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What should you eat when traveling to Germany? Explore the unique and iconic German specialties with unforgettable flavors in the article below!
German cuisine is a perfect blend of hearty grilled dishes and refreshing beverages. Whether you prefer traditional, comforting meals or unique regional flavors, German food never fails to captivate visitors with its diversity and distinct character.
From the aromatic Bratwurst sausages and steaming potato soup to the world-famous Pretzel bread, each dish offers a rich cultural and historical culinary experience of Germany.
Discover the must-try German specialties with Mytour in the article below!
1. Bratwurst Sausage - Germany's Famous Specialty
Bratwurst originated in the 13th century in Nuremberg and quickly became a popular street food, deeply embedded in the vibrant culture across Germany. This savory sausage, made from pork, beef, or veal, is grilled over charcoal to achieve a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior.
Statistics show there are over 40 varieties of Bratwurst in Germany, each reflecting regional customs and preferences. The three main types include Rohwurst (raw sausage), Brühwurst (parboiled sausage), and Kochwurst (cooked sausage). Germans often enjoy Bratwurst with bread, mustard, and sauerkraut at BBQ parties, football events, or traditional festivals like Oktoberfest.
A serving of Bratwurst typically costs between 3-5 Euros, depending on the location, and is often paired with a refreshing beer. Don’t miss trying this iconic sausage at small street stalls in Nuremberg.
2. German-Style Currywurst: Sausage with Curry Sauce
As a food enthusiast, you can’t miss the chance to try the famous Currywurst when visiting Germany. This modern twist on Bratwurst features a rich curry sauce, combining the crispy, savory sausage with the spicy, tangy flavors of curry powder and thick tomato sauce for a unique culinary experience.
Currywurst is often served with crispy fries, creating a perfect balance for a quick and delicious meal. Invented during the post-war era when ingredients were scarce, Currywurst has since become a street food icon, with Germans consuming around 800 million servings annually! The average price for a portion is 4-6 Euros.
If you visit Berlin, don’t miss Konnopke’s Imbiss, a historic fast-food stand famous for its authentic Currywurst, a true taste of the capital.
3. German-Style Sauerbraten: Tangy Marinated Beef
In German, “Sauer” means sour, and “Braten” refers to roasting. However, Sauerbraten is more than just roasted meat. This dish features beef marinated in a mixture of vinegar or wine for several days, then slow-cooked with vegetables and spices to create a rich, flavorful gravy.
Originating from the Rhineland region, Sauerbraten is often served with potato dumplings or Spätzle. The tangy-sweet gravy paired with the tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef will captivate you from the very first bite.
A favorite at family gatherings, Sauerbraten is typically enjoyed with a cold beer. Mytour recommends visiting Brauerei Schumacher in Düsseldorf to savor this traditional dish.
4. Schnitzel: A Beloved German Classic
Schnitzel – just the name alone evokes the irresistible crunch of this iconic fried dish from Germany and Austria. Thin slices of meat are coated in breadcrumbs, fried to a golden crisp, resulting in a delightful contrast of a crunchy exterior and tender, flavorful interior.
This dish traces its origins to Vienna, where the famous Wiener Schnitzel is made with veal. In Germany, however, you’ll find variations using pork, chicken, or even turkey. Interestingly, Schnitzel has culinary cousins worldwide, such as France’s escalope and Japan’s tonkatsu.
The perfect way to enjoy Schnitzel is paired with a refreshing potato salad or fresh vegetables, and a slice of lemon to enhance the flavor. For an affordable yet high-quality experience, try "Zum Schwarzen Adler" in Frankfurt or "Schnitzelei" in Berlin, where prices range from 10 to 20 Euros.
5. German-Style Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Cake)
Nothing is sweeter or more enchanting than indulging in a slice of Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, also known as Black Forest Cake, a culinary icon of Germany since the 1930s.
Layers of fluffy chocolate sponge cake are generously filled with smooth whipped cream, adorned with shaved chocolate and juicy red cherries, and infused with the distinct flavor of Kirsch liquor from the Schwarzwald region, creating a sophisticated and utterly captivating dessert.
Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte is a staple at festivals, weddings, birthdays, or even a simple afternoon tea. To savor a handmade version of this cake, visit "Café am Dom" in Munich or "Café König" in Baden-Baden.
6. German-Style Kartoffelsalat (Potato Salad)
Kartoffelsalat, or German potato salad, is a humble yet delicious dish loved at family meals and outdoor barbecues. With two main preparation styles – Southern and Northern – this salad offers unique flavors depending on the region.
In the South, Kartoffelsalat is typically served warm with a light vinaigrette, while the North favors a creamy mayonnaise dressing for a rich and refreshing taste. Germans also add ingredients like onions, bacon, and pickles to the salad. It can be enjoyed as a side dish or paired with sausages, Schnitzel, or grilled meats for a complete meal.
While in Germany, don’t miss the chance to try a delicious plate of Kartoffelsalat at places like "Augustiner Bräustuben" in Munich or "Zur Letzten Instanz" in Berlin, with prices ranging from 3 to 6 Euros per serving.
7. German-Style Döner Kebab Sandwich
When thinking of Germany, many might picture sausages and beer, but a surprising favorite is the Döner Kebab sandwich. Originating from Turkey and introduced to Germany by immigrant workers in the 1960s, Döner Kebab has quickly won over both locals and tourists alike.
The meat used in the sandwich can be chicken, beef, or lamb, marinated to perfection, and served in crispy pita or soft lavash bread. Many places add cabbage, pickled cucumbers, and yogurt sauce to enhance the flavor. A serving of Döner Kebab costs between 3 to 5 Euros, making it an affordable and filling meal.
When in Berlin, don’t miss Mustafa’s Gemüse Kebap, a small but famous spot known for its exceptional quality. If you’re in Munich, try Habibi’s Kebab, a local favorite for Döner lovers.
8. German-Style Kartoffelpuffer (Potato Pancakes)
Kartoffelpuffer, or potato pancakes, are a traditional dish you can’t miss when visiting Germany. Made from grated potatoes mixed with onions, eggs, and flour, then fried to a golden crisp, these pancakes offer a delightful contrast of a crunchy exterior and a soft, sweet potato interior.
Kartoffelpuffer can be enjoyed in two ways: sweet or savory. For those with a sweet tooth, try them with applesauce or powdered sugar, creating a delightful contrast between the salty crunch of the pancake and the mild sweetness of the topping. Savory lovers can pair them with smoked salmon or herb quark for a rich culinary experience.
A serving of Kartoffelpuffer typically costs between 2 to 4 Euros at Christmas markets in Cologne.
9. German-Style Kartoffelsuppe (Potato Soup)
Kartoffelsuppe ranks high among the must-try dishes in Germany, offering a warm and hearty flavor perfect for cold winter days. Made primarily with potatoes, onions, carrots, and garlic, this soup is often blended to achieve a smooth, rich texture. The dish is elevated by the creaminess of fresh cream, the smokiness of bacon, and the subtle aroma of fresh herbs.
Kartoffelsuppe is usually served with crispy bread, creating a perfect balance in every bite. This dish is also highly customizable, allowing you to add German sausages or vegetables based on your preference.
A steaming bowl of soup costs around 5 to 8 Euros, making it a nutritious and satisfying light lunch. If you’re in Munich, visit Augustiner Bräu to try their homemade-style Kartoffelsuppe.
10. Pretzel: A Traditional German Delicacy
Pretzel, also known as Brezel, is a traditional German pastry with its iconic twisted shape. Believed to have originated in Southern Germany during the Middle Ages, Pretzels were initially made by monks as a religious symbol, with the three holes representing the Holy Trinity. The flavor of Pretzel is best enjoyed with a sprinkle of salt, creating a perfect harmony between its crispy crust and chewy interior.
Most Pretzels are freshly baked daily in German bakeries, especially in Bavaria. Locals often enjoy Pretzels with butter, Obatzda cheese, or paired with sausages and German beer for a light meal. Prices range from 1-2 Euros, depending on size and location. Famous spots for traditional Pretzels include Hofbräuhaus and Wimmer Bakery in Munich.
11. Bienenstich: Germany’s Famous Bee Sting Cake
Bienenstich, also known as “Bee Sting Cake,” is a sweet and irresistible dessert from Germany. Its name is tied to an interesting legend: in the 15th century, bakers threw beehives at invaders to save their village and later celebrated their victory by creating this cake.
The cake is made from sweet yeast dough, topped with fragrant caramelized almonds and filled with smooth vanilla cream. It boasts a delightful texture, combining soft, fluffy dough with a crunchy almond topping, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Bienenstich is often enjoyed as a dessert, paired with tea or coffee. A slice typically costs between 3-4 Euros, depending on the bakery.
To savor an exceptional Bienenstich, visit renowned bakeries in Berlin like Bäckerei Siebert or Konditorei Buchwald.
12. German-Style Eisbein (Pickled Pork Knuckle)
If you’re a meat lover, you can’t miss the chance to try Eisbein, a pickled pork knuckle. The pork is braised in German beer and roasted until the outer skin is crispy, while the meat inside remains tender and succulent. Enhanced with a perfect blend of spices like onions, garlic, and juniper berries, Eisbein delivers a rich, irresistible flavor. It’s often served with stewed sauerkraut and mashed potatoes, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
Eisbein is typically served in large portions, enough for 2-3 people. It’s an ideal dish for fully experiencing German cuisine. Prices for a serving of Eisbein at restaurants usually range from 10-15 Euros, depending on the region.
For the best Eisbein experience, visit traditional restaurants in Berlin like Maximilians or Augustiner am Gendarmenmarkt.
13. Obatzda: The Essential Beer Snack in German Festivities
Obatzda is a famous Bavarian snack, often enjoyed at beer gardens or traditional festivals. Interestingly, Obatzda was originally created to use up overripe cheese, but thanks to its clever combination with beer and spices, it quickly became a beloved staple in beer halls.
To create this iconic cheese dish, aged soft cheeses like Camembert are blended with butter, beer, and spices such as paprika, pepper, and salt. The result is Obatzda, a spread with a unique flavor profile—rich, slightly spicy, creamy from the butter, and smooth from the cheese. It’s perfect on rye bread or paired with a twisted Pretzel for an irresistible treat.
If you’re in Munich, visit Hofbräuhaus or Augustiner Bräustuben to enjoy authentic Obatzda alongside a refreshing glass of beer. Prices for a serving of Obatzda at these spots range from 7-10 Euros.
14. Apfelschorle: Germany’s Famous Refreshing Apple Spritzer
Apfelschorle is a unique German drink made by blending fresh apple juice with sparkling mineral water. With the natural sweetness of apples and the refreshing fizz of mineral water, Apfelschorle is a favorite among Germans, especially during hot summer days.
Notably, Apfelschorle is less sweet than pure apple juice and has fewer calories, making it an excellent choice for rehydration after sports. You can easily find Apfelschorle in most supermarkets and cafes across Germany, priced at around 2-3 Euros per bottle. Popular bottled brands like Gerolsteiner or Spreequell are convenient options for travelers.
15. White Wine & Onion Tart: Zwiebelkuchen & Federweisser
Autumn in Germany wouldn’t be complete without the classic duo: Federweisser and Zwiebelkuchen. These two often feature in grape harvest festivals, where locals and visitors alike celebrate the flavors of the new season.
Federweisser is a partially fermented white wine, offering a sweet and slightly fizzy taste best enjoyed fresh. With its cloudy appearance, Federweisser delivers a refreshing, mildly sweet, and slightly tangy flavor that excites the palate. Meanwhile, Zwiebelkuchen, a savory onion tart with a crispy crust and aromatic filling, perfectly complements the wine’s sweetness.
If you visit the Mosel or Rhine regions in September or October, join wine festivals like Wiesbaden’s Weinfest to savor this iconic pairing. A glass of Federweisser and a slice of Zwiebelkuchen at these festivals cost around 8-12 Euros.
German cuisine is renowned for its harmonious blend of rich flavors and creative traditional cooking. From simple dishes like sausages and pretzels to more elaborate creations like Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, Germany offers an unforgettable culinary experience for travelers.
To prepare for your trip, explore more blogs on Mytour: 16 Christmas Markets You’ll Love, 15 Must-Visit Spots in Hamburg, 15 Historical Sites in Frankfurt for History Buffs, and 16 Famous German Destinations for Independent Travelers, 14-Day Europe Travel Guide, What is Eurail Pass? How to Use It for Europe Travel, What is a Schengen Visa? Latest Visa Application Process, and more.
Don’t hesitate to add these irresistible German dishes to your food-tour itinerary!
