Cologne's Culinary Delights: A Foodie's Guide To Germany's Gem

Cologne, Germany, is a city with a rich history of cuisine, influenced by its founding by the Romans in 38 BC, its location on the Rhine River, and its religious traditions. The city's food scene offers a variety of delicious German dishes and international options. From hearty local specialties like Heaven and Earth (a combination of black pudding, fried onions, mashed potatoes, and apple sauce) to classic German fare such as schnitzel and sauerkraut with sausage, Cologne has something for every taste. The city is also known for its local beer, Kölsch, which is a crucial part of the dining experience. In addition to traditional German cuisine, Cologne boasts numerous Italian restaurants, Middle Eastern flavours, and Asian fusion options, ensuring that visitors can find amazing quality food to suit any budget.

German meat dishes

German cuisine is known for its meat and potato dishes, with an emphasis on sweet and sour flavours. Here are some popular German meat dishes:

Sauerbraten

Sauerbraten is a heavily marinated dish, with the meat being soaked in vinegar, wine, herbs and spices for up to 10 days. The meat is then sliced and served with a hearty gravy and potato dumplings. It is a rich and flavourful dish.

Schnitzel

Schnitzel is a very popular German dish, made with a meat cutlet (usually pork) coated in breadcrumbs and pan-fried. It is often served with a squeeze of lemon and in a roll. Schnitzel is a versatile dish and can be served with a variety of sauces, different cuts of meat, or in salads and pastas.

Himmel und Äd mit Flönz

A Cologne specialty, this dish is often called "earth and heaven" as it combines black pudding and apple sauce, representing "earth" and "heaven" respectively. It is usually served with mashed potatoes and fried onions.

German Meat Salad

Despite its name, this dish is a favourite of self-proclaimed casual vegetarians. It consists of cold cuts of meat such as bologna or German sausages, cut thinly or shredded, and mixed with vinegar, onions, gherkins, tomatoes, cheese and seasonings.

Pork Knuckle

A dream come true for meat lovers, pork knuckle is usually slow-cooked and served with the bones still in. The meat is tender and falls off the bone. It is served with typical German sides such as potato dumplings and red cabbage.

German Sausages

German bratwurst covered in a savoury curry sauce and curry powder, usually served with fries, is a beloved dish that can be found almost anywhere in Germany.

Rouladen

Rouladen is a popular German beef dish, often served with potato dumplings.

Local beer

Kölsch is not just a beer in Cologne, but it is also a part of the local culture, including the dialect, humour, and people. The term "Kölsch" signifies Cologne's traditional culture and dialect. The beer is served by waiters called Köbes in the traditional gruff Köbes style. They are known for their standoffish and sometimes rude service, which is considered normal in Germany and part of the experience. They are very professional, but they are also responsible for many tables, so their visits are usually short, and they won't hang around to chat.

Kölsch is served in small 0.2L glasses called a Stange, and it is customary to cheers with the bottom of the glass instead of the top. The idea is that the beer will remain cold by the time you're ready for the next one. The Köbes will automatically bring you a new beer when they see you're nearing the bottom of your glass, and they will continue to do so until you indicate you don't want another by placing the coaster on top of your empty glass.

There are many places to drink Kölsch in Cologne, including traditional brauhauses and pubs. Some popular breweries and pubs include Früh am Dom, Schreckenskammer, Gaffel, Brauerei Pfaffen, Peter's Brauhaus, and Brauerei zur Malzmühle.

So, if you're visiting Cologne, trying the local Kölsch beer is a must!

Pizza

Pizzeria Totò e Peppino

Ranked as the number one pizza place in Cologne by some, Totò e Peppino is known for its super classic style of pizza. They make their dough in-house and prove it for 24 hours before cooking it in less than two minutes. The result is a big, spongey, and wonderfully chewy crust. Their fresh toppings and generous portions make this a tasty option for pizza lovers in Cologne.

For those who prefer their pizza thin and crispy, Pizza, Pasta Luca is the place to go. They load their pizzas with toppings, creating a burst of flavour in every mouthful. Their specialty is not just limited to pizza, as they also offer a range of pasta and salad options.

Antica Pizzeria Nennillo

Antica Pizzeria Nennillo stands out for its focus on the quality of its raw ingredients. Their pizzas feature a thinner base and a rich, luxurious tomato sauce, resulting in a true Italian taste. The small pizzeria packs a mighty flavour punch, and their thin and crispy pies are perfect for folding in half and enjoying the explosion of flavours.

485Grad Neapolitanische Pizza

485Grad Neapolitanische Pizza is highly regarded for its classical style, with some claiming it rivals the pizzas of Naples itself. The restaurant's name refers to the super hot wood-fired oven that cooks the pizzas to perfection in less than two minutes. Their toppings are imaginative and well-sourced, and their pizzas pair well with a glass of beer or wine, making it a must-try for an authentic German pizza experience.

NeoNeo

NeoNeo is a small chain that is redefining the pizza landscape in Cologne. They offer imaginative and well-sourced toppings, paired with a selection of beverages. Their pizzas are highly rated, and they are considered by some to be one of the tastiest pizzas in all of Germany.

Honourable Mentions

Other notable pizza places in Cologne include Ristorante Toscanini, a classic Italian restaurant with a beechwood-fired stone oven; Made in Napoli in Ehrenfeld, known for its authentic Neapolitan pizza; and Il Golfo Di Napoli in Lindenthal, which has been praised as the best authentic Napoli pizza in the city.

Middle Eastern cuisine

Beirut Restaurant offers a taste of home with its exciting and high-quality Middle Eastern dishes. The restaurant is always bustling, and for a good reason. It is a great choice for those seeking a cosy and familiar atmosphere while indulging in healthy and delicious food.

For hummus lovers, Mashery - Hummus Kitchen is a must-visit. They serve some of the best hummus in town at reasonable prices. With a great variety on offer, it is a perfect spot for vegetarians and those who appreciate a good hummus plate.

Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine shines at the Restaurant Bethlehem. This restaurant has earned rave reviews for its flavourful and filling dishes. The staff is accommodating, and the menus are helpfully provided in German. It is a hidden gem worth discovering.

Artistanbul Restaurant combines Turkish and Middle Eastern flavours seamlessly. It offers a range of Turkish traditional starters, followed by perfectly grilled steaks. The service and atmosphere are excellent, making it a wonderful choice for a special dining experience.

For those with a sweet tooth, Darwish Konditorei is the place to go. They offer a variety of delicious Middle Eastern desserts, including the best baklava in town. It is a unique spot to satisfy your sugar cravings and indulge in the region's rich pastry traditions.

Hayat Restaurant is renowned for its delicious doner kebabs. The generous portions and outstanding prices make it a popular choice for locals. It is a fantastic option for those seeking authentic and flavourful Middle Eastern dishes at a great value.

Cologne's Middle Eastern culinary scene is diverse and vibrant, offering a range of dining experiences to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you're craving hummus, kebabs, or sweet treats, the city has something for everyone.

German pastries

Apfelschnecken

The name translates to "apple snail donut," and it is a pastry that swirls into a snail shell shape. It is filled with chopped apple pieces and dusted with sugar. Apfelschnecken are best enjoyed fresh and hot, offering a truly heavenly taste experience.

Berliner

Also known as German donuts, Berliners are a popular treat in Germany. They are similar to other donuts, being yeasty pastries filled with jam and fried in oil, but they have their own unique charm. They are often enjoyed during breakfast with a cup of coffee or as an afternoon snack.

Quarkbällchen

These are German quark donut holes, a delicious variation of the traditional donut. Quarkbällchen are small, fried dough balls made with a batter that contains a generous amount of quark. They are a unique take on the classic donut, as they are made without yeast.

Martinsbrezeln

Martinsbrezeln, or German sweet pretzels, are a delightful twist on the traditional pretzel. They are shaped like pretzels but with a sweet twist, making them a perfect treat to satisfy your sugar cravings.

Franzbrötchen

Reminiscent of a French croissant, Franzbrötchen is a sweet pastry that is especially popular in Hamburg. It is a delightful breakfast option or an afternoon treat, and it pairs exceptionally well with a cup of coffee.

Bienenstich Kuchen

Bienenstich Kuchen, or Bee Sting Cake, is a tasty treat that gets its name from its honey-almond topping. This oddly named cake is a favourite among Germans and visitors alike. It is a cream-filled yeast layer cake that is both chewy and delightful.

Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte

The Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, or Black Forest Cake, is a multilayered masterpiece. It combines cherries, kirsch liqueur, chocolate, and cream to create an indulgent dessert. This iconic German dessert is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Apfelstrudel

Apfelstrudel is an Austrian dessert that has gained immense popularity in Germany, especially in Bavaria. Bakers fill layers of pastry with a sweet apple filling, and a hint of cinnamon adds a delightful touch. Toppings like vanilla sauce and whipped cream take this pastry to the next level.

These are just a few examples of the diverse and delectable German pastries that you can indulge in. Each pastry has its own unique history and flavour profile, reflecting the rich cultural and culinary landscape of Germany.

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