In Germany’s gastronomic tradition two kind of places played a key role in the past: the inns / pubs (see my review of ANTONIUSHOF) and, the each best Café in town’ – mostly located at the central square or boulevard. A Grand Café is offering breakfast, lunch and a seductive variety of cakes – open to all – but of course it is the domain of the (society) ladies of that town. And as with the inns – it’s mostly gone baby, gone!

But there’s one outstanding exception: the KONDITOREI HEINEMANN ! This family owned confectionery was established in Mönchengladbach – but conquered the nearby regional capital Düsseldorf and is until today the one & only café that matters. The son of the founder family took their business very seriously and did an apprenticeship at the most famous French patisseries – something you can taste still today with every bite. The variety of the sweet & salty menu is mouthwatering rich – and the taste is paradisiacal! And the staff?

I recently had to stay on my own in Düsseldorf for a lonesome week after a severe eye surgery and I went very carefully every morning and late afternoon with just one open eye into the fully occupied café: the Lady Maitre always took very touching care of me as if I were her child.

In Düsseldorf I would never ever have breakfast in a hotel – even if it would be luxurious and for free: I always would walk to HEINEMANN nearby the famous KÖNIGSALLEE. There are two locations: my favorite is on the Bahnstrasse / corner Königsallee, since it’s a bit more intimate and is managed by that lovely Lady Maitre.

There’s one more thing: before you leave, make sure to take with you the very best BAUMKUCHEN you can get in whole Germany. Personally guaranteed.