'Chefs in Town' gastro festival with overwhelming response

Last weekend, Düsseldorf really cooked up a storm at "Chefs in Town", the new festival highlight in the state capital's gastronomy scene. At a total of over 100 events, thousands of enthusiastic guests were served food, industry topics were discussed and the next generation was introduced to the exciting world of gastronomy. The ambition: to inspire people and spark enthusiasm for the catering and hotel scene in Düsseldorf. Strong partners had joined forces in advance to organise the event, including METRO, the City of Düsseldorf, the Düsseldorf Chamber of Industry and Commerce, DEHOGA Nordrhein and Coca-Cola. Together with many other partners and allies, they ensured that the event was a complete success.

Frank Engel from the food court Kasematten summarises: "We immediately agreed to take part in Chefs in Town. And it was great fun to work with Erkelenz star chef Alexander Wulfto create something really special. Our special "Cooking under the stars - enjoyment in the open air" parallel to our traditional Kasematten Oktoberfest was very well received by the guests, we were fully booked very quickly and it was an all-round successful evening. We need this positive drive for the whole industry!"

In view of the overwhelming response from organisers and participants, the partners of the new gastronomy event have drawn a positive conclusion. Dr Steffen Greubel, CEO of METRO AG: "It all started with the idea of a new, innovative concept and our ambition as a partner of gastronomy to get people excited about this great industry and celebrate it. We ourselves are overwhelmed by how big this idea has become in reality and how many celebrity chefs and local restaurateurs and players have taken part in this event. They all showed their passion together: Gastronomy is an incredibly enriching and socially unifying industry, and Düsseldorf, with its culinary scene, absolutely has what it takes to become the gastro capital."

Mayor Dr Stephan Kelleris also convinced by the new concept: "A diverse gastronomic landscape contributes greatly to the quality of life in our city. Events such as Chefs in Town and the Rolling Pin Award once again put Düsseldorf on the gastronomic map. Because they inspire lovers of everything from fast food to haute cuisine with new, exciting approaches. Their appeal extends beyond the city limits. We could clearly see that last weekend."

A continuation of the decentralised event format next year is already being planned and will take place on 26-28 September 2025.