Schweine Janes

So you are walking around Altstadt in Dusseldorf, checking out the sights, stopping in at one of the many bars for a pint. (Afterall, it is known as the "Longest Bar in the World".) And before you know it, hunger strikes. You could just grab some frittes (fries) with mayo, curry ketchup and diced onions, or sit down a one of the many restaurants in the area. But do yourself a favor...

About 1/2 of the way down the main street, Bolkerstrasse, this aroma circulates through the air. A meaty, yet sweet scent of food being cooked over an open flame. Keep walking and you'll come to the source. You won't miss it, it's the restaurant with the line extending to the street.

Get to the back of the line and wait.

You will not be disappointed. I promise. And it's not really that long of a wait. Most people are getting the same dish, and it comes out within 3 minutes of ordering. So are you ready? Are you asking yourself, what is it that smells so wonderful? Why would people sit outside, no matter how cold it is, just for this dish?

Do yourself a favor and try the Schweinehaxe Eisbien. That is what is cooking on those bars over the open flame. That is what drew you to this place. That is why you just stood in line for 10 minutes in 35F degree weather.

Eat. drink. Go for a walk. Go back for more. You know you want to.

In my 5 days in Dusseldorf, I ate there twice. I had the same thing. Twice. And I would have eaten there every night if not for business dinners.

For those of you that don't speak German, Schweinehaxe, if you couldn't tell, is pork. But to be a bit more descriptive, pork knuckle. It's not actually the hoof, or knuckle, but more a part of the leg. Rotisseried to perfection, with its crispy skin and a spoonful of its own cooked fats and juices drizzled on top. If you order the Schweinehaxe Eisbien, it will come with two pieces of meat, one on the bone, one off, and sauerkraut and mashed potatos. All for about 7,20 euros. This will be one of the cheapest, and best, restaurant meals you will have.

The service is fast, they do have a menu in English if you really need to see one, the people are nice, the prices are great, but above all that, the food is incredible.

Eat there. Then order one for me and ship it over. I'm hooked.