TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best German Foods
MAIN INGREDIENTS
This delicious German sweet pastry is traditionally served with a cup of coffee on the side. Initially made only in the Hamburg area, it is now also available in other German cities. The original recipe for these little pastries includes flour, butter, milk, yeast, and sugar, with a filling consisting of sugar and cinnamon.
However, raisins, chocolate, or pumpkin seeds may also be added. The dough is folded multiple times and glazed with butter, developing a sticky coating and rich flavor in the process. The name of this dish is possibly related to the French, who had occupied Hamburg during Napoleon's rule.
MOST ICONIC Franzbrötchen
MAIN INGREDIENTS
In the American, English and German systems of primal beef cuts, the brisket (or rinderbrust) is a cut that comes from the breast or lower chest of the cow. The brisket is one of the nine primal cuts of beef and is particularly known for its size and for having a significant amount of connective tissue.
This cut consists of two different muscles: the pectoralis major, known as the "flat," and the pectoralis minor, or the "point." The flat is leaner, while the point has more fat and marbling. Because of the high amount of connective tissue, brisket needs to be cooked slowly, over low heat, to allow the collagen in the meat to break down and become tender.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
In the American, French, German, Brazilian, and Korean systems of primal beef cuts, the tenderloin is a cut from the loin, which is located towards the back of the cow, nestled under the ribs, next to the backbone. It spans two primal cuts: the short loin and the sirloin.
The tenderloin is one of the most tender cuts of beef as it comes from a muscle that doesn't get much exercise. It is also one of the most highly prized and correspondingly expensive cuts of beef, due to its tenderness and flavor. Given the tenderness of this cut, the tenderloin is often cooked quickly over high heat, with methods such as grilling or broiling.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Zwiebelrostbraten is a traditional dish that's served in most German and Austrian restaurants in Bavaria and Vienna, respectively. The dish is usually made with a combination of beef (sirloin steak), onions, flour, oil, butter, paprika, Dijon mustard, cream, beef stock, salt, and pepper.
The onions are sliced into rings, dipped in a mixture of flour and paprika, fried in oil, and set aside. The steaks are lightly pounded, seasoned with salt and pepper, coated with flour and paprika, fried in oil and butter on both sides, and removed from the pan.
MOST ICONIC Zwiebelrostbraten
Krapfen was probably the first European-style doughnut to appear, followed by similar varieties in other countries. These pastries are traditionally prepared with leavened dough that is deep-fried until golden and crispy on the outside, while they remain soft, light, and airy on the inside.
Though krapfen can be prepared plain, they are most often filled or topped with jams, and vanilla or chocolate custards, while the top is usually dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with chocolate. The origin of the word krapfen dates back to 9th century, and the recipes in German can be found as early as the 14th century.
MOST ICONIC Berliner Pfannkuchen
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Quarkbällchen, meaning quark balls, is a traditional snack that is typically made by combining quark, flour, eggs, sugar, vanilla sugar, and baking powder. Milk, melted butter, cinnamon, lemon zest, and corn or potato starch are also sometimes added to the combination.
The quark mixture is shaped into small balls which are deep-fried until golden brown on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. Once done, the fried balls are usually coated in powdered or granulated sugar or a cinnamon-sugar mixture. Thought to hail from Bavaria, this sweet treat is generally enjoyed as an afternoon snack alongside a cup of tea or coffee.
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Nürnberger Bratwürste are small, thin sausages originating from the city of Nürnberg in the Franconia region of Bavaria, Germany. They are typically about 7 to 9 centimeters (2.75 to 3.5 inches) long and weigh around 20 to 25 grams each, making them much smaller and thinner compared to other types of German sausages.
The sausages are made from finely ground pork, often mixed with a blend of spices that typically includes marjoram, salt, pepper, and sometimes a hint of ginger or nutmeg, with marjoram being a signature ingredient that gives them their distinctive flavor.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Wurst
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Steckerlfisch (from steckerl, meaning a small pole or a stick in Bavarian) is a staple fish specialty in beer gardens and at folk fests and fairs throughout Germany, especially in the regions of Bavaria and Franconia.
It consists of a whole fish that’s been gutted and cleaned, then threaded on a stick and grilled over hot embers. Although early versions typically used freshwater white fish and trout, the selection of fish expanded with time, and it nowadays includes saltwater fish too, with mackerel as the most prominent choice.
The fish is typically either marinated or dusted with seasoned flour before cooking and once done, it is usually served in paper.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
A quintessential specialty hailing from Thuringia, Thüringer klöße is a simple potato dumpling that consists of a mixture of grated raw potatoes and mashed cooked potatoes filled with crunchy cubes of bread. The dumplings are typically cooked in simmering water, but they can also be lightly browned in butter for extra flavor.
These traditional Thuringian potato dumplings are a great accompaniment to a variety of German meat delicacies, and they are often served with dishes such as meat roulades, roasted meat, stuffed cabbage rolls, red cabbage, or sauerkraut. Large and perfectly rounded, these German potato dumplings used to be prepared on Sundays and were once considered to be food for the poor.
Frankfurter schnitzel is a traditional dish originating from Frankfurt. The dish is very similar to the famous Wiener schnitzel, which is always made with veal, but this version from Frankfurt can be prepared with other types of meat such as pork.
The meat is pounded thin, coated with flour, dipped in beaten eggs, and dredged in breadcrumbs before it's fried in clarified butter (or a mixture of oil and butter) on both sides until golden brown and crispy. Once done, frankfurter schnitzel is traditionally served with grüne soße (green sauce), and often boiled potatoes and chopped hard-boiled eggs on the side.
It's recommended to squeeze some lemon juice over the schnitzel before eating, while Apfelwein is the preferred accompanying beverage.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best German Food Producers
Metzgerei Obermaier is a family-owned butcher shop and artisanal producer of premium meat products based in Pliening, near Munich. With a long-standing tradition and dedication to quality, this butcher shop offers a wide range of fresh meats, traditional sausages, and cured delicacies crafted using authentic recipes.
Every product is made from carefully selected locally sourced meat, blended with special spice mixes, and aged under controlled conditions to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The modern production facility integrates all processing stages, from slaughtering to final preparation, strictly adhering to European quality and hygiene standards.
BEST Metzgerei Obermaier Meat Products
Hofmetzgerei Friedrich Hack is a family-run butcher shop located in the Hohenlohe region of Germany, renowned for the exceptional quality of its meat products, crafted according to traditional recipes. With generations of expertise, this butcher shop relies on time-honored meat processing methods that preserve authentic flavors, without the use of artificial additives, flavor enhancers, gluten, or lactose.
Their philosophy is rooted in responsibility toward nature and animals, ensuring that all their products come exclusively from ethically raised livestock. Their pork comes from free-range farms, cattle graze on the pastures of Hohenlohe, while poultry and turkeys are raised freely on Bentz Farm.
BEST Hofmetzgerei Hack Meat Products
Metzgerei Burkhardt is a family-owned butchery with a long-standing tradition, founded in 1961 in Mannheim, where the third generation continues to passionately craft premium-quality meat products. Their dedication to the craft and commitment to excellence have earned them numerous prestigious awards, including the titles of German and European champion in white sausage making.
They are particularly renowned for their seamless blend of tradition and innovation, constantly refining their recipes to satisfy even the most discerning connoisseurs of fine meats. Their selection includes a wide range of fresh and cured meats, all prepared according to carefully guarded family recipes, with an unwavering focus on quality.
BEST Metzgerei Burkhardt Cooked Sausages
Käserei Champignon Hofmeister is a German cheese producer located in Bavaria. The company was established in 1908, and it specializes in producing soft cheeses, including the famous Cambozola, a blue-veined cheese that blends characteristics of Gorgonzola and Camembert.
Käserei Champignon Hofmeister uses traditional handcrafting techniques alongside modern technology to ensure the quality of their products. Their cheeses are made using milk from local farms, ensuring high freshness and quality standards.
AWARDS
Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2023, 2021, 2019, 2018
International Cheese Awards - Gold
2023, 2022, 2019
World Championship Cheese Contest - Best of Class
2022, 2020, 2018, 2016
BEST Käserei Champignon Hofmeister Cheeses
Rohmilchkäserei Backensholz is a cheese producer located in Germany, specializing in organic cheeses made from raw milk. The company is situated in Oster-Ohrstedt, Schleswig-Holstein, and operates with a focus on sustainability and natural cheese production methods.
They offer a variety of cheeses, including both cow's milk and goat's milk options, manufactured under strict organic standards.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Gold
2024, 2023, 2022
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2024, 2023, 2022
BEST Rohmilchkäserei Backensholz Cheeses
AWARDS
Academy of Chocolate - Gold
2023, 2022
Academy of Chocolate - Bronze
2023, 2022
Academy of Chocolate - Silver
2024, 2023
BEST Pralilinen Chocolates
AWARDS
American Cheese Society Judging & Competition Awards - 1st Place
2015, 2010, 2009, 2007, 2006, 2005
BEST Willamette Valley Cheese Cheeses
Weingut Ökonomierat Petgen-Dahm is a family-owned winery located in the picturesque region of Saar Valley, Germany. The winery has a long history, dating back several generations, and is known for producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area.
The estate specializes in Riesling, which is the flagship grape variety of the region, though they also produce a range of other white and red wines.
AWARDS
Berlin Wine Trophy - Grand Gold
2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018
Asia Wine Trophy - Grand Gold
2017
BEST Weingut Ökonomierat Petgen-Dahm Wines
AWARDS
World Beer Cup - Gold
2024
Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold
2023, 2021
European Beer Star - Gold
2020
BEST Brauerei Aying Franz Inselkammer Beers
The Hans Wirsching wine estate is one of the most traditional and renowned estates in Franconia. Our family has been growing grapes for several centuries. Currently, Andrea Wirsching manages the estate. On 90 hectares in and around Iphofen, we produce mainly dry white wines – that is our specialty.
The most important grape varieties are Silvaner, Riesling, Scheurebe, and white Pinot varieties (Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris).
AWARDS
Berlin Wine Trophy - Grand Gold
2023
Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold
2023, 2022
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best German Food Products
AWARDS
Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2023, 2021, 2019
International Cheese Awards - Gold
2022, 2019
AWARDS
International Chocolate Awards - Gold
2020, 2016
Michel is a type of cheese produced by Rohmilchkäserei Backensholz, a German dairy farm known for its organic, raw milk cheeses. The cheese is typically made from cow's milk, produced with traditional craftsmanship, and reflects the farm's dedication to high-quality dairy products.
Michel is known for its robust, nutty flavors, and is often described as having a creamy texture with a complex taste that develops as it ages.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2024, 2023
AWARDS
World Beer Cup - Gold
2024
Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold
2021
European Beer Star - Gold
2020
Montagnolo Affiné is a soft, creamy blue cheese from Germany, known for its rich, indulgent flavor. The cheese is triple-cream, which gives it a luxurious, buttery texture that melts in the mouth. The blue veins provide a mild, tangy flavor, making it less sharp than typical blue cheeses.
The aging process enhances the complexity of its flavors, balancing earthy notes with a slight sweetness.
AWARDS
Global Cheese Awards - Gold
2023, 2021
International Cheese Awards - Gold
2022, 2019
Kaiza 5 Gin is a premium gin inspired by the free-spirited essence of South Africa, designed to blend exotic aromas with the traditional character of gin. This carefully distilled gin is crafted in small batches to ensure superior quality and consistent flavor.
Its profile features a perfect harmony of classic botanicals like juniper and coriander, combined with vibrant citrus notes and exotic plants inspired by African flora. With an alcohol content of 43%, it comes in an elegant 500 ml bottle that reflects the sophistication of the brand.
AWARDS
World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2024, 2022
European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
Perrydale is a cheese produced by Willamette Valley Cheese, a well-regarded artisan cheese company located in Oregon. This cheese is known for its distinctive flavor, often described as a balance between sweet and tangy profile. It typically has a creamy texture, which makes it versatile for various culinary uses, from cheese boards to melting over dishes.
Willamette Valley Cheese prides itself on using high-quality milk sourced from local dairies that practice sustainable farming, contributing to the rich flavor and quality of their cheeses.
AWARDS
American Cheese Society Judging & Competition Awards - 1st Place
2010, 2009, 2007
An ode to freshness and maturity, this award-winning Premier Cru Brut Blanc Champagne will transport you to the lushness of the French countryside after rain. With crisp apples, juicy plums, and an earthy, vegetal edge, the nose pays homage to a variety of garden flavours.
All while subtle notes of cinnamon and exotic fruits linger further afield, unfolding at the perfect moment and staying for a prime length.
AWARDS
Portugal Wine Trophy - Grand Gold
2022, 2021
Berlin Wine Trophy - Grand Gold
2021, 2020
Söbbeke Uriger Hannes is a product made by Molkerei Söbbeke GmbH, a German dairy company known for its organic and high-quality dairy products. This cheese is characterized by its robust flavor and premium quality, coming from carefully selected organic milk.
Molkerei Söbbeke GmbH focuses on sustainable practices, ensuring that all of its products, including Söbbeke Uriger Hannes, adhere to strict organic standards to provide consumers with healthy and environmentally friendly options.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2022
Deichkäse Gold is a cheese product made by Rohmilchkäserei Backensholz. This company is known for producing high-quality artisan cheeses using raw milk. Backensholz specializes in creating unique cheeses that reflect the terroir of their production area in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany.
The cheese-makers are dedicated to traditional methods and sustainability, often sourcing milk from their own herd of cows. "Deichkäse" suggests that the cheese is influenced by its coastal origins, likely benefiting from the salty air and rich pastures near the dykes. "Gold" indicates that this variant of Deichkäse may have a special aging process or particular richness to its flavor profile that sets it apart from other cheeses in the Deichkäse line.
AWARDS
World Cheese Awards - Super Gold
2023
TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 100 German Foods” list until March 27, 2025, 14,850 ratings were recorded, of which 12,812 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.