The top 6 restaurants in Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf is home to plenty of great restaurants – and we’re not just talking about Schnitzl. The city’s international character is reflected in the variety of cuisines you can find here – from sushi bars to burger bars. So having done some extensive research, here are the best restaurants in Düsseldorf – in my humble opinion.

I originally compiled this list while I was living in Dusseldorf (2014-2016), but I’ve made sure to keep this list updated through my frequent trips back to the city to catch up with friends. (Good food is a great excuse to get me on a train…)

Post last updated: January 2019. 

#6 best restaurant in Dusseldorf: Zur Uel

Germany’s best Schnitzel at Zur Uel in Dusseldorf

Zur Uel is always my number one choice when visiting friends say they want to try some good traditional German food. The restaurant is found on the lively Ratinger Strasse in the Altstadt and has a very traditional feel inside. When the sun is out, you can sit outside. It’s a great excuse for exploring the Altstadt and introducing friends to Altbier.

The best dish here is definitely the Wiener Schnitzl with roast potatoes and side salad. The serving is beyond generous (even the salad) but everything tastes fantastic (especially the salad). Definitely not one to miss.

#5 top restaurants in Dusseldorf: Stier Royal

It’s no secret that I’m an amateur burger connoisseur, but the burgers at Stier Royal are another level entirely. Here you’ll find several irresistible burgers with cheese inserted directly into the meat for an extra cheesy filling, in addition to the ever-changing Burger of the Week.

The restaurant itself is cosy and intimate, with food made in front of your eyes. In summer, there’s a small seating area outside.

Love burgers? Look no further: the 5 best burgers in Dusseldorf

 

#3 top restaurant in Dusseldorf: Casita Mexicana

If you are looking for where to eat in Düsseldorf, Casita Mexicana in Pempelfort is definitely one of the best. I’ve eaten here countless times over the years and each and every time, I’ve loved it. The interior of the restaurant is cosy and bright (without being twee) and the staff are friendly.
As for the food, you can dig into a Mixed Teller (a course of three dishes to be shared) or opt for any of their delicious Mexican meals, choosing your meats, seasoning and spice separately. Don’t forget to wash it down with La Sensual cocktail – a passionfruit margarita that’s worth the trip alone.

For the most beautiful, mouth-watering Instagram shots, be sure to check them out on Facebook.

#3 of the best restaurants in Dusseldorf: 485 Grad

A pizza chain imported from neighbouring Cologne, 485 Grad simply does pizzas – but boy does it do them well. They do a mix of staples, as well as seasonal editions, which generally incorporate some great seasonal foods, like asparagus or pumpkin – in fact, the pumpkin-slice pizza from October 2017 still has a place in my heart. The Hellboy and the Buffalina Mozzarella are favourites among my friends.

There’s also a great selection of wine and craft beer to wash it all down with.

For more eating options in Cologne, check out my handy food guide.

#2 of my favourite restaurants in Dusseldorf: Yatana

If you’ve never tried Ethiopian food before, you need to ask yourself why. Dusseldorf actually has more than one Ethiopian restaurant, but Yatana, an Eritrean-Ethiopian found just off Worringer Platz, is the best in my opinion. The staff are friendly and welcoming and the interior is cosy. It’s also a great place for large groups.

So what do you need to order? The best thing to get is Maadi, which essentially involves a mix of different portions of both meat curries and veg, served on a bed of Injera, which are thin, pancake-like flatbreads which you use to eat your meal with. The Maadi is served up in a colourful traditional basket, which looks fantastic when it’s brought out.

#1 top restaurant in Dusseldorf: Pepella

I LOVE GEORGIAN FOOD. I really, really do. And I have happily got the train from Cologne just to eat at this restaurant; the food is great and the wine is even better.

Pepella is another great place to visit in a group. Order the mix starter platter to try a little bit of everything, including the very tasty beetroot, carrot and spinach pastes. For the main, order up some khinkali with a beautiful cheese boat Adjaran khachapuri as a side. For more on Georgian food, check out my 101 guide below.

If you love cheese and beautiful red wine, Pepella and Georgian food is definitely for you.

Want to know more about Georgian food? Read my 101 guide.

Have a favourite that isn’t listed here?
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