Are you a fan of mustard? Do you crave that tangy kick on your pretzels, sausages, or sandwiches? If so, Cologne’s Mustard Museum is a must-visit destination on your next trip to Germany. While the city may be known for its majestic cathedral and refreshing Kölsch beer, it also houses a hidden gem for those who appreciate the flavorful world of mustard.
A Peek Inside Cologne’s Senfmuseum
When you step into the Senfmuseum, you’ll be transported to an ancient era of mustard-making. The museum’s center is a 200-year-old mustard mill, a testimonial to Cologne’s rich culinary history. And I love that they still use this restored mill, dating back to 1810, to produce an array of cold-ground mustards.
The museum showcases this treasured condiment’s versatility and enduring appeal, from a moderately spicy 1820s recipe to modern variations with garlic, honey, and cayenne. And, if you are like me, you will love everything about it.
More Than Just Mustard
But the Senfmuseum isn’t just about the mill. It’s an extravaganza of all things mustard. There, you will discover the fascinating history of mustard, from its ancient origins with Julius Caesar to its health benefits touted by Pliny the Elder. You can also explore the diverse uses of mustard in the museum’s shop, where you’ll find everything from fruity spreads and chutneys to mustard-infused liqueurs.
The museum staff’s passion for mustard is contagious. While guided tours may be on hold, their enthusiasm will surely inspire your mustard adventures.
I have been a mustard fan since childhood, but I fell in love with it again on my first trip to Eastern Europe. They make some of the best mustards out there, and the ones I tried to match my taste. But… back to the topic!
I was in Köln in the summer of 2023 to see Botch play in Germany for the first time in twenty years, and that is when I realized that there is something called the Kölner Senfmuseum. I was staying at the Art’otel Cologne, and the museum was a few blocks away. On my last day in town, I went to do some mustard shopping and brought some to Berlin.
Know Before You Go
The Senfmuseum is an ode to Cologne’s remarkable culinary legacy and a must-visit for any mustard enthusiast. While the museum portion might be temporarily closed, the shop remains open for visitors to explore and indulge their mustard cravings.
- The museum closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and there are plans to reopen it in the future, but the shop is open and ready for visitors.
- Guided tours are temporarily unavailable. But the passionate staff are still on hand to answer questions and share their mustard expertise.
So, the next time you find yourself in Cologne, add a stop to the Kölner Senfmuseum to your itinerary and discover the lovely world of mustard like never before.
Cologne Mustard Museum: A Mustard-Lover’s Paradise
Holzmarkt 79-83
Cologne, 50676
Germany
