What to Eat in Berlin: 5 Must-Try Local Dishes You’ll Love

Berlin is many things—a city of history, art, rebellion, and rebuilding. But if there’s one way to truly understand Berlin, it’s through its food.

Even after years of living and eating here, I keep discovering new flavors, hidden street corners, and local bites that feel like little treasures. And while German cuisine is often linked with just beer and sausages, there’s so much more: hearty meats, buttery potatoes, rich sauces, and mouthwatering street food.

Thanks to its multicultural spirit, Berlin offers food from all around the world. But today, let’s focus on dishes that are considered uniquely German, and more specifically—part of Berlin’s own culinary soul.

From iconic bites to vegan surprises, here’s a plate-by-plate journey through my favorite tastes of Berlin.

1. Currywurst: Berlin’s Timeless Street Food

You simply can’t talk about Berlin’s food scene without starting with currywurst. This iconic dish is possibly Germany’s most famous street food, and Berlin is where it truly shines.

Currywurst is made with a grilled pork sausage, sliced into chunks, and covered in a tangy mix of ketchup and curry powder. It’s usually served with crispy fries or a fresh bread roll (called “Brötchen”). It’s spicy, simple, filling — and very affordable.

Believe it or not, Berlin even has a Currywurst Museum near the famous Checkpoint Charlie!

This dish is not just food — it’s a part of Berlin’s identity. Whether you’re grabbing one late at night or between museum visits, it’s a must-try for any food-loving traveler.

2. Döner Kebab: Berlin’s Unofficial National Dish

“Döner” means “to rotate” in Turkish, referring to how the meat is cooked on a vertical rotisserie. Immigrants from Turkey brought the concept to Germany, but it was in Berlin that the idea of putting the meat inside pita bread with fresh veggies and sauces took shape. That twist created a food revolution.

Today, döner is everywhere — and it’s not just for meat lovers. You’ll find vegan versions, wrap-style Dürüm, and countless variations across the city. Some even call it Berlin’s real national dish, a perfect reflection of its immigrant roots and bold flavor.

Don’t miss grabbing one late at night after a concert or between sightseeing stops—it’s fast, delicious, and always satisfying.

3. Schnitzel: Comfort Food with Deep German Roots

While Berlin is filled with modern food trends, there’s still room for old-school German comfort — and schnitzel is the king of that category.

The word “Schnitzel” comes from the old German word snitz, meaning “to slice.” A traditional Wiener Schnitzel is a thin veal cutlet, breaded and fried until golden. You’ll also find versions made with pork, chicken, or even plant-based proteins.

Served with potatoes, salad, or lemon wedges, schnitzel is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside – the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

It’s one of those “can’t-go-wrong” meals that feels both classic and cozy, no matter where you eat it in Berlin.

4. Vegan Berlin: A Plant-Based Paradise

Berlin is often called Europe’s vegan capital, and for good reason.

Whether you’re a full-time vegan or just curious, Berlin is packed with plant-based cafés, restaurants, and bakeries. From creamy oat lattes to jackfruit tacos.

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You’ll find vegan twists on classic dishes, like:

• Vegan Currywurst: all the spice, none of the meat.
• Vegan Döner: found at spots like Vöner in Friedrichshain, where the taste is so rich you won’t miss meat at all.
• FREA: Berlin’s first fully plant-based, zero-waste fine dining experience.
• Vegan Kimchi & Sushi: Korean and Japanese spots offer plenty of meat-free flavor.

Berlin even offers over 160 all-vegan restaurants and more than 350 vegan-friendly places, from street food stalls to upscale eateries.

Plus, if you’re into eco-friendly, sustainable eating, Berlin makes it easy – many places use local ingredients and support organic farming.

5. Königsberger Klopse: A Taste of Tradition

Not as globally known but deeply loved in Germany, Königsberger Klopse is a dish that brings together soft meatballs, a creamy white sauce, and a touch of tangy capers.

The meatballs are usually made from ground veal or beef, and the sauce often includes lemon juice, cream, and broth. It’s often served with boiled potatoes or rice.

This dish comes from the Königsberg region (now part of Russia), but you’ll find it in many Berlin restaurants that serve traditional German cuisine.

It’s rich, comforting, and offers a deeper look into Germany’s regional food heritage.

Sweet Surprises: Berlin’s Light & Lovely Desserts

While Berlin isn’t always known for its desserts, sweet lovers are in for a treat if they know where to look.

• Berliner Pfannkuchen: A soft donut filled with jam, usually enjoyed around New Year’s Eve. In Berlin, they’re just called “Pfannkuchen.”
• Apfelstrudel: Warm apple strudel served with vanilla sauce or ice cream — perfect for a cozy café stop.

Frühstücksplatte: Not quite dessert, but Berlin’s classic breakfast platter with cheese, meats, jam, fruits, and fresh bread is a sweet way to start the day — especially with a coffee or mimosa.

Final Thoughts: Hungry for Berlin?

I never get tired of eating in Berlin. There’s always something new to taste, something old to fall back in love with, and something worth sharing with others.

So whether you’re planning a trip or already living here — come hungry. Explore boldly. And celebrate the flavor-packed, multicultural, ever-evolving food scene that makes Berlin one of the most delicious cities in Europe.