What is the best street food in Berlin?

Berlin is one of the most exciting cities to visit in Europe with a vast selection of street food to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack on the go or a full meal for your stay, Berlin’s open-air markets, carts, and stalls offer up some of the tastiest – and most creative – fare. But with so much to choose from, how can you know you’re getting the very best of what Berlin has to offer? Let’s take a look at the most popular street food in Berlin and some personal favorites.

How to Know What’s Best

Knowing whether to skip over a cart or dive in is a tricky call. It’s definitely worth trying directly from the cart, as quite often stalls will have the same meal for cheaper. However, there are some general tips that should help you decide what’s best.

First up, look for queues. It’s not always the best indicator of quality as sometimes queues can be deceptive, but more often than not, if locals are waiting for their food, it’s a sign that it’s worth it.

Punctuality matters also. Some of the best street food vendors in Berlin are quite punctual and will stick to opening times and deadlines. Those willing to wait longer, or give you extra-large portions, usually carry less than stellar options.

Finally, it’s worth asking locals what they think the best offerings are. As street food is such a huge part of life in Berlin, locals will be more than happy to share their recommendations with you.

Most Popular Street Food In Berlin

Once you know how to spot a good offering, it’s worth diving into some highlights of what to expect. Some of the most popular offerings for street food in Berlin include:

• Currywurst – this iconic Berlin snack consists of German sausage sliced up and served with curry ketchup.
• Flammkuchen – this pizza-like snack is super thin and often served with toppings of bacon and cheese.
• Kebab – this popular Middle Eastern delicacy has been adopted all over Germany, and Berlin is no exception.
• Doner Döner – this classic pita-gyro combo is usually accompanied by loads of veg, squeezed lemon juice, and tahini.
• Dumplings – don’t be fooled by the name because these are some of the most delicious snacks in Berlin.

Berlin also has some interesting options that may not be available elsewhere. For example, “Boulette sandwiches’ are a delicious offering made with minced meat balls served with sweet and sour sauce inside a white roll. There are also plentiful “Labskaus’ options available too – a variety of mixes from potato salad, onions, gherkins, marinated beets, fried egg, and smoked mackerel that could easily make for a full meal.

The Best Street Food in Berlin

The personal favorites of many Berliners include “Bhangra Burger’ – an ethnic Indian burger served up in Prenzlauer Berg that comes highly recommended. It also comes at decent prices, making it accessible as well as delicious.

The “Kati Roll Company’ is also popular spot thanks to their Kati-style wraps (much like a burrito), featuring curries with various fillings and vegan options too.

Finally, the best recommendation anyone can give is “Kottbusser Tor Fischmarkt’ – an all-you-can-eat buffet located in Kreuzberg that offers all sorts of fish dishes and astonishingly cheap prices.

Whichever street food you go for in Berlin, you won’t go wrong; just remember our tips for deciding what’s best, and you’ll be sure to have a great time!

Insider’s Guide to Berlin Street Food

Berlin is a city that honors innovation, and the city’s culinary scene is no exception. Street food in Berlin is diverse, flavorful and affordable. It’s a flourishing scene that’s often overlooked, but it’s definitely worth experiencing. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to Berlin, this insider’s guide to street food is what you need to make the most of your trip.

Must-Try Street Foods in Berlin

1. Currywurst – A popular German street food, Currywurst is a sausage that’s fried and then smothered with ketchup and curry powder. The dish originated in Berlin and is now a staple of the city’s food scene.
2. Döner Kebap – A Turkish dish that has become part of German street food culture. The dish features a pita bread stuffed with lamb, chicken, beef or falafel, salad, and a variety of sauces.
3. Falafel – This Middle Eastern specialty is hugely popular in Berlin, especially in the city’s multicultural Kreuzberg neighborhood. It’s a vegetarian dish made from chickpeas, herbs, and spices, served in a pita bread with salad and sauces.
4. Berliner – A traditional German street food that’s similar to a doughnut. The pastry is deep-fried and filled with jam, chocolate, or vanilla cream.

Best Street Food Markets in Berlin

1. Markthalle Neun – A historic food market home to some of the best street food vendors in Berlin. It’s open on Thursdays for the Street Food Thursday event and on Fridays and Saturdays for regular farmers’ markets.
2. Street Food Auf Achse – A weekly street food market that offers visitors a taste of Berlin’s diverse cultures. It’s held every Thursday in the Mitte neighborhood.
3. Bite Club – A summer market that takes place on the banks of the Spree river, featuring a variety of street food from burgers to sushi, and live music.

Cultural Experiences in Berlin

1. Berlin Wall – This iconic symbol of the Cold War divided the city for nearly three decades. Now, it’s a canvas for artwork and a reminder of Berlin’s tumultuous past. The East Side Gallery, which features murals painted on the wall, is a must-visit.
2. Museum Island – A complex of five museums that house some of the world’s most impressive collections of art and artifacts. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to Berlin’s rich cultural heritage.
3. Brandenburg Gate – One of Germany’s most famous landmarks, the Brandenburg Gate is an 18th-century monument that has come to symbolize the reunification of East and West Germany.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Flughafen Tempelhof – A former airport, now turned urban park, is a unique spot in Berlin. Visitors can cycle, have a picnic, or explore the abandoned airport buildings.
2. Thai Park – Located in the heart of Berlin’s Wilmersdorf neighborhood, Thai Park is a weekend food market where local Thai families sell authentic street food.
3. Teufelsberg – An abandoned Cold War-era listening station on a hill that offers stunning views of Berlin, graffiti art, and tours of the facility.

Where to Stay in Berlin

1. Mitte – The heart of Berlin, staying in Mitte puts you right in the middle of the city’s cultural scene. There are plenty of hotels, cafes, and restaurants in this area.
2. Kreuzberg – Known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse street food scene, Kreuzberg is great for those on a budget.
3. Prenzlauer Berg – A trendy neighborhood, Prenzlauer Berg is packed with bars, cafes, and art galleries. It’s a great option for those looking for a more upscale stay in Berlin.

In conclusion, Berlin’s street food scene is a reflection of the city’s multiculturalism and creativity. It’s an integral part of the city’s fabric, and experiencing it is a must for any foodie. With this insider’s guide, you’re sure to have a fantastic time exploring all the delicious street food Berlin has to offer while discovering its rich cultural heritage.