUTTIS.SPACE
Carefully selected period products – now with a Düsseldorf store featuring events on the menstrual cycle and much more.
Konkordiastraße 102
40219 Düsseldorf · Unterbilk puttis-space.de
QUARUND
CONCEPT STORE
Furniture, lighting and accessories – elegant objects for a beautiful home.
Collenbachstraße 39
40476 Düsseldor · Derendorf quarund.de
Berger Straße 18 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt schee.shop
SELEKTEUR
Concept store with stationery and timeless products made in Europe.
Hohe Straße 6
40213 Düsseldorf · Carlstadt selekteur.com
TUBE
Art supply store with a wide range, located beside the Kunstakademie.
Mühlengasse 3
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt Himmelgeister Straße 14-16 40225 Düsseldorf · Bilk artservice-tube.de
UNTERHALTUNG
LIEBLINGSSTÜCKE
Gifts, fashion & favourite finds for every member of the family.
Ackerstraße 161 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern shop.unterhaltung-lieblingsstuecke.de
VASELINE
Colourful treasures and quirky finds – from toys and accessories to interior pieces. Wallstraße 16 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt instagram.com/ vaseline_store_duesseldorf
BIKES
EDELHELFER
From bikes to e-bikes and gear – all you need for cycling. Kreuzstraße 27 40210 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte die-edelhelfer.de
LIFEISARIDE
Handcrafted premium gear for cycling enthusiasts. lifeisaride.de
ME AND MY BICYCLE
Lifestyle store dedicated to bicycles, gear and urban cycling culture. Nordstraße 80 40477 Düsseldorf · Pempelfort meandmybicycle.de
RADFIEBER
From bikes and gear to cycling-inspired gifts –everything in one place. Hermannstraße 24 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern radfieber.de
SCHICKE MÜTZE
Cycle shop and repair hub with regular bike and community events.
Oststraße 119, backyard 40210 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte schickemuetze.de
DOGS
DIE PFOTENBAR
From BARF to wet and dry food – speciality nutrition for dogs and cats.
Fichtenstraße 36 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern pfotenbar.de
DOGS DELI
Homemade dog cookies, delicacies, accessories, toys and supplies for dogs.
Blumenstraße 7
40212 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte dogsdeli.de
DOGSMOPOLITAN
Luxury dog shop offering premium accessories with style and quality.
Belsenstraße 15 40545 Düsseldorf · Oberkassel dogsmopolitan.de
DÜSSELHUNDE
Premium dog products and accessories from selected European brands.
Ackerstraße 131 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern düsselhunde.de
FELLFREUNDE
FRIEDRICHSTADT
Unique products and accessories designed for dogs, cats and their humans.
Jahnstraße 89
40215 Düsseldorf · Friedrichstadt fellfreunde-friedrichstadt.de
BOOKS
ANTIQUARIAT KAMAS
Antiquarian bookshop with a focus on historic Düsseldorf editions.
Leopoldstraße 35
40211 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte
BIBABUZE
More than a bookshop – from books to readings, exhibitions and concerts.
Aachener Straße 1 40223 Düsseldorf · Bilk bibabuze.de
BOLLAND & BÖTTCHER
Cosy local bookshop with a wide and carefully chosen selection. Rethelstraße 121 40237 Düsseldorf · Düsseltal bollandundboettcher. buchhandlung.de
BOOKSTORE NIPPON
Bookshop dedicated to Japanese literature and culture. Immermannstraße 53 40210 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte bookstorenippon.jis.de
DER BÜCHER OBER
Great book selection with some second-hand and remaining stock copies.
Steinstraße 34 40210 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte buecher-ober.de
GOSSENS
Traditional bookshop offering books, films and music, on-site and online.
Luegallee 109 40545 Düsseldorf · Oberkassel gossens-buecher.buchkatalog.de
Antiquarian bookshop with a curated selection in a historic setting.
Citadellstraße 9
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt heineantiquariat.de
EAST 59
Manga, comic books and more.
Oststraße 59
40210 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte instagram.com/east_59_shop
LOCALBOOK.SHOP
Children’s books, novels and nonfiction with a charming extra: a humanoid robot on the team.
Bilker Straße 19
40213 Düsseldorf · Carlstadt localbookshop.de
THALIA
Five floors of books, magazines and gifts – the city’s biggest bookstore.
Königsallee 18
40212 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte thalia.de
PRESS & BOOKS
International magazines and books – right at Düsseldorf Central Station.
Konrad-Adenauer-Platz 14
40210 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte pressbooks.buchhandlung.de
VARIA VARDAR
A mix of books and carefully chosen goods.
Schwerinstraße 6
40447 Düsseldorf · Pempelfort varia-vardar.buchkatalog.de
WALTHER KÖNIG
Curated books on design, art, photography, philosophy and architecture.
In der Kunsthalle, Grabbeplatz 4
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt buchhandlung-walther-koenig.de
DISCOVER MORE PLACES TO SHOP: THEDORF.DE
Bali isn’t nearly as far away as you thought! The vabali spa Düsseldorf is a Balinese wellness resort where Indonesian ambiance transports your senses on a journey. Saunas, steam baths, pools, and wellness offerings allow body, soul, and spirit to find peace – all without taking a flight.
„Enter. Immerse. Feel good.“ This motto of the vabali spas is consistently implemented to perfection at all three locations in Germany. Why should you definitely buy nothing less than a day pass?Otherwise, there simply isn’t enough time to bathe, rest, use the sauna, enjoy a meal, and get a massage. Throughout the year, the sauna offerings captivate with panoramic or garden views in a Far Eastern-inspired atmosphere. There are meditation, sound, aromatherapy, and incense rituals, as well as large infusion saunas with different ceremonies and steam baths.
Once you’ve had enough sauna time, you can unwind in the relaxation rooms on water beds, or when the weather is nice, in the gardens or on the sun decks. To cool down or simply let yourself drift, the indoor and outdoor pools with Asian ambiance are perfect options. The diverse range of massages rounds off every wellness day perfectly. And there’s one more special feature that all vabali spas offer: the restaurant menus feature Asian and Mediterranean delicacies along with fantastic seasonal offerings. More information at vabali.de.
The centerpiece of vabali spa is the impressive indoor and outdoor pool. Everything harmoniously integrates into the architecture, which resembles a Balinese village. The authentic design is complemented with great attention to detail, Indonesian handicrafts, and harmonious interior design.
Vabali spa is represented in three cities in Germany: In Berlin, the spa is located near the main train station, in Düsseldorf adjacent to lake Elbsee, and in Hamburg just outside the Hanseatic city. Here, in addition to the beautiful natural pond, there’s even another highlight to discover: an attached hotel that also maintains the Balinese charm – complete with luxurious king-size beds. A spa day couldn’t end more beautifully than in such a magical place. More at vabali.de
Laura Schulte, better known to many as ‘holylora’, is much more than just another content creator from Düsseldorf. With her distinctive, fashion-forward style, she has long since secured her place in the international fashion world – and has been inspiring not only her nearly 200,000 followers, but also us for a long time. Her look is unique, surprising and probably the opposite of a ‘typical Düsseldorf’ style – if such a thing even exists. Instead of simply following trends, she conveys a sense of conscious consumption and individual aesthetics. In conversation with THE DORF, Laura talks about how it all began, what drives her and why she doesn’t let prejudices about her profession slow her down.
When and how did you start creating content – and was Instagram your starting point?
I started when I was about 13. I had a secret YouTube account and made ‘aesthetic’ videos and music videos. My first purchase from my savings account was a camera, and I've been taking photos and filming ever since –it’s always been a part of me. Then, in 2022, TikTok suddenly appeared, still relatively new in Germany, and I started posting there sporadically – without feeling like all my friends and acquaintances were watching me like they do on Instagram. From 2023 onwards, things really took off – the rest is history.
You now have almost 200,000 followers on Instagram and inspire your subscribers with your looks and recommendations. How did you build such a large community? The most important factors were consistency, resilience and confidence in myself to keep creating opportunities. Of course, a bit of luck also plays a part – the right moment, the right post. In my job as a creative producer at a public broadcaster, I developed and managed social media formats for two and a half years. That helped me a lot in planning my own content strategically.
How do you balance sharing your own favourites with an image that could quickly come across as promotional or too consumeroriented?
I know that being an influencer is often stigmatised –but as in any industry, people are very different. Fashion creators also have different areas of focus. I want to give my followers an insight into how fashion works, so that they can consume more consciously and get to know their own taste better. Chasing trends from fast fashion houses is not my thing. I only agree to partnerships that meet my standards and maintain a balance
between organic content and advertising. Ultimately, many people outside the industry think what they want anyway – and I don’t waste energy trying to convince them otherwise.
Do you have any hobbies or passions outside of fashion that you share or would like to share with your community?
Since February 2025, I’ve been learning Japanese and sometimes share updates about that. Düsseldorf has the third-largest Japanese community in Europe, and it’s fun to apply what I’ve learned here. I also do a lot of sport – gravel biking, tennis, running – but sometimes it’s good not to record everything on your phone.
Looking back, what was the moment when you first felt like you had truly arrived in the fashion world?
This August was my fourth season in Copenhagen, and fashion weeks are always great moments that make the business more social and less media-driven. There are situations where I think, “Ok, wow, it’s real.” For example, when people from the fashion industry – who aren’t creators – recognise me and actually know what I do. Or when people approach me on the street – that will never feel normal. Another crazy moment was when a street style photographer called my name last year.
What is your look for a ‘day out’ in Düsseldorf?
Since my everyday life revolves around fashion anyway, I usually keep it low-key in my private life and prioritise comfort. My standard uniform: Tabi loafers, suit trousers, white T-shirt and jacket – all oversized.
Düsseldorf makes fashion lovers’ hearts beat faster. From exclusive designers and small manufacturers to trendy labels, you will find everything from clothing and accessories to unique, one-of-a-kind items. Stroll along Königsallee or explore the city’s neighbourhoods, each with their own array of shops and range of offerings. Whether you are a bargain hunter or a luxury lover, shopping in Düsseldorf is always an experience.
OUR PERSONAL FAVOURITE
BREUNINGER
Department store for fashion and luxury lifestyle.
Kö-Bogen, Königsallee 2 40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte breuninger.com/de
CARHARTT
Classy workwear and urban streetwear, along with accessories.
Mittelstraße 16 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte carhartt-wip.com
COPENHAGEN STUDIOS
Contemporary footwear since 2017, embodying a Nordic quality-of-life attitude.
Grabenstraße 6 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte copenhagenstudios.com
CONSTANZE MUHLE
Multibrand boutique for timeless elegance in fashion & accessories.
DONSJE
Beautifully handmade children’s wear with exquisite details, complemented by coordinated footwear and accessories.
Benrather Straße 12 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte donsje.com
FORMIDABLE
A beautifully curated boutique for lingerie and accessories. Ackerstraße 203 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern formidable.shop
FREITAG STORE DÜSSELDORF BY SELEKTEUR
Recycled cult bags and accessories – known as R.I.P.s (Recycled Individual Products) – from Zurich, since 1993.
Hohe Straße 4 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt instagram.com/ freitagbyselekteur
FASHION & ACCESSORIES
ABSOLUTE RUN
DÜSSELDORF
Running shoes, clothing and equipment – also hosting community runs.
Roßstraße 69
40476 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf absolute-run-duesseldorf.de
AEST. STORE
aest. – Scandinavian fashion and interior design.
Luegallee 15 40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel aest-store.com
AFEW STORE
Limited editions and the finest selection of sneakers in town. Oststraße 36 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte afew-store.com
ALTE GIESSEREI IGEL
Concept store with fashion, lifestyle and design brands like Drykorn, Copenhagen Studios and HAY.
Alte Gießerei 6-14 40699 Erkrath alte-giesserei-igel.de
APROPOS
THE CONCEPT STORE
Luxury fashion, shoes, handbags and beauty. Benrather Straße 15 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt apropos-store.com
BASAAR BARNETS
A small concept store in Flingern offering fashion and accessories. Birkenstraße 118 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/basaarbarnets
BEYOND STUDIOS
Scandinavian-inspired concept store with with fashion, jewellery, books and interiors.
Stresemannstraße 8 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte beyondstudios.shop
Bastionstraße 37 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte constanze-muhle.de
FRIENDLY HUNTING STORE
Conscious luxury for those with an optimistic spirit.
Heinrich-Heine-Allee 36 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte friendly-hunting.com
GLORE
A concept store dedicated to sustainable fashion.
Luegallee 53
40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel
Hohe Straße 6
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt glore.de
IDENTITA ITALIANA
An exquisite selection of premium fashion, footwear and accessories for him and her.
Carlsplatz 22
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt identita-italiana.de
JADES
Vibrant and rebellious luxury designer fashion and accessories – now proudly presented in a striking new Königsallee location.
Königsallee 94
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte jades24.com
JIMMY+JO
‘German Kaufhaus’ with a thoughtfully curated collections of fashion, homewares, books, and accessories.
Stresemannstraße 27
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte jimmyplusjo.de
KAUF DICH GLÜCKLICH
True to its name, this lifestyle store brings together fashion, accessories, books and gadgets – now with a second Old Town location since October 2025
Carlsplatz 4
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt
New: Alte Kämmerei
Marktstraße 9
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt kaufdichgluecklich-shop.de
KLEIDSAM
A carefully curated selection of unique fair fashion womenswear and striking accessories.
Neusser Straße 123
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk kleidsam.eu
LULULEMON
Canadian yoga lifestyle. Grabenstraße 17 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt lululemon.de
MA CABANE
French style for wardrobe and home.
LANGBRETT
Clothing, art and an atmosphere shaped for surfers, skaters and urban adventurers.
Ackerstraße 113
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern langbrett.com
LAURENTIA
Timeless kids’ fashion, sustainably made.
Achenbachstraße 159
40237 Düsseldorf ∙ Düsseltal laurentia.shop
LEMON STUDIO
A concept store, formerly Hammermann, offering women’s and men’s fashion, accessories, home and living, beauty and skincare.
Lorettostraße 15
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk lemon-studio.de
LIVE LAB STUDIOS
A concept store for sustainable luxury, presenting curated pieces from fashion, design, art, beauty and more. Fürstenwall 66
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk livelabstudios.com
RELANE
New concept store with fashion, books, fragrances and rituals.
Ackerstraße 186
40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/relane_shop
ROBERTA.
ORGANIC FASHION
Organic fashion and fairtrade products.
Nordstraße 71
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Derendorf roberta-thestore.com
SEPTEMBER STORE
Charming shop in Düsseltal with a selection of modern fashion and accessories.
Rethelstraße 139 40237 Düsseldorf ∙ Düsseltal instagram.com/ september.store.duesseldorf
SESSÙN
Achenbachstraße 132 40237 Düsseldorf ∙ Düsseltal instagram.com/ conceptstoremacabane
MILIAN BY ANNETTE GÖRTZ
Avant-garde fashion by German designer Annette Görtz alongside labels such as Comme des Garçons.
Königsallee 33 40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte milian-duesseldorf.de
PICK UP
Iconic store for punk rock fashion, shoes and accessories. Kapuzinergasse 15 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt pickup78.de
REBEL’S GARAGE SKATESHOP
All about skateboarding and longboarding, with a wide range of streetwear and accessories.
Gneisenaustraße 10 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort rebelrockers.com
French prêt-à-porter and leather goods.
Grabenstraße 5
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte de.sessun.com
SEVENS
Premium shopping centre with excellent gastronomic offerings and an international brand selection across several floors. Königsallee 56
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte sevens.de
Concept store and online shop with a curated selection of German, Scandinavian and British designers, plus fashion pieces, accessories, interiors, beauty and gadgets.
Schirmerstraße 23 (backyard) 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort stylealbum.com
THE MAX.
Quirky meets chic – fashion and interiors from across Europe. Nordstraße 12
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort themax-store.com
THE SKAND KLUB.
Scandi style, designer labels and handmade jewellery. Ackerstraße 199 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/theskandklub
TUXEDO
Curated fashion and beauty for her.
Lorettostraße 35 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk Cheruskerstraße 67a 40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel tuxedo-style.com
WHAT WOMEN WANT
Fashion, beauty, interiors and small treasures – curated with love.
Lorettostraße 38 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk whatwomenwant.de
WUNDERWERK
Organic fashion for women and men – stylish, sustainable, eco-friendly and fair.
Lorettostraße 10 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk wunderwerk.com
EYEWEAR
ACE & TATE
Modern, stylish eyewear from Amsterdam.
Carlsplatz 3
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt aceandtate.com
BRILLEN KAISER
True classic on Königsallee since 1933.
Bahnstraße 2, Königsallee 92
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte brillen-kaiser.de
FUNK OPTIK
Funk is one of the last genuine eyewear manufacturers in Germany.
Brunnenstraße 18
40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk funkeyewear.com
HESSE & HOLLÄNDER
High-quality glasses, contact lenses and sunglasses, plus an exclusive eyewear collection.
Ackerstraße 158
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern hesseundhollaender.de
Glasses and sunglasses crafted in Germany and across Europe.
Nikolaus-Knopp-Platz 18 40549 Düsseldorf ∙ Heerdt optik-kittel.de
SEHWELT ELLER
Independent eyewear. Gumbertstraße 170 40229 Düsseldorf ∙ Eller sehwelt-eller.de
VIU EYEWEAR
Cool designer glasses from Switzerland, handmade in Italy and Japan.
Benrather Straße 8 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt shopviu.com
L’ATELIER MONSIEUR
High-quality, affordable basics defined by craftsmanship and substance rather than brand name.
Bilker Allee 16 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk lateliermonsieur.com
THE BESPOKER
Tailoring, interior design, and lifestyle for him.
Wildenbruchstraße 41
40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel thebespoker.club
THE BLOKE
Custom-made suits for him and her – refined and timeless.
Pfalzstraße 2
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort the-bloke.de
CLASSIC KONTOR STORE
Selected pieces from Blue de Gênes, Pike Brothers, Lee 101, YETI and more.
Hohe Straße 17
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt classic-kontor.com/stores
LFDY
Live Fast – renowned streetwear brand from Düsseldorf.
Ackerstraße 156
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern livefastdieyoung.com
MANNS
Store for water sports, cordage and accessories – a family business since 1845. Benrather Straße 7b (entry from Hohe Straße) 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt manns-wassersport.de
RED WING SHOE STORE DÜSSELDORF
Traditional heritage brand known for its legendary ‘Made in USA’ boots. Hohe Straße 17
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt redwingberlin.com
STUF|F – FINE GOODS
‘Soul made’ fine goods for him, alongside vintage furniture. Birkenstraße 40 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern stuf-f.com
THE QOOL STORE
Premium menswear and Scandinavian fashion with a touch of urban style. Haroldstraße 14 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt theqool.de
A&O MEDIEN
Favourite record dealer with a vast selection of new and vintage records, CDs, books and music gadgets.
Kasernenstraße 27
40213 Düsseldorf · Carlstadt aundo-medien.de
HITSVILLE
One of the last original record stores in the Old Town. Wallstraße 21
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt hitsville.de
MINTY VINYL
Minty-Vinyl, housed at 69m2 concept store buying and selling records.
Lindenstraße 186 (69m2 concept store) 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern minty-vinyl.de
RAINKING RECORDSTORE
First- and second-hand records. Düsselthaler Straße 1 & 2
40211 Düsseldorf · Pempelfort instagram.com/ rainkingrecordstore
THROWBACK VINYL
Rare vintage vinyl for purchase, sale and trade – by appointment only.
Am Straußenkreuz 21 40229 Düsseldorf · Eller instagram.com/throwback_vinyl
AACHENER PLATZ
Traditional Saturday flea market at Aachener Platz. Ulenbergstraße 10 40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk troedelmarkt-aachenerplatz.de
MESSEPARKPLATZ P1
Legendary flea and collectors’ market at the exhibition centre car park.
Am Staad (Stockumer Höfe) 40474 Düsseldorf ∙ Stockum
RADSCHLÄGERMARKT
True Düsseldorf institution with a wide range of secondhand antiques, jewellery, art and design classics. Walter-Eucken-Straße 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern radschlaegermarktduesseldorf.de
RE:LOVED CURATED VINTAGE MARKET BY THE DORF
Vintage fashion and accessories at Areal Böhler – exclusively curated by THE DORF. All dates on thedorf.de
WEIBERKRAM
Women’s flea market at changing locations – dates available on weiberkram.org
NACHTYARD
Once a month, Derendorf flower market transforms into a vibrant hub for vintage finds, young labels, street food, drinks and live music. Blumengroßmarkt Ulmenstraße 275 40468 Düsseldorf nachtyard.de
ARCHIVE
Designer second-hand womenswear and accessories –available online and in store.
Hohe Straße 47 40213 Düsseldorf · Carlstadt archivsecondhand.de
BROKE
Second-hand streetwear and curated goods.
Tussmannstraße 5 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort brokebutrich.de
COUTURE 2ND
Strictly designer and luxury second-hand pieces.
Hohe Straße 20 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt instagram.com/couture2nd
DESIGNER CHECK OUT
A boutique with nearly 30 years of expertise in second-hand designer clothing, accessories, bags and shoes.
Blücherstraße 24 40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort designercheckout.de
ELEMENTARTEILCHEN
Vintage, designer, accessories –and always shoes, shoes, shoes. Ackerstraße 125 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern elementarteilchensecondhand.de
HÜPFENDE HENNE
Second-hand store for branded fashion, offering unique styles and personal styling advice. Nordstraße 6
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/ huepfendehenne
KOKO SELECTED
Second-hand fair fashion and charming pieces in a former hairdresser’s salon.
Hermannstraße 47 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern kokoselected.com
Selected second-hand treasures in Flingern since 2005. Bruchstraße 1 40235 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern lieblings-stuecke.de
LILA MODEN
Vintage, art and fashion from brands including Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Prada. Oststraße 150
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/lila_moden
MAE’S SECOND HAND DE LUXE
Oberkassel’s vintage icon since 40+ years. Arnulfstraße 2a 40545 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel maes-mode.de
Second-hand concept store.
Achenbachstraße 134
40237 Düsseldorf ∙ Düsseltal instagram.com/ reloved.duesseldorf
STEWARDRESS
Couture, vintage and accessories – with music and art nights. Lorettostraße 8
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/stewardress
THE MINTAGE
Curated selection of vintage, designer and second-hand fashion, accessories and interior pieces.
Wallstraße 27
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt instagram.com/the_mintage
VIEL GOODZ
Vintage store with a wide selection of vintage sneakers and streetwear.
Königstraße 9
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte vielgoodz.com
VILLA OLIVA
VINTAGE SHOP
Charming vintage store with nostalgic curiosities.
Bilker Allee 62
40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/olivas_vintage
ONLINE
ANNIETHING VINTAGE
Luxury vintage and band shirts from Los Angeles, New York, Madrid and Paris. instagram.com/ anniethingvintage
TWO BROTHERS VINTAGE
Premium vintage by two brothers, specialising in 80s, 90s and 2000s T-shirts, sweaters and baseball jackets. instagram.com/ twobrothersvintage
Curated unisex vintage and second-hand apparel, accessories and local products. untoldshop.de
CARITAS KAUFHAUS WERTVOLL
Charity thrift store for furniture, household items, electronics, decorative pieces and clothing. Harffstraße 40 40591 Düsseldorf ∙ Wersten kaufhaus-wertvoll.de
CASH UND RAUS
Charity thrift store for clothing, furniture, household items and upcycled goods across four Düsseldorf locations. cashundraus.de
FAIRHAUS
Charity thrift store with eight locations in Neuss and Düsseldorf. fairhaus-duesseldorf.de
Volunteers sell donated and pre-loved items including clothing, household goods, books, media and more. Friedrichstraße 25
40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt Nordstraße 9
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort shops.oxfam.de
DISCOVER MORE PLACES TO SHOP: THEDORF.DE
Loris Parfüm
Luisa Spagnoli
Marlies Möller
Peserico Oui
Philipp Plein Saturn
Siemens Juwelen
Tott & Co.
Tru eroom
Vilebrequin and much more.
Support your locals: Düsseldorf boasts a diverse scene of labels that gives our ‘Dorf’ its unmistakable character. From fashion, interiors and jewellery to mustard, Altbier and gin – craftsmanship, design and culinary tradition come together here. Designs are created, refined and reinterpreted with passion. Bring Düsseldorf style into your home. OUR PERSONAL FAVOURITE
KINDER & KONSORTEN
Children’s shop full of accessories, toys, books and decorations for babies and kids. kinderundkonsorten.com
MEA AMĀRE
Düsseldorf baby brand with natural, high-quality products made from hemp and more. meaamare.com
LITTLE WHO
Vegan backpacks, bags and accessories – durable and designed for kids. littlewho.de
FAMVIBES
Sustainable fashion and accessories for families, from pregnancy to childhood milestones. famvibes.de
ACCESSORIES
CANO SHOES
Handcrafted in Mexico –ethical and sustainable shoes and huaraches. thecanoshoe.com
Lifestyle essentials crafted by hand, adding colour, texture and charm to your home and daily life clubdefil.com
DU CIEL
Elegant handmade lingerie created from fine fabrics with timeless style. duciel.studio
ESPADRIJ L’ORIGINALE
From espadrilles to palm baskets – French-inspired fashion and homewear. espadrij.com
LES VISIONNAIRES
Founded in Düsseldorf in 2020, the label creates sustainable, timeless leather bags where minimalist French chic meets functionality and joie de vivre. les-visionnaires.com
MONOLAR
Premium bags and accessories from Düsseldorf-Pempelfort, crafted from vegetable-tanned leather for lifelong use. monolar.eu
PURSIK.BOXERS
Gender-neutral boxers –sustainable, unique, local. pursik.com
OPAAK
Lingerie and bodywear designed with mindfulness, comfort and style for women opaak.de
PALA ATELIER
Unique handmade bags upcycled from durable tarpaulin. palaatelier.de
SHAROKINA
Handbags and accessories from Düsseldorf – European leather, timeless design, elegant details. sharokina.com
STUDIO ROSA
Mindful fashion, plant-dyed goods and interior accessories. studiorosa.shop
STUDIO ORF
Handmade crochet from Düsseldorf – bold, colourful and sustainable. studioorf.de
THE MATILDA BOW
Handmade bows from vintage ties, each dedicated to a forgotten woman of history. thematildabow.de
ABB SENF
ABB may not be made in Düsseldorf anymore, but it’s still the city’s original mustard and a classic souvenir. loewensenf.de
ALTUS BEER
The city’s very first organic Altbier – brewed with tradition and a modern twist. altus-braeu.de
ANILL
Authentic Jaffna Tamil spices, pickles and delicacies. anill.shop
BEER KONG
Craft beer brewed by hand –authentic and straight from Düsseldorf. beer-kong.de
GHIRLONI EISMANUFAKTUR
Since 1975, the Ghirloni family has been making ice cream in Gerresheim – now in the second generation with traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. ghirloni-eismanufaktur.de
HECKLONI BEER
Local independent brewery from Düsseldorf, brewing with passion and tradition. instagram.com/heckloni_bier
KILLEPITSCH
Düsseldorf’s traditional herbal liqueur with a timeless recipe. killepitsch.de
KEM ICE CREAM
Handmade Asian-inspired ice cream in the creamy Philadelphia style – less sweet, more flavour. instagram.com/kem__icecream
LA VIDA VERDE
Organic oils pressed in-house, plus courses, trainings & tastings. lavidaverde.de
MATCHASOME
Matchasome brings high-quality Japanese matcha to Europe –blending mindful living, design and food innovation. matchasome.com
SCHMITTMANN EDEL-BRENNEREI
Historic Düsseldorf distillery crafting spirits since 1818. schmittmann-korn.de
TREATFULS
Vegan, organic and irresistibly tasty – natural treats to fall in love with. treatfuls.com
TRUE KIMCHI STORY
Homemade vegan kimchi, fresh and full of Korean superfood power. instagram.com/truekimchistory
YOSHI NAMA GIN
Born in Düsseldorf’s Little Tokyo – YOSHI NAMA unites German craftsmanship with Japanese spirit traditions. yoshi-nama-gin.de
22/4_HOMMES_FEMMES
High-end tailoring label by Düsseldorf designer Stephanie Hahn – producing womenswear and menswear in German factories since 2008. Available at Live Lab Studios. 224hommesfemmes.com
ANGELIKA KAUFFMANN
Studio and shop on Lorettostraße – the Düsseldorf fashion designer’s home base. angelikakauffmann.com
ANOTHER COTTON
Düsseldorf urban fashion label behind the Sunday Running Club – now also with a new store in Carlstadt. anothercotton.com
ALEKS KURKOWSKI
Luxury fashion for men and women, shaped by geometry and a love of black. alekskurkowski.com
ETUK
Designer label from Düsseldorf –founded by brothers Ben and Kurt Etuk, combining sustainability with innovation. etukatelier.com
Sophisticated weatherwear: timeless jackets for women and men. g-lab.com
High-quality deadstock fabrics turned into garments crafted in Italy and Germany. goutez.eu
JULIUS BACH
A young Düsseldorf designer shaping fashion with creativity and fresh ideas. juliusbach.com
KIOSQ SUPPLY
Label for urban fashion, blending streetwear and skate culture. kiosq-supply.com
KNEIPENSPORT
A streetwear label committed to preserving pub culture. kneipensportofficial.com
LFDY
Famous Düsseldorf streetwear label with a ‘live fast’ attitude. livefastdieyoung.com
LOLA CLOTHING
Streetwear from Düsseldorf, crafted in heavy cottons with a focus on sustainable production. lolaclo.com
MIMI & MIEZE
Inspired by their grandmothers’ wardrobes, Mimi & Mieze revive beloved classics. instagram.com/mimiundmieze
NEXTLEVELKNIT
Extending the life cycle of materials by transforming preloved garments into new fashion. nextlevelknit.com
NOWADAYS
Modern menswear – simple, smart and timeless. nowadays.com
OYA STUDIO
Handmade silk kimonos –elegant pieces created with fine craftsmanship and care. oyastudio.de
RETORO RŌBO
Handmade heritage and vintage elegance redefined through kimonos by retoro rōbu. instagram.com/retoro_robu
STREHLOW
Düsseldorf designer Marion Strehlow creates fashion with innovative cuts, unique details and bold accents. stre-low.com
SOURIRE
Street-inspired menswear with a strong workwear aesthetic. sourire-worldwide.com
SUZUSAN
Japanese fashion and interior design, refined with the art of Shibori textiles. suzusan.com
THE BLOKE
Tailor-made suits designed for both men and women. the-bloke.de
TONI
Designer Adrian Voss creates shirts and accessories from repurposed fabrics like napkins and tablecloths. tonitonitoni.de
VALENTINA OROSZ
Handmade slow fashion from natural fibres – crafted to honour and celebrate the female form. valentinaorosz.com
WUNDERWERK
Sustainable and fair organic fashion for women and men, now also available on Lorettostraße. wunderwerk.com
JEWELLERY
202 EDITIONS
Jewellery in limited editions –refined, sustainable and crafted with care. 202editions.com
ALESSA JOSTEN
Emerging designer creating contemporary jewellery and fashion with a modern edge. alessajoosten.com
ARIANE ERNST JEWELRY
Designer Ariane Ernst creates refined jewellery, alongside curated fashion and interior accents. arianeernst.com
BERU INOU
Unique jewellery designs centred on glass and porcelain craftsmanship. instagram.com/beru_inou
CONSTANZE CHROSCH
Jewellery designed to last –high quality pieces crafted with unique character. constanzechrosch.de
ÉLOUISE
Contemporary fine jewellery from Düsseldorf – redefining elegance for today. elouisejewellery.com
ERDEN GOLDSCHMIEDE
Master goldsmith Frieda blends modern design with traditional craftsmanship –handmade in Flingern from recycled precious metals. erdengoldschmiede.com
GOLDFISCH
Unique jewellery from recycled gold and silver – handmade with care in Flingern. instagram.com/atelier.goldfisch
HALLAS HANDMADE
Halli designs playful handmade earrings and smart, colourful phone chains. instagram.com/madebyhalli
JENNA BROMMER
Bold jewellery design blending punk attitude with elegance and a touch of irony. jennabrommer.com
LAURA CHRISTMANN
JEWELLERY
Geometric and timeless jewellery. laurachristmann.de
LAURA PRAHL
Jewellery label from Düsseldorf creating pieces at the intersection of art and design. lauraprahl.com
LISA SCHEREBNENKO
Conceptual jewellery exploring the relationship between body and space. instagram.com/lisascherebnenko
MAREN DÜSEL
Minimalist jewellery with clear colour accents, crafted through both traditional goldsmithing and innovative 3D printing. Member of the collective ‘Atelier Hinter Indien’. marenduesel.com
MICHAELA DONSBACH
Unique handmade jewellery –from bracelets and rings to earrings and necklaces. michaeladonsbach.de
MITTSU.
Handcrafted accessories of natural stone – combining simplicity, uniqueness and timeless elegance. mittsu.de
MORITZ WENZ
Customisable unisex jewellery from Düsseldorf – from necklaces and pendants to wedding rings and bracelets – crafted in Moritz’s new Kloster Flingern studio. moritz-wenz.de
NYYUKIN
Where graphic meets jewellery design: Nyyukin creates emotional, tech-driven pieces for every occasion. nyyukin.com
ORFÈVRE
A unique gallery and store concept on Bastionstraße 35 dedicated to extraordinary jewellery. orfevre.de
PRIVAT SCHMUCK & ACCESSOIRES
From rings and necklaces to bracelets and earrings – timeless jewellery crafted in Düsseldorf. privat215.de
RELATED BY OBJECTS
Handcrafted jewellery from Unterbilk – timeless, sustainable and made to last. relatedbyobjects.de
A creative collective transforming worn pieces into curated visual statements. instagram.com/revisio__
SOFIA BEILHARZ
Unique jewellery designs brought to life as handmade creations. sofiabeilharz.de
STUDIO ASEO
Selina Sea Gutt designs contemporary pieces shaped by experimentation and upcycling methods. studioaseo.com
ATISAN
Sustainable interior design –handmade accessories crafted from ethically sourced materials. atisan.de
BLOSSOMING EYE
Handmade and soul-grown crafts and smudge sticks. instagram.com/blossomingeye
CUBIT
Timeless modular design –premium furniture and shelving systems with flexibility and style. cubit-shop.com
CUTOFFS
Unique furniture and objects crafted from leftover wood and old transport crates – sustainable design in small series. cutoffs.de
CUPUCOPO
Handcrafted ceramic pieces –timeless design with unique character. instagram.com/cupucopo
BROTLAMPE.DE
Every bread lamp is handcrafted as a one-of-a-kind design object – turning the everyday into art. brotlampe.de
FRITZ ADAMSKI
Designer of ceramics and objects. instagram.com/fritz_adamski
FRAGILE
Porcelain pieces handmade with care – from unique objects to limited art editions. fragile-design.com
GERDA FRITZ
Unique ceramic pieces, handmade with timeless craftsmanship. instagram.com/thisisgerdafritz
HARRIET ALLURE
Scented candles blending Ghanaian roots with the clean lines of Swedish design –created by Freddy and Alex. harrietallure.com
HCK INTERIOR
Interior concepts by HCK –designing distinctive spaces for shops, homes and more. by-hck.com
HEIKO BAUER
Furniture and objects by Heiko Bauer – crafted from diverse materials and transformed into distinctive designs. heikobauer.net
KIYO
Innovative and modular furniture – German Design Award Winner 2023 kiyo.eu
KUNST100
Curated art with a focus on young talent: unique works and limited editions at fair prices. kunst100.com
LUCKY CAT STUDIO
Vibrant risography prints with a sustainable twist. luckycatstudio.cool
MARISA OEKER
Unique illustrations and handcrafted paper works for contemporary interiors. marisaoeker.com
MALTE VAN DER MEYDEN
Edgy candles and refined design objects that bring style and atmosphere into modern living spaces. maltevandermeyden.de
MOON MILK
Beautiful handmade ceramics such as plates, mugs and bowls by Julia Krause. instagram.com/ moonmilkceramics
MUTABEL
Flexible DIY elements for your wall. mutabel.de
NUE POTTERY
Ceramic bowls, mugs and vases –handmade by designer Eun-Yeong Kong with timeless simplicity. instagram.com/nue.pottery
Contemporary, functional home products designed by Verena and Pete – made in Europe with the motto ‘Love Your Space’. instagram.com/orion_qubo
PAULA ELLERT
Düsseldorf-based designer specialising in furniture, lighting and product design. paulaellert.de
POTTERY.HONTAS CERAMICS
Handcrafted ceramic bowls and jugs by Tanja, owner of the ceramic workshop The Clay Company. instagram.com/pottery.hontas
SCHNITTSTELLE KUNST
Eco-friendly handmade books and notebooks designed to spark creativity and inspire new ideas. schnittstellekunst.de
STUDIO STARKE CERAMICS
Unique pottery, handcrafted in small batches with individual character. studiostarke.com
Timeless ceramics, handmade with care and craftsmanship. instagram.com/_try_something
URAMAKI STUDIOS
A design studio exploring the intersection of AI, technology and art – with unique products like the glowing vases, our editorial favourite, as seen on this year’s cover. instagram.com/uramaki_studio
VETSAK
Beanbags, sofas, outdoor furniture, and accessories from Düsseldorf. vetsak.com
WAX MADE DESIGN
Hand-poured candles in bold colours and artistic designs –each one a unique creation. instagram.com/ wax_made_design
WERKBANKKÜCHE
Handmade in Germany, this adaptable kitchen combines solid handles, visible fittings and heavy-duty drawers for a distinctive workshop look. Created by the former owners of kitchen store Cucina. werkbankkueche.de
BEAUTY
305CARE
Skincare rooted in the power of nature and refined by the precision of science. 305care.com
CHAMMI
Chammi ‘Happy Days’ –relief for menstrual cramps. chammi.eu
LA VIFOLIE
La Vifolie is a Düsseldorf-based beauty label dedicated to eye care, blending potent ingredients with advanced cosmetic technology. lavifolie.de
NICOLA WEIDEMANN COSMETICS
A Düsseldorf make-up artist who has transformed her expertise into a personal line of beauty products. nicolaweidemann.de
NOOI
A gentle deodorant balm made entirely from natural ingredients – effective and kind to the skin. nooideo.de
VENNIER
Vennier gel press-on nails bring salon-quality results home – handcrafted, reusable and effortlessly stylish. Handmade in Düsseldorf. venniernails.com
DOLI BOTTLES
Sustainable design for everyday life – non-toxic, durable glass bottles and coffee mugs made to last. doli-bottles.com
KAËLL
Eco-friendly products for household and textile care – gentle, effective and sustainable. kaell.de
KLIK KLAK
An inspiring card game designed to spark deeper connections and meaningful conversations. klik-klak.de
KREISLAUFDÜNGER
Sustainable fertiliser created from the by-products of local coffee roasters and cafés –turning waste into growth. kreislaufdünger.de
LIFEISARIDE
Handcrafted gear for cycling enthusiasts – durable, functional and made with attention to detail. lifeisaride.de
STICKAPEAR
Glowing design sticker sets for your cargo bike. stickapear.de
DISCOVER MORE LOCAL & STYLISH STUFF: THEDORF.DE
What a day it was! We couldn’t have asked for a better setting for the second edition of THE DORF ∙ THE MARKET on 19 July 2025 in the Hofgarten. Bathed in bright sunshine, Jägerhofallee transformed into a vibrant meeting place for nearly 40 fantastic participants from the worlds of design, fashion, food and the creative scene – featuring familiar faces, exciting new labels, fresh products and an expanded culinary offering. This year, it was twice as big – and twice as beautiful. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate and helped shape this special day with us! To each and every exhibitor who made THE DORF ∙ THE MARKET #5 what it was – a truly memorable day in the park – thank you. We hope you enjoy diving into the impressions and highlights of the day. The next edition of THE DORF ∙ THE MARKET will take place in summer 2026
We would also like to thank the Wirtschaftsförderung Düsseldorf and our event partner Kollektiv K for their fantastic support.
Cylindrical cups, organic shapes, unique handles, natural colours and a feel that lingers in the memory: The handmade ceramics by Jennifer Muzuana, the Mozambican artist behind the cupucopo label, tell a story of origin and identity. The name is a play on words – composed of the English word ‘cup’ and the Portuguese word ‘copo’ for cup. Her core designs, the MIRA cup and the CILDA cup, are named after her grandmother and cousin. They are not just everyday objects, but an expression of an artistic exploration of uprootedness, nostalgia and belonging. In this interview, the ceramic artist talks about her childhood in Mozambique, complex family systems, cyclebreaking, privilege and how clay became a medium of empowerment for her.
Before you started working with ceramics, what did you do, and how does that path influence your work today?
I dealt intensively with my family system and my childhood. At the age of ten, I came to Germany to live with my single mother. That time was challenging because many things – whether privileges or capacities – were simply not available. As a child, I simply accepted this without the opportunity to reflect on it. It was only much later that I realised something was out of balance. In search of something to take my mind off things, I discovered ceramics during lockdown. Working with clay brought up old issues, but it also opened up new perspectives for me. Above all, I realised what it means to devote yourself to a hobby – something that never existed in my family. I never saw this light-heartedness, this pursuit of an activity for pleasure, without it serving the purpose of survival or income, in either my mother or my grandmother. Today, I consider it a great privilege to be able to claim this space for myself.
You grew up in Maputo and now live in Düsseldorf. How do your childhood memories and cultural roots influence your work with ceramics?
The lifestyle in Mozambique and also the environment in which I grew up in general have had a strong influence on me. We always did a lot with our hands. The fact that the street I lived on was unpaved meant that I had a lot of earth and sand around me. As a child, I played with it, built sand towers, shaped mud cakes. The textures, the colours, the feel of the sand – all of that was constantly present.
Clay is a medium that reveals mistakes, but also allows for a lot of freedom. What have you learned about yourself through working with this material? I’ve learned to surrender to the process and trust it. I’ve
also learned that it’s okay to be slow in certain aspects –after all, a seedling doesn’t grow overnight. Everything takes time. Especially when you feel that you didn’t get enough of something in your childhood, you often develop a hunger to make up for everything right away. But that’s not right. Good things can come bit by bit. I can trust, slow down – and surrender to the process.
How do you perceive the creative scene in Düsseldorf –is there enough space and visibility for young labels like yours?
Yes, there is visibility – but we mustn’t forget that certain systems determine who is seen. In some spaces, I would like to see more diversity.
Where can people buy your cupucopo ceramics – and do you also offer workshops where people can work with clay?
My website is still under construction, but my ceramic pieces can currently be purchased via Instagram DM. In the future, I would like to host events that combine ceramics with meditation, snacks and a beautiful atmosphere – a curated slow-down experience.
What would Düsseldorf look like as a cup or vase? It would be a porcelain object with a shiny glaze, decorated with yellow, blue, red brushstrokes.
Who – dead or alive – would you like to have an Altbier with, and what would you talk about?
Not an Altbier, but perhaps a glass of champagne with presenter and actor Trevor Noah. I’d probably have a fangirl moment at first, but then we’d talk about resilience.
Unique cuts, sculptural silhouettes and timeless elegance – Lukas Krob’s designs straddle the line between wearable fashion and art objects. With his label Krobos, the young Swiss-raised designer has long since attracted the attention of international stylists and brands thanks to his extraordinary cutting techniques and clear aesthetic approach. In this interview, he talks about his craft-oriented career, his social media success and his plans for the future of Krobos.
INGA HANDKE · PHOTOGRAPHY LASSE ROTTHOFF
How did you get into fashion – and how would you describe the Krobos style in three words?
Krobos is elegant, sporty and timeless. I got into fashion through trial and error. I knew I wanted to do something creative, so I did various internships. However, photography and graphic design were too digital for me. A day as an upholsterer was exciting, but I quickly realised that sewing car seats wasn’t for me. I wanted to create something you could wear. When I finally did an internship with a tailor, I knew immediately: this is it. At 16, I started my training as a tailor and discovered my passion for fashion.
Your path took you from training as a tailor to M. Müller & Sohn and finally to your final collection at the MDC (Mode Design College) Düsseldorf. How does this career path influence your work today?
I am very happy with the path I have taken so far, because many people take the opposite route. When I started my training as a fashion designer at the Mode Design College, I already had a good grasp of the craft. For example, I knew how to sew and adjust a sleeve correctly and how to shift the seams. This allowed me to be exempted from some subjects and gave me the opportunity to focus more intensively on design, form and their connection. Another formative experience was my internship for Robert Wun, a fashion designer from London. There I learned how to develop shapes and work with them creatively.
Your tutorials are hugely successful – you have almost 100,000 followers on Instagram. What motivates you to share your knowledge so freely?
My best friend took the photos for my collection, which I was very happy with. However, they didn’t show how much work and thought had gone into my designs. So, I thought to myself, “I’ll just explain it myself.”
It was surprisingly well received. It’s a niche topic, so I never thought it would take off like that. But because there are hardly any creators who explain such content slowly and comprehensibly, I ended up in the feeds of many fashion students. They saved my videos, which gave the algorithm an extra boost. Nevertheless, I don’t want to become an explainer but rather show techniques that I can really recommend. The focus should clearly be on my work. For me, the tutorials are more of an additional tool for getting in touch with brands as a freelancer. For example: two years ago, I applied for an
“I don’t want to become an explainer but rather show techniques that I can really recommend.”
internship at a well-known German fashion house, but I was not successful. A month ago, they reached out to explore potential opportunities for future collaboration.
“It’s important to me that each piece has its own twist.”
Textures and feel are central elements of your designs. How do you find the special fabrics for your collections – and what do you look for when selecting them?
I got the special fabrics through my father’s contacts –he’s a furniture designer. Together we drove to a fabric company that showed me special materials. Of course, I also do research online. I have a small repertoire of materials, mostly natural fabrics, because they can be shaped particularly beautifully. I prefer to work with wool. I don’t have a favourite piece – it’s important to me that each piece has its own twist. My motto is: I make clothes – but what makes them special?
Who or what inspires you – and how did you manage to develop your own aesthetic from this?
Rick Owens has inspired me from the very beginning. The first fashion piece I was given as a gift was a pair of his trousers. Through my training, I gained a new perspective on his work: his pieces are incredibly professionally crafted. Now, I only design individual pieces for stylings. But if I were to sell, it would only be on a level like Rick Owens. You can turn his pieces inside out and they are still perfectly crafted. That’s exactly what inspires me – that’s where I want to get to.
I love going to exhibitions – contemporary art inspires me. I find Anne Imhof’s physical works particularly fascinating. But graffiti, the cityscape and art in general also inspire me. Architecture also plays a role, perhaps because my mother is an architect. That’s how one of my capsule collections came to be inspired by the Kunsthaus Bregenz, designed by Peter Zumthor, my mother’s favourite architect.
People inspire me too. During my internship in East London, I saw a man who had buttoned two military shirts together at the collar to form a waistband – I thought that was cool. And of course, I also get inspiration from Instagram.
What is your work process like – from the idea to the finished piece?
At the beginning, I look for inspiration and then spend a day drawing – in the traditional way, with pen and paper. That’s how I decide which direction to go in, and I quickly start implementing my ideas. I work very intuitively. When I have a pattern in front of me, I think about how I can make it more special and develop a prototype from it. Of course, that doesn’t always work. Two days ago, for example, I had a dress in mind, but the prototype didn’t work. It’s this process that I enjoy the most –constantly trying to make designs even more special.
Your label has already been featured in Vogue Germany – a huge success. What has been your personal “I made it” moment so far?
I was talking to a friend recently about what my highlight of the year has been and to be honest, I can’t really say, because so much is happening right now. The fact that brands are now starting to reach out to me as a freelancer shows that, after eight years, my work is finally starting to pay off. A university in Florence also invited me to give a seminar to their students. And, of course, my success on Instagram – I never would have
expected that. I’m also particularly happy to have a permanent job now, because it’s difficult for many fashion designers to find work at the moment. A lot of things are coming together right now, and I’m very grateful for that.
Your work is also finding international acclaim, for example in a shoot for Harper’s Bazaar Arabia. Where do you see yourself and Krobos in the future –what are your next steps?
As I currently only sew each piece once, I don’t sell my fashion but lend it out for styling. In the long term, I plan to run my own label, but financially that’s not an option at the moment – that’s why I’m working for now. Since October, I have my own studio space in the centre of Düsseldorf and would then like to work more for brands as a freelancer or in product development. It would be great if labels approached me and said, “We have this idea.” My focus now is on working for others, building a network and then really getting started later.
I’m now working full-time, which makes it a bit more difficult in terms of time. Nevertheless, a new collection is in the pipeline. I want to use the current collection as a basis and use similar fabrics.
“I enjoy sewing jackets the most. I also always assume that homemade pieces spark conversation – it’s just different than when I wear a jacket with a big brand logo.”
What is your go-to piece that you could never do without in fashion?
Jackets. I enjoy sewing jackets the most. I also always assume that handmade pieces spark conversation – it’s just different than when I wear a jacket with a big brand logo. Otherwise, my Rick Owens boots are like my uniform. They’re an investment, but they’re excellently made. I’ve been wearing them almost everyday for three years.
Düsseldorf as a fashion piece – what would that look like?
Definitely green, because Düsseldorf is a very green city for me. At the same time, modern, because there is so much potential here – that’s exactly why I want to stay here. When it comes to fashion in Düsseldorf, I think it would be exciting to highlight the city’s special features: Elegant because Düsseldorf is a very beautiful city. And modern, because there’s always something going on here – whether it’s running clubs or other trends. That’s why I would describe Düsseldorf as modern, sporty and elegant. Maybe an oversized blazer.
Where can you be found in Düsseldorf’s creative scene – at exhibitions, studios or events?
If anywhere, then at exhibitions – but I also enjoy going to events. At the moment, however, I’m not really connected to the Düsseldorf bubble yet. I’m often just busy sewing – here at the MDC, I’m almost like the caretaker. But when I go out, I prefer to visit galleries, such as Ruttkowski; 68. I also like to look at books at Walther König – that’s my guilty pleasure.
Who – dead or alive – would you like to have an Altbier with, and what would you talk about?
Emil Dietrich – my best friend, who also photographed my collection. Every conversation with him gives me new ideas. He looks at Krobos from a different perspective and gives me valuable input. He has had a decisive influence on Krobos: if I had photographed everything myself, the impact would never have been the same. His photos convey my aesthetic approach.
Lots of love & huggin’: On 14 November 2024, we celebrated the eighth edition of THE DORF ∙ THE MARKET at Bilker Bunker and music bar Schleuse Zwei – an unforgettable evening where we presented the new edition for 2024/25. We were joined by numerous magazine protagonists and partners, the entire team and friends of THE DORF family. The photos of the evening were taken by Kristina Fendesack – we hope you enjoy them.
Between tradition and modernity, between Japan and Düsseldorf, between craftsmanship and art: Kiyo Matsumoto of Letterpress 77 lives the magic of letterpress printing in an age dominated by digital pixels. For almost 20 years, the Japaneseborn printer has been shaping the creative face of the city with his print workshop –proving that slow processes, precise craftsmanship and a love of materials have lost none of their relevance. Whether as a printer, designer, illustrator or simply as Kiyo, his work combines tactile beauty, cultural dialogue and a dose of musical passion. In conversation, he talks about his journey from New York to Düsseldorf, the joy of staying true to yourself, and why a printed sheet sometimes has more character than any digital design.
For those who are unfamiliar with letterpress: What do you find appealing about this old printing technique –and why is it still relevant today in a digital world? For me, the charm of letterpress lies in its timelessness. It’s a centuries-old technique, but like classical music, it never ages. Everything about it feels alive: the printing press itself, the handwork, the paper, even mixing the ink. Letterpress is one of the few printing methods that still brings out the full beauty of paper. And when you run your fingers across it, you can feel the impression in the paper. That tactile quality is something no digital process can replace.
You learned your craft in New York and started Letterpress 77 in Düsseldorf in 2006. What was the decisive moment for you personally to embark on this path? I’ve always loved paper, from Japanese washi to traditional woodblock prints. After studying graphic design in Minneapolis, I moved to New York and worked as a graphic designer but also discovered Soho Letterpress, a small print shop in Manhattan. That was about 26 years ago. There I started learning the craft hands-on. It was a revelation: such a simple process – ink, plate, and paper pressed together – could create something so beautiful and tactile. Little by little, printing grew from a part-time job into a passion, and eventually into the dream of running my own print shop. That’s the path that led me to start Letterpress 77 here in Düsseldorf.
Next year, you will be celebrating 20 years of Letterpress 77. What does this anniversary mean to you –and what has been your recipe for success over such a long period of time?
To be honest, it feels almost unreal to celebrate 20 years. The past few years, especially during Covid, haven’t been
easy. There were fewer jobs, and sometimes I wasn’t sure how things would continue. But I’m grateful that I’m still here, still printing. What keeps me going is simple: I stay true to myself. I know what I can do, and I enjoy doing it. And I think that honesty, with myself and with others, is the key to perserverance.
You combine craftsmanship, design and illustration. How would you describe your role – are you a printer, designer, artist or something else entirely?
That’s a funny question! Maybe I’m all of them! Honestly, I’m just Kiyo. I do what excites me – working with paper, colour, and design. The labels don’t matter so much. It’s more about the work and the joy in creating.
You have stacks of records, CDs and tapes – so you can’t do without music. What do you listen to repeatedly, and which alltime classic is an absolute must?
No music, no life! That’s true for me. Print in time with the rhythm of whatever I’m listening to. My taste is all over the place, from The Beatles and Stevie Wonder to Steely Dan and Thelonious Monk to Joni Mitchell and Johnny Cash.
Is there a place in Düsseldorf where you always find new inspiration?
Yes, there are many places in Düsseldorf that inspire me again and again: museums, the Tonhalle, the Schauspielhaus, bookstores, the studios of other artists. And not to forget nurseries and schools! Children’s art is often so surprising and full of energy – that always inspires me.
In the bright, green courtyard at Luisenstraße 7, time seems to have stood still. Mergemeier Bookbinding practises an ancient craft that has become rare. Since 1946, everything has revolved around the millennia-old cultural treasure of the book. Here, craftsmanship and art truly come together. TEXT KATJA HÜTTE
HHeinz Mergemeier founded the bookbindery in 1946 on Lorettostraße and moved to the courtyard on Luisenstraße in 1950. The front building had been destroyed during the war and was still in ruins at the time. The two small houses in the courtyard date back to the 19th century and had remained intact. From then on, the Mergemeier couple lived on the upper floor of the lefthand building with their daughter Renate, who was still small at the time. The ground floor housed workshops and offices.
Renate Mergemeier later learned the craft from her father and took over the bookbindery in 1987. She passed away in early 2025. In 2009, Ulrike Meysemeyer took over the management of the bookbindery. She also completed an apprenticeship here, and her enthusiasm for books and love for her work is evident as she guides us through the rooms.
The green metal machines date back to the early years. Heinz Mergemeier himself worked with them. “Machines that are in constant use are part of the team and therefore have names,” explains Ulrike Meysemeyer. She smiles, but she is completely serious. Then she introduces Albert: “Albert can split leather so that we can process it more easily.” She then lovingly points to Peter – the creasing machine. It makes the crease in the paper for folding.
“Edith is not a machine, just a device,” says Ulrike Meysemeyer, distinguishing the slim green apparition from the others. Edith is a press in which finished bound books dry overnight. All machines are operated by hand. It’s work that decelerates. Most repairs can be carried out by the eight employees themselves, since the machinery is not particularly complicated.
Heinz Mergemeier’s granddaughter, Freia Teltz, has now also joined the team and runs the bookbindery together with Ulrike Meysemeyer and Nicole Morello. Freia points to a line on the floor in the workshop: “This is where the office used to be.” It later moved to the building opposite, which now houses artists’ studios. Customers are now welcomed back into the main rooms. Very close to the work of the bookbindery.
Freia Teltz still remembers playing in the bookbindery and in the backyard as a child. “My grandfather drew houses for me, and I traced the lines with nails,
which I hammered in with a small hammer.” She and her sister Vera were allowed to roll through the rooms and across the courtyard on a furniture dolly, as if it were a skateboard.
Today, there are no children playing here. Everyone is focused on their work. Every now and then, a machine rattles. An apprentice is stitching a book together with a needle and thread using a chain stitch. A two-kilo weight is placed on top of the stack of paper that will one day become the book to prevent it from slipping. “There are no machines for stitching, it can only be done by hand,” explains Ulrike Meysemeyer. Anyone who wants to become a bookbinder must be very precise. “It’s all about the details. You must be able to perceive half a millimetre,” says Meysemeyer.
Books have been around for more than 2 ,000 years. “As soon as something is meant to last, people reach for something tactile,” she sums it up. “Books have become an integral part of cultural history and it is impossible to imagine life without them. We all identify with them. We cherish them as something special with emotional value. A beautiful book makes you happy,” Ulrike Meysemeyer is convinced, and all employees share this experience. The stories that come to them in the bookbindery are also moving.
Ulrike Meysemeyer tells of the old woman who came to the bookbindery years ago with her shopping trolley – filled to the brim with folders, letters and postcards from the past 60 years. They belonged to the woman’s late husband, who was Jewish. On his deathbed, she had promised him that she would have them bound into a beautiful book and sent to the Jewish Museum so that they could be made accessible to future generations. Another woman had the letters from her father, who died in Russian captivity, compiled into a book, as they were her only memory of him.
“Books have become an integral part of cultural history and it is impossible to imagine life without them.”
Ulrike Meysemeyer remembers both encounters as very emotional assignments. A married couple still had letters from an ancestor who had served as a soldier in the Franco-Prussian War (1870/ 71). During the pandemic, the couple translated the documents from Sütterlin script and formatted them. In this way, the reports will be preserved in book form for future generations. The head of an advertising agency commissioned a photo album for his wife’s birthday – in DIN A3 format, bound in red velvet and embossed with her name. It contained a selection of family photos from his wife’s mobile phone. “A photo album is simply more alive than the media library on a phone,” says Ulrike Meysemeyer. “You can leaf through it.”
Over the years, two more rooms have been added to the bookbindery. The previous tenant owned a carpet and wallpaper shop. Carpets used to be stored here. Today, the shelves are filled with rolls of various materials, from linen to leather, in a wide range of colours, from azure blue to Miss Piggy pink to sunny yellow. Around 500 embossing stamps with lettering, coats of arms and logos are stored in the drawers of the filing cabinets. Most are made of brass and are used to emboss books, notices, menus or beautifully bound boxes in coloured linen. Since the 1980s, graphics and books have also been restored here, both for museums and private collections.
In 1991, one of Germany’s first book galleries opened in the high, light-filled main room. From the very beginning, Renate Mergemeier felt it was important to combine traditional craftsmanship with art and
devoted herself to art books. She was supported for many years by Anna Grassl from Vienna. Every few months, the two women invited visitors to an art book exhibition at Luisenstraße 7. The Mergemeier book gallery also represented the exhibiting artists in other countries, including the USA.
Since the pandemic, the gallery has been presenting itself primarily digitally. The Düsseldorf artist Nicole Morello, who exhibited her first art books here in the 1990s, is now in charge. Once a week, eight artists from the ‘Akademie der Straße’ (Academy of the Street) meet in the Mergemeiers’ former flat on the upper floor, under the direction of Fiftyfifty chairwoman and artist Katharina Mayer. Formerly homeless people then devote themselves to their creative projects.
“A photo album is simply more alive than the media library on a phone without them.”
In many rooms of the bookbindery, windows offer a view of green courtyards. “The atmosphere is also important to us,” says Ulrike Meysemeyer. The people who work here should feel comfortable and get involved. Over the decades, 73 women and men have completed training at Mergemeiers. “We take on about one apprentice per year,” says Ulrike Meysemeyer. One colleague started here at the age of 14 and returned as a temporary worker at the age of 74 after retiring.
Today, there are only a few craft bookbinders left, with just under 30 trainees per apprenticeship year. However, Ulrike Meysemeyer is certain that the craft will continue because it is timeless and enduring. The 53-year-old still feels very passionate about it.
Books simply make people happy.
Every line starts somewhere.
In Düsseldorf, perhaps at Kunstpalast. In daily life, with the LAMY safari.
LET’S CREATE TOGETHER. KUNSTPALAST.DE/ BEYOND-LINES-LAMY
Typography is everywhere – but rarely celebrated. Gruppo Due is changing that. The design collective from Berlin, Offenbach, Karlsruhe and now also Düsseldorf creates fonts that are not only legible, but virtually ‘speak’. Their font ‘G2 Ciao’ adorns the headlines of this magazine; it translates voice into form – volume, pitch, tempo. ¼ of Gruppo Due is Massimiliano Audretsch, a native of Düsseldorf and, since September, professor of typography at the HSD. On behalf of the group, he talks about his homecoming to the Rhineland and why fonts are never just a tool for Gruppo Due, but an artistic medium. Together, the four designers not only experiment with digital fonts, but also create an interdisciplinary space for typographic research and exchange.
How did you come together as a collective – and what connects you in your joint work on typefaces?
We got to know each other while studying at the HfG Karlsruhe. Our first graphic design commissions led to us creating our own typefaces, which soon grew into a collection. To bundle and further develop this work, we founded Gruppo Due, a platform that develops digital typefaces and at the same time offers space for typographic research and exchange. Today, we live in Berlin, Offenbach, Düsseldorf and Karlsruhe. We are united by the conviction that typeface is more than just a tool. It is a medium that not only conveys content but can also tell a story or pose questions.
For many people, fonts seem like something abstract –you use them without thinking much about it. What significance does typography have for you? We read letters and use writing every day, and whether consciously or unconsciously, we are constantly making typographical design decisions. This makes typography very concrete and probably the most widely used design medium. It structures language, shapes perception and conveys meaning through its form before the text is even read. That’s why it should be designed much more. We specifically seek out new forms and are interested in how the expressive possibilities of typography can be expanded through digital tools and artistic methods.
Can you take us through the process: how do you develop a typeface, from the initial idea to the finished font? In the beginning, we created fonts for specific purposes: publications, posters, exhibition design, air dancers... always with an eye to legibility, attention-grabbing or manufacturability. Our aim was to cover the entire design process. So not just rearranging existing, already visually pre-formed or trendy fonts a little bit differently,
because then the look of others always resonates, but designing our own from scratch.
Your font ‘G2 Ciao’ currently adorns the headlines of THE DORF THE MAG #9. How did you implement the connection between voice and font in this typography?
We translated voice parameters into form rules for Ciao. The basic form is structured in such a way that each letter can be divided into an upper and a lower half. The upper half represents volume: more area is louder; less area is quieter. The pitch is at the bottom: slimmer is higher, stronger is lower. We thought of tempo as elongation and compression; elongated is slower, compressed is faster. This way, the font remains usable in everyday life and still conveys voice, rhythm and emphasis in its form.
If Düsseldorf were a font, what would it look like?
For me, the openness of the city is a central characteristic, rather than a single visual detail. The mixture of Rhineland cheerfulness and international influence is something very specific to Düsseldorf. A font based on this would be expressive and changeable, sometimes fast and emotional, strongly slanted as if driven by impulsive movements, causing digital ink blots, sometimes strict and controlled, almost too conservative, drawn with a sharp pen. It would be a font family with great contrasts, in which each style would have its own character.
Where can we find you in Düsseldorf when you’re not working on fonts. Do you have any favourite places, cafés, bars or corners of the city that you particularly like?
To drink: Schumacher (standing), Wyno (sitting). To eat: anywhere in Little Tokyo. To dance: Salon des Amateurs. To decompress: on the Rhine.
What does Düsseldorf sound like in 2025 ? From driving beats and soulful voices to experimental soundscapes –the city keeps reinventing itself. This year, we’re once again shining a light on fresh talents and exciting faces from the local music scene who shape the soundtrack of today and tomorrow.
Dive into our updated playlist and discover the diverse sounds of Düsseldorf.
Describe your style!
Our songs are like voice memos that were never sent –with a dash of honest kitsch.
What does good music mean to you?
We admire music in which artists use a wide variety of tools to create a depth where emotion and sound become one. This creates a world that listeners can immerse themselves in, not only hearing the narrative but also empathising with it.
Who or what inspires you?
Our influences range from artists such as FKA Twigs and Oklou to albums such as Nie verliebt by Paula Hartmann and Parachutes by Coldplay. We are also inspired by classical works such as F. Chopin’s Piano Etudes Op.10 and Op. 25 or J. Massenet’s Méditation from Thaïs, as well as producers such as Mura Masa, Nile Rodgers and Flying Lotus. Songs like Neben mir by Nina Chuba, Nur ein Wort by Wir sind Helden and Complicated by Avril Lavigne are also part of it – and beyond that, the sea, Bboy Said from the Sankofa Crew, plants and series like Stranger Things.
Your favourite song at the moment?
Anna: Manchild by Sabrina Carpenter Thai: Tipz & Trickz by Bb trickz
If Düsseldorf were a song, what would it sound like?
Probably like this:
Your favourite music venue in Düsseldorf?
The zakk, the IMM – and at home.
What’s next?
We’ll soon be releasing the title track of our EP and our first music video. Stay tuned!
Describe your style!
CURRENT RELEASE
‘THE ART OF MEMORY’ NAME
DENIZ AHMET SARIDAS & JOSHUA GOTTMANNS
SOE333.COM
@SEQUENCEOFEVENTSSOE
Terms such as ‘industrial’, ‘grunge’ or ‘shoegaze’ were mostly coined by journalists – often in a derogatory manner – and rarely used by the musicians themselves. In keeping with this tradition, we wait until someone describes our music accurately. It is heavily influenced by samples, raw and complex, yet melodic – and we like to take our time.
What does good music mean to you?
Music exists outside the human cultural sphere. Nature is full of sounds – every planet has its own sound. Jupiter, for example, is dominated by the constant lightning and thunder of its eternal storms.
Who or what inspires you?
Of course, we are influenced by great musicians. But films, books, sounds and real experiences also shape our work. There is no clear beginning and no end – everything can flow into the creative process. We often focus more on what is absent than on what we could add.
Your favourite song at the moment?
Blue Crystal Fire – Robbie Basho
If Düsseldorf were a song, what would it sound like?
Certainly, not faster than 100 BPM.
Your favourite music venue in Düsseldorf?
Velvet impresses with a strong programme, exciting rooms and a wide range of musicians and DJs –away from the old town. Giselle is nearby and also has an interesting line-up. Salon des Amateurs remains significant for us, as that’s where we got our start. And Hitsville, a record shop with great curation, is a must.
What’s next?
We’re working on a project that will keep us creatively busy for quite a while: a film. But we don’t want to reveal any more about that yet.
Describe your style!
In-your-face pop, with lots of love, loud drums and guitar. We don’t mince our words and we stick it to the squares.
What does good music mean to you?
Good music makes me feel. Melancholy, self-love, love – everything that makes me feel alive. I also love it when songs manage to be timeless and you can listen to them in all situations.
Who or what inspires you?
People who don’t pretend to be something they’re not. Life with all its fuck-ups and beautiful sides.
Your favourite song at the moment?
Der Weg – Herbert Grönemeyer.
If Düsseldorf were a song, what would it sound like?
OMG, that would definitely be one of our unreleased songs, Schickimicki or obviously An Tagen wie diesen by Die Toten Hosen. I used to listen to that all the time.
Your favourite music venue in Düsseldorf?
I used to love going to Cube to dance and to zakk to see concerts. The Tube was sweet too, but sadly had to close. The live scene isn’t doing so well these days. So people, go to gigs, buy tickets and support the local music scene.
What’s next?
We definitely have some songs in the pipeline. But first, a cover of one of our favourite tracks will be coming out soon. Which one it is – you’ll find out.
CURRENT RELEASE ‘NOTICE’
GENRE
INDIE POP WITH FOLK AND DREAM POP ELEMENTS
@COSIMANANDANA
Describe your style!
I write all my songs alone with my guitar first. The instrumental part usually develops during the production and recording of the vocals. I especially like to experiment with my voice, polyphony and harmonies – that gives my music this dreamy character that I really like. My sound is somewhere between classic singer/songwriter and dream pop.
What does good music mean to you?
That’s difficult to narrow down, because there’s so much good music out there, but for me, music centres around emotions – it either sweeps me away or it doesn’t. I started writing songs about situations in my life when I was a child, which is why I’ve always paid particular attention to lyrics. For me, good music isn’t limited to one genre. There are so many talented musicians, and I’m always discovering new things that completely blow me away.
Who or what inspires you?
My inspiration usually comes from situations or feelings that I’m processing or dealing with. But my family and the people in my immediate circle also play a role and inspire me. But the person who inspired me to write songs was Tyler Joseph from Twenty One Pilots, my favourite band for almost ten years.
Your favourite song at the moment?
Right now, it’s Cannock Chase by Labi Siffre, Nude
by Radiohead and, while I’m at it, Midwest Indigo by Twenty One Pilots!
If Düsseldorf were a song, what would it sound like?
Alter Ego by Tame Impala – it reminds me of long, sunny walks in the Volksgarten. It sounds nostalgic to me and also helps me to block out the hustle and bustle from time to time.
Your favourite music venue in Düsseldorf?
My bed or the daisy meadow in the Volksgarten, where I wrote most of my songs. Otherwise, I’ve spent many great evenings at zakk or in the Mitsubishi Hall and heard some amazing music.
What’s next?
In September, I started working on my new song Rotten – a project that involves a lot of talented people and that I’m really excited about. If all goes well, the song will be out by the end of autumn or early winter. I’ve also been playing a few smaller gigs lately and hope that more will follow.
Describe your style!
Two best friends interpret their coming of age: Soulquarian throwback, half-open eyes, new moon on the beach, city parks, bedroom pop for jazz clubs, dreamy synths, cassettes in the grass – and lowkey too many water themes in the writing!
What does good music mean to you?
Good music creates a film in your mind’s eye. It transports people into worlds they haven’t been to in a long time – or that don’t even exist – and that can bring them into rare, unique communities.
Who or what inspires you?
Artists who are not only incredibly talented, but also stand up for their communities, values and politics: Nina Simone, Basquiat, Yedoye Travis, NoName, etc., etc., etc. ... and awesome food.
Your favourite song at the moment?
Idea 5 (Call My Name) – Kokoroko, LULU
If Düsseldorf were a song, what would it sound like?
Does ‘glittery’ make sense?
Your favourite music venue in Düsseldorf?
Shoutout to the IMM Jam Session at Café Freiraum!
What’s next?
We are planning three small EPs – each with its own vibe and a wide variety of musicians! From saxophone and violin to rap and a live band, everything is included. Why don’t you come along on the ride?
Describe your style!
With Murasaki Waves, we have set ourselves the goal of bringing city pop to life in the best possible way. The term describes Western-influenced music by Japanese artists of the 70s and 80s. Characteristic features include strong influences from jazz, funk and soul, as well as lyrics that seem positive and carefree in light of the economic boom at the time and focus on themes such as love, summer and big cities. It’s a genre that is enormous fun to listen to – and comes with just the right touch of kitsch. Live, in addition to a tight rhythm section and charismatic vocals, we impress audiences above all with our three-part horn section.
mountains, love, driving, heartbreak, images, pain, cats, dancing and films.
Your favourite song at the moment?
Tut den Song in eure Playlist und macht viele TikToks (Add the song to your playlist and make lots of TikToks) – SSIO
If Düsseldorf were a song, what would it sound like?
What does good music mean to you?
Every time I try to quantify my fascination with a piece of music, even in a subjective way, I end up at a dead end. Music is a deeply intuitive process that depends heavily on the moment. But I believe that the passion and signature style of the authors always play a big role – whether consciously or unconsciously.
Who or what inspires you?
Places, experiences and people who have understood the presence of all-encompassing love and use it for themselves – whether they are friends or celebrities. At the moment, I am also inspired by clouds, cities,
Unfortunately (still) like AI-generated EDM or house music. However, initiatives by institutions such as THE DORF are well on their way to changing that –and I’m very happy about that.
Your favourite music venue in Düsseldorf?
The zakk – a place where music and events take place almost every day. I am particularly grateful for the annual Newcomer Festival. With a lot of passion and heart and soul, young musicians are offered a stage here – you can feel that both as a participant and as a spectator.
What’s next?
In short: more gigs, more venues, more songs, more merch!
Describe your style!
Indie rock to scream and dance to. Lots of guitars!
What does good music mean to you?
Good music moves you – in many different ways. And it doesn’t matter whether it’s a three-chord pop song or a complex jazz fusion number.
Who or what inspires you?
My bandmates
Your favourite song at the moment?
Mangetout – Wet Leg
If Düsseldorf were a song, what would it sound like?
Modular synthesiser meets punk rock.
Your favourite music venue in Düsseldorf?
I’ve seen some of the best concerts at zakk – from Idles to Blond. But not just as a spectator: we’ve also performed there many times as a band. The atmosphere is always great, and by now it almost feels like a home game.
What’s next?
After our singles Florida and A-S-S in 2025, we’re working on more songs to complete our debut EP. We’re always playing live somewhere nearby –check out our Instagram and come along to scream and dance with us!
A glass of wine, a freshly tapped beer or an extraordinary cocktail – Düsseldorf has the right drink for every taste. Stay inside or sit outdoors in traditional breweries, cosy wine bars or sleek contemporary venues. Pair your drink with tapas, finger food or other tasty bites. Whether you take a seat at the ‘longest bar in the world’ or explore the city’s many charming neighbourhood spots – good times are guaranteed.
BEUYS BAR
A stylish cocktail bar paying tribute to Joseph Beuys –where art and mixology meet in perfect balance.
Neubrückstraße 2
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt beuys-bar.com
BAR HOTEL AROSA
A small yet legendary basement bar tucked away inside Hotel Arosa. Sonderburgstraße 48 40545 Düsseldorf · Oberkassel instagram.com/arosa.bar
BAR COLETTE
A laid-back classic club bar serving excellent Gin & Tonics. Oberkasseler Straße 79 40545 Düsseldorf · Oberkassel instagram.com/colette.la.belle
BAR ELLINGTON
A true classic – one of the city’s most elegant and renowned bars, located just steps from the main station.
Scheurenstraße 5
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt instagram.com/ellington_bar
HIDEAWAY
Hidden from the street, this speakeasy serves inventive cocktails by Japanese bartender Yuto Nagasawa.
Jahnstraße 6
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt bar-hideaway.de
HOTEL HOTEL
Apéro, drinks and dancing by Walid El Sheikh – stylish design and vibrant crowd included.
Andreasstraße 13 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt instagram.com/hotelhotel
LUPIN
A cosy neighbourhood bar in Flingern offering a huge selection of creative and beautifully crafted gin drinks.
Ackerstraße 109 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern lupin-bar.de
MÁTI COCKTAILBAR
BAR LOLA
A cocktail lab and electric salon celebrating queer culture and friends – where everyone is welcome.
Adersstraße 19
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt barlola.de
CREAMCHEESE
The iconic artist bar Creamcheese is back at Kunstpalast –open Fridays and Saturdays.
Kunstpalast, Ehrenhof 4-5 40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort kunstpalast.de
DSTRCT ART
This bar stands out with its unusual and highly creative cocktail creations – crafted with style and precision.
Schloßstraße 19 40477 Düsseldorf · Pempelfort dstrctart.de
ELEPHANT BAR
Run by the team behind Three Little Birds, with fine drinks and a curated music line-up.
Kurze Straße 3 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt instagram.com/elephant.bar
PETIT PUNCH
From freshly tapped beers to crafted cocktails and classic long drinks – there’s something for every taste.
Jülicher Straße 9 40477 Düsseldorf · Pempelfort instagram.com/ petit.punch.drinkery
SAKURA BAR
Mediterranean-inspired cocktails and wines served in the cool and vibrant Lorettoviertel.
Neusser Straße 123 40219 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk instagram.com/mati__bar
MELODY BAR
An evergreen and true gem nestled in the heart of Düsseldorf’s Old Town.
Kurze Straße 12 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt instagram.com/melody_bar_dus
MEZCALERIA ROJO
A bar dedicated to mezcal, tequila and pisco – celebrating Latin spirits and good vibes. ¡Salud!
Hunsrückenstraße 16-18 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt instagram.com/mezcaleria.rojo
A cocktail bar in Düsseldorf’s Japanese Quarter offering an international selection of drinks in a stylish setting.
Immermannstraße 50 40210 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte instagram.com/ sakurabar_duesseldorf
SQUARE BAR
Creative cocktails made with homemade ingredients –no glitter, just craft. Collenbachstraße 57 40476 Düsseldorf · Derendorf squarebar.online
BAR STUDIO 1
Cosy, quirky and a little eerie – with great music and a mixed crowd. Jahnstraße 2a 40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt instagram.com/bar_studio_1_
SIR WALTER
A bar and club – one of the city’s most popular nightlife spots. Best to come early.
Heinrich-Heine-Allee 12 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt instagram.com/sirwalter.bar
THE OAK’S BAR
Relaxed vibes, great cocktails and authentic charm in the Old Town.
Hunsrückenstraße 14
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt theoaksbar.de
THE PARIS CLUB BAR
A bar on the 17th floor of the 25hours Hotel offering a spectacular panoramic view over Düsseldorf.
Louis-Pasteur-Platz 1 40211 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte theparisclub.de
VELVET
Café, restaurant and bar –seasonal, regional and organic. By day, Velvet serves all-day breakfast and lunch; on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings with dinner, drinks and a curated music programme.
Stresemannstraße 8 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte velvetcollective.com
BAR CHÉRIE
A charming wine and cocktail bar with a cosy shabby-chic atmosphere, serving tarte flambée and small seasonal dishes.
Kurze Straße 2
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt instagram.com/bar.cherie
COCO CHÉRIE
The little big sister of Bar Chérie opens right next door in November 2025.
Kurze Straße 2a
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt instagram.com/bar.cherie
BULLE WEINBAR
Café by day, wine bar by night – run by Bulle Bäckerei at the Philara Collection. Birkenstraße 47a
40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern instagram.com/weinbar.by.bulle
BYLINY BAR
A cosy neighbourhood bar offering a fine selection of wines, creative drinks and tasty bites.
Wissmannstraße 1
40219 Düsseldorf · Unterbilk byliny-bar.de
CLAUDE WEINBAR
Handpicked wines, fine spirits and signature dishes from Ange d’Or Junior’s tradition in Essen-Kettwig. Kirchfeldstraße 120
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt claude-weinbar.de
CUVÉE
Wine and tapas bar in Flingern by the Naturburschen – try the currywurst!
Hermannstraße 64
40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern cuvee-flingern.de
CYAR BAR
A refined selection of VDP wines and freshly tapped Kirin beer. Klosterstraße 68a
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte instagram.com/cyan_bar
EISKELLERBAR
A wine bar in a vaulted cellar next to the Kunstakademie, serving fine wines alongside selected cheese and charcuterie specialities.
Eiskellerberg 1-3
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt eiskellerbar.de
FETT WEINBAR
A stylish wine and listening bar with laid-back vibes – and the occasional dancing on weekends. Hunsrückenstraße 16-18
40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt instagram.com/fett.weinbar
FLECKENSTEINS
A regularly changing menu featuring Mediterranean, German and occasionally exotic cuisine – complemented by a large selection of excellent wines.
Schloßstraße 40
40477 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort fleckensteins.de
GALERIE AM KARLPLATZ
Delicious wines from around the world and refined small dishes – served in a charming spot right by Carlsplatz.
Benrather Straße 6b 40213 Düsseldorf · Carlstadt galerie-am-karlplatz.de
KAKHABER
A relaxed Georgian bar serving delicious wines and small authentic dishes in a cosy atmosphere.
Rethelstraße 100 40237 Düsseldorf ∙ Düsseltal kakhaber.de
LE PRÉ WINE BAR
A curated selection of fine wines from Burgundy and Champagne – where craftsmanship meets elegance.
Bilker Allee 171b 40217 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt instagram.com/ leprewinebardusseldorf
POMMES UND WEIN
Fries, wine and cool people – by sommelier #asktoni in a former snack bar.
Graf-Adolf-Platz 1 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Unterbilk pommesundwein.de
RHEINTON
A cosy wine bar with charm and a genuine passion for good wine and food.
Gartenstraße 28 40479 Düsseldorf · Pempelfort wein-rheinton.de
SCHLAFENDES AUGE
Wine bar by Eigelstein with about 100 wines from Germany, Austria and South Tyrol. Hammer Straße 17 40219 Düsseldorf · Hafen instagram.com/schlafendes_ auge
VINO’S WEINBAR
A sophisticated wine bar in Carlstadt featuring an impressive, classic vaulted cellar. Bilker Straße 3 40213 Düsseldorf · Carlstadt vinosweinbar.de
WYNO
Cult wine bar with rustic charm and great wines. Ackerstraße 49 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern instagram.com/wyno.weinbar
BRAUEREI
SCHUMACHER
Traditional beer culture and Rhenish cuisine served in the cosy, historic building of Düsseldorf’s oldest Altbier brewery. Oststraße 123 40210 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte schumacher-alt.de
UERIGE
A traditional brewery serving Rhenish dishes in the heart of the Old Town –the perfect spot to enjoy a cold Altbier outdoors.
Berger Straße 1 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt uerige.de
FRANKENHEIM
Housed in the former Frankenheim brewery building – where, sadly, no beer is brewed anymore – this spot now serves delicious Rhenish and German cuisine.
Wielandstraße 16 40211 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte frankenheim-ausschank.com
FÜCHSCHEN
One of Düsseldorf’s traditional house breweries, serving Rhenish cuisine and homemade Altbier in the heart of the legendary Ratinger Straße. Ratinger Straße 28 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt fuechschen.de
KÜRZER
Lively Old Town pub of Düsseldorf’s youngest Altbier brewery, now also with a brewery and beer garden on Fichtenstraße.
Kurze Straße 20 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt Fichtenstraße 21 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern brauerei-kuerzer.de
BRAUEREI
ZUM SCHLÜSSEL
A traditional Altbier brewery dating back to 1850, featuring a beautiful terrace in the heart of Düsseldorf’s Old Town.
Bolkerstraße 41-47 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt zumschluessel.de
PUBS
BILKER HÄZZ
Cosy Fortuna Düsseldorf pub. Bilker Allee 208 40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt bilker-haezz.de
BIRKENECK
A delightfully scruffy old-school corner pub – authentic, loud and full of Düsseldorf charm.
Ackerstraße 86 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern
BRAUART
British beers, cider, mead and more – from fruit wines to crispy chips.
Emmastraße 25 40227 Düsseldorf · Oberbilk brauart-duesseldorf.de
CAFÉ KNÜLLE
An evergreen bistro-pub serving delicious coffee by day and great drinks by night. Oberbilker Allee 24 40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt instagram.com/cafeknuelle
DIE BLENDE
80s rock pub with pool, darts and live sports – unchanged for decades.
Friedrichstraße 122
40217 Düsseldorf · Friedrichstadt dieblende.net
ENGELCHEN
An Old Town institution –loud, gritty and bursting with Rock’n’Roll energy.
Kurze Straße 15
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt
ET KABÜFFKE
KILLEPITSCHSTUBE
Historic pub and home of the iconic Killepitsch schnapps.
Flinger Straße 1
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt killepitsch.de
HOLY CRAFT BEER BAR
Düsseldorf’s first craft beer bar, offering more than 100 different beers from Germany and around the world.
Liefergasse 11
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt holycraft.de
KEPLER-ECK
Traditional local pub for football, beer and schnapps – open late.
Keplerstraße 18
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt
KREUZHERRENECKE
Legendary pub on Ratinger Straße, once frequented by artists like Joseph Beuys. Now under new management. Altestadt 14
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt kreuzherrenecke.info
BAR KONVEX
A funky student bar in Flingern with a changing music programme and a laid-back atmosphere on Albertstraße. Albertstraße 113 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern bar-konvex.de
Traditional Flingern pub for locals and friends. Wülfrather Straße 28 40233 Düsseldorf ∙ Flingern instagram.com/ cafelotte_duesseldorf
OHME JUPP
A pub restaurant and true Old Town institution on Düsseldorf’s famous Ratinger Straße. Ratinger Straße 19 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt ohme-jupp.de
O’REILLY’S IRISH PUB
Our favourite spot for football, Guinness and good food – with a friendly international crowd and weekend karaoke nights. (Briefly renamed the Ed Sheeran Pub in 2025!)
Mutter-Ey-Straße 1 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt oreillys.com
PAUL’S
Classic Oberkassel pub with a cosy interior and leafy terrace. Düsseldorfer Straße 82 40545 Düsseldorf · Oberkassel instagram.com/pauls.obk
PITCHER
Pub with live concerts, poetry slams and a true Rock’n’Roll spirit.
Oberbilker Allee 29
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt pitcher29.com
RETEMATÄNG
Casual spot for drinks and Fortuna Düsseldorf games.
Ratinger Straße 43 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt retematäng.de
SCHAUKELSTÜHLCHEN
A cosy pub with a long-standing tradition, located in the heart of Düsseldorf’s Old Town.
Kurze Straße 18
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt
SCHMALBAUCH
Greek food, Füchschen Altbier and Fortuna on screen.
Birkenstraße 46
40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern schmalbauch.de
ZUM GOLDENEN EINHORN
An institution! Casual pub with courtyard, wooden bar and giant cakes.
Ratinger Straße 18
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt einhorn-duesseldorf.de
ZUR UEL
The history of this traditional brewery dates back to the 18 th century – a true Düsseldorf classic.
Ratinger Straße 16
40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt zuruel.de
DISCOVER MORE PLACES TO DRINK: THEDORF.DE
Day or night – there’s always something to celebrate in Düsseldorf. Whether you want to dance the night away, relax and listen to jazz or simply enjoy drinks to cool DJ sets, music fans are guaranteed to get their money’s worth here. From open-air rooftop parties to concerts and festivals, good vibes and nice people are always included. Day drinking is the buzzword of the moment, and community events are popping up on every corner. And even without a classic club scene, the city offers plenty of variety with its creative collectives and constantly new venues.
OUR PERSONAL FAVOURITE NEW ADDITIONS
AK47
Iconic stage for raw punk rock sound.
Kiefernstraße 23
40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern ak47-dusseldorf.com
AMPERE CLUB
New venue at Stahlwerk, uniting concerts, club nights and culture with space for 400 and an in-house booking team.
Ronsdorfer Straße 134 40233 Düsseldorf · Lierenfeld instagram.com/ampere.club
GISELLE
A fresh bar & club concept on Oststraße blending house beats with fine natural wines and crafted drinks.
Oststraße 147
40210 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte instagram.com/giselle.dus
BAR LOLA
Cocktail lab and electric salon for queer and friends.
Adersstraße 19 40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt barlola.de
NILSSON
An urban space dedicated to art, music, culture and social engagement.
Martinstraße 58 40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk instagram.com/nilsson_______
OH BABY ANNA
Intimate club for electronic music with outstanding light and sound.
Andreasstraße 11 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt ohbabyanna.de
PONG’s second venue in Hofgarten for pop culture, drinks and events.
Theatermuseum
Jägerhofstraße 1 40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/ping.nrw
GRAF
An electro club and cultural hub combining weekday arts with weekend-night beats.
Graf-Adolf-Straße 39
40210 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte instagram.com/graf39club
KIESGRUBE
Iconic open-air series for electronic music, based at Am Blankenwasser in Neuss –just outside Düsseldorf – with rotating venues off-season. Am Blankenwasser
Sudermannstraße 5-7 41468 Neuss · Uedesheim kiesgrube.net
KIT CAFÉ
The KIT Museum café by day, live music from around the world by night. Mannesmannufer 1b 40213 Düsseldorf · Carlstadt kit-cafe.com
REINRAUM
An offspace for art and music hidden beneath Adersplatz.
Adersstraße 30 40215 Düsseldorf · Friedrichstadt reinraum-ev.de
RHEINRIFF
The world’s largest indoor surf hall – also a unique venue for parties and events. Hansaallee 321 40549 Düsseldorf · Lörick rheinriff.com
SALON DES AMATEURS
A café and music venue located in the foyer – or outdoors in summer – in front of the NRWForum museum.
Ehrenhof 2 40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort instagram.com/pong.nrw
RATINGER HOF
An iconic Düsseldorf venue and cradle of German punk, now entering a new chapter under fresh direction – still hosting a wide range of concerts and music events.
Ratinger Straße 10 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt ratingerhof-duesseldorf.de
A Düsseldorf legend: for over two decades, the Salon des Amateurs has been home to sophisticated sounds and an artsy crowd next to the Kunsthalle. As the museum undergoes renovation, the venue will move temporarily – stay tuned via THE DORF and Instagram for updates. salondesamateurs.de
SCHLEUSE ZWEI
Located in the ‘Bilker Bunker’, this music bar has become one of Düsseldorf’s most important spots for quality sound – hosting bar nights, DJ sets, live performances and concerts.
Aachener Straße 39 40223 Düsseldorf ∙ Bilk bilkerbunker.de/schleuse-zwei
SIR WALTER
Bar and club – one of the city’s most popular nightlife spots. Best come early.
Heinrich-Heine-Allee 12 40213 Düsseldorf · Altstadt instagram.com/sirwalter.bar
STADTSTRAND
Open-air ‘city beaches’ along the Rhine featuring a wide cultural and music programme throughout summer. Enjoy a drink and street food while taking in the view – across three locations.
Mannesmannufer, Tonhallenufer, Robert-Lehr-Ufer stadtstrand-duesseldorf.de
Nightclub, party venue, bar and event space – with the historic Rathaus courtyard coming alive in summer. Rathausufer 8 40213 Düsseldorf · Carlstadt the-eight.de
WP8
One of Düsseldorf’s oldest artists’ associations, hosting parties and events at Worringer Platz. Kölner Straße 73 40211 Düsseldorf · Stadtmitte wp8.org
ZAKK
A sociocultural centre in Düsseldorf presenting an ambitious programme of concerts, readings and parties – where community and creativity meet.
Fichtenstraße 40 40233 Düsseldorf · Flingern zakk.de
Please check out the event organiser’s websites & social media for more info.
ABOUT REPETITION E.V.
The non-profit organisation creates space for art and music to connect and evolve. about-repetition.com
Every Thursday from July to September, Böhler Park becomes the city’s open-air afterwork spot with street food, drinks and live DJ sets. areal-boehler.de
An open-air event series presenting a sophisticated line-up of international electronic music. instagram.com/avontuur.events
BOOMBOX
A party series blending oldschool vibes, R’n’B, disco, afrobeats and Detroit house –taking place at various locations across the city. instagram.com/boombox_cru
A Düsseldorf-based party series and DJ collective hosting events at changing venues across the city. instagram.com/bumsch4ck
BUTTERZART
Day and night parties pairing house beats with good wine and food. instagram.com/butterzart_ofc
A community radio and DJ collective based in Düsseldorf, broadcasting and promoting diverse electronic sounds from Monday to Sunday. callshopradio.com
DEEPERHOUSEMUSIC
Düsseldorf-based community and vinyl label founded in 2013, dedicated to soulful grooves and timeless sound. instagram.com/deeperhousemusic
DISCOTECA NOW
Every Friday, Discotheca Now turns The Paradise Now into a late-night dance floor from 11 pm onwards. instagram.com/discoteca.now
DORF DISKOTHEK
Our very own party series –hosted by THE DORF and friends. Stay tuned for the next edition.
instagram.com/dorfdiskothek
FEM_POP
A concert series showcasing female and FLINTA* artists –celebrating diversity and welcoming all genders. instagram.com/ fem_pop_konzerte
GET2GETHER
Community and party series where music producers, dancers and artists vibe, connect, create and chill. instagram.com/get2gether.dus
GET OVER IT
A FLINTA* party collective from Düsseldorf creating safer spaces for dance, sound and connection. instagram.com/ getoverit_collective
HAWĀ OPEN AIR
Immersive party series at Düsseldorf Airport blending sound, light and Hawā energy – 21+. instagram.com/hawa.openair
IMM JAM SESSION
A series of open jam sessions organised by jazz and pop students from the Institute of Music and Media at the Robert Schumann University in Düsseldorf – a playground for experimenting, performing and creating across all genres. instagram.com/immjamsession
KOLORIT
Platform for experimental sound and audiovisual art. instagram.com/ kolorit_soundkollektiv
MIXIMIXI
Regular DJ night at the KIT Café with sunset vibes and house music all night long. instagram.com/miximixi_dus
ODEZZA
Electronic music movement bringing open-air nights and one-off festival productions to Düsseldorf landmarks like the Fischmarkt and the Rheinterrasse. odezza-event.de
Party series mixing electroclash, experimental electronics and everything from hip hop to techno. instagram.com/rar_reihe
RELOAD
Founded in 2022 by DJ CH!EF, this Düsseldorf party series embraces an open-genre philosophy –no limits, just sound. instagram.com/reload.wav
RITUS UNDERGROUND SHOWS
Live concert series exploring psychedelia, kraut, wave, drone, ambient and avantgarde sounds. instagram.com/ ritus_underground_shows
RIVER CLUB
A touring party series bringing great music and atmosphere to changing locations across Düsseldorf. instagram.com/riverclub.dus
SAFE
Digital platform connecting DJs, electronic music and the city. saferoomsessions.de
SESSIONS
A night celebrating music, art, dance and poetry – known for its unique atmosphere and inspiring crowd. instagram.com/sessionsorg
SHAPES & SHADES
A German ballroom collective based in Düsseldorf, celebrating self-expression, community and voguing culture. instagram.com/ shapes.und.shades
SLIQ
Inclusive club nights at Bar Giselle for every body and identity. instagram.com/sliq.nights
SOULCRUISE
Soul music party series at changing venues around Düsseldorf. soulcruise.de
SOULSIDE
A collective of musicians from Düsseldorf working across R’n’B, neo-soul and rap – united by groove and creativity. instagram.com/wearesoulside
STRANDPIRATEN
Legendary open-air parties drawing Düsseldorf’s party crowd. strandpiraten-duesseldorf.de
SYMBIOTIC
Curated and hosted by Trancesetters of Westphalia instagram.com/symbiotic___
TASTY RADIO
Disco, house, funk and hip hop vibes all night. instagram.com/tasty.radio
UNERHÖRT MUSIC
A music label dedicated to minimal, tech house and deep house – focused on refined sound and rhythm. unerhoertmusic.com
UNTERDENSTERNEN
Techno collective from Düsseldorf. instagram.com/ unter.den.sternen
WE LOVE THE BEAT
Old-school grooves and beats with Charly Murphy & friends –sometimes with BBQ. instagram.com/welovethebeat
DUS IST LIEBE
A community for making new friends and sharing creativity, culture, deep talks and ideas –all while doing something fun together. instagram.com/dusistliebe
DÜSSELDORF
SOCIAL CLUB
Community for genuine friendships and real connections through events. instagram.com/dussocialclub
STADTFREUNDE
Social events and community. instagram.com/stadtfreunde
SUNDAY RUNNING CLUB
Running collective by Another Cotton Lab with runs, parties and community spirit. instagram.com/anothercottonlab
MUSIC FESTIVALS
APPROXIMATION FESTIVAL
Founded in 2005 by Volker Bertelmann (HAUSCHKA) and Aron Mehzion at the Salon des Amateurs of Kunsthalle Düsseldorf, the Approximation Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025 – showcasing boundary-crossing piano music that bridges genres and generations. 27–29 November 2025 approximation-festival.de
14th edition of Düsseldorf’s festival of the arts, coming in summer 2026 asphalt-festival.de
In late summer 2026, the sixth edition of Chance Festival will celebrate Franco-German pop culture, diversity and sustainability with music, art and good vibes. chance-festival.com
A true Düsseldorf institution: concerts, theatre and circus performances take place in the theatre tent on Burgplatz –returning in autumn 2026. duesseldorf-festival.de
A festival for pop culture taking place at Ehrenhof and Hofgarten Park – now running parallel to the New Fall Festival on 31 October and 1 November 2025 ehrenhof-open.de
Open-air concerts, quiz nights and day festivals will bring summer vibes to VierLinden OpenAir throughout summer 2026 goldmucke.de
GOLZHEIM FEST
A full weekend of live music, a flea market and perfect openair vibes beneath the TheodorHeuss-Brücke – and it’s all for free in August 2026 golzheimfest.de
LIEBLINGSPLATTE FESTIVAL
An annual festival at zakk presenting iconic albums from German pop history live on stage – returning in December 2025. lieblingsplatte-festival.de
LOVEBIRD FESTIVAL
With jazz as its foundation, the festival explores new sound combinations – from jazz and hip hop to electro, indie, funk and soul. Taking place in summer 2026 lovebird-festival.de
MUSIKGARTEN
From May to September, intimate live sessions at the Areal Böhler turn unexpected venues into stages for emerging artists. areal-boehler.de/musikgarten
NEW FALL FESTIVAL
Since its launch, the New Fall Festival has stood for a unique blend of contemporary music and extraordinary venues –where international stars meet emerging artists new-fall-festival.de
SMALL TALK, EVENTS & OTHER STUFF
For the latest dates of the best events and parties in town, visit: thedorf.de/duesseldorf/ tipps-und-termine
BRAND NEW EVERY FRIDAY
DISCOVER MORE PLACES TO DANCE: THEDORF.DE
"Prima la
by Gaetano Donizetti from Thursday, 2 October 2025, at Opernhaus Düsseldorf
Where is the best place to sleep after a long day in Düsseldorf? Our list of hotels will guide you. Indulge a luxurious stay in the heart of the city. Relax in stylishly furnished rooms, dream away in romantic boutique hotels or unwind in an idyllic setting just outside the city – but one thing they all have in common is that you are sure to feel right at home.
25HOURS HOTEL DAS TOUR
The stylish hotel blends French flair with German engineering excellence, offering spectacular views over the city. Enjoy the French rooftop bar, restaurant, and the new café.
Louis-Pasteur-Platz 1
40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte 25hours-hotels.com
HOTEL AMANO DÜSSELDORF
The Berlin-based AMANO Group brings its signature urban lifestyle to Düsseldorf. Warm woods, marble and brass meet bold design details, art, and a vibrant lobby that doubles as bar, café and co-working space. Perfectly located between the main station and the Kö.
Graf-Adolf-Straße 60 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte amanogroup.de
This romantic, family-run boutique hotel boasts a beautiful secret garden with a swimming pool. The restaurant offers delicious Wiener Schnitzel and a variety of international dishes. Karl-Kleppe-Straße 20 40474 Düsseldorf ∙ Golzheim ashleysgarden.de
For more than 200 years, the Breidenbacher Hof has been a landmark of luxury and hospitality in Düsseldorf. The Duchy brasserie delights guests with French cuisine infused with local flavours. Enjoy creative cocktails in the piano bar!
Königsallee 11 40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte breidenbacherhof.com
THE CLOUD ONE
The design hotel The Cloud One is part of the Motel One Group and has moved into the Kö-Bogen in the city centre.
Joachim-Erwin-Platz 1 40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte the-cloud-one.com
THE FRITZ
Dutch design excellence: THE FRITZ is a supercool boutique design hotel. The in-house restaurant, Fritz’s Frau Franzi, combines casual elegance with top-tier cuisine.
Adersstraße 8 40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt the-fritz-hotel.de
HENRI HOTEL
The cool boutique hotel houses 79 studios in a 1960s former office building. With its cosy lounge, it creates a feel-good atmosphere that makes you feel at home with a friend.
Am Wehrhahn 86 40211 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte henri-hotels.com
If you want to meet Hollywood stars or the German national football team, this is the place to be. The 5 -star hotel offers a stunning view over the Rhine and Düsseldorf ’s skyline. Plus: enjoy a delicious dinner at the French-American Brasserie DOX or a drink at Hyatt’s futuristic Pebbles Bar
Speditionstraße 19
40221 Düsseldorf ∙ Hafen dusseldorf.regency.hyatt.com
HOTEL KÖ59
The Kö 59 Hotel at the upper end of Königsallee impresses not only with its comfort and prime location but also with its namesake restaurant by TV chef Björn Freitag. Königsallee 59
40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte hommage-hotels.com
MAX BROWN MIDTOWN
Super cool design interior, a record player in every room and a charming little bar.
Max Brown Midtown is located in the heart of Düsseldorf ’s Japanese quarter and shopping streets.
Kreuzstraße 19a
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte maxbrownhotels.com
Whether you prefer the minimalist Japanese aesthetic in the Little Tokyo district or posh Düsseldorf opulence in Oberkassel: the two Düsseldorf me and all hotels have it all!
Immermannstraße 23
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte Hansaallee 1a 40549 Düsseldorf ∙ Oberkassel duesseldorf.meandallhotels.com
MELIA HOTEL
Situated in the middle of the green Hofgarten, just a stone’s throw away from the city centre, the upper floors offer fantastic views of the city and the Rhine.
Inselstraße 2
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort melia.com
MOXY DÜSSELDORF CITY
The fresh and trendy concept of Marriott Hotels: Enjoy the view from 11 floors, right next to the Japanese quarter on Oststraße. Oststraße 86
40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte Bonner Straße 59
40589 Düsseldorf ∙ Holthausen moxy-hotels.marriott.com
MUZE HOTEL
This boutique hotel, centrally located near the Hofgarten and Goethe Museum in Pempelfort, combines comfort with contemporary art. The interior is inspired by the early 1950s while simultaneously striving to create a modern ambiance.
Prinz-Georg-Straße 126
40479 Düsseldorf ∙ Pempelfort muze-hotels.com/ muze-dusseldorf
LOHAUSERHOF
The Lohauserhof combines the idyllic atmosphere of the traditional Vierkanthof with modern accents.
Lohauser Dorfstraße 53 40474 Düsseldorf ∙ Lohausen lohauserhof.de/hotel
RUBY COCO HOTEL & BAR
At Ruby Coco Hotel, everything revolves around fashion. The name is inspired by the iconic designer Coco Chanel. Located right next to the Königsallee, it’s perfect for a shopping trip. The hotel’s public areas feature a ‘Parisian chic’ interior with elements of the 1920s and 1930s.
Steinstraße 13
40212 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte ruby-hotels.com
STAGE 47 HOTEL
The hotel is located right next door to the Savoy theatre –perhaps that’s why the 27 luxury suites and spacious rooms are named after famous artists.
Graf-Adolf-Straße 47 40210 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte stage47.de
TRIBE HOTEL
RUBY LENI HOTEL & BAR
Welcome on stage: the second Ruby Design Hotel in Düsseldorf is housed in a former operetta theater. Upon entering, you will immediately be transported to the theatrical world of the 1950s, thanks to the multifaceted decor featuring period-original antiques. Plus, enjoy a cool bar, a cosy café and a charming outdoor terrace.
Jahnstraße 3 40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Friedrichstadt ruby-hotels.com
RUBY LUNA HOTEL & BAR
The third Ruby Luna Hotel & Bar opened just a stone’s throw away from Düsseldorf ’s Old Town and Carlsplatz, with a Space Age theme. When night falls, don’t miss the view from the rooftop observatory – it’s a must-see.
Kasernenstraße 39 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Carlstadt ruby-hotels.com
On the site of the legendary Bhagwan parties, Düsseldorf’s first TRIBE Hotel is housed in a beautiful historic building.
Graf-Adolf-Straße 81–87 40215 Düsseldorf ∙ Stadtmitte tribehotels.com/de/ deutschland/dusseldorf
A luxurious boutique hotel from The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, housed in the former country and district court building.
Mühlenstraße 34 40213 Düsseldorf ∙ Altstadt hyatt.com
DESIGN
THE DORF THE MARKET
The very best of design, fashion and food from Düsseldorf –all day long on Jägerhofallee at Hofgarten. Curated by THE DORF.
25 July 2026 thedorf.de
CREATIVE EVENT CREATIVEMORNINGS DUS
Monthly talks for the creative community, covering a wide range of social topics. creativemornings.com/cities/dus
CREATIVE EVENT BEYOND TELLERRAND beyond tellerrand is turning 15! The event took place for the first time in Düsseldorf in 2011 Join the technology and creative scenes get-together to celebrate 15 years of beyond tellerrand. 27 & 28 April 2026 beyondtellerrand.com
BUSINESS STARTUP WEEK DUS
One week of innovation, entrepreneurship, and progress –featuring the Future Tech Fest as a highlight.
September 2026 startupwoche-dus.de
FASHION
DFD FESTIVAL EDITION
A diverse range of fashion shows, beauty, art, culture and lifestyle events accompanied by gastronomic delights will enliven Düsseldorf ’s city centre.
25 July 2026 dfd-festival.de
ART
POP-UP ARTISTIK FESTIVAL
Acrobatics, mime and street art that will amaze you in Düsseldorf. August 2026 popupartistik.de
THEATRE
DAS BUCH DER UNRUHE BY FERNANDO PESSOA
Düsseldorfer Schauspielhaus presents Fernando Pessoa’s seminal work The Book of Disquiet in a poetic, dreamlike production by Luise Voigt. Pessoa, one of the most important European writers and a national poet of Portugal, reflects on existence with rare intimacy. Premiere in March 2026 dhaus.de
THEATRE
THEATERMACHER BY THOMAS BERNHARD
Christina Tscharyiski directs this biting satire, with Rosa Enskat as Bruscon, the self-proclaimed state actor who rages against art, society and himself.
Premiering April 2026
Kleines Haus / Düsseldorfer Schauspielhaus dhaus.de
OPERA
MARÍA DE BUENOS AIRES –ASTOR PIAZZOLLA
Piazzolla’s operita blends tango, jazz and classical music to tell the surreal story of María – a woman who loves, suffers, and is ultimately reborn as a mythical figure of tango. A fusion of tango, chamber opera, oratorio and surreal theatre – reimagined
in poetic images by director Johannes Erath.
Premiere at the Opernhaus Düsseldorf on 7 February 2026 operamrhein.de
BALLET
DORNRÖSCHEN BY BRIDGET BREINER
From unfulfilled wishes to questions of protection, freedom, redemption and self-empowerment – Bridget Breiner, chief choreographer of Ballett am Rhein, reimagines Sleeping Beauty (Dornröschen), uncovering new perspectives within the timeless psychology of the classic fairy tale.
Premiere at the Opernhaus Düsseldorf on 15 November 2025 operamrhein.de
ART MONET – CÉZANNE –MATISSE. THE SCHARF COLLECTION
A German private collection shown for the first time, spanning French masters and contemporary art, at Kunstpalast Düsseldorf.
12 March – 16 August 2026 kunstpalast.de
ART
NIKI DE SAINT PHALLE
Kunstpalast Düsseldorf presents Niki de Saint Phalle (1930 –2002): from her iconic female figures and shooting performances to happenings, sculptures, films and large-scale projects – a radical vision of femininity and artistic self-assertion.
September 2026 – January 2027 kunstpalast.de
ART
ASIA POP
Asia pop at NRW-Forum: the first major exhibition in Germany dedicated to the pop-cultural power of Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and China – from Studio Ghibli and Hello Kitty to K-Pop, manga and more.
September 2026 – May 2027 nrw-forum.de
ART KUNSTHALLE DÜSSELDORF ON TOUR
From 2026, Kunsthalle Düsseldorf goes on tour: while the Grabbeplatz building closes for renovation, the programme continues across the city’s 50 districts – in institutions, temporary spaces, parks and public squares. A living platform for contemporary art, experimentation and dialogue. kunsthalle-duesseldorf.de
ART RESTRAUMREST
Miriam Bornewasser at KIT: exploring residual space, architecture and history through archive and site-specific interventions.
22 November 2025 –8 March 2026 kunst-im-tunnel.de
ART IN BETWEEN
Enya Burger & Teresa Linhard at KIT: exploring the in-between of fact and fiction, myth and science – from slime mould networks to textile archives that trace cultural memory.
28 March – 28 June 2026 kunst-im-tunnel.de
CULTURE DÜSSELMOMENTS 2026
DüsselMoments invite you to (re)discover Düsseldorf with art, culture, food, relaxation and sightseeing – all at special rates.
18 & 19 April 2026 visitduesseldorf.de
CULTURE
ISTANBUL AM RHEIN FESTIVAL
A one-day festival at zakk with bazaar, workshops, live music and DJ sets – celebrating Turkish culture in Düsseldorf.
4 July 2026 zakk.de
THEATRE
CELLULOID GOLEM PUPPET
ART FESTIVAL
The 2nd International 2026 festival celebrates the art of puppetry in all its forms –from unique films and striking exhibitions to theatre performances, workshops, and more at FFT.
Festival: 7 – 10 May 2026, exhibition: 3 May – 28 June 2026 fft-duesseldorf.de
FILM
FLINGERN LICHTSPIELE
The ‘Flingern Lichtspiele’ is a small but beautiful open-air cinema festival.
Summer 2026 filmwerkstatt-duesseldorf.de
ART PALASTBLÜHEN
Just in time for the start of spring, the Kunstpalast will be blooming and fragrant: Düsseldorf florists will explore the museum’s collection and create floral interpretations to complement the rooms or individual works. 17 April – 26 April 2026 kunstpalast.de
ART
DIE GROSSE
In 2026, the largest exhibition in Germany organised by artists for artists will once again take place at the Kunstpalast, the NRW-Forum and the Ehrenhof. 5 July – 9 August 2026 diegrosse.de
ART WINTERRUNDGANG
Annual winter semester graduate show at the Kunstakademie Düsseldorf.
February 2026 kunstakademie-duesseldorf.de
ART
NACHT DER MUSEEN
The long night of museums in exhibition venues and galleries all over the city.
Spring 2026 nacht-der-museen.de
ART
ART DÜSSELDORF
Contemporary art fair at Areal Böhler.
17 – 19 April 2026 art-dus.de
ART
DC OPEN GALLERIES
Düsseldorf/Cologne open gallery weekend. September 2026 dc-open.de
DESIGN
WERKSCHAU HSD PBSA
Exhibition of the work of the two departments of architecture and design at the Peter Behrens School of Arts at Düsseldorf University of Applied Sciences. hsd-werkschau.de
DESIGN MANUFAKTOUR DÜSSELDORF
A discovery tour through open studios, workshops and galleries in hidden corners to experience the creativity and diversity of local designers and craftspeople. May 2026 manufaktour-duesseldorf.de
FASHION
DFD SUSTAIN!
A platform for sustainability in fashion, beauty and lifestyle, connecting B2B networks with local designers.
23 & 24 January 2026 dfd-festival.de
VINTAGE FASHION
RE:LOVED – SELECTED VINTAGE MARKET
CURATED BY THE DORF
A carefully curated market with pre- and reloved treasures at Areal Böhler – from designer fashion, accessories and bags
to jewellery and unique finds. Spring & late summer 2026 thedorf.de
MUSIC
100TH ANNIVERSARY TONHALLE DÜSSELDORF
In 2026, Tonhalle Düsseldorf celebrates the 100 th anniversary of its building – originally opened as a planetarium in 1926. Among the highlights: a screening of Lotte Reiniger’s silent film The Adventures of Prince Achmed (1926), based on tales from One Thousand and One Nights, with live music by notabu.ensemble performing Wolfgang Zeller’s score.
10 May 2026 tonhalle-duesseldorf.de
MUSIC VALENTINE’S CONCERT
Valentine’s vibes at Tonhalle Düsseldorf: Alpesh Chauhan, Jess Gillam & the Symphony Orchestra – plus a rose for every guest!
14 February 2026 tonhalle-duesseldorf.de
FOOD GOURMET FESTIVAL
For three days the famous Königsallee turns into a huge foodie’s paradise. August 2026 gourmetfestival-duesseldorf.de
FOOD
CHEFS IN TOWN
At the 3rd edition, local gastronomic heroes from restaurants and bars to fine dining establishments are invited to showcase a completely new side of themselves with creative offerings for their guests. Autumn 2026 chefsintown.de
FOOD FRANKREICHFEST
French flavours and ‘savoir vivre’ by the Rhine. 3 – 5 July 2026 duesseldorfer-frankreich-fest.de
PUBLIC EVENT
JAPAN-TAG DÜSSELDORF
German-Japanese cultural festival with a vibrant entertainment program, food stalls, and a grand Japanese fireworks display on the Rhine. May 2026 japantag-duesseldorf-nrw.de
PUBLIC EVENT
DÜSSELDORFER RHEINKIRMES
As every year, the biggest fun fair on the Rhine attracts visitors to the Oberkassel Rhine meadows for over a week. 17 – 26 July 2026 rheinkirmes-duesseldorf.de
PUBLIC EVENT
DÜSSELDORFER BÜDCHENTAG
Kiosk, Büdchen, Trinkhalle –whatever you want to call it, they are absolute cult. Let’s celebrate Büdchen culture! 5 September 2026 duesseldorfer-buedchentag.de
SPORT RUND UM DIE KÖ Festival for the whole family: cycling and culture come together on Königsallee. 9 August 2026 rundumdiekoe.de
SPORT FORTUNA DÜSSELDORF
Fortuna Düsseldorf – traditional football club since 1895 and currently playing in the 2. Bundesliga. Two-time cup winner and German Champion once (1933)! f95.de
CURRENT TIPS FOR GOING OUT CAN BE FOUND EVERY WEEK AT THEDORF.DE
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and further to all our supporters, helping hands, friends & families.
We love you all!
PUBLISHER THE DORF
Tina Husemann & David Holtkamp GbR
Düsselthaler Straße 9 40211 Düsseldorf Germany
+49.211 911 907 25 hello@thedorf.de thedorf.de
COVER PHOTO
’THE DORF’S Table’ (Düsseldorfer Allerlei)
Photo: Domenik Broich, Food Styling: Torsten Hülsmann, Production: Tina Husemann & David Holtkamp
Feat. Mettbrötchen, Halve Hahn & Frikadelle (Metzgerei Schlösser), Altbier, Killepitsch, Ramen Soup (Takumi), THE DORF Honey, ABB Mustard, Pistachio Croissant & Macarons (Pure Pastry by Tim Tegtmeier), Bread (Bäckerei Hinkel & Bulle Bäckerei), Champagne Truffles (Konditorei Heinemann), Caviar, Oysters, Crevettes & Lobster Soup (Fischhaus Düsseldorf), Candles (Malte van der Meyden), Sushi, Soy Sauce (Kikkoman), Altbier Goulash (Dauser), Champagne, Edel-Korn (Schmittmann), THE DORF Wine by Andreas Durst, Flowers, Fruit & Vegetables (Carlsplatz), Vase (Uramaki Studios)
CONCEPT & EDITOR IN CHIEF
Tina Husemann & David Holtkamp
CREATIVE DIRECTION
vista
Andreas Magino, Jens Müller and Katharina Sussek
DESIGN
Eli Alaimo Di Loro, Andreas Magino, Anna Pommer and Katharina Sussek
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Adesuwa Börckel, Inga Handke
TRANSLATION & EDITING
Angela Holtkamp, Tina Husemann
MARKETING & SALES
David Holtkamp themag@thedorf.de
THE DORF ∙ THE SHOP
In THE DORF ∙ THE SHOP you will find THE DORF merch as well as selected products from designers, creatives, labels and friends from Düsseldorf and a selection of beautiful things we personally use, have discovered on our travels or simply like.
Our ‘mixed goods’ are always put together with care and love and are often only available in small quantities. All THE DORF magazines are, of course, also available here!
SHOP.THEDORF.DE
TEXT
Adesuwa Börckel, Laura Dresch, Tina Husemann, Inga Handke, Katja Hütte, Karolina Landowski, Antonia Lauterborn, Pia Sundermann
PHOTOGRAPHY
Celine Belinski, Jens Bösenberg, Jan Buschmann, Alejandro Carmona, Kristina Fendesack, Gabriela Filipovic, Felix Förster, Carla Gnendiger, Lev Gonopolskiy, Ole-Kristian Heyer, Kurt Heuvens, Steve Herud, Cindy Hoang, David Holtkamp, Gregor Hofbauer, Tina Husemann, Gabrielė Kutkevičiūtė, Lennard Johnny Kuhl, Leeroy Lokko, Lukas Lohner, Natasha auf'm Kamp, Maxim Naumann, Nico von Nordheim, Roman Novitzky, Diana Pfammatter, Lasse Rotthoff, Jaqueline Ruther, Ingo Schaefer, Daniel Senzek, Muhammed Shirin, Uramaki Studio, Sebastian Trägner, Annelore Van Herwijnen, Sabrina Weniger, Julia Weppler
CIRCULATION
20.000
THEDORF_DE
THEDORF.DE
THE DORF
Printed in Germany.
Druckstudio GmbH
Professor-Oehler-Straße 10 40589 Düsseldorf druckstudiogruppe.com
Copyright 2025
THE DORF
This magazine, including all articles and illustrations, is copyright protected. Any utilisation beyond the tight limits of the copyright act is subject to publisher’s written approval.
As part of the print production of THE DORF – THE MAG #9, THE DORF supports Nature Office’s climate protection project ‘Combined Project Germany Plus – Forest Ecology in Germany & Hydropower.’
More information: natureoffice.com
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