Cologne's Culinary Delights: A Foodie's Guide To The City

Cologne, Germany's cultural hub, is known for its towering Gothic cathedral, position on the Rhine, and annual carnival. The city boasts a well-regarded food scene, with plenty of culinary delights to discover. From traditional German fare to street food and upscale dining options, here's a guide to some of the best places to eat in Cologne.

For traditional German cuisine, head to the Belgian Quarter and Südstadt neighbourhoods, where you'll find Bei Oma Kleinmann, a popular and lively restaurant serving hearty schnitzels and käsespätzle (cheesy noodles). Peters Brauhaus, a classic brewery and restaurant in the old town, offers a range of German staples and local specialities like Halve Hahn and Himmel un Äd. Haus Müller, a charming restaurant in the Südstadt neighbourhood, specialises in contemporary German cuisine with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

If you're craving international flavours, Cologne has you covered. For Italian, try Sardinia in Bayenthal for freshly made pastas and truffle tagliatelle. For Peruvian, check out Tigermilch in the Latin Quarter, which offers a range of hot and cold dishes with vegan and vegetarian options. Los Carnales Taqueria, located directly on the Rhine River, serves up street-style tacos with a variety of meat and vegan fillings.

Cologne also has a diverse range of Asian cuisine. For Chinese soup and Thai noodles, Bai Lu Noodles in the Belgian Quarter is a great choice. Chum Chay, a contemporary Vietnamese restaurant in Neumarkt, offers an entirely vegetarian menu with traditional flavours and contemporary dishes. For Japanese, head to Fisch-Hof, Miyu, or Sushi WoMo, all top-rated sushi restaurants in the city.

Whether you're looking for traditional German food or something more international, Cologne has a variety of dining options to satisfy your cravings.

Best Pizza in Cologne

If you're looking for the best pizza in Cologne, here are some top spots to check out:

485 Grad

A straightforward pizza joint in Sudstadt, 485 Grad offers a range of classic and modern toppings in creative combinations, with options for vegans and vegetarians. Their pizzas are fired in an open kitchen's wood-fired oven and served bubbling hot. They also have a small patio and provide pickup services.

Pizzeria Caminettoour

A famous pizzeria in Cologne, Pizzeria Caminettoour offers crispy pizzas and authentic Italian dishes available for takeaway. They have an extensive selection of pizza recipes, providing a diverse and satisfying menu. Vegetarian dishes are also available. Wood-fired pizza and homemade pasta are their specialties, and they emphasise the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from the market.

Pizzeria il Futuro

A traditional pizzeria with a warm and cosy atmosphere, Pizzeria il Futuro bakes its pizzas in a wooden oven, resulting in delicious, super doughy pizzas. They offer both regular and small-sized pizzas at affordable prices. Their chilli oil and garlic are notably spicy, providing the perfect accompaniment to their pizzas. The friendly staff and quick service make it a great spot to celebrate special occasions with family and friends.

La Gustosa

La Gustosa, now closed, was once hailed as having the "best pizza in Cologne" by a self-proclaimed "pizza freak". It offered basic Italian-style pizzas with fresh ingredients, friendly service, and quick service. An average meal, including a pizza and a beer, cost around 10€.

Pizza Hut Köln/Schildergasse

While it may be a well-known chain, Pizza Hut Köln/Schildergasse offers crispy pizzas straight from the stone oven, along with homemade pasta and seasonal specialties. They also have a selection of wines, and their dining experience is enhanced by their flavourful chilli oil and mega-spicy garlic, which perfectly complement their pizzas.

Best Brauhaus in Cologne

Cologne is known for its Gothic cathedral, its position on the Rhine, and its annual carnival. The city has plenty of contemporary art and a well-regarded food scene.

When it comes to the best Brauhaus in Cologne, there are several top contenders:

Peters Brauhaus

Peters Brauhaus is located in the Altstadt, the old town of Cologne. It is known for its quintessential Brauhaus vibes, with a stained-glass dome, wood panelling, and grumpy servers. The menu features classic German staples, as well as local specialties like Halve Hahn (cheese plate with raw onions), Himmel un Äd (black pudding), and Haxen (fried pork knuckle). Peters Brauhaus also serves Kölsch, the local beer of Cologne.

Früh am Dom

Früh am Dom is a traditional German brewery and restaurant located near the Cologne Cathedral. It has a multi-room interior with dark wood features, a serving bar, and plenty of seating options. They offer a range of food and drinks, including their own Früh Kölsch beer. The building is spread across several floors, with multiple sub-basements.

Sion Brauhaus

Sion Brauhaus is another popular Brauhaus in Cologne, serving Kölsch beer. It was one of the stops on a "Pub Crawl" excursion for cruisers looking to sample the local brew.

Gilden

Gilden is a Brauhaus that offers outdoor seating on a patio. It was also included in the "Pub Crawl" excursion, indicating its popularity.

Bierhaus am Rhein

For a glass of Kölsch with a view, Bierhaus am Rhein offers outdoor seating by the river. They serve traditional German cuisine, including currywurst.

Haxenhaus

Haxenhaus is a good choice for a beer hall dinner, offering metre-long bratwurst and pork knuckles.

These Brauhauses offer a mix of traditional German food, local beer, and unique atmospheres, providing an authentic Cologne dining experience.

Best Asian Food in Cologne

Cologne may not be the most well-known culinary destination in Germany, but it has a surprising variety of eateries. Here are some of the best spots for Asian food in the city:

Takumi - Japanisches Ramen Restaurant

Takumi is a highly-rated Japanese and Asian restaurant in Cologne. It offers big portions of super tasty food. While the ambiance may not be the best, the food more than makes up for it.

Bangkok Thai Restaurant

Bangkok Thai Restaurant serves very good and tasty food. However, be mindful of the spice levels!

Thai Imbiss Eigelstein - Koln

This restaurant offers good, authentic Thai food.

Zen Japanese Restaurant - Lindenthal

Zen Japanese Restaurant is regarded as one of the best Japanese restaurants ever.

Bun Pho Vietnamesische Kuche

Bun Pho Vietnamesische Kuche serves very nice and delicious Vietnamese food that is also relaxing and not expensive.

Grand The Sushi Circle

Grand The Sushi Circle is an excellent choice for sushi. It has a simple menu with huge flavours.

Great Wall Restaurant

Great Wall Restaurant is a modern Chinese restaurant in Cologne. It offers delicious dishes from Sichuan, Hunan, and other Chinese regions. Their speciality dishes include Szechuan-style frog legs, Duck blood with prawns, and Tea tree mushrooms with pork belly.

Drachen City

Drachen City is an authentic Chinese restaurant with an extensive menu of unique Chinese specialties. They use fresh, high-quality ingredients and offer a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Yummy Town

Yummy Town is a fine Chinese restaurant in Cologne, famous for its delicious dishes and recipes. They offer a variety of Chinese, Mongolian, and Japanese dishes, as well as vegetarian options. It is an ideal venue for hosting birthdays, communions, Christmas parties, or business lunches.

Best Tapas in Cologne

When it comes to tapas, Cologne has a lot to offer. Here are some of the best places to enjoy Spanish cuisine in the city:

La Bodega Tapas Bar

La Bodega is a great choice for tapas in Cologne. It offers a variety of traditional Spanish dishes, including seafood and meat options. The restaurant has a cosy and inviting atmosphere, and the staff are known for their excellent service. It is located in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible.

Tapas Bar La Barra - Cava y Mas

This tapas bar is highly regarded as one of the best in Cologne. It offers a wide range of tapas dishes, including classic options like patatas bravas and croquetas, as well as more innovative creations. The bar has a lively atmosphere, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable about Spanish cuisine and wine culture.

Meson El Cordobes

Meson El Cordobes is a super Spanish restaurant in the heart of Cologne. It offers a range of traditional tapas dishes, including seafood paella, tortilla Española, and jamón ibérico. The restaurant has a vibrant and authentic atmosphere, with Spanish music and décor transporting diners to the heart of Spain.

Casita Mexicana Koln

For a twist on traditional tapas, Casita Mexicana Koln offers Mexican street food with a tapas-style dining experience. The menu features classic Mexican dishes such as tacos, quesadillas, and nachos, all served in small plates perfect for sharing. The restaurant has a vibrant and colourful atmosphere, reflecting the flavours and culture of Mexico.

Salera - Tapas Y Mas

Salera offers a modern take on traditional Spanish tapas. The menu features classic dishes with a creative twist, such as deconstructed patatas bravas and croquetas made with unique ingredients. The restaurant has a sleek and contemporary interior, creating an elegant dining atmosphere.

These are just a few of the many fantastic tapas options in Cologne. Each restaurant offers a unique dining experience, allowing diners to explore the diverse and delicious world of Spanish cuisine.

Best Greek in Cologne

Cologne has a thriving Greek food scene, with a variety of dining experiences on offer, from traditional tavernas to modern eateries. Here are some of the best Greek restaurants in the city:

• Taverne Alekos: This restaurant has been serving delicious Greek cuisine for over 40 years. It is known for its friendly atmosphere and classic dishes, including souvlaki and moussaka.
• Plomari: This restaurant offers a delightful mix of elegant and unpretentious dining. It has a varied menu, including delicious appetizers to start your meal with ouzo.
• Limani: This restaurant, located in the Rheinauhafen, offers a great view of the Rhine. It specialises in Mediterranean cuisine of Greek origin and is highly appreciated by connoisseurs.
• Restaurant Oasis: This restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with its riverside terrace, providing stunning views of the cathedral. The menu features grilled meats, seafood, and mezze.
• Restaurant Athen's: This classic Greek taverna offers a spacious and friendly atmosphere with exposed brick walls and sidewalk tables. The menu features traditional Greek mezes, skewers, and grilled meats.
• Filoxenia: This charming Greek restaurant offers delicious and authentic Greek cuisine. The multilingual staff ensures that guests from different backgrounds can easily communicate their preferences.
• Aphrodite: This restaurant embodies the essence of Greek culture with its bright and inviting ambiance, complete with traditional pillars and sculptures. The outdoor dining area provides a delightful setting to savour fresh fish specialties paired with Chalkidiki wine.
• Sophias Restaurant: This unassuming choice offers outdoor seating and serves traditional Mediterranean cuisine in small portions. While it may be slightly pricey, the quality of both the food and service make it a worthwhile option.
• IRODION: This spacious Greek restaurant is known for its wide variety of authentic appetizers and well-presented dishes. It offers a charming terrace that's perfect for summer dining.
• Jamas Griechische Taverne: This popular spot offers delicious Greek cuisine and has a beautifully decorated interior, along with an impressive wine selection. The menu features a variety of dishes, including souvlaki, moussaka, and spanakopita.
• Kouzina Greekstreetfood & Wine: This restaurant offers a modern and clean interior with Greek signs on the walls, creating a pleasant dining atmosphere. The food is served quickly and in generous portions, with flavorful sauces complementing well-cooked chicken.
• Taverne im Pohlhof: This hidden gem is known for its great food and excellent service. It offers a spacious setting with well-spaced tables, ensuring a safe dining experience. The friendly staff provides attentive service, and the menu boasts a delicious selection of dishes with generous portions.

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