Tasting My Way Through Berlin: A Journey of Local Food and Flavor
Author: Janice Vazquez | Last updated: November 1, 2024
When you think of German cuisine, bratwurst and pretzels might be the first things that come to mind. However, after my journey through Germany, I discovered there is so much more to taste and savor. German food is hearty and full of flavor, often showcasing fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and rich ingredients such as pork, potatoes, and bread. Join me as I recount my culinary adventure and share some of the must-try local dishes that made my experience unforgettable. This list is divided by dishes, allowing you to easily navigate to the sections that interest you the most.
Dishes:
Schnitzel
Schnitzel is a thin, breaded, and fried cutlet of meat, typically made with either pork or veal. The two most popular versions are Schweineschnitzel, made with pork, and Wienerschnitzel, made with veal. It’s often served with potato salad or fried potatoes. We tried Schnitzel at two different restaurants, and both were incredibly filling and delicious. I especially loved the tenderness and juiciness of the meat, paired with the perfectly crispy, golden coating.
Where to try Schnitzel in Berlin, Germany: Schnitzelei Mitte offers a free small beer at the beginning of your meal.
Currywurst
Currywurst consists of bratwurst topped with curry ketchup. It was invented in 1949 by Herta Heuwer, who began selling it at a food stand in Berlin. This dish is commonly accompanied with french fries. Currywurst is often sold as a fast food dish at snack bars and doner kebabs, but you can find them in restaurants. I ordered a currywurst at a snack bar in Berlin and loved it! I never thought that curry and ketchup mixed so well together.
Where to try Currywurst in Berlin, Germany: berlincurrys
Spätzle
Spätzle, meaning “little swallows,” is a traditional egg noodle dish made from flour, eggs, and milk. It can be served as a side for meat dishes like schnitzel or transformed into Käsespätzle when topped with cheese and fried onions. When I tried it as an entrée at the food market hall in Berlin, it reminded me of American mac ‘n cheese, but even better. The handmade Spätzle I sampled was mixed with organic cheese and topped with black pepper, crispy fried onions, and chives. It was incredibly hearty, chewy, and savory—far more flavorful than mac ‘n cheese!
Where to try Spätzle in Berlin, Germany: Allgauer Kasspatzle
Pretzel
Pretzels or ‘brezel’ in German, are a popular baked pastry in the shape of a knot and topped generously with coarse salt. You’ll find them everywhere from supermarkets and bakeries to festivals like Oktoberfest. They can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or alongside a beer. Unlike in the U.S., they aren’t served with mustard or cheese sauce. Then again, they don’t need a dipping sauce because each pretzel we tried was soft, salty, and downright delicious on its own!
Where to try Pretzel in Berlin, Germany: Brezel Berlin
Leberkase
Leberkase or ‘liver cheese’ in English, is a southern German specialty, but don’t be fooled by the name, there’s no liver or cheese in it! The name actually comes from the old German words Lab (meaning “loaf”) and Kase (meaning “mass”). It’s usually served warm as a main dish, a snack, or even sliced cold as deli meat. Sometimes, you’ll find it tucked into a crispy roll for a delicious sandwich. The taste and texture reminded me of American meatloaf: soft, moist, and salty.
Where to try Leberkase in Berlin, Germany: Prater Biergarten
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