Where and What to Eat in Munich: A Guide to Bavarian Delights

Exploring local flavours is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in a new culture. You can learn so much about a place through its food, whether it’s the lively atmosphere in local pubs, the ingredients and recipes passed down through generations, or the presentation of the dishes. Food and travel go hand-in-hand, and sampling regional delicacies, relaxing in cosy eateries, and savouring local drinks enrich every journey. Join us as we dive into Bavarian cuisine and explore where and what to eat in Munich. Ready to taste the heart of Bavaria?

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Bavarian Cuisine – Simple Yet Charming

Bavarian cuisine is often underrated, but Munich offers the perfect opportunity to break that stereotype by trying traditional Bavarian dishes and savouring their charm. What makes Bavarian cuisine unique?

In Bavaria—Germany’s largest and economically strongest state—meat often takes centre stage. Bavarian chefs are renowned for their roasted pork knuckle, veal and pork Weißwurst (white sausage), beef roasts, and hearty goulash soup. And nearly every bakery in Munich has Brezen (pretzels), sprinkled with coarse salt. Pair a pretzel with Obazda, a flavorful spread made from cheese, butter, onions, and herbs, for a true Bavarian snack.

But Bavarian cuisine offers more than just hearty meats and breads. Bavaria’s regions each have their specialties, such as the Allgäu mountain area, known for its cheeses. Allgäuer Bergkäse and Allgäuer Emmentaler are particularly popular, with rich, aromatic flavours thanks to traditional cheesemaking methods using raw milk from grass-fed cows. These cheeses are a must-try when you’re in Munich.

Must-Try Dishes in Munich

Feeling hungry? Here are some essential Bavarian dishes to try when visiting Munich. Many of them are best enjoyed in one of the city’s open-air beer gardens, where you can relax and soak up the atmosphere:

• Haxe – A Bavarian favourite, this roasted pork knuckle is marinated and baked until crispy, served with gravy, dumplings, and cabbage.
• Weißwurst – A traditional white sausage made from veal and pork, served in a bowl of hot water with a side of mustard. Typically eaten in the morning!
• Krustenbraten – Pork roast with crispy, crackling skin.
• Münchner Schnitzel – Munich’s unique take on schnitzel, seasoned with mustard and horseradish before frying.
• Spießbraten – A rolled pork belly roast in gravy.
• Wurstsalat – A refreshing salad with sausage, ham, onions, pickles, and vinaigrette—perfect for a quick, affordable meal.
• Brezelsuppe – A Bavarian soup made with leftover pretzels and pork broth, giving it a unique flavour.
• Leberknödelsuppe – A popular Bavarian and Austrian soup, made with liver dumplings in a rich broth.

Typical sides include Knödel (bread or potato dumplings), cabbage, and sweet mustard, sometimes served as a main dish with bacon. For a Bavarian twist on pasta, try Spätzle—soft, chewy noodles often topped with cheese.

Pair any of these dishes with a cold wheat beer from one of Munich’s iconic breweries, such as Augustiner or Paulaner. Bavarian beer culture is a serious affair, and Oktoberfest, held annually in Munich since 1810, celebrates this heritage. Locals and visitors gather every autumn to enjoy traditional Bavarian beer, food, and festivities.

Bavarian Coffee – A Cozy Pick-Me-Up

Taking a break with Bavarian coffee is a popular local ritual. This cosy drink combines coffee with melted chocolate, a touch of cinnamon, and whipped cream, making it perfect for chilly days and late afternoons.

Bavarian Desserts: Apfelstrudel and Dampfnudel

A Bavarian coffee is best enjoyed with dessert! In almost any Munich café, you’ll find Apfelstrudel, a pastry filled with spiced apples and often served with whipped cream and vanilla ice cream. For a taste of Bavarian comfort food, try Dampfnudel—a fluffy steamed dumpling with a sweet filling, beloved across Bavaria.

Munich Street Food – Beyond Burgers and Fries

To experience Bavarian flavours on the go, try Munich’s street food. Forget hot dogs and burgers—popular options include Currywurst (grilled sausage with curry-spiced tomato sauce) and Leberkässemmel (a thick slice of Bavarian meatloaf in a roll with sweet mustard). These quick, tasty bites are ideal for travellers exploring the city on foot.

Where to Find the Best Food in Munich

Wondering where to start your culinary journey? Munich’s restaurants, bars, and cafés are abundant, but here are some standout spots:

• Schwabing District: This lively neighbourhood is known for its many eateries serving Bavarian classics as well as international cuisine. It’s the perfect place for a late meal or a night out.
• Spatenhaus an der Oper: Located near Munich’s opera house, this restaurant offers a refined dining experience with Bavarian classics paired with beer from its own brewery. The warm, rustic decor adds to the atmosphere, making it a memorable dining choice.
• Brenner Grill: This spot is a must for football fans. A favourite of Polish soccer star Robert Lewandowski during his Bayern Munich days, Brenner offers a modern twist on Bavarian dishes with a relaxed vibe.
• Viktualienmarkt: Munich’s central market square is open Monday to Saturday and is ideal for those looking to try fresh local produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. Wander through the stalls and grab a snack or pick up unique Bavarian treats.

Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Munich

While Bavarian cuisine is traditionally meat-focused, Munich has some excellent vegan and vegetarian options too. Prinz Myshkin, located at Hackenstraße 2, has been serving creative plant-based dishes since 1984. With a range of appetisers, mains, and desserts, it’s a favourite also among non-vegans.

Enjoy your culinary journey through Munich, and Guten Appetit!

FAQs:

1. What are some must-try Bavarian dishes in Munich?
   Some Bavarian classics to try in Munich include Haxe (pork knuckle), Weißwurst (white sausage), Krustenbraten (pork roast), Münchner Schnitzel, and the traditional Brezen (pretzel). Pair them with a local beer for a true Bavarian experience! 
2. Where can I find vegan or vegetarian food in Munich?
   Munich offers several great vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants, like Prinz Myshkin. Schwabing and Glockenbachviertel neighbourhoods are also known for plant-based dining options.
3. What is a good place to try Bavarian desserts?
   Many Munich cafés offer typical regional desserts like Apfelstrudel and Dampfnudel, especially in the Old Town. Coffeehouses like Café Frischhut are known for traditional sweets. Make sure you also try Bavarian coffee!
4. Can I find good street food in Munich?
   Absolutely! Try Currywurst, Leberkässemmel, and Brezelsuppe at local markets or street food stalls for a delicious Bavarian twist on quick eats.