Decompressing in Düsseldorf

[BonVivant]

I go to the big city Düsseldorf every few moths or so to replenish Japanese and Korean ingredients, to the market and  visit a local brewery restaurant each time. Before going I check the weekly menus on breweries' websites, the day special is the reason for my visit to a certain brewery when in town. This time I went to one of my firm favourites, Zum Schlüssel.

On to my second Altbier (middle).

 

Day special was wonderfully crispy potato fritters (with smoked salmon).

 

From the menu of weekly specials: belly pork with Sauerkraut and mash.

 

I could stay here all day but I had to get things done after 5 beers.

 

The amount stated is the amount you pay.

 

Unassuming on the outside, quite big and beautiful inside. Need to get there early to get your favourite table. Soon the regulars (mostly pensioners) and workers nearby will arrive and sit at their favourite tables.

 

My favourite table (and other introverts' also).

 

The time is usually on the reservation card but as it was still early they put the cards there to keep you from occupying the tables. They were removed when more people arrived.

 

Today's special (potato fritters with smoked salmon and herbed cream)

 

Schwemme is an area in the front or side part of a brewery restaurant where you have a quick beer or two and usually drink it standing. 

 

Other photos:

It's warm enough to have palm trees this far north.

 

Specific parking for this type of bikes.

 

I'm a sucker for some old things and tech. Line under Luxus reads "made in W(est) Germany".

 

Locals and tourists alike enjoy going out to eat and drink. So many cafes and eating/drinking places in town.

 

Like many big cities elsewhere, this one has its share of problems and challenges. Seems every time I'm in town I see more people in destitute situations.

 

Cover

 

I think every town in Germany has a Birkenstock shop.

 

Street musician

 

Could be his next watch

 

I always buy charcuterie from their trailer at the market. Only saw this today. Will check it out next time.

 

Looks like a "vintage" photo but it's just a gloomy day.

 

New life for an old bike

 

A shop that sells only Easter things.

 

Easter is next week. Some people don't mind paying this price for an early treat. (Mid April is the official start of the season.)

 

A wonderful potato stall at this market. There are a lot more on the other side. Potatoes from all over the place. I've bought new stuff to try a bunch of time.

 

Like them both

 

Now at my favourite bakery.

 

Both types of shio koji

 

I buy miso from different Japanese/Korean shops.

Dropped by Schumacher brewery for one last beer before heading back to the bus terminal.

 

OK. ONE drink...

 

Some of the things I bought. I like the seasoned seaweed left of the photo. Brought only 1 bag home from Amami, happy to find it at a Japanese shop here.

 

Maggi produces soy sauce in Vietnam. I've never seen it till now.

 

 

Edited March 24 by BonVivant (log)

[TdeV]

Delightful, thanks!

[ElsieD]

Thank you!  I always enjoy your posts.

[blue_dolphin]

What a great way to combine business (grocery shopping) and pleasure!  Thanks for sharing.