Explore Delicious Food Options Near Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral, with its towering gothic architecture, is a feast for the eyes. And the area surrounding it is a feast for the senses, with a variety of restaurants offering delectable dishes from local and international cuisines. The city of Cologne has a rich culinary tradition that reflects the region's history and culture. Here, we'll explore some of the best places to eat near the Cologne Cathedral, from traditional German fare to international flavours.

Traditional German Cuisine

• Königsberger Klopse: Meatballs in a creamy white sauce with capers.
• Maultaschen: Ravioli's German cousin, typically filled with minced meat, breadcrumbs, onions, and spinach.
• Labskaus: A mixture of salted beef, onions, potatoes, and pickled beetroot, often served with pickled gherkins and rollmops (pickled herring fillets).
• Sausages: Germany has a long tradition of sausage-making, with over 1,500 different types of sausage available. Some popular varieties include Bratwurst, Currywurst, and Blutwurst.
• Döner Kebab: A popular sandwich introduced to Germany by Turkish immigrants.
• Schnitzel: The German version is made with tenderized pork or turkey and can be found in most traditional restaurants.
• Käsespätzle: A cheesy pasta dish popular in cozy Munich pubs during the winter.
• Rouladen: A blend of bacon, onions, mustard, and pickles wrapped in sliced beef or veal, often served with potato dumplings, mashed potatoes, and pickled red cabbage.
• Sauerbraten: Traditionally made with horse meat, but now more commonly prepared with beef or venison. The meat is marinated for several days in a mixture of red wine vinegar, herbs, and spices before being drowned in a dark gravy.
• Himmel un Ääd: Literally "heaven and earth," this dish combines black pudding, fried onions, mashed potatoes, and apple sauce.
• Zwiebelkuchen: Crispy onion tarts that pair well with a glass of federweisser (partially fermented young white wine).
• Saumagen: Similar to Scottish haggis, it is made by stuffing the stomach of a pig with pork, potatoes, carrots, onions, and spices.
• Pinkel mit Grünkohl: Cooked kale and sausage, often served with mustard and bacon.
• Spargel: White asparagus is a popular seasonal dish in Germany, with a yearly per-capita consumption of 1.5 kg.
• Reibekuchen: Crispy potato pancakes, often served with apple sauce.
• Rollmops: Pickled herring fillets rolled around a savory filling, typically served on the coast.
• Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte: Black Forest gateau, named after the specialty liquor from the Black Forest region. It is made with layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, sour cherries, and kirschwasser (cherry brandy).
• Käsekuchen: German cheesecake made with low-fat quark instead of cream cheese, and typically without fruit.
• Spaghettieis: An ice cream dish made to look like spaghetti, with vanilla ice cream, strawberry sauce, and white chocolate shavings.

International Flavours

If you're looking for international flavours near Cologne Cathedral, Shaka Zulu presents a unique offering of African cuisine. The restaurant's decor, featuring African artefacts and warm tones, sets the scene for a diverse menu that includes specialties from different parts of the continent. From flavourful tagines to well-spiced meats and vegetarian options, Shaka Zulu showcases the rich culinary traditions of Africa.

For a fusion of local and international dishes, Hanse Stube, located in the Excelsior Hotel Ernst, is an excellent choice. The menu reflects a balance between innovation and tradition, with refined dishes showcasing the best of both worlds. With impeccable service and intimate surroundings, Hanse Stube is ideal for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

For Italian cuisine, Da Damiano is a top contender. This family-run restaurant exudes warmth and authenticity, with patrons raving about their homemade pasta and stone-baked pizzas.

A few steps away, L'Osteria welcomes guests with its charming Italian flair and open kitchen. While they offer classic Italian dishes with modern twists, it's their oversized thin-crust pizzas that steal the show, encouraging the Italian tradition of communal dining.

For modern European cuisine with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and vegetarian options, Neobiota is the place to go.

Vegetarian and Vegan Delights

Cologne has a growing vegan food scene, and there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan delights to enjoy near the Cologne Cathedral. Here are some top spots to satisfy your plant-based cravings:

Well Being

Well Being is a hidden gem located just a short walk from the cathedral. It offers a sanctuary for health-conscious foodies, with its philosophy centred around sustainable and wholesome eating without compromising on taste. Their menu features a variety of refreshing salads and inventive main courses, all made with fresh ingredients. The serene ambiance of the restaurant ensures a relaxed dining atmosphere. Well Being is a favourite among those seeking vegetarian and vegan cuisine in the area.

Veganees

For a 100% vegan experience, head to Veganees. This modern eatery challenges the notion that vegan food is boring by offering a range of creative and delicious dishes that are also nutritious. Whether you crave a burger, a rich curry, or a sweet treat, Veganees has something for every palate. The restaurant is also committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, appealing to environmentally conscious diners.

Sattgrun

Sattgrun is a vegan-friendly Asian restaurant with a beautiful plant-based buffet. You can choose from a variety of fresh salads, hearty curries, and other delicious options. The buffet-style dining makes it easy to explore a variety of vegan delights in one place.

Café Schnurrke

Café Schnurrke is known for its delicious vegan pancakes with a "lox" type flavour. It's a bit further away, but worth the trip for a unique and tasty vegan breakfast or brunch option.

Bunte Burger

If you're craving a burger, Bunte Burger is the place to go. They offer mouth-watering vegan burgers that will satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike. Their vegan doners are also a popular choice, and one order is generous enough for two meals.

Vegan Junk Food Bar

For those who love their junk food, the Vegan Junk Food Bar is a must-visit. Indulge in loaded French fries, burgers, mac-n-cheeze, and more. They have locations in Amsterdam and Barcelona, so you know you're in for a treat!

In addition to these dedicated vegetarian and vegan restaurants, many other eateries near the Cologne Cathedral offer vegetarian options, such as Fruh am Dom, Hanse Stube, Gaststätte Lommerzheim, and Bei Oma Kleinmann. So, whether you're a health-conscious foodie or a junk food lover, there's something for every vegetarian and vegan palate near the Cologne Cathedral.

Fine Dining

Cologne is a city with a wide range of fine dining options, from Michelin-starred restaurants to those with a more relaxed atmosphere. Here are some of the best fine dining restaurants in the city:

• Taku: This Michelin-starred restaurant is located within the Excelsior Hotel Ernst and serves East Asian fusion cuisine. The cooking style of chef Mirko Gaul is a modern concept of "Asian Fusion", reimagining the flavours of the haute cuisine of Japan, China, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia.
• Le Moissonnier: This long-standing and acclaimed French restaurant has already earned two Michelin stars. The restaurant pays meticulous attention to classic French cuisine, but also remains innovative.
• Hanse Stube: This restaurant, also located in the Excelsior Hotel Ernst, offers a fusion of local and international dishes served in an elegant setting. The menu reflects a balance between innovation and tradition with a selection of refined dishes.
• Ristorante Alfredo: This renowned Italian restaurant has earned a one-star rating in the Michelin Guide. The chef's menu goes beyond the typical Italian dishes, offering new and unusual options that are heavily influenced by modern Italian cuisine.
• Restaurant Fabian: This restaurant serves creative dishes and has a very attentive and pleasant service. The food is of excellent quality and creatively presented at a high level.
• La Cuisine Rademacher: This fine dining restaurant has wonderful staff and delicious food.
• Zur Tant: This Michelin-starred restaurant is housed in a historic half-timbered building right by the Rhine. The cuisine here is a blend of classic, seasonal dishes with influences from French and Mediterranean culinary traditions.
• Restaurant Maximilian Lorenz: This upscale restaurant offers modern German cuisine in a chic space with floor-to-ceiling windows. The food is delicious, the service top-notch and the prices reasonable.
• Landhaus Kuckuck: This fine dining restaurant is full of colour and can be said to be magical. The staff are very kind and well-organised.

Local Specialities

Cologne has a rich culinary tradition that reflects the region's history and culture. The city is renowned for its beer culture, particularly the light, crisp Kölsch beer, which is unique to the area. The city is also known for its hearty, rustic fare, often enjoyed in traditional Brauhaus restaurants, reflecting its working-class heritage and the influence of neighbouring regions, including the Rhineland and Westphalia.

Halve Hahn – A traditional Cologne dish consisting of a rye bread roll (Röggelchen) with butter, topped with a slice of medium-aged Gouda cheese, served with onions, mustard, and pickles. This simple yet delicious combination is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Himmel un Ääd – Translating to "Heaven and Earth," this dish combines mashed potatoes (representing earth) and apple sauce (symbolising heaven). It is sometimes served with fried onions on top, adding a crispy texture and savoury flavour.

Reibekuchen – Also known as potato pancakes, these crispy treats are commonly found at street markets and festivals. They are typically served with apple sauce, providing a sweet and tangy contrast to the savoury potato pancakes.

Flammkuchen – A thin and crispy pizza-like dish, Flammkuchen is traditionally topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon. However, vegetarian options are also available, excluding the bacon for those who prefer a meatless version.

Kartoffelsalat – German potato salad, Cologne-style, often includes a vinegar or mayonnaise base mixed with various herbs and sometimes mustard. It is a classic side dish that pairs well with grilled meats or sausages.

In addition to these local specialities, Cologne offers a diverse array of culinary options, including international cuisines such as Italian, Asian, and French. Whether you're looking for a cosy café, a traditional Brauhaus, or a fine dining experience, there are plenty of options to choose from near Cologne Cathedral.

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