Brauerei zum Schlüssel
Historic Düsseldorf brewery serving authentic Altbier and hearty German fare in a lively, traditional setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Brauerei zum Schlüssel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Düsseldorf brewery serving authentic Altbier and hearty German fare in a lively, traditional setting.
"A venerable old institution that serves very fine altbier by the half glass - a perfect place for a stolen afternoon."
🍺 Keep your beer mat handy!
Place your beer mat on your glass to signal you're done. Otherwise, they'll keep refilling!
💰 Affordable Altbier
Enjoy the local brew at a great price, often around 2.5 euros per glass.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Original Altbier
Brewery Taproom
Savor the authentic taste of Düsseldorf's iconic dark ale, brewed on-site.
Traditional German Cuisine
Restaurant
Indulge in hearty German comfort food like pork knuckle and schnitzel.
Historic Brewery Atmosphere
Main Tavern
Immerse yourself in the warm, rustic ambiance of a centuries-old brewery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Altbier Tradition
Navigating the Altstadt Buzz
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍺 Keep your beer mat handy!
Place your beer mat on your glass to signal you're done. Otherwise, they'll keep refilling!
💰 Affordable Altbier
Enjoy the local brew at a great price, often around 2.5 euros per glass.
🍽️ Traditional German Dishes
Try classic German fare; the menu offers many traditional options.
🗣️ English-speaking staff
Waiters are friendly and often speak English, making ordering easy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍺 Keep your beer mat handy!
Place your beer mat on your glass to signal you're done. Otherwise, they'll keep refilling!
💰 Affordable Altbier
Enjoy the local brew at a great price, often around 2.5 euros per glass.
🍽️ Traditional German Dishes
Try classic German fare; the menu offers many traditional options.
🗣️ English-speaking staff
Waiters are friendly and often speak English, making ordering easy.
🚶♀️ Explore the Altstadt
It's in the heart of the Old Town, perfect for combining with a city walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Brauerei zum Schlüssel for its authentic Altbier and traditional German cuisine, set within a charming, historic atmosphere. The affordable beer prices and friendly, English-speaking staff are frequently highlighted positives. While some find the pork knuckle a bit dry, the overall experience is consistently rated as a quintessential Düsseldorf Altstadt visit.
"Fantastic traditional brewery and restaurant in the main bar/restaurant street. You can find all traditional dishes and great local beer produced in the brewery. Atmosphere and vibe is as to be expected, whole place is nicely decorated in the same manner. Thumb up!"
Marek Horyl
"Visited for dinner as part of a large group on a business trip. Beer was served fast and on a regular basis, just had to put a beer mat on the glass to stop the service. Food was as expected, good but clearly served in high volumes, great choice on menu and some very traditional offerings. Recommend a visit. Beer and food good!"
Gavin Hutchcraft
"I’ve been to Germany four times and tried pork knuckle in different pubs and restaurants. Unfortunately, this was the worst I’ve had. The presentation was fine, but the meat was extremely loose in texture and very dry. By the way, their home-brewed beer was actually quite good."
James H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Brauerei zum Schlüssel is located in the Düsseldorf Altstadt (Old Town). It's easily accessible by public transport, with several tram and bus stops nearby. Many visitors also walk here as part of exploring the historic city center.
Parking in the Altstadt can be challenging. It's recommended to use public transport or a taxi. If you must drive, look for nearby parking garages like "Tiefgarage Schadowstraße" or "Parkhaus Altstadt."
Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof (main train station) is about a 20-30 minute walk to the Altstadt. You can also take a short tram ride to a station closer to the brewery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For smaller groups, especially during off-peak hours, you can often find a table without a reservation. However, for larger groups or during busy weekend evenings, booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
The brewery typically opens in the late morning and stays open late into the evening. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary.
No, there is no entrance fee to enter Brauerei zum Schlüssel. You pay for the food and drinks you consume.
Yes, brewery tours are sometimes offered, providing insights into the altbier brewing process. It's advisable to inquire directly with the brewery or check their website for tour availability and booking information.
🍽️ 🍺 Beer & Dining
They are famous for their 'Original Schlüssel' altbier, a traditional dark, top-fermented beer. It's served in small, distinctive glasses.
The brewery serves hearty, traditional German cuisine. Popular choices include pork knuckle (Schweinshaxe), schnitzel, and various sausages. Even simple dishes like salads and fried potatoes are well-regarded.
Altbier is typically served in small, 0.2-liter glasses. Waiters will often bring you a new glass as soon as you finish your current one, unless you signal otherwise by placing your beer mat on top of the glass.
While the focus is on traditional German meat dishes, some restaurants in the Altstadt offer vegetarian options. It's best to check the current menu or ask the staff for available vegetarian choices.
Prices are generally considered reasonable, especially for the altbier, which is quite affordable. Main courses are typical for a German restaurant in a popular tourist area.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the rustic interior with its wooden beams and traditional decor. The exterior shot with the brewery's signage is also a classic. Don't forget to photograph your glass of altbier!
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Brauerei zum Schlüssel. However, be mindful of other patrons and avoid intrusive flash photography, especially during busy times.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note that the continuous serving of altbier might not be suitable for very young children. However, the brewery's location in the Altstadt means you can easily combine a meal here with other family-friendly activities in the area, such as exploring the Rhine promenade or visiting nearby parks.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, consider visiting during off-peak hours when you might have an easier time securing a table and enjoying a more relaxed meal. You can also opt for less elaborate dishes or share larger platters to keep costs down. The experience of enjoying authentic Altbier in a historic setting is a significant part of the value.
🍻 Beer Enthusiasts
Engage with the brewery's history and brewing process, perhaps by inquiring about tours if available.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Altbier
Visitors often remark on the unique serving style: small, 0.2-liter glasses are brought to your table continuously. If you wish to stop the flow of beer, simply place your coaster (Bierdeckel) on top of your empty glass. This practice is a hallmark of Düsseldorf's Altstadt breweries and contributes to the convivial atmosphere.
Experiencing this beer culture is a key part of visiting Brauerei zum Schlüssel. It's not just about drinking beer; it's about participating in a local tradition and enjoying the social aspect of the brewery. Many find the beer to be quite good and reasonably priced, making it an attractive spot for extended stays.
A Taste of Düsseldorf's Culinary Heritage
Popular choices include the Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle), often praised for its presentation, though some reviews mention it can be dry. Other staples like schnitzel, various sausages, and hearty potato dishes are also available. Even simpler items like salads and fried eggs with potatoes are noted for being satisfying.
The restaurant's ambiance plays a significant role in the dining experience. The interior is described as nicely decorated in a traditional style, contributing to the overall authentic feel. Waitstaff are generally friendly and accommodating, with many speaking English, which is helpful for international visitors.
The Heart of the Altstadt
Visitors can easily combine a visit to the brewery with a stroll through the charming cobblestone streets, visiting landmarks like the Marktplatz and St. Lambertus Church. The proximity to other famous breweries like Uerige and Schumacher means you can embark on a mini Altbier crawl.
Being in the Altstadt also means the brewery is well-connected by public transport, making it accessible for day-trippers and those staying elsewhere in the city. While parking is scarce, the ease of access via tram or foot enhances its appeal as a central Düsseldorf experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit