Press conference kicks off second edition of Düsseldorf's ‘Chefs in Town’ food festival

Düsseldorf has culinary ambitions

Mayor Dr Stephan Keller emphasised the special importance of gastronomy for the state capital: "With 'Chefs in Town,' we show that Düsseldorf is not just a city where you can eat well – the state capital is a place where gastronomy is lived, appreciated, and further developed. 'Chefs in Town' brings people, ideas, and flavours together and highlights how creative and diverse the industry is in this location. The format is a win for the entire city – from businesses to guests." The mayor also made it clear that the initiative goes beyond pure culinary art: gastronomy is joy of life, culture, and an important driver for urban development. With formats like "Chefs in Town," Düsseldorf is positioning itself as a culinary metropolis beyond the city limits and, ideally, even establishing itself as the gastro capital.

Partners and advocates of the industry

METRO has once again committed itself as the initiator and organiser of the format. Dr Steffen Greubel explained the wholesaler's motivations and the societal importance of gastronomy: "With 'Chefs in Town,' we opened a new chapter for gastronomy in Düsseldorf last year, making the industry visible in all its diversity and giving it new impulses. Gastronomy makes a decisive contribution to quality of life and is fundamentally a driver of community and culture. It is a heartfelt concern for us to give this industry a stage. Together with our partners, we show what is possible when the city, business, and restaurateurs work hand in hand. Our fundamental approach to moving things forward is 'Just do it' – and we are implementing that with 'Chefs in Town' with great commitment." Greubel also referred to METRO's engagement beyond the festival, such as creating new spaces for gastronomic innovation at the METRO Campus in Flingern or supporting other industry events.

"Chefs in Town" 2025 is also made possible through strong partnerships: in addition to the City of Düsseldorf, METRO, the Düsseldorf Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK), and DEHOGA Nordrhein, numerous other companies, including Coca-Cola, and institutions are supporting the festival. This ensures that the event remains free of charge for participating restaurants while also making an important contribution to the visibility and strengthening of the entire industry.

Voices from the local gastronomy and beyond

The festival is also of great importance from the perspective of local gastronomy. Agata Reul, Düsseldorf restaurateur and operator of the Michelin-starred restaurant Agata's, highlighted the opportunity for the local scene: "For us as local restaurateurs, 'Chefs in Town' is a fantastic opportunity to share our passion with the entire city while also gaining new impulses from outside. It is inspiring to see how our work is perceived in a larger context and how guests all over the city can experience how diverse and vibrant Düsseldorf's gastronomy is." Toni Askitis shared his impressions of the weekend at "Pommes & Wein" from the previous year: "The idea initially sounded good, but there was no prior experience with the first event. I was sceptical about what it would bring. But when my friends Sascha Stemberg, Fabio Haebel, and the Salt&Silver Boys Cozy and Jo approached me about doing a joint take, I already felt: this could be good. One evening, Sascha Stemberg visited me. The following day, Fabio Haebel and Salt&Silver came. Guests were queuing up. By then, it was clear that the event was a 'big deal' and would continue to be so. The feedback was fantastic. For gastronomy and Düsseldorf, 'Chefs in Town' was undoubtedly a highlight. I am happy to have been part of it and proud to be part of it again, this time with Sebastian Lege. It's going to be amazing!"

Prominent chefs from outside the city are also sending a signal with their involvement. Celebrity chef and multi-restaurateur The Duc Ngo, one of the leading figures in modern gastronomy in Berlin, said: "I am very excited to be part of 'Chefs in Town.' What excites me about this format is that it enables genuine encounters between Düsseldorf hosts and chefs from all over Germany. For me, it is exciting to connect with the local scene, try out new things together, and surprise the audience with fresh culinary ideas."

Outlook for "Chefs in Town" 2025

After the great success of the debut in September 2024 with thousands of visitors, this year will also feature extraordinary "matches" between local businesses and prominent guest chefs, ranging from fine dining to snack bars, from hotel bars to wine bars. "Chefs in Town" patron Heiko Antoniewicz will cook at Qomo @ Rheinturm under the motto "Qomo meets India: Ceviche & Banana Leaf with Curries by Heiko Antoniewicz." Other highlights include appearances by The Duc Ngo at Fischhaus or the kitchen party at the charming Lohauserhof, jointly presented by TV and Michelin-starred chef Björn Freitag and the creative team from Agata's. In addition, there are numerous independent initiatives by Düsseldorf gastronomic businesses showcasing their creative ideas during the event weekend. The programme is complemented by formats for promoting young talent, such as cooking sessions at vocational colleges or "Kids Cook with Alina Meissner-Bebrout" at the Children's Aid Centre, as well as industry meetings like the panel talk of the Women's Network Foodservice.

And it continues: The professional scene meets afterwards at the Rolling Pin.Convention

From 29 to 30 September, directly following "Chefs in Town," Europe's second-largest food and gastronomy symposium will take place for the second time at the Böhler Works: the Rolling Pin.Convention. At this professional event, the most exciting chefs, the best sommeliers, and the most innovative minds in the industry will present their latest creations, techniques, and ideas. On many stages, practical demonstrations, masterclasses, and expert lectures will be held by industry professionals. The gastronomy industry comes together here to exchange ideas and learn from one another, as the event offers a variety of stimuli for inspiration and professional development. Approximately 10,000 trade visitors are expected in Düsseldorf.

Further information and an overview of all events can be found at www.chefsintown.de.

About ‘Chefs in Town’

‘Chefs in Town’ is an initiative dedicated to promoting and celebrating the restaurant and hotel industry. A diverse programme and the involvement of numerous stakeholders create a unique event experience that highlights the importance and diversity of the industry.