Cologne, Germany, is a city that enchants visitors with its vibrant culture, iconic architecture, and, of course, its mouthwatering culinary scene. During my visit, I set out on a mission to explore the city’s diverse food landscape, immersing myself in local traditions and international flavors. From hearty German classics to indulgent desserts and international cuisines, Cologne offers a gastronomic journey that leaves you craving more. Here’s a detailed account of six food destinations I explored, each offering a unique experience.
1. Brauhaus Sion
Location: Unter Taschenmacher 5-7, 50667 Cologne
Nearby Attractions: Cologne Cathedral, Museum Ludwig
Reservation Platform: Brauhaus Sion Website
Price Range: €15-€25 per person
My first stop was Brauhaus Sion, a historic brewery that has been a cornerstone of Cologne’s culinary culture since 1318. Nestled in the heart of the city, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the brewery is the perfect place to start your food adventure.
Walking into Brauhaus Sion felt like stepping back in time. The wooden interiors, long communal tables, and the hum of lively conversations created a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I couldn’t resist ordering their Himmel un Ääd, a traditional dish featuring black pudding, mashed potatoes, fried onions, and apple sauce.
The combination of flavors was extraordinary. The savory richness of the black pudding was beautifully balanced by the sweetness of the apple sauce, while the crispy fried onions added a delightful crunch. Paired with a chilled glass of Kölsch, the local beer, the meal was an authentic taste of Cologne’s culinary heritage.
As I enjoyed my meal, I couldn’t help but admire the efficient and friendly service. Despite the bustling crowd, the staff made me feel right at home. This experience set the tone for my culinary journey in Cologne, and I would give Brauhaus Sion a 9/10 for its authenticity and charm.
2. Peters Brauhaus
Location: Mühlengasse 1, 50667 Cologne
Nearby Attractions: Old Town, Hohenzollern Bridge
Reservation Platform: Walk-in recommended
Price Range: €10-€20 per person
Next, I ventured to Peters Brauhaus, another iconic brewery located in the picturesque Old Town. The historic facade of the building was inviting, and stepping inside revealed a cozy, rustic interior with a lively ambiance.
Here, I decided to try the Rheinischer Sauerbraten, a dish of marinated pot roast served with red cabbage and potato dumplings. The meat was incredibly tender, and the sweet-and-sour gravy was unlike anything I’d tasted before. The red cabbage added a refreshing tang, and the potato dumplings were the perfect accompaniment.
What made this experience even more special was the proximity to the Rhine River. After my meal, I took a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, soaking in the serene views. Peters Brauhaus is a must-visit for its delicious food and prime location.
3. Café Reichard
Location: Unter Fettenhennen 11, 50667 Cologne
Nearby Attractions: Cologne Cathedral, Roman-Germanic Museum
Reservation Platform: Café Reichard Website
Price Range: €10-€15 per person
For a sweet treat, Café Reichard was the obvious choice. Located directly across from the Cologne Cathedral, this elegant café offers a stunning view alongside its delectable offerings.
I indulged in a slice of their famous Black Forest Cake, a decadent creation with layers of chocolate sponge, whipped cream, and cherries. Each bite was heavenly, with the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. To complement the cake, I ordered a cup of their hot chocolate, which was velvety and indulgent.
The café’s interior exuded sophistication, with chandeliers and plush seating, but I opted to sit on the terrace to enjoy the view of the cathedral. It was the perfect spot to relax and reflect on my journey so far.
4. Früh am Dom
Location: Am Hof 12-14, 50667 Cologne
Nearby Attractions: Cologne Cathedral, Hohenzollern Bridge
Reservation Platform: Früh am Dom Website
Price Range: €15-€30 per person
No trip to Cologne is complete without visiting Früh am Dom, one of the city’s most famous breweries. Located just steps away from the cathedral, this bustling spot is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
I ordered the Schweinshaxe, a roasted pork knuckle served with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes. The pork was cooked to perfection, with crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. The sauerkraut added a tangy contrast, while the mashed potatoes were creamy and flavorful.
The atmosphere was electric, with patrons laughing and chatting over glasses of Kölsch. The staff was attentive and eager to recommend dishes, making the experience even more enjoyable.
5. Beirut Restaurant
Location: Luxemburger Str. 30, 50674 Cologne
Nearby Attractions: Volksgarten, Rautenstrauch-Joest Museum
Reservation Platform: Beirut Restaurant Website
Price Range: €10-€20 per person
For a taste of the Middle East, I visited Beirut Restaurant, a cozy spot specializing in Lebanese cuisine. The warm and inviting ambiance made me feel right at home.
I ordered the Mezze Platter, which included hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel, and tabbouleh. Each dish was a burst of flavors, from the creamy hummus to the zesty tabbouleh. The falafel was perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, while the baba ghanoush had a delightful smoky flavor.
The portions were generous, and the presentation was beautiful. This culinary detour was a refreshing change and showcased the diversity of Cologne’s food scene.
6. The Fette Kuh
Location: Bonner Str. 43, 50677 Cologne
Nearby Attractions: Rheinauhafen, Chocolate Museum
Reservation Platform: Walk-in recommended
Price Range: €10-€15 per person
My final stop was The Fette Kuh, a trendy burger joint known for its gourmet creations. The industrial-chic decor and laid-back vibe made it an ideal spot to unwind.
I tried the BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger, which was a masterpiece. The patty was juicy and flavorful, topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy BBQ sauce. The side of sweet potato fries was perfectly seasoned and crispy.
This place is a must-visit for burger enthusiasts and offers a modern twist on Cologne’s culinary offerings.
Cologne is a city that truly celebrates food. From traditional German dishes to international cuisines, the culinary landscape is as diverse as it is delicious. Each restaurant I visited offered not just amazing food but also a unique glimpse into the city’s culture and hospitality. Whether you’re a fan of hearty meals, sweet treats, or exotic flavors, Cologne has something to satisfy every craving.