Must-try Dishes
Rübenkraut - Beet syrup (sweet spread) - This thick, dark syrup is made from sugar beets and often enjoyed on warm bread or rolls. Locals love it for breakfast or a snack, especially during the colder months, paired with fresh butter.
Himmel und Ääd - Heaven and Earth (potato and apple mash) - Consisting of creamy mashed potatoes mixed with apples, it's often served with blood sausage or fried onions on top. It’s a comforting choice for lunch, especially in traditional restaurants, and especially on weekdays.
Reibekuchen - Potato pancakes (crispy fritters) - Grated potatoes mixed with onions, fried until golden brown, and usually served with apple sauce or sour cream. Found at street stalls during fairs or festivals, they’re best enjoyed hot and fresh with friends, generally during late afternoons or evenings.
Halve Hahn - Half chicken (rye bread sandwich) - A simple yet hearty sandwich featuring a slice of rye bread topped with cheese, mustard, and sometimes pickles. It's a popular snack among locals, often enjoyed with a beer, and is a beloved part of the late-night food scene.
Stippgrütze - Thick stew (pulled beef stew) - A hearty, dark stew made with pulled beef, potatoes, and spices, served with bread for dipping. It's a popular dish during family gatherings in the colder months, often enjoyed during cozy dinners.
Asparagus - Spargel (seasonal dish) - White asparagus is a spring delicacy often served with melted butter or hollandaise sauce. This dish marks the arrival of spring and can be savored during the celebrated asparagus season, typically from April to June.
Currywurst - Sausage with curry sauce - A classic street food that features a sliced sausage topped with a spicy curry sauce. Eating this with a side of fries while walking through the city is common, especially during evening outings, as locals often enjoy this quick bite after a long day.
By the way, don't be surprised if you find yourself sitting at communal tables in some local eateries, sharing the experience with strangers—a charming custom that adds to the local flavor!
Desserts & Drinks
Coffee - Kaffee (rich brew) - Bold, well-roasted coffee, often served black or with a dash of milk. Locals savor their morning cup while sitting in bustling cafes, catching up on the news or meeting friends.
Cold Beer - Altbier (dark lager) - A malty, smooth beer brewed through a top-fermentation process that gives it a unique character. Best enjoyed in the cool evenings at local breweries, where it's common to order a “Kölsch” (a small glass) - a typical mistake is ordering it in a pint!
Orange Juice - frisch gepresster Orangensaft (freshly squeezed) - Vibrant orange juice made from locally sourced fruits, served chilled. Perfect to refresh during sizzling summer afternoons in parks or outdoor cafes – just remember, it’s best when ordered first thing in the morning.
Sweet Pastry - Himmelstorte (heaven cake) - A spongy, airy cake layered with fruit and topped with cream, often enjoyed during celebrations. You might find it at local bakeries around holidays or family gatherings, and it’s delightful with a cup of coffee.
Frozen Dessert - Spaghetti-Eis (spaghetti ice cream) - Vanilla ice cream extruded to resemble pasta, topped with strawberry sauce and white chocolate shavings as "cheese." This whimsical treat is a beloved summer indulgence, usually ordered from ice cream parlors during warm evenings. By the way, it’ll make a fun photo op!
