Berlin’s food scene has grown to global recognition over the past few years. And while most travelers associate Germany with food like bratwurst and schnitzel, a variety of cuisines have dominated the city in the last decade. Here are few local favourites to devour on your next trip to Berlin.
Authentic German cuisine at Zur Haxe
Roasted Pork Knuckel – Source: Facebook
Location: Erich-Weinert-Straße 128, 10409
Prenzlauer Berg’s Zur Haxe offers hearty dishes and a welcoming atmosphere: practically the definition of classic German Gemütlichkeit (cosiness). The friendly staff will greet you in traditional Bavarian Lederhosen trousers and Dirndl dresses, while oak tables and kitsch decorations add to the restaurant’s homey decor.
The menu features all the classic German dishes: large, roasted pork knuckles (the restaurant’s namesake) and sausage platters keep carnivores happy, while vegetarian options include Spätzle – a cheesy pasta bake.
A taste of Asia at Yumcha Heroes
Source: Facebook
Location: Weinbergsweg 8, 10119
Yumcha Heroes on trendy Weinbergsweg serves up contemporary takes on Asian dumplings to Mitte’s young, trendsetting crowd. Neon lights and a bright orange logo help this restaurant stand out from neighbouring eateries, but the interior is slightly more low key, with bamboo‐patterned wallpaper and black matte furniture.
If you’re already a dumpling fan you’ll recognise most of the classics on the menu. Those feeling slightly more adventurous can sample the octopus salad.
Join the queue at Mustafa’s
Source: Facebook
Location: Mehringdamm 32, 10961
Döner kebabs are a ubiquitous part of Berlin’s streets, especially in the neighbourhoods of Neukölln, Kreuzberg and Wedding, all of which have large Turkish populations. Along Kreuzberg’s bustling Mehringdamm you’ll see a small takeaway shack which is home to one of the city’s most famous kebabs joints.
In fact, Mustafa’s is so popular with locals and tourists that during peak hours you might be faced with a 40‐minute wait. Many regulars swear the renowned Gemüsekebap (vegetarian kebab) is well worth the wait, though.
Street food eats
Bite Club – Source: Facebook
Berlin’s best food isn’t limited to its restaurants – street food has been a fashionable trend for the past couple of years. In fact, the international dishes found at street food markets have become so popular that many successful vendors have gone on to open restaurants. We recommend a taste of these markets:
- Taking place right on the banks of the Spree in Treptow, Bite Club is a contemporary food fair held every other week throughout summer.
- Street Food Thursday is the most popular weekly food market. It takes place in the historic Markthalle IX in Kreuzberg.
- One of Berlin’s newest additions, Street Food auf Achse pops up weekly in summer at the Kulturbrauerei in Prenzlauer Berg.