"Mustard is my favorite thing to eat every day".

Local food guide Dirk Mews talks to us about Düsseldorf and the new digital food tour.

For seven years, Dirk Mews has been guiding residents and visitors through the city. Sometimes as a night watchman, sometimes as a profound expert on the old town and Düsseldorf's history. He is currently inviting visitors to take a stroll through the old town and across Carlsplatz. Virtually, but still with tastings. Dirk tells us in an interview how this works and how he himself experiences the digital tour.

Dirk, could you briefly describe how the live digital tour "Discover Düsseldorf's Delicacies" including tasting works?

Participants will receive a package with typical Düsseldorf specialties in advance. The virtual tour starts with a welcome on the market square. From there, we set off on our tour based on the places where the delicacies are offered.

Is there an opportunity for the audience to ask questions during the tour?

Yes, interaction is possible and desired. Participants are welcome to leave their microphones open during the tour and talk to me. 

What is the biggest difference for you from "leading with people"?

Since the time spent at the individual stations, such as the mustard museum or the Hinkel bakery, is significantly shorter without an audience, I have more time to tell other aspects as well.

What do you enjoy most about digital leadership?

During Corona time, it is clear to see how happy people are that we visit their stores and advertise for them. Everyone is so friendly, even more than usual.

I can communicate more to people. Take the mustard museum, for example: My explanations often get lost in the store because everyone immediately rushes to the test station and then doesn't have an open ear at all. The distraction on site is another.

How does it feel for you to walk through the city with a camera but without a physical audience? Are there reactions from passers-by?

One of the many Corona features: People smile when they see me walking around town with the camera stick. It seems to me that they are happy that something is happening in terms of culture despite the lockdown.

What's your favorite Old Town specialty?

Mustard! Mustard is a daily food requirement for me. For me, there's nothing better than slathering a whole wheat slice with Gouda and ABB mustard. That's my favorite thing to do every night.

Which sight of the old town is not to be missed?

The beautiful Rhine panorama with the bridges. I think the view of the Rhine is the perfect combination of idyll with urban lifestyle. There my heart always rises.

What's the first place you'll visit in Old Town after the lockdown ends?

I will stand outside the Uerige with my best friends and drink the lid off. I really miss the brewery atmosphere.

What do you particularly like about Düsseldorf?

Düsseldorf is a city that offers you everything. We have a little bit of everything, and within a manageable framework. Even in the big city, a village character has been preserved.