Germany might be synonymous with currywurst and bratwurst, but there’s a whole world of delicious street food discoveries beyond these popular treats.
But here’s something you probably did not know.
In the sizzling streets of Germany, an estimated 1 billion currywursts are devoured each year – that’s a staggering 12 per person! This beloved snack, a humble sausage bathed in a distinctive mix of ketchup and curry powder, is just the start of the country’s street food saga.
Not far behind is the döner kebab, a Turkish delight that has found a voracious following in Germany, with Berlin boasting over 1,500 döner stands.
Amidst these meaty treats, the humble potato shines in the form of fries and kartoffelpuffer, with Germans munching on over 800,000 tons annually.
Surprised?
You should be, because we definitely were.
Germany has several street foods that leave consumers skipping in joy. They go perfectly with a pint of beer and are worth consuming, celebration or not. What better way to celebrate a new year than a list of amazing street foods worth trying in Germany.
7 Street Food in Germany You Must Try This New Year
New Years is a time of planners and resolutions, a time of saying goodbyes to old habits and hellos to new ones. Somewhere along the way, most of us often forget about the new beginnings. Make sure to celebrate your new beginnings with some of Germany’s favourite street food in 2024.
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#1 Currywurst
A quintessential German street food, Currywurst is an emblem of culinary ingenuity post World War II. Invented by Herta Heuwer in 1949, she mixed ketchup and curry powder with grilled pork sausage, creating an instant classic that has since captured the taste buds of the nation.
The dish typically consists of a steamed then fried pork sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces, smothered in a curry ketchup sauce, and often served with a side of fries or bread.
Currywurst is a symphony of flavors. The sausage itself is juicy and savory, while the sauce is a unique blend of tangy, sweet, and spicy, with the curry powder providing a gentle heat and complex flavor profile.
Where to Find the Best Currywurst in Germany
- Konnopke’s Imbiss, Berlin: Nestled under the Eberswalder Strasse U-Bahn station, Konnopke’s has been serving Currywurst since 1960. Their version is a must-try for its classic East Berlin taste and history.
- Curry 36, Berlin: A favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, Curry 36 serves what many claim to be the definitive version of Currywurst, perfect in its simplicity and taste.
- Best Worscht in Town, Frankfurt: Known for its variety, Best Worscht in Town offers a range of spiciness levels. Their Currywurst is renowned for its quality and flavorful sauce, making it a favorite among the locals.
#2 Döner Kebab
Döner Kebab, a dish synonymous with fast, flavorful street food, perfectly embodies the culinary melding of Turkish immigrant culture with German tastes.
Introduced in the 1970s by Turkish immigrants, it has since become a beloved staple across Germany, especially in urban areas. The name “döner” comes from the Turkish word “dönmek,” meaning to rotate, referring to the meat’s cooking process on a vertical rotisserie.
Traditional döner kebab is made from meat, such as lamb, beef, or chicken, marinated and then stacked in a cone-like shape on a vertical rotisserie.
As it rotates and cooks, thin slices are shaved off and served in a flatbread or durum wrap, typically accompanied by vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and a choice of sauces like yogurt, spicy, or garlic.
Authentic Döner Kebab Spots in Germany
- Mustafa’s Gemüse Kebap, Berlin: Perhaps the most famous kebab stand in all of Germany, known for its long lines and delicious chicken döner with grilled vegetables.
- Meraba Neuland Döner, Hamburg: Offering a variety of meats and vegetarian options, Meraba Neuland is praised for its fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.
- Oruc Kebap, Stuttgart: A favorite among locals, Oruc Kebap is celebrated for its traditional approach to döner, adhering closely to the original Turkish style and taste.
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#3 Bratwurst
Bratwurst is not just a sausage; it’s a cultural icon with hundreds of variations across Germany, each region boasting its unique twist on this culinary staple. The term “Bratwurst” is derived from Old High German, where “Brät” means finely chopped meat, and “Wurst” means sausage.
Ranging from the thin, long Nürnberger Rostbratwurst to the hearty, coarse Thüringer Bratwurst, each variety reflects its local history, ingredients, and tastes. Common types of meat used include pork, veal, and beef, seasoned with various herbs and spices.
Traditionally, Bratwurst is grilled or pan-fried and often served with sauerkraut or potato salad, and a dollop of mustard. Regionally, you might find it served in a bun as a quick snack or accompanied by regional side dishes that highlight local flavors.
Where to Enjoy Bratwurst During New Year Celebrations
- Bratwursthausle, Nuremberg: Famous for its Nürnberger Rostbratwurst, this place offers a taste of Franconian tradition and is a must-visit for sausage enthusiasts.
- Zur Haxe, Berlin: Known for its rustic charm and variety of sausages, including several types of Bratwurst, perfect for welcoming the New Year.
- Wurstkuchl, Regensburg: As one of the oldest sausage kitchens in the world, it’s a historic spot to enjoy a traditional Bavarian Bratwurst while celebrating the New Year.
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#4 Brezel (Pretzel)
The Brezel, or Pretzel as it is known outside of Germany, is a knotted bread that has been an integral part of German cuisine for centuries, with its origins dating back to at least the early Middle Ages.
Legend has it that the pretzel was created by European monks as a reward for children who learned their prayers, with the twisted shape representing arms crossed in prayer.
Traditional German Brezeln are made from a simple dough of flour, water, yeast, and salt, which is then twisted into its distinctive shape, boiled in an alkaline solution, and baked to golden perfection.
This process gives the pretzel its characteristic glossy brown crust, soft interior, and unique flavor. Often sprinkled with coarse salt, seeds, or cheese, pretzels can be found in various sizes ranging from small, crunchy snacks to large, soft bread.
Places to Enjoy Brezel in Germany
- Brezelbäckerei Ditsch, Various Locations: Founded in 1919, Ditsch is famous for its delicious, traditional pretzels and has several locations across Germany.
- Brezelkönig, Munich: Known for its variety of pretzels, Brezelkönig offers a real taste of Bavarian pretzel culture in the heart of Munich.
- Brezel Bar, Berlin: A modern twist on the classic, Brezel Bar offers an assortment of pretzels, including innovative flavors and toppings, catering to every pretzel lover’s desire.
#5 Fischbrötchen
Fischbrötchen, the humble yet delectable German seafood sandwich, is a must-try for anyone visiting the country’s northern coast.
This simple but satisfying dish typically consists of a fresh, crispy roll filled with pickled or fried fish, often herring, mackerel, or salmon. It’s commonly garnished with onions, pickles, remoulade, or horseradish sauce, delivering a burst of flavors that perfectly complement the salty tang of the sea.
What makes Fischbrötchen unique is its direct connection to Germany’s maritime traditions, particularly in regions like Hamburg and along the Baltic and North Seas.
The freshness and quality of the fish, directly sourced from the local waters, make each bite a testament to the region’s culinary heritage.
Best Fischbrötchen in Coastal Areas
- Brücke 10, Hamburg: Located on the famous Landungsbrücken piers, Brücke 10 is renowned for its classic Fischbrötchen with a view of the bustling harbor.
- Fischpavillon, Rostock: Situated in the historic city of Rostock, Fischpavillon offers a variety of freshly made Fischbrötchen, highlighting the best of Baltic Sea flavors.
- Gosch, Sylt: A visit to the island of Sylt isn’t complete without a Fischbrötchen from Gosch, where the tradition and innovation in seafood sandwiches are celebrated by locals and tourists alike.
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#6 Schaschlik
Schaschlik, a savory skewered meat dish, has made its way into the heart of German street food culture, bearing strong Eastern European and Central Asian influences. Originating from the Russian word “shashlyk,” this popular delicacy is typically made from marinated cubes of meat—often pork, lamb, or beef—threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection.
The marinade, usually a mixture of vinegar, herbs, and spices, tenderizes the meat and infuses it with robust flavors.
In Germany, Schaschlik is not just about the meat; it’s often served with a rich, spicy tomato or paprika sauce, adding an extra layer of taste. Grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, are common accompaniments, along with a side of bread or potatoes, making it a hearty meal.
Places to Find Delicious Schaschlik
- Schaschlik Grill Haus, Berlin: Known for its authentic taste and variety, this spot in Berlin offers a traditional take on Schaschlik, complete with delectable sauces.
- Grill-Imbiss Sis, Munich: A favorite among locals, Grill-Imbiss Sis serves up flavorsome Schaschlik with Eastern European flair, right in the heart of Munich.
- Kaukasis, Cologne: Offering a taste of the Caucasus region, Kaukasis in Cologne is celebrated for its tender, well-seasoned Schaschlik, bringing a piece of Eastern tradition to Western Germany.
#7 Kartoffelpuffer (Reibekuchen)
Kartoffelpuffer, also known as Reibekuchen, is a beloved German dish, especially during the colder months and festive celebrations like New Year’s. These crispy, golden potato pancakes are made by grating potatoes mixed with onions, eggs, and flour, then frying them until they’re a perfect combination of crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Traditionally, Kartoffelpuffer is served with apple sauce, giving a delightful sweet and savory contrast, or with savory toppings like smoked salmon and sour cream. In some regions, it’s also common to enjoy them with garlic sauce or simply sprinkled with sugar.
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Best Places to Find Kartoffelpuffer During New Year’s Festivities
- Kartoffelkäfer, Berlin: Renowned for its variety of potato dishes, Kartoffelkäfer serves up some of the crispiest and most flavorful Kartoffelpuffer in the city.
- Kartoffelhaus No.1, Munich: Offering a cozy, festive atmosphere, this spot is known for its traditional German cuisine, including delicious, freshly made Kartoffelpuffer.
- Puffermädchen, Hamburg: A local favorite, Puffermädchen is famous for its homemade Kartoffelpuffer served with a variety of toppings, perfect for ringing in the New Year.
Kebabs, Kartoffelpuffer, and More: A Flavorful Farewell to German Street Eats!
As we wrap up our culinary journey through Germany’s vibrant street food scene, it’s clear that the heartiness of Currywurst, the diversity of Bratwurst, and the crispness of Kartoffelpuffer are just the beginning.
With Berlin holding the title as the Döner capital of Europe, boasting over 1,500 stands, it’s evident that these flavorsome kebab wraps are not just food but a way of life.
Affordable, delicious, and rich in history, German street food offers a taste for every palate. So next time you wander the streets of Germany, let your taste buds lead the way and dive into the delicious, bustling world of its street cuisine!
