Düsseldorf is known for its many bars in the downtown Altstadt area. In fact, many people refer to the Altstadt as the "longest bar in the world" "Längste Theke der Welt". The most common drink is "Altbier" or simply "Alt." This dark beer, served in small glasses, is available at practically any restaurant in the city. Altbier is only brewed in breweries around Düsseldorf. In the Altstadt you can enjoy Schlüssel, Uerige, Schumacher, and Füchschen beers, at traditional brewery restaurants. The waiters at these traditional restaurants are called "Koebes." BolkerStrasse, Flingerstrasse Uerige, Ratingerstrasse and Kurzestrasse are the main places where you find all kinds of pubs and breweries. A variation of the Altbier is called Krefelder. It's an Altbier with Coke.
During summer months the Altstadt will come alive after work. People standing outside the pubs and enjoying their beer and good company. This will be especially so on Wednesday evenings on Ratingerstrasse. The street will be packed full of people with a great chilled atmosphere. Be aware though of broken glass on the cobbled street. But if you have a chance to go, do not miss it.
Besides Altstadt, which some might consider to be slightly artificial, there are many others places around the city to enjoy beer or cocktails as well. During the last years, Medienhafen Media Harbour has become one of very popular quarters; especially during the summer. Other, rather non-touristic areas, include Pempelfort Nordstrasse, Unterbilk Loretto Strasse, Düsselstrasse, Oberkassel Luegallee, and Düsseltal Retherstrasse.
