Places To Visit In Germany For Serious Foodies
From hearty meat dishes to innovative vegan creations, Germany offers a culinary adventure like no other
Germany, with its rich culinary heritage and modern food culture, is a treasure trove for foodies. From hearty Bavarian dishes to innovative vegan creations, the country's diverse gastronomic offerings cater to every palate. If you're planning a culinary journey through Germany, here are some must-visit cities and towns, along with dishes you simply can't miss.
Berlin: A Melting Pot of Cultures

Currywurst. Photo credit: Unsplash
Berlin’s food scene is a melting pot of cultures, offering everything from traditional German dishes to global cuisines. A quintessential Berlin street food is currywurst, a steamed and fried pork sausage smothered in ketchup and curry powder. Curry 36 or Konnopke’s Imbiss are great spots to enjoy this local favourite. Another must-try is the doner kebab, popularized in Berlin despite its Turkish origins. Mustafa's Gümüs Gemüse Kebab is particularly famous for its delicious version. Berlin is a haven for vegan and vegetarian options. Kopps offers gourmet vegan cuisine, while Daluma is perfect for health-focused vegetarian bowls. Additionally, Market Halls like Markthalle Neun provide an excellent opportunity to sample artisanal cheeses, fresh bread, and global street food.
Munich: Bavarian Comfort Food and Beer
Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is synonymous with hearty food and world-famous beer. A traditional Bavarian veal sausage known as weisswurst is best enjoyed with pretzels and sweet mustard at breakfast, with Weisses Bräuhaus being a notable spot. Schweinshaxe, or pork knuckle roasted to perfection, is served with potato dumplings and sauerkraut at the iconic Hofbräuhaus. For those seeking vegan Bavarian cuisine, Max Pett offers plant-based versions of classic dishes. No visit to Munich is complete without experiencing a traditional beer garden like Augustiner-Keller, where you can pair your meal with locally brewed beer.
Hamburg: A Maritime Feast
As a port city, Hamburg boasts a strong seafood culture and international influences. Fischbrötchen, fresh fish sandwiches, are a local specialty and are best enjoyed at the Fischmarkt early on Sunday mornings. Labskaus, a traditional sailor’s dish made with corned beef, potatoes, and beetroot, is often topped with a fried egg and pickled herring; Old Commercial Room serves an authentic version. The Sternschanze neighborhood offers vibrant international cuisine, while vegan diners can indulge in creative plant-based dishes at HappenPappen.
Cologne: Sweet and Savory Delights
Cologne’s food scene is as diverse as its cultural heritage. A must-try dish is Rheinischer Sauerbraten, marinated roast beef served with red cabbage and dumplings, which is perfectly paired with the city’s light and refreshing Kölsch beer. For a quick snack, Halve Hahn, a rye bread roll with Gouda cheese, is a local favorite. Sweet lovers should visit the Imhoff Chocolate Museum for an immersive experience in the world of chocolate.
Heidelberg: Romantic Dining Experiences

Schnitzel. Photo credit: Unsplash
Heidelberg, a picturesque town, is ideal for a romantic foodie getaway. Traditional schnitzel at Schnitzelbank offers a taste of history, while spätzle, a Swabian egg noodle dish often served with cheese (Käsespätzle) or lentils, is another regional highlight. Red’s serves creative vegan twists on classic dishes, and the surrounding Rhine-Neckar region provides excellent local wines to pair with your meals.
Nuremberg: Historical Charm and Festive Foods
Nuremberg is famed for its historical charm and culinary specialties. Nürnberger Bratwurst, small flavorful sausages often served three at a time in a bread roll, can be found at street vendors or Bratwursthäusle. During Christmas, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is the perfect place to sample Lebkuchen, the city’s famous gingerbread cookies. Estragon offers a variety of vegetarian dishes for those seeking plant-based options.
Dresden: Saxon Specialties

Lebkuchen. Photo credit: Unsplash
Dresden, combining baroque architecture with a distinctive culinary flair, offers Saxon specialties like Sauerbraten, a marinated beef roast, and Eierschecke, a layered cake made with quark cheese, custard, and raisins. Café Schinkelwache is a delightful spot to enjoy these treats.
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