Must eat in Germany. 15+ most famous & must try food in Germany

What should I eat in Germany, what to eat in Germany when traveling to Germany? Discover the most famous, popular dishes in Germany, must eat in Germany, must try food in Germany with unique flavors that you cannot miss in the article below!

German cuisine is a blend of rich grilled dishes and cool drinks. Whether you love traditional, warm dishes or unique flavors from different regions, German dishes always know how to captivate visitors with their diversity and unique characteristics.

From fragrant Bratwurst grilled sausages, hot potato soup to famous Pretzel bread, each dish brings diners a cultural experience and rich culinary history of Germany.
Check out the must-try German specialties with us in the article below!

Bratwurst Sausage – Famous German Specialty (#must try food in Germany)

Bratwurst was born in the 13th century in Nuremberg and quickly became a popular street food, associated with the vibrant culture throughout Germany. Bratwurst has a rich flavor from pork, or beef, veal, grilled golden brown on a charcoal stove, creating a crispy crust and soft, sweet meat inside.

According to statistics, there are currently more than 40 different types of Bratwurst in Germany, depending on the customs and preferences of each region. Of which, the three main types include: Rohwurst (raw sausage), Brühwurst (boiled sausage) and Kochwurst (cooked sausage). Germans often eat Bratwurst with bread, mustard and sauerkraut, at BBQ parties or at football events, traditional festivals such as Oktoberfest.

The price of a portion of Bratwurst sausage ranges from 3-5 Euro depending on the place, and is often accompanied by cold draft beer. Don’t forget to try this sausage at the stalls on the small streets of Nuremberg.

German Currywurst Sausage

As a foodie, you cannot miss the opportunity to try the famous Currywurst when coming to Germany. This is a modern version of Bratwurst sausage, but is transformed with rich curry sauce. The combination of the fatty flavor of the fried sausage with the spicy taste of curry powder and thick tomato sauce creates a completely new culinary experience.

Currywurst is often served with crispy fries, creating the perfect balance for a quick and delicious meal. This dish was created in the post-war period in Germany, when people were short of ingredients. And interestingly, today, Currywurst has become a symbol of street food and is consumed by Germans up to 800 million servings every year! The average price for a Currywurst is around 4-6 euros.

If you have the opportunity to visit Berlin, visit Konnopke’s Imbiss – a long-standing fast food stall famous for its authentic Currywurst.

German Sauerbraten Beef Stew

In German, “Sauer” means sour, and “Braten” means grilled. However, this dish is actually more than just grilled meat. Sauerbraten is a sour beef stew with a rich flavor, characterized by the process of marinating the meat in a mixture of vinegar or wine for many days. After marinating, the meat is slow-cooked with vegetables and spices, creating a smooth and flavorful sauce.

This dish originated in the Rhineland region and is often served with potato pancakes or Spätzle noodles. The sweet and sour taste of the sauce, combined with the rich taste of the tender beef that melts in your mouth, will captivate you from the first bite.

Sauerbraten is a favorite dish at family parties, and is often enjoyed by Germans with a cold beer. Klook suggests that you visit the Brauerei Schumacher restaurant in Düsseldorf, to enjoy the traditional Sauerbraten.

Schnitzel – A Favorite German Dish

Schnitzel – just hearing the name evokes the crispy and attractive taste of the typical fried meat dish from Germany and Austria. Each thin slice of meat is coated with breadcrumbs, then fried until golden brown, creating a crispy texture on the outside but soft and rich on the inside.

The journey of this dish originated in the city of Vienna, with the famous version Wiener Schnitzel made from veal. However, in Germany, you will find all sorts of variations with pork, chicken, and even turkey. An interesting secret about Schnitzel is that this dish is not only famous in Germany but also has “relatives” in many other countries, such as French escalope or Japanese tonkatsu.

The special thing when enjoying Schnitzel is the combination with potato salad or fresh vegetables, and a slice of lemon to enhance the flavor. Some addresses serve classy Schnitzel at affordable prices, from 10 to 20 Euros such as “Zum Schwarzen Adler” in Frankfurt or “Schnitzelei” in Berlin.

German Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (#Must eat in Germany)

There is nothing sweeter and more charming than enjoying a slice of Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, also known as Black Forest Cake, one of the symbols of German cuisine, appearing since the 1930s.

Layers of soft and spongy chocolate sponge cake are covered with smooth whipped cream, decorated with thinly shaved chocolate and red cherries, and a touch of Kirsch wine from the Schwarzwald region, all creating a delicate and charming dessert.

Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte is often served at festivals, weddings, birthdays or simply for afternoon tea. To try a handmade version of Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, visit the “Café am Dom” in Munich or the “Café König” in Baden-Baden.

Kartoffelsalat Potato Salad

Kartoffelsalat, or German potato salad, is a simple yet delicious dish that is loved from family meals to outdoor barbecues. With two main cooking styles – southern and northern – this salad brings unique flavors depending on the region.

In the south, Kartoffelsalat is often served warm with a light vinaigrette sauce, while the north favors mayonnaise, giving it a rich and refreshing flavor. In addition, Germans also combine ingredients such as onions, bacon, and pickles in salads. You can eat Kartoffelsalat as a side dish, or eat it with sausages, Schnitzel, or even grilled meat, to create a complete meal.

In Germany, you can enjoy a delicious plate of Kartoffelsalat at eateries such as “Augustiner Bräustuben” in Munich or “Zur Letzten Instanz” in Berlin, with prices ranging from 3 to 6 Euros per portion.

German-Style Döner Kebab Sandwiches

When thinking of Germany, many people probably think of sausages and beer, but a big surprise is the popularity of Döner Kebab sandwiches. Originating from Türkiye and introduced to Germany by immigrant workers in the 1960s, Döner Kebab quickly conquered not only local residents but also tourists.

The meat used in the patty can be chicken, beef or lamb, marinated with fragrant spices, along with crispy pita bread or soft lavash. Many places also add cabbage, pickles, and yogurt sauce to enhance the flavor. A portion of Döner Kebab costs from 3 to 5 euros, quite reasonable for a quick and filling meal.

When in Berlin, don’t forget to stop by Mustafa’s Gemüse Kebap, a small eatery famous for its excellent quality. If you are in Munich, you can also experience Habibi’s Kebab – a local favorite Döner shop.

Kartoffelpuffer Potato Pancake

Kartoffelpuffer, also known as fried potato cakes, is a traditional dish that no one can miss when coming to Germany. The cake is made from grated potatoes, mixed with onions, eggs, and flour, then fried. When you bite into the cake, you will feel the crispy outer shell and the soft, sweet potato filling inside.

Kartoffelpuffer can be enjoyed in two ways: sweet or savory. If you are a sweet person, try it with apple sauce or powdered sugar, creating an interesting contrast between the salty crunch of the cake and the sweet taste of the sauce. For diners who love savory dishes, you can eat the cake with smoked salmon or herbal quark, bringing a rich culinary experience.

The price of a portion of Kartoffelpuffer sold on the spot is usually around 2 to 4 euros at the Christmas markets in Cologne.

Potato Soup – Kartoffelsuppe – German style

Kartoffelsuppe is always at the top of the list of delicious dishes in Germany that visitors cannot miss, bringing a warm and rustic flavor on cold winter days. With the main ingredients of potatoes, onions, carrots and garlic cooked until soft, this soup is often pureed to create a smooth, rich texture. The highlight of this dish lies in the combination of the richness of fresh cream, the richness of bacon, and the light aroma of fresh herbs.
Kartoffelsuppe is often served with crispy bread, creating perfection in every bite. In particular, this dish is very easy to prepare, you can add German sausages or vegetables depending on your preference.

A bowl of hot soup costs only about 5 to 8 euros, enough for a light lunch but still rich in nutrition. If you have the opportunity to visit Munich, try the restaurant Augustiner Bräu to enjoy the “homemade” Kartoffelsuppe.

Pretzel – Traditional Delicacy in Germany

Pretzel – also known as Brezel is a traditional German pastry, with a unique spiral shape. Believed to have originated in southern Germany during the Middle Ages, the Pretzel was originally made by monks as a religious symbol, with three holes representing God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.

The taste of the Pretzel is perfect when enjoyed with a little salt sprinkled on top, creating a wonderful blend of crispy crust and soft, chewy inside. Most Pretzels are baked fresh every day in bakeries in Germany, especially in the Bavarian region. Locals often enjoy Pretzels with butter, Obatzda cheese or with sausages, German beer for a snack. The price of a Pretzel ranges from 1-2 Euros, depending on the size and place of sale. Famous eateries serving traditional Pretzels include Hofbräuhaus or Wimmer bakery in Munich.

Bienenstich Cake – Famous Bee Sting Cake in Germany

Bienenstich, also known as “bee sting” cake, is a sweet, charming dessert from Germany. Its name is associated with an interesting legend: in the 15th century, bakers threw beehives at the invaders, saving the village and then celebrated the victory by creating this cake.

The cake is made from sweet yeast dough, covered with fragrant caramelized almonds and smooth vanilla cream inside. This cake has a wonderful texture, including soft and spongy dough and crispy almonds on top, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Bienenstich is often served as a dessert after a meal, accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee. The price of a piece of cake ranges from 3-4 Euros, depending on the shop.

To experience the perfect Bienenstich, you should visit famous bakeries in Berlin such as Bäckerei Siebert or Konditorei Buchwald.

German Eisbein – Roasted Pork Knuckle

If you are a meat lover, you definitely cannot miss the Eisbein ham. The ham is stewed in German beer and grilled until the skin is crispy, while the meat inside is tender and melts in your mouth. With the perfect combination of spices such as onions, garlic, and juniper berries, Eisbein brings an irresistible rich flavor, often served with sauerkraut and mashed peas, creating a full and hearty meal.

Eisbein is usually served in large portions, enough for 2-3 people to enjoy. This is the ideal dish when you want to experience German cuisine to the fullest. The price of a portion of Eisbein in restaurants is usually around 10-15 Euros, depending on the region.

If you want to enjoy the best Eisbein, go to traditional restaurants in Berlin such as Maximilians or Augustiner am Gendarmenmarkt.

Obatzda Cheese – An Indispensable “Bait” for Drinking in German Parties

Obatzda is a famous snack in Bavaria, Germany, often appearing in meals at beer gardens or traditional festivals. Interestingly, Obatzda was originally created to take advantage of expired cheese, but thanks to the delicate combination of beer and spices, it quickly became an indispensable attractive dish in beer halls.

To create this famous cheese, people often use long-aged soft cheese such as Camembert, mixed with butter, beer and spices such as paprika, pepper and salt. The finished Obatzda has a special flavor, both rich and spicy, with a little fat from butter and smooth from cheese, spread on barley bread or Brezel pretzels and it is “delicious”.

If you come to Munich, stop by Hofbräuhaus or Augustiner Bräustuben to enjoy authentic Obatzda with a glass of cold draft beer. The price for a portion of Obatzda at these shops ranges from 7-10 euros.

Famous Cold Apple Juice Apfelschorle in Germany

Apfelschorle – a unique German drink created based on the perfect combination of fresh apple juice and carbonated mineral water. With the natural sweetness from apples and the refreshing feeling from mineral water, Apfelschorle has become a favorite choice of many Germans on hot summer days.

In particular, Apfelschorle is less sweet than pure apple juice and has a lower calorie content, helping athletes quench their thirst after hours of exercise. You can easily find Apfelschorle in most supermarkets and cafes in Germany, for about 2-3 euros per bottle. Some popular bottled apple juice brands in Germany such as Gerolsteiner or Spreequell are convenient options for tourists.

White Wine & Onion Tart – Zwiebelkuchen & Federweisser

Autumn in Germany is not complete without the classic duo: Federweisser and Zwiebelkuchen. Federweisser and Zwiebelkuchen often appear during grape harvest festivals, where locals and tourists enjoy the taste of the new crop together.

Federweisser is an incompletely fermented white wine, with a sweet and slightly effervescent taste, and is often enjoyed young. Characterized by a translucent glaze, Federweisser has a fresh, slightly sweet and slightly sour taste, creating an exciting feeling for the taste buds. In addition, Zwiebelkuchen – onion tart, with a crispy crust and fragrant onion filling, is the perfect combination to balance the sweetness of the wine.

If you visit the Mosel or Rhine region in September and October, attend wine festivals such as Weinfest in Wiesbaden to enjoy this duo. A glass of Federweisser and a portion of Zwiebelkuchen at these festivals cost only 8-12 euros.

German cuisine is famous for its harmonious combination of rich flavors and creative traditional cooking. From simple dishes like sausages and pretzels to more elaborate dishes like Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, Germany offers an unforgettable culinary experience for visitors.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Munich you can refer to

• Munich Travel Card
• Munich City Pass
• City Tour Card Munich
• SEA LIFE Munich Admission Ticket
• Munich Classical Concert Ticket at Old Court Chapel with Optional Bavarian Dinner
• Neuschwanstein Castle Entry Ticket in Schwangau
• Munich Grand Circle Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour
• Bavarian Beer Experience in Munich
• Discover Munich Walking Tour
• From Munich: Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castle Full-Day Trip
• Munich Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: 1-Day or 2-Day Ticket
• Munich: Third Reich & WWII Tour Walking Tour
• From Munich: Neuschwanstein Castle Full-Day Trip
• Munich: Old Town & Viktualienmarkt City Walk in German
• Munich 3-Hour Guided Bike Tour
• From Munich: Neuschwanstein Castle & Linderhof Premium Tour
• From Munich: Rothenburg and Nördlinger Ries Day Trip by Bus
• From Munich: Salzburg, St. Wolfgang, and the Salzkammergut

Read more Germany guide here.