Must-try Dishes
Frühstücksbrettchen - Breakfast Board - A hearty platter with assorted breads, cheeses, cold cuts, and spreads like butter and jam. Locals savor this light breakfast at home or in cozy cafés, often with a coffee.
Fischbrötchen - Fish Sandwich - Freshly caught fish, typically herring or mackerel, served in a soft bun with onions and pickles. You’ll often find locals grabbing one at harbor stalls for a quick lunch on the go—ideal after a morning stroll along the Elbe.
Labskaus - Hamburg Mash - A unique dish made of corned beef, potatoes, and beetroot, topped with a fried egg and served with pickles. Common in traditional taverns, this dish is particularly popular among sailors and enjoyed for dinner after a long day.
Scholle Frittiert - Fried Plaice - Crispy fried plaice served with remoulade and potatoes, showcasing the region's seafood bounty. It’s a favorite in local restaurants, particularly during dinner, often paired with a side of seasonal veggies.
Kohl und Pinkel - Kale with Sausage - A filling mix of braised kale and smoky sausage (pinkel), often enjoyed in winter months. This dish is a cherished comfort food, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly evening with family.
Birnen, Bohnen und Speck - Pears, Beans, and Bacon - A surprising combo of sautéed green beans, sweet pears, and crispy bacon, creating a delicious contrast of flavors. This dish is a local specialty, typically served in the fall during harvest celebrations.
Grünkohl – Kale (Winter Specialty) - Tender, seasoned kale served with hearty sausages, potatoes, and mustard. Traditionally enjoyed in January, it’s best eaten at local markets or during festive gatherings with friends and family.
Desserts & Drinks
Pharisäer - Pharisäer (spiked coffee) - Strong coffee mixed with rum and topped with whipped cream, this delightful drink warms you up during chilly evenings. Locals often sip it in cozy cafés or pubs, especially on cold winter nights, sometimes even with a cheeky twist of cinnamon for flavor.
Hochrhein - Hochrhein (refreshing apple spritzer) - A light and bubbly drink made from local apple juice and sparkling water, served chilled over ice. Families love to grab this refreshing beverage on warm summer days, often enjoyed during picnics along the Elbe River.
Schnecken - Schnecken (cinnamon roll) - These sweet, spiral pastries filled with cinnamon and sugar are a local favorite often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. A delightful treat best eaten warm with a cup of coffee, they’re commonly found in bakeries, especially on lazy Sundays.
Rote Grütze - Rote Grütze (red berry dessert) - A cold dessert made from a mix of red berries like strawberries and raspberries, thickened with a bit of starch, usually served with vanilla sauce. Locals indulge in this refreshing dish during summer, especially at family gatherings or festivals celebrating the berry season.
Gebrannte Mandeln - Gebrannte Mandeln (candied almonds) - Sweet, crunchy almonds coated in caramel, often found in festive markets, particularly during Christmas time. Locals enjoy these while strolling around holiday markets, but watch out—they're highly addictive! By the way, trying to ask for them in quantities other than 100g might lead to a funny misunderstanding—everyone just usually goes for a small bag!
