The Krutenau, or “Krut” as it’s affectionately known, has always been considered THE student district of Strasbourg! Its dance bars, trendy cafés, historic restaurants and above all its festive atmosphere make it a unique place to live, and not just for students!
Located in the south-east of the Grande-Île, the Krutenau district is ideally situated between the university hub and Strasbourg’s historic center. For decades, it has been the primary place of residence for students. And where there’s student life, there’s nightlife! While the legendary Café des Anges, Salamandre and Moly Malone’s are no longer in the limelight, other establishments are well worth a visit. These include the Supertonic gin bar, the indestructible Chat Perché and the rocking Café Lové. But by daylight, the Krutenau district also offers a number of trendy little cafés, perfect for work or socializing. I particularly like Café Bretelles, which works exclusively with local, quality produce.
Place des arts
This neighborhood is also home to a major arts training center: the former École Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs, now known as HEAR (Haute École des Arts du Rhin). Renowned for the quality of its teaching and its selective admission, the school is also distinguished by its incredible facade with its Art Nouveau-style plant decoration. Still in the arts, the Krutenau is also home to the MJM Graphic Design college, as well as the Les Bateliers creative and cultural center. The latter offers a wide range of courses for young and old, from drawing to pottery and woodworking! And if you’d like to admire some unique artistic creations, head to La Chambre! In addition to its exhibition program, this venue offers free workshops and evening classes on photography and image analysis. Last but not least, the CEEAC (Centre d’art – Expositions d’art contemporain) offers visitors a different way of looking at today’s art.
Peaceful quays
Krutenau is also home to the famous Quai des Bateliers, an entirely pedestrian zone along the Ill River that has been open to the public for several years. Here you’ll find shopping, independent bookshops, trendy cafés and small pontoons. For many, it’s the ideal place to enjoy a quiet drink by the water. In the same area, you’ll find three barges, each with its own special atmosphere. Are you a wine lover? Come aboard the Ill Vino barge, a wine bar with over 1,500 references. Here, you’ll make some fine discoveries in a cozy, intimate setting. And if you’re looking for a more bucolic, relaxed atmosphere, Café Atlantico is sure to please, with its wooden benches, small terrace and gourmet brunch! And if you’re looking for a trendy place to enjoy an aperitif, stop by Le Rafiot! Its terrace, with its many deckchairs and soft sofas, is unquestionably “the place to be”!
Creative and ecological
I couldn’t take you to the heart of the Krutenau district without mentioning the emblematic Manufacture des Tabacs! Dating back to 1849, this building, which will be completely restored in 2021, is today a showcase for creativity, ecology, training, innovation and entrepreneurship. It houses the ENGEES (Ecole de l’Eau et de l’Environnement), a youth hostel, the SEMIA start-up incubator, a bar-restaurant and a store selling organic and local produce. The venue regularly organizes events to the delight of students and local residents alike. Concerts, conferences and workshops are regular fixtures. The Manufacture des Tabacs is perfectly in tune with the district’s dynamic and effervescent atmosphere. While the Krutenau remains the queen of nightlife, it offers another, resolutely creative facet.
