Typical Berlin fare: interesting facts about the city’s emblematic dishes

@Chaneykwak

Up until now, our posts have centred on the more unusual places to visit in the city, such as unique bookshops, alternative historical sites, less conventional venues for an after-work drink or the best spots for enjoying an alternative view in Berlin.

That doesn’t mean that we don’t love more traditional things, too. This post is about typical Berlin fare – Bretzels, Currywurst, Schnitzel Holstein and Döner Kebabs – that are a must-have for any hungry traveller looking for an authentic culinary experience.

Breztels (also Brezels or Pretzels) are twisted salty knots of chewy bread, although you may prefer the sweet version with butter and cinnamon. We recommend Brezel Bar if it’s your first time.
Interesting fact: some say Bretzels originated with the Celts, who ate them to celebrate the arrival of spring. At that time of year, the sun is passing through the constellation of Aries, and the shape of this treat resembles its horns.


@Chaneykwak

Berlin is very proud of the iconic Currywurst, a sausage bathed in a sauce made with ketchup, Worcestershire sauce and curry powder. Make your way down to Konnopke’s Imbiss to enjoy a delicious, classic version of the ultimate street food.
Interesting fact: this dish is said to date back to 1949, when a local woman, Herta Heuwer, experimented with the ingredients ‒ which she had received as a gift from British soldiers ‒ and used them to dress a cooked sausage.


@bykst

A Schnitzel Holstein is a breaded veal cutlet topped with a fried egg and served with anchovy fillets and capers, fried potatoes and toasted bread. KaDeWe Feinschmeckerbars is the place to go for this culinary delight.
Interesting fact: in the 19th century, a mayor of Berlin would always insist his meals were served quickly. Obliging him, chefs in a restaurant decided to serve his first and second course together, and the Schnitzel Holstein was born.


@bonappetour

Our final recommendation is a Döner Kebab, a delicious by-product of the cultural exchanges with the Turkish community. Try this delicacy at Mustafa’s Gemüse Kebap. Don’t be put off by the queue – it’s well worth the wait.


@alexkehr