Cult restaurant Robert Punkt in Düsseldorf closes due to rent increase!

Cult restaurant Robert Punkt in Düsseldorf closes due to rent increase!

There are signs of change in Düsseldorf. The popular French restaurant Robert Punkt, run by Michael Geisner, will close its doors at the end of February. The reason for this is obvious: a rent increase forces Geisner to draw a line in the sand. In an emotional Facebook post, the owner emphasizes the passion and special memories that have shaped the restaurant over the years. “We allow ourselves to be bent, but never broken,” explains Geisner, clearly showing his fighting spirit in the face of the situation that is now forcing him and his team to make a decision. The restaurant, a project close to the heart of the late Robert Hülsmann, should not disappear into obscurity. Geisner and his team are already working on plans for a new location to continue the spirit of Robert Punkt.

Despite the sad news, the culinary activity on the Rhine promenade continues. The support from the guests is impressive. They show their loyalty in numerous positive comments on Facebook and thus set an example for the valuable gastronomy in the city. Geisner invites everyone to come by again until closing time and enjoy the last delicacies.

Rent increases in focus

One reason for the closure is the rising rent prices, which pose a challenge for many catering establishments. Rent increases are subject to strict rules in Germany. These may take place a maximum of once a year and must be announced at least three months in advance. In addition, the maximum limit for rent increases is 20% within three years, and for the years 2025 and 2026 even a maximum of 5%, due to the current rent cap. Geisner's situation raises questions about the realities of the rental market. Under certain circumstances, the legal framework in Germany leaves little room for tenants who want to take action against high increases.

Regardless of the regulations governing rent increases, Robert Punkt's case shows how explosive the situation can be for many tenants. In other areas, such as parking, it is not uncommon to require approval of increases, which can affect the cost of living. Landlords have a certain amount of leeway here, but they still have to comply with the legal requirements and justify the increase. A highly regulated rental market ensures that rent increases must be based on the local comparative value and that tenants can accept or reject the increase request, whereby transparency is required. (Mietrecht.com), (Test.de).

Rising rents – whether for apartments or restaurants – are causing problems for many people. Additional discussions about the prices for mulled wine in Düsseldorf show that the increased cost of living is challenging the social structure in the city. The public is discussing solutions to help small businesses while many catering establishments are operating at breaking point or even facing closure, as in the case of Robert Punkt, which will soon be history.

Overall, Robert Punkt's situation shows how heavily the catering industry in Düsseldorf is dependent on external factors and how important it is to make the conditions for tenants sustainable.