Zum Schiffchen

“Zum Schiffchen” means “to the ship,” and this massive brew house is about the size of a ship—the restaurant can seat at least one hundred, if not more. Long communal tables, wood paneling and mahogany trim add to the feeling of being in the underbelly of a big liner. Zum Schiffchen is the oldest restaurant in Dusseldorf—it was first mentioned in the chronicles of 1628, and legend has it that Napoleon once patronized the place. These days, it’s mostly tourists and travel groups, but that shouldn’t deter you. With a big beer garden outside, treat yourself to the holy trinity—schnitzel, pork knuckle and Altbier—and embrace a historic German drinking experience.