Discovering Munich: A Food and Beer Lover’s Paradise
Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a city that effortlessly combines history, culture, and gastronomic delights. As someone who has always been fascinated by German food and beer, and grew up attending our local German Club’s Oktoberfest – Munich is one of my favorite cities. This city is a paradise for anyone who loves to indulge in traditional Bavarian cuisine, some of the best examples of classic beer, and vibrant markets. In this blog post, I’ll take you through some of my favorite places to eat, drink, and explore in Munich. From iconic breweries to bustling markets and cozy cafes, Munich has something for every palate. Don’t forget to download our “Beer Lover’s Guide to Munich” for an even deeper dive into the city’s beer scene! You can download it here.
A Taste of Tradition at Augustiner Biergarten
One of my favorite spots in Munich is the Augustiner Biergarten. This beer garden is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience traditional Bavarian beer culture. Established in 1328, Augustiner is Munich’s oldest independent brewery, and its beers are a staple in the city. The moment I walk into the Biergarten, I am always greeted by the warm, rustic atmosphere that is characteristic of Bavarian beer gardens.
Order a Maß (liter) of their classic Helles, a pale lager with a smooth, malty flavor. It is the perfect introduction to Munich’s beer culture and one of the best examples of a crisp and clean lager. The food here is equally impressive. Get the Schweinshaxe (roast pork knuckle) with crispy skin and tender meat that practically melted in your mouth. Paired with the Helles, it will be a meal to remember. If you’re visiting Munich, make sure to stop by Augustiner Biergarten for an authentic taste of Bavarian hospitality.
Exploring the Delights of Viktualienmarkt
No visit to Munich would be complete without a trip to Viktualienmarkt, the city’s famous food market. Located in the heart of Munich, this bustling market is a feast for the senses. Stalls overflow with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, sausages, and baked goods. I found myself wandering from stall to stall, sampling everything from ripe strawberries to spicy sausages.
One of the highlights for me is always the Biergarten at Viktualienmarkt. It’s a great spot to take a break from exploring and enjoy a refreshing beer and a pretzel or sausage sandwich. The Biergarten serves a rotating selection of beers from local breweries, ensuring that there’s always something new to try. Enjoy a crisp Weißbier (wheat beer) from Hofbräu while munching on a freshly baked pretzel. It is the perfect way to take a break from shopping and walking and soak in the market’s lively atmosphere.
Indulging in Pastries at Café Frischhut
Munich is home to many wonderful cafes and pastry shops, but Café Frischhut holds a special place in my heart. This charming bakery, located near Viktualienmarkt, is famous for its Schmalznudeln, a type of Bavarian donut. The moment I took a bite of this warm, sugary delight, I was hooked. The dough was light and fluffy, with just the right amount of sweetness.
Café Frischhut is the perfect spot for a mid-morning snack or an afternoon treat. I paired my Schmalznudel with a cup of strong, aromatic coffee, and it was pure bliss. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service made me feel right at home. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss this gem.
Savoring Bavarian Cuisine at Schneider Weisses Bräuhaus
Schneider Weusses Bräuhaus is another must-visit brewery in Munich. I eat here every time I’m in Munich. Many years ago, the chef from here and the head brewer came to Philadelphia and we collaborated on a dinner together at Brauhaus Schmitz. It was an amazing dinner and great to meet and cook with a chef from Munich. I make it a point to go here whenever I’m in town. Known for its exceptional Weißbier, this brewery has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike since 1872. The Bräuhaus itself is a beautiful, historic building with a warm and welcoming interior.
You must always start your meal with a glass of Schneider Weisse Original, a rich and flavorful wheat beer with notes of banana and clove. Definitely get the pretzel and the Obatzder – a Bavarian chese spread made of camembert, cream cheese, onions, and paprika. You can make it at home by visiting www.newgermancooking.com. For main courses, I couldn’t resist the Schweinshaxe, a classic German main dish. This crispy skin pork shank is one of the best dishes you can have in Germany and one that I’ve made thousands of over the years in my career as a chef! Served with a wheat beer sauce and a potato dumpling – you really can’t go wrong.
For the adventurous eaters I can recommend the section of the menu that is Kronfleischküche. These are old Bavarian specialties that you don’t see very often. The Kalbslüngerl mit Semmelknödel is calves’ lung simmered in a vinegary sauce served with a potato dumpling. It’s actually pretty good despite how weird it sounds to an American. The other dish I can recommend is the Kälberne Milzwurst – a spleen sausage served with potato salad and a rich gravy. I know, it sounds weird, but it’s actually really tasty. It’s not a sausage in the sense that you would think. This is a larger diameter, like bologna, that is filled with ground pork and other seasonings. For the less adventurous – there is plenty on the menu and I’ve never had a bad meal here.
Schneider Bräuhaus also offers a variety of other Bavarian dishes, from hearty stews to fresh salads. No matter what you choose, you’re in for a treat. The friendly staff and lively atmosphere make this a great place to relax and enjoy a meal.
Discovering Hidden Gems at Munich’s Cafes
Munich is home to countless cafes, each with its own unique charm. One of my favorites is Café Glockenspiel, located near Marienplatz. It’s a little touristy but this elegant cafe offers stunning views of the Glockenspiel clock tower, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast or afternoon coffee – and the pastries and bread are great.
Try a slice of Apfelstrudel, a traditional apple pastry, served with a dollop of whipped cream. The pastry is flaky and buttery, with a sweet and tangy apple filling. Paired with a cup of rich, dark coffee, it is a delightful experience. The cafe’s relaxed atmosphere and beautiful decor make it a perfect place to unwind.
A Day at the Brewery: Hofbräuhaus
No trip to Munich would be complete without a visit to Hofbräuhaus, the city’s most famous beer hall. This iconic brewery has been serving beer since 1589 and is a beloved institution in Munich. The moment you walk through the doors, you are struck by the lively atmosphere. Long wooden tables filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the music, food, and of course, the beer.
Order a Maß of Hofbräu Original, a classic Bavarian lager with a crisp, refreshing taste. The beer is served in a traditional stein, adding to the authentic experience. For my meal, I would chose the Münchner Weisswürst, a type of white sausage served with sweet mustard and a pretzel. The sausage was tender and flavorful, and the sweet mustard provided the perfect balance.
Hofbräuhaus is more than just a brewery; it’s a cultural experience. The lively music, friendly patrons, and historic setting make it a must-visit destination in Munich.
Embracing the Café Culture at Café Luitpold
Café Luitpold is another favorite of mine. This historic cafe, established in 1888, is known for its elegant interior and delicious pastries. The moment I stepped inside, I was transported to a bygone era of sophistication and charm.
I decided to try the Prinzregententorte, a multi-layered chocolate cake that is a specialty of Munich. Each layer was rich and decadent, with a smooth chocolate ganache that melted in my mouth. Paired with a cup of aromatic coffee, it was a truly indulgent treat. Café Luitpold’s luxurious atmosphere and impeccable service make it a perfect spot for a special occasion or a relaxing afternoon.
Sampling Local Brews at Giesinger Bräu
For a more modern take on Munich’s beer scene, I visited Giesinger Bräu. This independent brewery is a bit off the beaten path but well worth the trip. Giesinger Bräu is known for its innovative approach to brewing, offering a wide range of beers that go beyond the traditional Bavarian styles.
I tried their Märzen, a seasonal beer with a rich, malty flavor and a hint of caramel. It was a refreshing change from the lighter lagers and wheat beers I had been enjoying. The brewery’s taproom is a cozy, inviting space with a relaxed vibe. It’s a great place to meet friends and sample some unique beers.
Exploring Munich’s Markets: Elisabethmarkt
While Viktualienmarkt is the most famous market in Munich, Elisabethmarkt is a hidden gem that offers a more local experience. Located in the Schwabing district, this market has a more relaxed, neighborhood feel. It’s a great place to explore if you want to get a sense of everyday life in Munich.
I spent a leisurely morning browsing the stalls, sampling fresh fruits, cheeses, and baked goods. The market also has several small cafes and food stands where you can enjoy a quick meal. I grabbed a bratwurst from one of the stands and enjoyed it with a cold beer from a nearby stall. It was a simple but satisfying lunch that gave me a taste of local flavors.
Unwinding at Munich’s Beer Gardens
Munich is famous for its beer gardens, and for good reason. These outdoor spaces are perfect for enjoying a beer and a meal in a relaxed, communal setting. One of my favorites is the beer garden at the Chinesischer Turm (Chinese Tower) in the Englischer Garten. This expansive beer garden offers plenty of seating and a wide selection of beers and food.
I enjoyed a Radler, a refreshing mix of beer and lemonade, which was perfect for a warm day. For my meal, I chose a plate of Obatzda, a Bavarian cheese spread made with camembert, butter, and spices, served with pretzels. Sitting under the chestnut trees, enjoying good food and drink, was a highlight of my trip.
Discovering Munich’s Cafes and Pastry Shops
Munich is home to countless cafes and pastry shops, each offering a unique taste of Bavarian hospitality. One of my favorites is Café Schuntner, a family-run bakery that has been serving delicious pastries for over 100 years. I tried their Bienenstich, a sweet yeast cake filled with cream and topped with caramelized almonds. It was a delightful treat that paired perfectly with a cup of coffee.
Another great spot is Rischart, a popular bakery with several locations around the city. I visited their flagship store near Marienplatz and was impressed by the wide selection of cakes, pastries, and breads. I couldn’t resist trying their Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (
Black Forest cake), a rich chocolate cake layered with cherries and whipped cream. It was heavenly.
Wrapping Up with a Download: Beer Lover’s Guide to Munich
Munich is a city that truly has something for everyone, especially if you love good food and beer. From historic breweries to bustling markets and charming cafes, there’s always something new to discover. If you’re planning a trip to Munich, be sure to download our “Beer Lover’s Guide to Munich” for an in-depth look at the city’s best breweries, beer gardens, and more. This guide will help you make the most of your visit and ensure you don’t miss any of the highlights.
Download Your Free Guide
To enhance your Munich experience, click here to download our “Beer Lover’s Guide to Munich.” This comprehensive guide will provide you with insider tips on the best breweries, beer gardens, and more. Prost!
Munich has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I hope this guide inspires you to explore the city’s culinary and beer culture. Whether you’re savoring a traditional meal at a historic brewery, exploring the vibrant markets, or indulging in a sweet treat at a local cafe, Munich offers a feast for the senses that is sure to delight any food and beer lover. Happy travels, and enjoy every moment in this wonderful city!
