Unearth The Voyage
New York City might be famous for pizza and bagels, but there’s a whole world of German food waiting to be discovered across the five boroughs. From crispy schnitzel to juicy bratwurst and pretzels the size of your head, these spots bring authentic Bavarian flavors to the Big Apple.
Whether you’re craving a cozy beer hall experience or a quick sausage fix, this guide will lead you to the best German eats in town.
1. Heidelberg Restaurant (Upper East Side)
Yorkville’s legendary German restaurant has been serving up comfort food since 1936, and walking through its doors feels like stepping into a cozy Bavarian dining room. The walls are covered with old-world charm, and the menu reads like a love letter to hearty German cooking.
Jägerschnitzel is the star here: tender pork cutlet topped with a rich mushroom gravy that practically begs you to order extra spätzle on the side. Speaking of spätzle, these little egg noodles are buttery, perfectly cooked, and dangerously addictive.
Portions are massive, so you might think sharing is smart. But once that first bite hits, all bets are off.
The sauerbraten is another classic worth trying, slow-cooked until it falls apart and served with a sweet-and-sour gravy.
The vibe is old-school in the best way: wooden booths, friendly servers who’ve been there forever, and a crowd that ranges from neighborhood regulars to tourists hunting for authentic German fare. If you’re new to German food, this is an excellent place to start.
Save room for dessert if you can. The apple strudel is warm, flaky, and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts into every crevice.
2. Zum Stammtisch (Glendale, Queens)
Tucked away in Glendale, this Bavarian powerhouse has been a Queens favorite for decades, and for good reason. The atmosphere is lively, the beer steins are enormous, and the menu is packed with dishes that make you want to order everything twice.
Schnitzel comes in multiple varieties here, from classic Wiener to Holstein topped with a fried egg. Each one is pounded thin, breaded perfectly, and fried until golden and crispy.
The sausages are equally impressive, with options like bratwurst, knockwurst, and weisswurst all made in-house.
Goulash is a sleeper hit on the menu. Rich, hearty, and packed with tender beef, it’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, especially on a cold day.
Group ordering is the way to go here. The portions are generous, and sharing plates means you get to try more of the menu without committing to just one thing.
The beer list is extensive, with German imports and local brews that pair beautifully with everything.
Service is warm and efficient, even when the place is packed. Weekends can get busy, so reservations are a smart move if you don’t want to wait.
3. Rolf’s German Restaurant (Gramercy)
Walking into Rolf’s is like entering a holiday wonderland, no matter what month it is. The entire restaurant is decked out in Christmas decorations year-round, with twinkling lights, ornaments, and garlands covering every inch of the ceiling and walls.
But beyond the Instagram-worthy decor, the food holds its own. Schnitzel is a standout, crispy and tender with a squeeze of lemon that brightens every bite.
The potato pancakes are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and served with applesauce and sour cream.
The menu also features classics like sauerbraten, roasted duck, and a variety of wursts that pair perfectly with a cold German beer. The portions are generous, so pacing yourself is key, though that becomes harder with every delicious bite.
The atmosphere is festive and fun, making it a popular spot for celebrations and special occasions. It can get loud, especially on weekends, but that’s part of the charm.
Service is friendly, though the restaurant’s popularity means things can feel a bit rushed during peak times. Make a reservation well in advance, especially around the actual holidays when the place is absolutely packed.
4. Reichenbach Hall (Midtown West)
This Midtown bierhalle brings authentic Bavarian beer hall energy to Manhattan, complete with communal tables, loud chatter, and a menu built for sharing. The space is huge, with high ceilings and a lively atmosphere that makes you want to stay for another round.
Giant pretzels are a must-order. They arrive warm, soft, and salted, with a side of mustard that adds the perfect tangy kick.
The sausage plates are equally impressive, featuring a rotating selection of wursts that are juicy, flavorful, and made for pairing with beer.
The schnitzel is solid, though the real stars here are the shareable plates and the beer selection. With dozens of German brews on tap, you could spend an entire evening just working your way through the list.
The communal seating encourages mingling, so don’t be surprised if you end up chatting with strangers by the end of the night. It’s the kind of place that turns a casual dinner into a full-on evening out.
Service can be hit or miss during busy times, but the staff is generally friendly and knowledgeable about the beer offerings. Weekends get packed, so arriving early or making a reservation is wise.
5. Black Forest Brooklyn (Fort Greene + Smith Street)
With two Brooklyn locations, Black Forest has become a neighborhood favorite for German comfort food that feels approachable and cozy. The vibe is casual, with wooden tables, warm lighting, and a menu that makes you want to order way more than you originally planned.
Schnitzel is the move here, whether you go classic or opt for one of the variations. It’s crispy, tender, and comes with a side of spätzle that’s tossed in butter and absolutely addictive.
The pretzel is another highlight, served warm with a creamy cheese dip.
The menu also features regional German specialties like currywurst, rouladen, and a variety of sausages that showcase different flavor profiles. Everything is well-executed, with portions that are generous without being overwhelming.
The beer list is solid, with German imports and local craft options that pair nicely with the food. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a great spot for a casual dinner or a weekend lunch.
Service is friendly and efficient, with staff who are happy to make recommendations if you’re unfamiliar with the menu. Both locations get busy during prime dining hours, but the turnover is quick, so waits are usually manageable.
6. Schaller’s Stube Sausage Bar (Upper East Side)
Connected to the legendary Schaller & Weber butcher shop, this sausage bar is a meat lover’s dream. The focus is squarely on wursts, with a menu that features everything from classic bratwurst to more adventurous options like venison and wild boar sausages.
Currywurst is a standout, served with a tangy curry ketchup and a side of crispy fries that you’ll be stealing bites of throughout the meal. The bratwurst is juicy and flavorful, grilled to perfection and served on a fresh roll with your choice of toppings.
The setup is casual, with counter seating and a few tables, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. You can also grab sausages to go from the butcher shop next door if you want to recreate the experience at home.
The beer selection is small but well-curated, with German lagers and ales that complement the sausages perfectly. The atmosphere is laid-back, with a neighborhood feel that makes it easy to linger longer than you planned.
Service is quick and friendly, with staff who know the menu inside and out. It’s a great spot for a solo meal or a casual outing with friends who appreciate quality meat.
7. Max Bratwurst und Bier (Astoria)
Astoria’s German contribution comes in the form of this bratwurst-focused spot that takes its sausages seriously. The menu is straightforward: pick your wurst, pick your toppings, and prepare to be impressed by how much flavor can be packed into a single link.
Bratwurst is the obvious choice, but don’t sleep on the other options like knackwurst, weisswurst, and the occasional seasonal special. Each sausage is grilled to order, juicy on the inside with a satisfying snap when you bite into it.
The beer list is extensive, with German imports and local craft brews that pair beautifully with the food. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with a mix of counter seating and tables that make it easy to grab a quick bite or settle in for a longer meal.
Sides include traditional options like sauerkraut, potato salad, and pretzels, all of which are solid accompaniments to the main event. The portions are reasonable, so ordering multiple sausages to compare flavors is absolutely encouraged.
Service is friendly and laid-back, with staff who are happy to offer recommendations based on your preferences. It’s the kind of place that becomes a regular spot once you discover it.
8. Killmeyer’s Old Bavaria Inn (Staten Island)
Worth the trip to Staten Island, this German tavern offers an authentic beer garden experience that feels like a mini vacation from the city. The outdoor space is sprawling, with picnic tables, string lights, and enough room to bring the whole crew.
The menu is classic German fare, with wursts, schnitzels, and hearty comfort plates that pair perfectly with the extensive beer selection. The pretzel is enormous, soft, and salty, making it the ideal shareable starter.
Schnitzel is crispy and satisfying, while the sausage platter lets you sample multiple varieties in one go. The potato pancakes are another highlight, crispy on the edges and tender in the middle.
The beer garden is the real draw here, especially during warmer months when you can sit outside and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Live music is a regular feature, adding to the authentic Bavarian vibe.
Service is friendly and accommodating, though things can slow down when the place is packed. Weekends are the busiest, so arriving early or visiting on a weekday gives you a better chance of snagging a prime spot.
It’s a destination spot that rewards the journey with good food, great beer, and an atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
9. Loreley Beer Garden (Lower East Side)
This Lower East Side spot brings beer garden vibes to Manhattan, with communal tables, a lively atmosphere, and a menu that’s built for group ordering. The outdoor space is a major draw during warmer months, offering a rare chance to enjoy German food al fresco in the city.
Pretzels are a must-order, arriving warm and soft with a side of mustard. The sausage selection is solid, with options like bratwurst, currywurst, and knockwurst that are all juicy and flavorful.
The menu also features German-inspired bites like schnitzel sandwiches, potato salad, and sauerkraut that round out the offerings nicely. Everything is meant to be shared, so ordering a variety of plates is the best way to experience the menu.
The beer list is impressive, with German imports and local craft options that keep things interesting. The atmosphere is casual and fun, making it a popular spot for after-work drinks and weekend gatherings.
Service can be slow during peak times, especially when the outdoor space is full. But the laid-back vibe means nobody’s in a rush, and the communal seating encourages mingling with fellow diners.
It’s the kind of place that turns a casual dinner into a full evening out, especially when the weather cooperates.
10. Gottscheer Hall (Ridgewood, Queens)
This long-running neighborhood hall in Ridgewood offers a glimpse into old-school German-American social clubs, where beer flows freely and the food is exactly what you want next to it. The atmosphere is unpretentious and welcoming, with a mix of regulars and newcomers who come for the authentic experience.
The menu features German pub classics like schnitzel, wursts, and goulash, all prepared with care and served in generous portions. The potato pancakes are crispy and delicious, while the sauerbraten is tender and flavorful.
Beer is the star here, with a solid selection of German lagers and ales that pair perfectly with the food. The prices are reasonable, making it easy to order multiple dishes and drinks without breaking the bank.
The hall itself has a community feel, with events and gatherings that bring locals together. It’s not fancy, but that’s part of the charm—this is a place where you come for good food, cold beer, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Service is friendly and no-frills, with staff who treat everyone like a regular. It’s the kind of spot that rewards curiosity, offering a taste of German-American culture that’s increasingly hard to find in the city.
11. Eckhart Beer Co. (Bushwick)
This Bushwick taproom takes its lagers seriously, but the food menu is no afterthought. The focus is on German-inspired dishes that pair beautifully with the house-brewed beers, creating a cohesive experience that rewards multiple visits.
Pretzels are a standout, served warm with a creamy beer cheese dip that’s dangerously addictive. The schnitzel sandwich is another winner, featuring a crispy cutlet on a fresh roll with tangy toppings that balance the richness.
The menu also includes heartier options like braised pork and rotating seasonal dishes that showcase the kitchen’s creativity. Everything is designed to complement the beer, with flavors that enhance rather than compete with the brews.
The taproom itself is modern and inviting, with communal tables and a relaxed vibe that makes it easy to settle in for an extended session. The beer list changes regularly, offering a rotating selection of lagers and seasonal brews that keep things interesting.
Service is knowledgeable and friendly, with staff who are happy to guide you through the beer options and make food recommendations. It’s a great spot for beer enthusiasts who also appreciate quality food.
Weekends can get busy, so arriving early or visiting during off-peak hours gives you a better chance of snagging a seat.
12. Werkstatt (Kensington/Windsor Terrace area, Brooklyn)
This cozy Austrian-leaning spot in Brooklyn brings Central European comfort food to the neighborhood, with a menu that focuses on schnitzel, beer, and classic dishes that warm the soul. The vibe is intimate and welcoming, making it perfect for a date night or a casual dinner with friends.
Schnitzel is the star here, pounded thin, breaded perfectly, and fried until golden. It’s served with a lemon wedge and your choice of sides, with the potato salad being a particularly good option.
The portions are generous, so come hungry.
The menu also features Austrian specialties like goulash, sausages, and strudel that showcase the kitchen’s skill with traditional preparations. Everything is well-executed, with flavors that feel authentic and comforting.
The beer and wine list is thoughtfully curated, with European imports that pair beautifully with the food. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, with a neighborhood feel that makes it easy to become a regular.
Service is warm and attentive, with staff who are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations. It’s the kind of place that feels like a hidden gem, even though locals have known about it for years.
Save room for dessert if you can—the strudel is worth it.
13. Café Katja (Lower East Side)
This Lower East Side gem offers Austrian fare in a cozy, neighborhood-friendly setting that feels more like a local haunt than a tourist destination. The menu is focused and well-executed, with dishes that showcase Central European flavors without the beer hall volume.
Schnitzel is a standout, crispy and tender with traditional accompaniments like lingonberry jam and potato salad. The sausages are equally impressive, with options that range from classic to more adventurous preparations.
The menu also features comforting dishes like goulash, spätzle, and seasonal specials that rotate based on availability. Everything is made with care, and the portions are satisfying without being overwhelming.
The atmosphere is intimate and welcoming, with a mix of regulars and newcomers who appreciate the quality of the food and the relaxed vibe. The wine and beer list is well-curated, with European selections that complement the menu perfectly.
Service is friendly and knowledgeable, with staff who treat everyone like a valued guest. It’s the kind of place that rewards repeat visits, with a menu that’s familiar enough to feel comforting but interesting enough to keep you coming back.
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when the small space fills up quickly.
14. Rudy’s Bakery and Café (Ridgewood, Queens)
This German-style konditorei in Ridgewood is where you go when your sweet tooth is calling the shots. The bakery case is filled with beautiful cakes, pastries, and cookies that look almost too good to eat—but you absolutely should.
Black Forest cake is the signature offering, with layers of chocolate cake, whipped cream, and cherries that create the perfect balance of rich and light. It’s a classic for a reason, and one slice often leads to ordering a second before you leave.
The bakery also offers other German specialties like strudel, linzer torte, and seasonal treats that rotate throughout the year. Everything is made fresh, with traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations.
The café side serves coffee and light bites, making it a great spot for a leisurely breakfast or afternoon break. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a neighborhood feel that encourages lingering over coffee and cake.
Service is friendly and efficient, with staff who are happy to explain the different offerings and make recommendations based on your preferences. It’s the kind of place that becomes a regular stop once you discover it.
Ordering multiple items is basically expected here—this is a bakery where moderation goes out the window.
