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Berlin's food culture is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From traditional Prussian comfort food to the world-famous street food born from its multicultural history, eating your way through Berlin is an essential part of the experience. Whether you're looking for a quick bite at a "Späti" or a sit-down meal in a historic "Wirtshaus," here are 12 dishes you simply cannot miss.
The undisputed king of Berlin street food. Invented in Berlin in 1949, it consists of a steamed, then fried pork sausage, sliced and covered in a spiced tomato ketchup and curry powder. It's usually served with fries (Pommes) or a bread roll (Brötchen).
Where to find it: Konnopke’s Imbiss in Prenzlauer Berg or Curry 36 in Kreuzberg.
While the Döner has Turkish roots, the modern "sandwich" version was popularized in Berlin in the 1970s. It's thinly sliced meat (usually veal or chicken) served in a pita with fresh salad and garlic, herb, or spicy sauce.
Where to find it: Mustafa’s Gemüse Kebap (expect long lines!) or any local "Imbiss."
A classic Prussian dish. It's a pickled ham hock, usually boiled and served with sauerkraut, pease pudding (Erbspüree), and boiled potatoes. It's heavy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying.
Where to find it: Traditional German restaurants like Zur Letzten Instanz.
Meatballs in a white creamy caper sauce. Traditionally made from minced veal, beef, and pork, these meatballs are a staple of East Prussian cuisine that remains a favorite in Berlin.
Where to find it: Most traditional "Wirtshäuser" (taverns).
Known simply as "Pfannkuchen" in Berlin (and "Berliner" elsewhere), this is a deep-fried dough pastry filled with jam and dusted with sugar. It's a New Year's Eve tradition but available year-round.
Where to find it: Any local bakery (Bäckerei).
Hard-boiled eggs served in a creamy mustard sauce with mashed potatoes. It's a nostalgic comfort food for many Berliners and a great vegetarian option.
Where to find it: Lunch menus (Mittagstisch) in local bistros.
A variation of the classic Schnitzel, topped with a fried egg, anchovies, and capers. It was named after a 19th-century diplomat who wanted all his favorite flavors on one plate.
Where to find it: Upscale traditional restaurants.
Grated potatoes mixed with flour and egg, fried until golden brown. They are often served with applesauce (Apfelmus) and are a staple at Berlin's markets.
Where to find it: Weekly markets and Christmas markets.
Berlin's version of the meatball. They are usually larger and flatter than standard meatballs, seasoned with onions and mustard, and often eaten cold as a snack or hot with potato salad.
Where to find it: Butcher shops (Metzgerei) and traditional pubs.
A modern Berlin classic. As a vegetarian alternative to the Döner, fried halloumi cheese is served in a pita with salad and sauces. It's salty, squeaky, and delicious.
Where to find it: Most Döner shops in Kreuzberg and Neukölln.
Hard-boiled eggs preserved in a salty brine. They are a classic "pub snack" in Berlin, traditionally eaten by peeling the egg, removing the yolk, adding oil, vinegar, and mustard, and popping it back in.
Where to find it: Old-school Berlin pubs (Eckkneipen).
A traditional Berlin breakfast pastry. It's a sweet, flaky roll with a high butter content, similar to a croissant but more substantial.
Where to find it: Traditional Berlin bakeries.
To truly discover the hidden gems of Berlin's culinary scene, we highly recommend taking a guided food tour. It's the best way to learn the stories behind the dishes and find the spots only locals know about.
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