Munich is a city that I could picture living in, and I rarely feel that way. Pretty and quaint, it boasts a lively central market, an enormous park, and a people who love nothing more than sitting out on a terrace with a cold beer and a snack (which is often a pretzel bigger than my head!). At first glance it definitely checks all the boxes, food included!
I must admit that I've never visited during the worst of winter, and I think the short days and cold weather could possibly change my mind (but Christmas markets, mulled wine, and lots of sausage and potatoes might change it back!).
Cheat Sheet: The Best Bites in Munich
- Schmalznudel at Schmalznudel Café Frischhut
- Soup at Müenchner Suppenküeche or Zwickl
- Rhabarbersaft (rhubarb juice)
- Schnitzel at Kaisergarten
- Hopf Spezial Weiße at Tegernseer Tal Brauhaus
Schmalznudel
A giant hunk of pastry perfection, schmalznudel is the German solution to fried dough, and it's better than nearly any other I've tried. Made before your eyes in this institution of a café near the Viktualienmarkt, they are guaranteed to come out hot and crispy, and they achieve a light airiness that doesn't make you feel guilty at all!
Schmalznudel Café Frischhut: Prälat-Zistl-Str. 8
Soup
Soups seemed to be everywhere in Munich, tempting us on each menu with the guarantee of warmth and comfort. If you visit Viktualienmarkt (Munich's central market) a stop at the famous Münchner Suppenküche is a must. But my favorite soup of the trip was actually from a little restaurant right near the market called Zwickl. Their carrot ginger with sesame was bursting with flavor and served piping hot.
Rhubarb Juice
Possibly my favorite juice ever (and I LOVE juice), you absolutely must order rhubarb juice (rhabarbersaft) whenever possible. Sweet and tangy, it makes the perfect alternative to (another) beer!
Schnitzel
Though Viennese in origin, Munich eating guides are filled with claims of the best schnitzel in Munich. I don't know that this is the best (it's the only one I tried) but it was absolutely delicious and extremely comforting.
Kaisergarten: Kaiserstraße 34
Beer
Is it really fair for one of my best bite picks to be beer? I think so. Munich is filled with beer gardens that offer great (albeit mostly traditional) brews. Whether you're a beer drinker or not, you have to indulge at least once! I especially enjoyed the Hopf Spezial Weiße at Tegernseer Tal Brauhaus (a special wheat beer they serve).
Tegernseer Tal Brauhaus: Tal 8
Have you visited Munich? What was your best bite?
Bridgette
I have been to many cities around Germany but I need to make my way to Munich. I've heard all about the markets and the best eats and being both a foodie and a lover of travelling, I need to head there soon. Thanks for the post.
Vanessa
The soups looks delicious and the bread too! I love tasting new food specially if its a local.
Lauren Aloise
It's definitely a must when I travel! Thanks for reading!
Elvira
Ok, I'll plan on a stop in Munich for sure, next time I'm in Europe.
Rhabarbar Saft mit Sekt (Rhubarb juice with sparkling wine) is good, too;
To be researched in Munich, and at home next spring, when rhubarb season is on.
Mike of Mapless Mike
Thank you for this! I will be heading to Munich at some point this year, while I'm living in Spain. I might be there before Christmas or during New Years. I'm not sure yet...I'll have to figure it out soon though! All this food looks delicious!
Lauren Aloise
It is so wonderful! I'll be posting a full gastro guide soon!
Dale
Oddly enough, the best meal we had in Munich was actually at a Mexican place!
Lauren Aloise
Haha that kills me! The food there was so delicious! (Though Mexican is always a good choice too!)
Cat of Sunshine and Siestas
I've only been to Munich during the dead of winter and Oktoberfest, but for me to go to a city twice in three months by choice, it has to be awesome!!
Lauren Aloise
I fell in love!