Gaffel am Dom

What do you understand by the Kölsch way of life? First, there's the Kölsch hospitality and the friendliness of the people of Cologne. Then there's the Kölsch calmness, expressed in the Kölsch 10 Commandments as "It happens as it needs to." Additionally, there's the Kölsch local patriotism; even if Cologne doesn't come across as pristine, its residents deeply love the city for its authentic charm. Furthermore, there's the Rhenish cheerfulness.

At Gaffel am Dom, all these traditions are richly represented: in cozy get-togethers, sing-along events, concerts with Cologne musicians, or live broadcasts of the 1. FC Köln, right up to carnival events for all joyful revelers. At Gaffel am Dom, you'll often hear, "We're in!" Are you too?

A Brewery, Really Big

Gaffel am Dom is Cologne's most modern brewery, accommodating 700 guests over 3 levels, renovated inside and out in 2008. Here, German coziness reigns, meaning: Rhenish brewery ambience in a traditional style. With appropriate cuisine: hearty and traditional, as well as regional and seasonal brewery dishes.

Gaffel am Dom is located near the main train station, so the audience is mixed: Cologne visitors and locals meet for a cozy meal or at one of the numerous events in well-equipped and modern venues.

Menu: Hearty Brewery Cuisine

The cuisine at Gaffel am Dom is typically Rhenish, as they proudly state. Sausage, Kassler, and knuckle of pork are just as popular as sauerbraten, liver loaf, or icebein. Hefty dishes are served on wooden tables, even in sizes for several people, such as feast platters.

The extensive menu is traditionally hearty: including schnitzel or raider plates for young guests. Vegetarian options are also available, like Halve Hahn, salads, boiled potatoes, or potato pancakes, and even some vegan options. Flowing from the tap – you guessed it – is Gaffel Kölsch, served in various forms, including non-alcoholic. Of course, water, wine, and soft drinks are also available.

Spaces: Plenty of Seating Options

With its capacity for about 700 guests, Gaffel offers you numerous seating options. Whether quiet and cozy or open and lively. Events take place in the Dom-Stube on the upper floor with a view of the Cathedral. The brewery cellar opens on weekends or for football, as well as for smaller concerts. Also, the Zappes Diploma, your specially bookable course for the perfect Kölsch tapping, takes place here. Carnival and New Year's Eve are celebrated in the large brewery hall on the ground floor. Similarly, football highlights are shown on the big screen or during sing-along concerts.

In summer, the terraces offer food and drinks with a view of the Cologne Cathedral. Of course, even on regular days, you are perfectly placed in the large brewery hall. Despite this, reservations are recommended for special events and occasions.

Much More: Public Events

Gaffel often shows its typical Kölsch side: when the famous sing-along concerts take place every Friday evening. Or live broadcasts of the 1. FC Köln inviting the public to watch and cheer on Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, or Champions League events. Or during carnival. You can also regularly attend comedy nights, Kölsch concerts, and a Christmas gala program.

The brewery rock event with Brings is also well-known – a concert event with this Cologne band, famous beyond the city's borders; their songs have become acoustic staples in Cologne's music history beyond carnival.

Zappes Diploma: Tapping in Kölsch Style

Myths and tales about Kölsch and Köbes – and how to perfectly tap a Gaffel Kölsch – can be learned at Gaffel if you earn your "Zappes Diploma" in a friendly group setting. Afterwards, you'll know how your Kölsch should look, sound, smell, and taste. At the end of the event, you'll receive your certificate.

Where? In the Historic Deichmann Building

The premises of Gaffel am Dom are suitably venerable: The listed Deichmann building was restored to its original 1914 facade from the end of historicism with extensive core refurbishment and renovation in 2008. Inside, according to their own claims, the taproom of Gaffel was restored in the style of breweries from the founding period of about 1850 to 1873. Such an ambiance naturally warms your spirit: the cozy brewery cellar feeling is sure to come alive here. And that's how it should be at Gaffel am Dom.

Fun Fact: To ensure the smooth operation at Gaffel am Dom – with more than a million guests 365 days a year – about 130 people are employed.