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Going out

Bistros in Düsseldorf

The bistro is just one of those inspiring aspects we love about the French. However, they apparently first appeared in Paris after the Napoleonic Wars when Russian soldiers occupied the city.

The guys far from home often used to hang out in restaurants shouting bistro, bistro to waiters to demand quicker service. Bistro is the Russian word for fast or quick. The result was innovative chefs transitioning to serving less fussy meals.

Others believe that the name bistro originates from the phenomenon of private kitchens in basement flats. These were a popular Parisian inner city alternative to eat out.

Today, there is little need to feel hassled. Bistros are great places to take a bite to eat and have a sip of wine or two in a more relaxed atmosphere. Düsseldorf presents many bistros offering chilled dining experiences. A nod of thanks to Robert’s Bistro, which has now closed.

BARRIL

Barril Fado & Tango is an absolute favourite for its wide range of delicious dishes. The menu covers anything and everything from crustaceans, fish, tapas and a wide range of meats.

This delightful Portuguese bistro located in Düsseldorf Unterbilk is also renowned for its cosy and relaxed atmosphere. The terrace is a perfect place to eat when available. Photo Barril.

Friedenstrasse 2a
40219 Düsseldorf
+49 211 938 940 60

MENTA

If any Italian can be considered a bistro, then Menta in Düsseldorf is it. A popular neighbourhood favourite whose owner Luigi cares for his regular clientele. The dishes served are honest and tasty. Spaghetti vongole is a worthy choice when on the blackboard.

Located on the funky Lorettostrasse in Bilk, the cozy eatery serves cocina italiano along with a good selection of wines on the terrace during a long season too.

Lorettostrasse 25
40219 Düsseldorf
+49 211 930 4483

HOT LA CUCINA

The busy, energised and yet intimate atmosphere of Hot La Cucina is only one reason this Italian is so popular. It’s success also lies in its focus on pasta, pizza and reliability.

Patrons sit closely on bench seats and chairs around small tables. Ravioli, tortellini, spaghetti, tagliatelle and penne flow from the open kitchen in all varieties and tastes. Crispy pizza with numerous toppings and copious amounts of wine complement the scenario.

Dominikanerstrasse 14
40545 Düsseldorf
+49 211 361 556 418

EM BRASS

The seasonal menu of Em Brass features European and Mediterranean dishes and changes frequently. The atmosphere is friendly and sociable.

A great place to mingle with other guests, the menu reveals many ocean dwellers such as octopus, scallops and a variety of fish. The selection includes vegetarian, tartar, ceviche, liver, duck and pasta dishes. All served in an appealing way.

Moltkestrasse122
40479 Düsseldorf
+49 211 361 836 17

ASKITIS

For two decades, Askitis has successfully been serving delicious classic and unique Greek food to a discerning public in Düsseldorf. Light Mediterranean dishes are on offer too.

Located close to a pretty park and former site of the city’s zoo, the bistro reveals a delightful ambience, friendly staff and family feel. Typically Greek, they serve several fish varieties and many classics, famous the world over. Meals are presented in an aesthetic manner.

Herderstrasse 73
40237 Düsseldorf
+49 211 602 0713

LOFFELBAR

Years ago, Löffelbar in Düsseldorf was originally opened as a place to enjoy soups and stews. The bistro has since expanded its menu to include a wider selection of staple foods.

The atmosphere changes throughout the day from cafe mornings, options for quick bistro styled lunch specials through to an evening dining experience. Dishes are synonymous for healthy living, ingredients freshly sourced and pastries baked on the premises.

Tussmannstrasse 3
40477 Düsseldorf
+49 211 440 3278

RICHIE N ROSE

While the debate on dietary choice is ongoing, yet another decision is undeniable. The quality of the food we eat is paramount to good health. To lovers of beef, a sensation of the tastebuds exploding with delight is key to experiencing a great burger.

Richie’n Rose Burger No 1 in Düsseldorf is quoted as the place to go for the best burgers. Fresh patties served in a variety of styles are served with many sides and fresh lemonade.

Belsenplatz 3
40545 Düsseldorf
+49 211 468 785 30

AB DER FISCH

A vibrant bistro in Düsseldorf, Ab der Fisch is a wonderfully relaxed place to chill, enjoy conversation, get to know others and dine from a menu that offers more than fish.

Popular favourites are their Ab-der-Fisch platter of fish fillets and gambas and the fish stew. Though their menu has a Mediterranean feel, they also serve such dishes as steak and schnitzel. Tables can often be at a premium both indoors and out and the place very busy.

Moltkestrasse 124
40479 Düsseldorf
+49 211 482 588

BAR OLIO

One of the earliest bistros to open in the slowly relaxing environment of Düsseldorf, Bar Olio fascinated for another reason. It was located in a partly disused goods station and, while it was preserved, the surroundings were redeveloped into a modern residential area.

This original is still a favourite among Düsseldorf locals and attracts a mixed crowd. The menu is changed daily, it can be crowded and slow but most thoroughly enjoy the great atmosphere.

SchirmerStrasse 54
40211 Düsseldorf
+49 211 367 7294

LES HALLES ST. HONORÉ

French to the core, Les Halles St. Honoré in Düsseldorf is a unique eatery in the style of a bistro and deli in the popular neighbourhood of Derendorf. Spacious, light and open, the atmosphere is non the less relaxed, inviting and relatively intimate.

The choice of food and drink on offer is also quintessentially French with such favourites as foie gras, quiche, croque, rillettes as well as larger dishes such as Bourguignon.

Nordstrasse 31
40477 Düsseldorf
+49 211 913 149 65

MUGGEL

Muggel presents a cozy ambiance with tightly arranged tables in bistro style and a large menu. It offers ideal spaces to relax, sit at the bar, communicate, enjoy fine drinks and choose from a blend of Mediterranean, Asian and European cuisine. A place to see, be seen, and to meet.

Well known for its openness and esprit, the bistro located in the Düsseldorf neighbourhood of Oberkassel is attractive to a mixed crowd of clientele. Young or old, mums or dads, dog owners, families and individuals all enjoy the unique buzz at various times of day.

Dominikanerstrasse 4
40545 Düsseldorf
+49 211 554 182

BISTRO ZICKE

A beautiful, relaxed and friendly place steeped in tradition. Located to the south of the old town, Altstadt, Bistro Zicke is a magical place to spend Sunday brunch or a fun evening. A favourite for all types, all ages and from all walks of life.

Their location in Düsseldorf makes it a favourite for people strolling along the promenade next to the Rhine. The terrace is especially popular during warm summer months.

Bäckerstrasse 5a
40213 Düsseldorf
+49 211 324 056

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