15 Best German Restaurants in Berlin Germany
Berlin is renowned for its vibrant food scene, and when it comes to German cuisine, the city boasts an impressive array of restaurants that deliver authentic flavours and memorable dining experiences.
While living in Berlin I (along with my husband) set out to uncover some of the best German restaurants in Berlin.
From hearty traditional dishes to innovative culinary creations, Berlin’s best German restaurants offer a delicious journey through Germany’s diverse regional cuisines.
Whether you’re craving mouthwatering sausages, savoury stews, or comforting schnitzel, this article will guide you through the top German / Austria restaurants in Berlin that are guaranteed to satisfy your appetite for exceptional food and cultural immersion.
We experienced traditional German restaurants to trendy eateries putting their own spin on classic dishes, and I’m so excited to share them with you.
Before we dive in, I want to share one important tip – make a reservation! Germans are planners. That means you need to book in advance otherwise you might find yourself missing out on the best restaurants.
Table of Contents
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15 Best German Restaurants in Berlin
1. Lokal
First impressions
Tucked away in my neighbourhood, this restaurant is unassuming from the outside. Once you step inside, it feels like something straight out of Architectural Digest. The clean lines, modern design, and the warmth from the wooden tables and classic chairs create a welcoming atmosphere. Candles and fresh flowers add to the overall ambiance.
A long bar attracts locals looking for a quick cocktail and a small bite or some spontaneous regulars grabbing a seat to enjoy a meal and chat with the friendly staff.
It’s a welcoming place that locals truly cherish.
The crowd
No doubt about it, it’s a spot for locals only. It felt wonderful to claim this as our neighbourhood restaurant. There seemed to be quite a few regulars, as many of the staff stopped by tables for a friendly chat.
Main event: the food
As we sipped our drinks, warm homemade bread arrived with a selection of spreads. My husband ordered the schnitzel, I enjoyed the seasonal vegetable pasta. Both dishes were some of the best German food in Berlin.
Since we had room for dessert, we opted for the classic cheesecake paired with fresh sorbet – a delightful way to conclude our night out in Berlin.
- 🌐 Lokal | €€€
- 📍 Linienstraße 160 (Mitte)
- 🕘 Monday – Sunday 5:30 PM – 12 AM
- 🏛️ Nearby: New Berlin Synagogue, Oranienburger Str
2. Schnitzelei
First impressions
Tucked away in a charming courtyard, Schnitzelei Mitte unveils itself as a delightful secret, enticing diners with its discreet yet inviting location.
Choose to sit outside under the tree canopy and against the brick of the old building or go inside (like we did) for a fun and lively atmosphere with its classic charm and contemporary touches.
We were greeted with a free kleine beer as we were seated. Off to a good start!
The crowd
Schnitzelei’s appeal draws a diverse crowd of local Berliners, couples, friends and tourists.
Main event: the food
The schnitzel of course! They feature Weiner Schnitzel – both meat and meatless. Want to save money? My tip is to get the Sunday Schnitzel special for just 16 € – you won’t find a better price than that!
- 🌐 Schnitzelei | €€
- 📍 3 locations:
- Novalisstrasse 11 or Chausseestr. 8 (Mitte)
- Röntgenstraße 7b (Charlottenberg)
- Landauer Str. 8 (Wilmersdorf)
- 🕘 Monday – Saturday 4 PM – 11 PM, Sunday 12 PM – 11 PM
- 🏛️ Nearby: Memorial of the Berlin Wall
3. Clärchens Ballroom
First impressions
The first thing that catches your eye is the spacious outdoor terrace, and it’s truly enchanting. Bistro tables are arranged perfectly under a canopy of trees and lights strung, offering intimate spots for couples and long tables for larger gatherings.
Inside the 1913 ballroom, the atmosphere is just as spectacular. A large disco ball spins, casting a shimmering light across the walls and ceiling. Our waiter shared a couple of fascinating tidbits – the German illustrator and photographer Heinrich Zille used to have a regular spot at the bar, where he would sit and draw. Additionally, Otto Dix painted the poster in 1931, which is still in use today.
He also told us that before World War II, there were two halls: the grand ballroom on the ground floor and the more exclusive mirrored ballroom upstairs. We were graciously invited to see the upstairs hall after our dinner and, of course, couldn’t resist indulging in a Schnapps.
The crowd
It’s a mixed crowd of locals enjoying a special night out, and tourists.
Main event: the food
The highlight should definitely be the cocktails! We tried their special cocktail of the day, and it was absolutely delicious. It almost steals the spotlight from the meal itself. My husband went for the wiener schnitzel in his quest for the best schnitzel in Berlin, while I savoured the roasted pumpkin Pflammelkuchen, akin to a thin pizza.
- 🌐 Clarchens Ballroom | €€
- 📍 Auguststrasse 24 (Mitte)
- 🕘 Tuesday – Friday 5 PM – 10 PM, Saturday – Sunday 2 PM – 10 PM
- 🏛️ Nearby: Monbijoupark, James Simon Park, Spree River, Museum Island
4. Sophien 11
First impressions
I fell in love with this restaurant at first sight. Its charming pale pink stucco exterior adorned with vibrant pink geraniums trailing from the window sills makes it absolutely enchanting. Not to forget, it’s located on one of Berlin’s most enchanting streets and happens to be in the oldest house on Sophienstrasse, dating back to around 1750.
On warmer days, the best spot is the hidden courtyard, accessible only through the restaurant. Once seated on the terrace of this green oasis, you might even forget you’re in Berlin. Everywhere you look, there are plants and flowers, and the gentle sound of the fountain adds to the tranquil ambiance.
Inside, the restaurant is small and cozy, with close-set tables and banquette seating that creates a warm, family-like atmosphere.
This neighbourhood restaurant became a place we kept coming back to again and again.
The crowd
A diverse mix of solo diners, couples, and friends catching up makes this neighbourhood restaurant a favourite among locals.
Main event: the food
After dining here multiple times, I can confidently say that anything on the menu is a safe bet. It’s genuinely good, home-cooked, authentic German food in Berlin.
My husband swears by this place as the best traditional German restaurant in Berlin. He’s had some of his top meals here, such as beef roulade, Käsespätzle, and Kasselerbraten (smoked Porkchop). If you’re a vegetarian, the Potsdamer Gemüseteller (a plate of seasonal veggies with a poached egg) is a great choice.
- 🌐 Sophien II | €
- 📍 Sophienstraße 11 (Mitte)
- 🕘 Tuesday to Saturday 12 PM – 10 PM
- 🏛️ Nearby: Hackesche Höfe, Oranienburger Straße
5. Zollpackhof
First impressions
Zollpackhof offers one of the best views in the city! Imagine dining with views of the Spree River and the Federal Chancellery. Not to mention that this historic gem dates back to the 1700s.
The interior looks like a Bavarian tavern but with contemporary modern decor. Since it was a beautiful sunny day in Berlin, we chose to dine on the terrace with the panoramic views.
Another option was beneath the shade of towering trees of the Biergarten, but we opted for the restaurant menu.
The crowd
Being so close to the government buildings, Zollpackhof draws a business crowd and tourists seeking an authentic Berlin dining experience.
Main event: the food
We both chose the lunch special. My husband got the schnitzel, and I had bread dumplings with creamy mushroom sauce. It was extra nice to have beer from the famous Augustiner Brewery in Munich on tap, making our meal even more delicious.
- 🌐 Zollpackhof | €€
- 📍 Elisabeth-Abegg-Straße 1 (Mitte)
- 🕘 Monday – Sunday 12 PM – 11 PM
- 🏛️ Nearby: Reichstag Building and its amazing city views, Spree River
6. Einstein Unter den Linden
First impressions
I loved the touch of Parisian elegance nestled in the heart of Berlin. Upon entering Einstein Under den Linden, you’re instantly transported to the belle époque of Paris. The interior exudes an upscale charm, creating an ideal ambiance for a romantic rendezvous or a sophisticated gathering.
Opting for outdoor seating allowed us to immerse ourselves in Berlin’s lively street scene. The bistro tables on the exterior sidewalk magically transported us to the bustling boulevards of Paris. It’s a perfect spot to dine al fresco and watch both Berliners and tourists strolling along the iconic Unter den Linden boulevard.
The crowd
A place where Berliners, politicians, business professionals, and tourists gather as this is a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Main event: the food
The schnitzel stood out with its tenderness, paper-thin and crispy. I opted for their daily special, the pumpkin strudel, showcasing the pumpkin in four delicious ways. This is a restaurant that prides itself on seasonal cooking and using top-notch ingredients, making it at the top of our list of the best restaurants in Berlin.
- 🌐 Einstein Unter den Linden | €€€
- 📍 Unter den Linden 42 (Mitte)
- 🕘 Monday to Friday 8 AM – 10 PM, Saturday 10 AM – 10 PM, Sunday
- 🏛️ Nearby: Berlin’s most famous boulevard, Unter den Linden, Brandenburg Gate
7. Lemke am Schloss
First impressions
Located right across the street from Berlin’s top attraction, the Charlottenburg Palace, is the oldest brewery. The ambience is charming in this updated tavern. Rows of wooden booths line the windows. A long bar sits in the middle of the restaurant. It still feels like a cozy inn from the late 19th century but with a modern feel.
Situated just across the street from Berlin’s top attraction, Charlottenburg Palace, is the city’s oldest brewery. The ambiance of this renovated tavern is delightful, with rows of wooden booths along the windows and a long bar at the heart of the restaurant.
While it retains the cozy charm of a late 19th-century inn, there’s a modern touch that enhances the overall atmosphere.
The crowd
A diverse crowd fills the space, ranging from young Berliners coming in for a draft beer to families gathering over a hearty German-cooked meal, to tourists passing through on their way to or from Charlottenburg Palace.
Main event: the food
My husband happily finished a big plate of wiener schnitzel and French fries. If you ever get the chance to have fries in Berlin, go for it, and make sure to ask for mayonnaise – they do it the best! I had the spinach dumplings, and they were delicious. Both our meals came with a side garden salad.
In line with the brewery’s reputation, the diverse beer selection showcased its signature craft brew, Lemke Berlin.
- 🌐 Lemke am Schloss | €
- 📍 Luisenpl. 1 (Charlottenburg)
- 🕘 Monday to Sunday 12:30 PM – 11 PM
- 🏛️ Nearby: Charlottenburg Schloss is right across the street
8. Ephraims
First impressions
Situated at the crossroads of Berlin’s oldest bridge, offering a view of the Spree River and the boat tours floating by, this spot is among the most picturesque in the city. The outdoor terrace, adorned with bright orange umbrellas, under a tree canopy, is as sunny as it appears.
However, stepping inside feels like entering a period museum, featuring elegant wooden tables, chairs, and antique furnishings will make you think you’ve travelled back in time.
The crowd
Primarily occupied by tourists, especially those fortunate enough to secure a spot on the sought-after terrace with views overlooking the Spree River.
Main event: the food
The menu features classic German dishes, but we were there for the German tradition of “Kaffee und Kuchen” – coffee and cake. Despite the tempting options, our server suggested trying the warm Original Tirol apple strudel, their signature dessert. It turned out to be an excellent choice.
- 🌐 Ephraims | €
- 📍 Spreeufer (Mitte)
- 🕘 Monday to Sunday 12:00 PM – 11 PM
- 🏛️ Nearby: Museum Island, Nikolaiviertel
9. Zur Letzten Instanz
First impressions
The moment we saw the street and the building, we knew it was perfect. The old cobblestone street and the charm of the stucco building with shutters are exactly what you’d expect from Berlin’s oldest restaurant, Zur Letzten Instanz, which first opened its doors in 1621. It’s packed with history and legendary tales, like the belief that even Napoleon once had a meal here.
The cozy atmosphere becomes even more charming as you step inside. Dark wood panels, lanterns on the walls, candles glowing, and fresh flowers on every table create a warm and inviting space.
While there’s an outdoor terrace and beer garden, we opted to dine inside to soak in the historic ambiance.
The crowd
Not only did the restaurant attract celebrity guests like Jake Gyllenhaal and Jack Nicholson, but the other diners were mostly locals who knew that this is the best traditional German restaurant in Berlin.
Main event: the food
As a vegetarian, I didn’t have many options and went for Kartoffelstampf, a delightful dish of creamy mashed potatoes in a mustard sauce topped with two poached eggs. It turned out to be the best thing I tasted! My husband tried the Königsberger Klopse, which are meat dumplings. You can’t go wrong, as this simply offers good German food in Berlin.
- 🌐 Zur Letzten Instanz | €€
- 📍 Waisenstraße 14-16 (Mitte)
- 🕘 Monday to Tuesday, Thursday to Saturday 12 PM – 3 PM, 5 PM – 11:30 PM
- 🏛️ Nearby: Alexanderplatz, Nikolaiviertel, Old City Hall, Museum Island
10. Borchardt
First impressions
Borchardt is a living testament to Berlin’s rich history. Boasting a remarkable heritage spanning 170 years, this restaurant is a testament to its enduring appeal and perseverance throughout history.
This tradition-rich establishment welcomes diners into a world where elegance and sophistication converge, making it a top choice for those seeking an upscale dining experience in Berlin.
The front of the house is exceptional with being attentive and friendly.
The crowd
Borchardt’s timeless charm draws in locals and a business crowd who treasure its classic ambiance and delectable cuisine, making it a beloved institution in the heart of Berlin.
Couples, like us, are drawn here. Borchardt’s intimate ambiance and refined dining experience are what you’ll find here.
Main event: the food
It’s believed that schnitzel was first cooked in this restaurant, so you have to get it here! Borchardt cooks seasonally, so the menu is always changing. But I thought their vegetarian beet risotto with seasonal vegetables was delicious! And their food presentation is one of the best in Berlin!
- 🌐 Borchardt | €€€€
- 📍 Franzstr. 47 (Mitte)
- 🕘 Monday – Sunday 11:30 AM – 12 AM
- 🏛️ Nearby: Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, Gendarmenmarkt, Französische Friedrichstadtkirche, Neue Kirche, CheckPoint Charlie
11. Dicke Wirten
First impressions
This restaurant embodies traditional German charm, embracing kitsch with dark wood and the walls adorned with photos upon photos. They take pride in maintaining their timeless appeal, resisting any urge to change. It’s a cult classic that’s truly a sight to behold, but be subtle about your tourist status, as it might lead to being turned away.
The owner typically occupies a seat at either end of the bar or in the booth facing the front door. On my first visit, perhaps my German language skills weren’t quite up to par, and we were denied a table. However, on the second attempt, I confidently entered, engaged in some small talk in my best German, and to my surprise, we secured a table.
The crowd
Berliners and the regulars, who have been frequenting this place for years, form the core clientele. If you speak English or appear to be a tourist, it wouldn’t be surprising if you find it challenging to secure a table.
Main event: the food
My husband ordered the Dicke Wirten house special—a crispy, breaded pork schnitzel with french fries. With only three vegetarian options available, I opted for the Schupfnudeln topped with roasted vegetables.
- 🌐 Dicke Wirten | €
- 📍 Carmerstraße 9 (C)
- 🕘 Sunday to Monday, Wednesday to Saturday 11 AM – 1 AM
- 🏛️ Nearby: Berliner Zoo in Tiergarten Park, Ku’Damm, Savignyplatz, Strasse des 17. Juni weekend flea market
12. Max und Moritz
First impressions
Established in 1902, this historic restaurant was once a Berlin Inn and proudly stands as one of the longest-running dining establishments in the heart of the Kreuzberg neighbourhood. Amidst the vibrant culinary scene of this area, known as a haven for foodie, the restaurant thrives despite stiff competition from the diverse array of international cuisines available.
Upon stepping through the door, you immediately feel the buzz from the loud, busy atmosphere. It’s great!
The crowd
You’ve got a mix of young Berliners, friends catching up over drinks and a tasty meal, and a decent amount of tourists thrown into the mix.
Main event: the food
I went for the Käsespätzle from the veggie menu, while my husband chose the Königsberger Klopse (meatballs). The beer menu here is even longer than the food options, which suited my husband just right. He happily sampled a couple of their on-tap beers.
- 🌐 Max und Moritz | €
- 📍Oranienstr. 162 (Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg)
- 🕘 Monday – Sunday 5 PM – 1 AM
- 🏛️ Nearby: Jewish Berlin Museum
13. Joseph-Roth Diele
First impressions
This cozy German spot oozes charm, named after the father-son duo Joseph Roth (Sr) and Joseph Roth (Jr). Their nostalgic touches are visible throughout the restaurant in the form of sketches. The ambiance, with its dark wood, checkered floor, and timeless tablecloths, gives the feeling that it hasn’t changed a bit. Your search for authentic German restaurants in Berlin stops here.
The crowd
Only the locals in Berlin seem to know about this genuine neighbourhood restaurant.
Main event: the food
They have two lunch specials each day from Tuesday to Friday. We didn’t know about it beforehand but happened to visit on a Friday. We got to choose between an omelet or a Spätzle stew with beef and veggies. Both of us went for the omelet.
- 🌐 Joseph-Roth Diele | €
- 📍 Potsdamer Str. 75 (Charlottenburg-Schonenburg)
- 🕘 Tuesday – Friday 10 AM – 10 PM
- 🏛️ Nearby: Potsdammer Platz, Gleisdreieck Park
14. Landwirt
First impressions
I stumbled upon this restaurant by sheer luck. I was walking along the street admiring the elegant architecture when the restaurant terrace stopped me in my tracks. Beyond the iron gate, a private terrace enveloped by lush greenery creates an intimate dining experience and even a charming swing for two.
Just as I was about to snap a photo the owner came out curious what I was doing. I told him I would be back (the ambience is that good!). He is as warm and friendly as the restaurant.
The crowd
This is a neighbourhood restaurant known for its reputation. Locals who live (or are staying) in the area dine here. It’s a hidden gem.
Land Wirt’s enchanting ambiance beckons couples in search of an intimate dining experience. This restaurant is known only through word of mouth, so be sure to visit this hidden gem.
Main event: the food
My husband opted for the schnitzel, and it came with a side of warm potato salad. Rather than one big schnitzel, it was served as four smaller cuts.
I, on the other hand, chose the beet gnocchi. These colourful and soft bites of deliciousness were coated in a savoury blend of butter and olive oil. I would definitely come back for another serving of that dish. This was one of the best German food Berlin has to offer!
- 🌐 No website, no social media | €€€
- 📍 Regensburger Str. 7 (Charlottenberg Wilmersdorf)
- 🕘 Monday – Friday, Sunday 12 PM – 10 PM
- 🏛️ Nearby: KaDeWe Kaufhaus, Ku’Damm, Viktoria-Luise-Platz
15. Austria – Das Original (The Best Austrian Restaurant in Berlin)
First impressions
The restaurant’s decor reminded me of an Alpine Austrian village, seamlessly transported to Berlin. White-washed walls, wooden tables and chairs, and antlers mounted on the walls create a perfect fusion of tradition and modernity.
We were lucky to be seated at the best spot in the house – a corner booth that allowed us to snuggle up and enjoy our delicious meal.
The crowd
Maybe it was the season, but it was evident that this restaurant is a favourite among locals. It was a delightful experience to hear and converse solely in German.
Main event: the food
The food was fantastic! My husband enjoyed his crispy and thin Wiener Schnitzel, while I, seeking warmth on a chilly day, savoured a bowl of pumpkin soup and polished off my husband’s potato and cucumber salad.
And, not wanting our time to end, we opted to extend our stay and indulge in the classic dessert – Kaiserschmarrn.
- 🌐 Austria | €€
- 📍 Bergmannstr. 30 (Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg)
- 🕘 Tuesday – Sunday 12 PM – 11 PM, Monday 6 PM – 11 PM
- 🏛️ Nearby: some of the best Berlin parks like Tempelhofer Park and Viktoria Park
The Best Market Halles in Berlin
A great way to sample some German food and international cuisine is by visiting Berlin’s markets. These covered markets feature produce, cheese, butcher, bread, and a wine shop.
Many of them offer street food vendors offering German and international cuisine. It’s an inexpensive way to try different dishes.
These were my favourite ones to visit:
- Markthalle Neun: Known for its diverse food offerings, this market hall is a must-visit in Berlin. From local produce and meats to international street food, there’s something for everyone here. It was also a stop along the Berlin food tour I took.
- Arminiusmarkthalle: Located in Moabit, this historic market hall offers a wide range of culinary delights. Sample traditional German dishes, like currywurst and try exotic spices from around the world, or indulge in freshly baked goods.
- Marheineke Markthalle: Situated in Kreuzberg, this vibrant food market offers an array of fresh fruits and vegetables, cheeses, seafood, and much more. Grab a bite at one of the many stalls or explore the specialty shops within the hall.
These next two, although technically are not a covered market hall per se, you don’t want to miss these outdoor markets.
- Wochenmarkt am Kollwitzplatz: Practically every Saturday, I went to this popular farmers’ market that takes place near Kollwitzplatz in Prenzlauer Berg. Browse through organic produce stalls, taste homemade jams and pickles, or enjoy the food from the local food trucks.
- Thai Wiese: Known as Thai Park is an outdoor food extravaganza held every weekend at Preußenpark in Charlottenburg. Indulge in authentic Thai cuisine prepared by local vendors; it’s like stepping into Thailand right in Berlin!
As a Holidaymaker
I hope you get a chance to enjoy as many of these Berlin restaurants as possible. I made it mt my mission to find the best of the best and share them with you. Featuring a mix of price points, uniqueness and some of the best tasting German food in Berlin.
If you’re here, you’re likely keen to uncover more fantastic food spots in the city. Here are a couple more of my articles that I think you’ll enjoy:
