Hello from the other side: 6 delicious reasons to cross the Rhine

The Schäl Sick – Cologne’s right bank – is not just charming and underrated, it’s seriously tasty, too. We’ve scouted six must-try food spots that show just how delicious things get on the right side of the river. Some carry on beloved traditions, others shake things up – but all are powered by passion and guts.

Ready to explore?

• Blauer König – comfort food with a twist
• Nobiko – handcrafted and plant-powered
• Frizzantino – Italian vibes, sparkling sips
• Villa Kalka – haute cuisine with rebel energy
• Haldi Spoon – bold curry, full of character
• Bagatelle am Palmengarten – French flair goes full jungle

Blauer König – comfort food with a twist

All you need is… schnitzel. Sometimes, that’s just the kind of feel-good food your soul craves. And Blauer König is the perfect place to get it. With its vintage decor and laid-back vibe, this spot serves traditional German classics – with a cheeky modern twist. Pro tip: Go for the onion rings – they’re a triple win in looks, flavour and price. And when the sun’s out? Grab a seat under the lime trees and let the Schäl Sick work its magic.

Address: Markt 24, 51103 Cologne
More info: https://www.blauer-koenig.de & Instagram

Nobiko – handcrafted and plant-powered

Forget sushi – there’s more to Japanese food than raw fish. Think tender donburi, creamy karaage-style bowls and Matchaty – a refreshing iced tea with a matcha kick. This is next-level Japanese cooking – think black belt flavour, vegan style.

Udon noodles are handmade fresh every day, and most ingredients are locally sourced – often organic. The Nobiko collective doesn’t mess around when it comes to quality. And the vibe? Laid-back and retro.

Here’s the move: Try the An-Pan – a soft, sweet bun filled with velvety azuki bean paste.
Good to know: Everything on the menu is 100% vegan.

Address: Josephskirchstrasse 25, 51103 Cologne
More info: https://www.nobiko.de & Instagram

Frizzantino – Italian vibes, sparkling sips

Love yourself a bit of bubbly? Frizzantino’s got you covered. This cosy little gem in Cologne-Mülheim blends elegant Italian cuisine with cosy neighbourhood charm. The interior oozes Mediterranean vibes, while the menu leans into refined flavours and effortless style.

Sparkling sips highly recommended: go for one of their signature aperitifs or a classic spritz. Bonus points if you manage to grab a seat outside – perfect for golden hour people-watching.

Address: Mülheimer Freiheit 2–4, 51063 Cologne
More info: https://www.frizzantino.de & Instagram

Villa Kalka – haute cuisine with rebel energy

Craving a place that floats somewhere between cosy living room charm and low-key it-spot? Villa Kalka is a warm, welcoming haven for food lovers who enjoy fine dining – minus the stiff dress codes and white tablecloths. Here, chef Noriko Numajiri serves up beautifully plated creations that blend French elegance with Japanese precision – ever-changing, always stunning.

Yes, there’s sushi. But also: quiche, pasta with salad, and her much-celebrated Saint-Honoré pastries – sweet little masterpieces in their own right. Whether you’re into vegetarian, vegan or just wildly creative combinations – no worries, they’ve nailed that, too.

By the way: Breakfast is served until 5pm. Yes, really.
And trust us on this one: Try the Dirty Kalk (Espresso Gin Tonic) or the Matcha Martini 

Address: Kalk-Mülheimer Str. 58, 51103 Cologne
More info: https://www.villakalka.de & Instagram

Haldi Spoon – bold curry, full of character

“Indian street food – just like Mama makes it.” At Haldi Spoon, street food gets a soulful twist – cooked fresh by Mama Gursharanjit Kaur herself. The dishes take you straight into the heart of India’s flavours: rich curries, fragrant biryani, and spice levels that don’t shy away. Spice alert: things can get fiery. Order a mango lassi – it’s your delicious safety net if things get too hot for you.

Haldi Spoon is a warm, lively, family-run find with colourful vibes and bold flavours. Every dish on the menu is also available in a vegetarian or vegan version – no compromise, just full-on taste.

Closed on Mondays.
Address: Dünnwalder Str. 49, 51063 Cologne
More info: https://www.haldispoon.com & Instagram

Bagatelle am Palmengarten – French flair goes full jungle

Imagine French savoir-vivre meets local soul. The menu at Bagatelle am Palmengarten blends flavourful bites with alpine-inspired comfort food – perfect for sharing with friends. And yes, there’s a thoughtful selection of vegan options too.

The vibe? Totally relaxed, with a dash of vintage. Many design details still reflect the spirit of the old Palmengarten from the 70s – a bistro that once stood empty for over 30 years, now lovingly revived by a new team.

In summer, grab a spot in the leafy beer garden. When it gets colder, head inside for cosy dinners and – if you’re lucky – a living room-style concert in the downstairs venue, shared with the Stadthalle next door.

Address: Jan-Wellem-Straße 2, 51065 Cologne
More info: https://www.palmengarten.koeln & Instagram

Why is the “Schäl Sick” called the “Schäl Sick”?

In Cologne, Schäl Sick refers to the “wrong side” of the Rhine – but no one really agrees why. There are at least two popular theories behind the nickname:

The towing-horse theory: Back in the day, ships were hauled upstream by horses walking along the riverbanks. To shield the animals from the blinding sun reflecting off the water, they wore blinkers on one side – which meant they could barely see the opposite bank. It became the “blurry side” (schäl in Kölsch), the side you didn’t quite see clearly.

The Romans vs. the Germanic tribes theory: The Romans settled on the left bank of the Rhine. On the right, the Germanic tribes lived – and worshipped the god Wodan, who was famously one-eyed and slightly squinty. The Romans, unimpressed, jokingly called their side the “clear one” – and the other, well… the “Schäl Sick.”