Berlin is unlike any other German city. It’s diverse, open minded, and has good food.
The suggestions below are for first time Berlin visitors. I would not say currywurst and kebaps are my go to things to eat in Berlin, but if it’s your first time in the city, then you need to try them at least once
When in Berlin, Eat Döner Kebap
Mustafas Gemüse Kebap used to be the best kebap place in town, but that was probably 5 or 10 years ago. Nowadays it’s more a tourist trap. Cue Kanye waiting in line for it. That’w how you know it’s definitely not cool anymore.
The best döner kebap in Berlin these days is Rüyam Gemüse Kebab. They have two locations, one near city center, and one in the southwest of the city. Depending on on the day and time, you may have to wait a bit, but I’ve never see it as ridiculously long as the line at the now tourist-trap Mustafas Gemüse Kebap.
If you are feeling more fancy, Kebap with Attitude, which offers kebaps with high quality meat, interesting toppings and sauces, at a slightly higher price point.
When in Berlin, Eat Currywurst
Currywurst is the ultimate Berlin street food. It’s basically hotdog with curry ketchup and fries. I know all the Germans will be offended when they hear me call a wurst a hotdog. But I’ll call it like I see it.
I have not seriously compared all the currywurst places in Berlin, but Curry 36 is a very solid option with several locations around the city. If you pass by a random stall duing your sight seeing, I would go ahead and try it there – you can’t really go wrong with hot dog + fries + ketup!
When in Berlin, Eat Neapolitan Pizza
Best Neapolitan Pizzas in Berlin
I know, I know, you did not come to Germany to eat Pizza. But hear me out. Germany hosts one of the largest Italian populations outside Italy, second only to countries like Switzerland and Argentina. Along with this comes declious delicious Napolitan pizzas. You will recognize the pizza by their signature puffy and slightly burnt crust, along with a thin and sloppy center (don’t expect to pick up a slice effectively. Use your fork and knife.
- Standard Pizza (conveniently located in Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg, Kreuzberg, and Charlottenburg).
Prenzlauer Berg is the original location with more seating, but I find Mitte cozier and cuter. For all locations you can email for reservations. - Malafemmena (in Prenzlauer Berg and Charlottenburg)
My go to here is the Pizza verace napoletana (Really Neapolitan) – and as advertised, it really tastes like the pizzas I had in Naples. Call for reservations. - W Pizza (in Mitte and Neukölln)
Neukölln is the original location with a bigger space and edgier vibe. The Mitte location is smaller and brighter.
When in Berlin, Eat Spicy Chinese Noodles
Yes, yes, another weird one. Why Chinese noodles in Germany? Well, for some reason, Berliners love their spicy Chinese noodles. Wen Cheng, who offers thick, hand pulled biang biang noodles has expanded for four locations in just three years, with several copy cats popping up.
However, I personally find that the quality of their food has really gone with with the popularity and expansions, so I would no longer recommend visiting.
Instead, check out Noodle Town (Mitte & Kreuzberg) for delicious and fresh tasting hand pulled biang biang noodles (I suggested the non-soup version).
Also try Liu’s Noodles are some very spicy deliciousness. Note that they are only open on weekdays during lunch. Yes, business is that good. At Liu’s I suggest trying the Tianshui Noodle (thick noodles with a slightly sweet suace) and the Sichuan Zajiang Noodle (beware of the spice level! I usually go with spice level one to avoid regrets later).
Happy eating!
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