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It is easy to assume that all you can find to eat in Berlin, Germany are variations on meat – sausage in particular – and potatoes. But much like the city itself, the Berlin food scene offers a wide variety of options for a wide range of tastes. Here, we guide you toward traditional foods in this history steeped city that locals enjoy on a regular basis.

Spätzle

This meatless dish shatters the notion that it is difficult to find dishes without meat in Germany. It is comprised of cheese heaped upon dough made from salt, flour, eggs and water. The creamy offering is Germany’s version of pasta.

Schnitzel

Most people have heard of what this dish, which is perhaps the most well-known food in Germany. Wiener schnitzel is the most popular version. To make it, a thinly sliced piece of veal-meat is dipped in a mixture of breadcrumbs, flour and egg and deep fried in butter or oil until it transforms into a dreamy golden breading. While there are different variations of wiener schnitzel, the classic side that accompanies it is potatoes.

Bockwurst

If a sausage had a family reunion in close quarters, it would resemble bockwurst. This meat heavy dish is simple: a variety of meats are stuffed into sausage form. Any kind of meat, even fish, is eligible to become an ingredient in Bockwurst.

Senfeier

Look to Senfeier if you need a break from meat. Just make sure you do not mind mustard, because this dish has plenty of it. Mustard sauce is poured over hard-boiled eggs. This concoction is then blended with mashed potatoes.

Currywurst

It may not cost a lot, but this nationally revered sausage dish has a museum constructed in its honor. Steamed, then fried pork sausage (bratwurst) is served with a special sauce. It is the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup and curry powder sauce that makes currywurst memorable.

Königsberger Klopse

No one does meatballs quite like Berliners. Königsberger Klopse originated in Prussia and is a local favorite to this day. Ingredients that are often used for the meatballs include pork, beef, ground veal, flour, anchovies and eggs. Much like currywurst, it is the sauce that is the star of this show. Capers and lemon are blended to create a sauce that is swoon-worthy.

Bratwurst

We dare you to think of a more iconic German food than bratwurst. The most popular bratwurst is thin, short and comes from Nürnberg. It is best served grilled, tucked into a bun and smothered in ketchup and mustard.

Eisbein

Pork definitely has its place in Berlin. This fact is perhaps most evident in Eisbein, grilled or boiled pork knuckles that are as delicious as they are impressive in size. They are best enjoyed with peas, sauerkraut and potatoes.

Berlin is a place where history and the present exist in harmony to create a destination with something for everyone. Its food is no exception. When you follow our suggestions, you will experience the best cuisine that Berlin has to offer. You’ll find yourself saying, “Es war lecker.”

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Jim Bozzelli