Germany, you are glorious. The country sits deservedly at the top table of European travel, with a thrilling range of cities, towns and villages waiting to be enjoyed. The table analogy there isn’t entirely random, as the best restaurants in Germany are among the finest on the continent.
From Hamburg to Munich via Berlin, Frankfurt, and all the rest, German cuisine is a delicious ride through the recipes of the past and the diversity of the present. Tradition and innovation are best buddies here, learning from each other and satisfying diners each step of the way. The portions are often mighty, to say the least. Don’t forget your appetite, that’s all we’ll say.
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At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.
Franconia, Bavaria
Home slaughtering might not sound very appealing, but for Zum Goldenen Ochsen, the restaurant at the Winkler family’s guesthouse, it is the main attraction. This inn in the Franconian countryside is worth the trip to enjoy the rich nature, Southern German hospitality and the hearty leberknödelsuppe (liver dumpling soup). A paradise for carnivores and their vegetarian friends.
Berlin
With no sign, curtains across the windows and only eight seats, ernst in Berlin-Wedding might seem a little unwelcoming at first; however, once inside, the experience is anything but. Guests gather at a wooden counter overlooking the kitchen and interact with the mesmerizing creative team preparing their dinner.
Leipzig
Despite its name – which translates to ‘emperor pool’ – Kaiserbad is not just an old pool but an old iron foundry. Lovingly restored and filled with stylish furniture, the kitchen serves a weekly changing menu inspired by the season and its produce. Make sure to explore the Baumwollspinnerei arts centre down the road.
Münstertal
This female-led hotel and restaurant in the Black Forest has been in the same family for six generations. It serves comforting regional fare combined with Asian flavours. Think steamed wild boar dim sum or crispy veal with kimchi and miso mayonnaise. Spielweg's dining rooms, with traditional tiled ovens and wood-paneled walls, transport you to another time.
Frankfurt
We’re well past vegetarianism simply meaning overcooked tofu burgers. Seven Swans elevates the vegetarian diet to an art form. Using ingredients from their own permaculture farm, the kitchen team creates knockout dishes in tune with the seasons. Best coupled with a drink before and after dinner at the bar Tiny Cup downstairs.
Berlin
After impressive stints aboard, including at Noma’s pop-up in Mexico, celebrated chef Vadim Otto Ursus has returned to his old neighbourhood with a place of his own. Offering German-inspired cuisine, Otto's dishes are simple but pack a punch thanks to subtle twists and a spot of fermentation. Every visit should start with their bread and pickles.
Düsseldorf
Home to Germany’s largest Japanese community, Düsseldorf is the place to go for sensational sashimi, sushi and sake. While the choice of restaurants here can feel overwhelming, Nagaya stands out with its stunning presentation and Michelin star. If fully booked, try its sister restaurant Yoshi by Nagaya.
Neustrelitz
A renovated farmhouse surrounded by woodland in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Forsthaus Strelitz attracts people from far and wide with its rustic flair, elegant food and comfortable accommodations. Another chef to return to his roots after working in top kitchens around the world, Wenzel Pankratz now finds inspiration from the produce grown by his family site.
Cologne
NeoBiota is usually known as a fine-dining hotspot with a wine selection focusing on Georgia, Hungary and Bulgaria, but during the day, the owners offer an interesting and exceptional breakfast until 3pm. The perfect place to take a date the morning after or to nurse the kölsch hangover.
Hamburg
A local institution, the leaning Oberhafen-Kantine (shifted due to floods) is located next to a rattling railway bridge in Hamburg’s HafenCity district. The cheap and cheerful joint is great for a quick bite and dishes designed to line the stomach. Start with Labskaus, a mix of potatoes, pickles, mincemeat, egg, beetroot and herrings.
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