Heading to Cologne and on the hunt for the best schnitzel in town? You're in good company - schnitzel is a beloved dish in German cuisine.
This post highlights Cologne's top schnitzel spots to help you satisfy your craving. Discover where to savor these mouthwatering delights!
Top Restaurants for Schnitzel in Cologne, Germany
Bei Oma Kleinmann: Known for their large schnitzel portions
In the heart of Cologne, Germany is Bei Oma Kleinmann, a favorite among schnitzel lovers. This restaurant stands out with its reputation for serving massive portions of schnitzel, so much that it's known to offer the largest in the city!
When I visited Bei Oma Kleinmann, I was struck by the warm aroma of sizzling schnitzels. The rustic German decor and friendly staff made it feel like a cozy family kitchen.
The staff were welcoming, and I settled into a wooden booth. The schnitzel that arrived was impressive – a huge, crispy piece that filled the plate. Each bite was flavorful, with the meat tender and well-seasoned.
With attentive service and mouthwatering schnitzel, Bei Oma Kleinmann became my go-to spot for this classic German dish in Cologne. [1]
Excellent experience all around. Staff was friendly and attentive. The schnitzel was insanely delicious, as was the Kölsch and wine. Portions are huge. One of my favorite meals in Germany, and the best schnitzel I’ve ever had. Highly recommend!
- Shannon Ross, Bei Oma Kleinmann reviewer
Restaurant Brucken: Offers a variety of schnitzel options
Stepping into Restaurant Brucken feels like exploring a culinary storybook filled with authentic German dishes.
This restaurant delights every schnitzel lover by offering an impressive range of options.
Under the guidance of their experienced chefs, the kitchen uses high-quality ingredients and market-fresh cuts to create tender, juicy schnitzels that will keep you coming back for more.
If you're looking for a hearty, traditional pork schnitzel (Schweineschnitzel) or looking for something unique, this restaurant has got it.
The schnitzel offerings at Restaurant Brucken go beyond the usual; even serving chicken or the popular veal Wiener schnitzel. [2]
Freshly prepared and cooked to perfection, they have mastered the art of serving tender schnitzels that guests describe as "to die for."
So if you're roaming around Cologne in search of excellent German cuisine and a cozy time, consider the humble Restaurant Brucken.
Two of us had the lamb, one had the wiener schnitzel. Both dishes were phenomenal. It's too bad we went here our last night in Cologne, we would have loved to go back.
- Josh Hamacher, Restaurant Brucken reviewer
Gruber's: Michelin restaurant
Gruber's is a Michelin-star restaurant specializing in traditional Austrian and German cuisine.
With the Austrian schnitzel being its trademark dish, it has earned a reputation for serving arguably the best schnitzel in town. [3] In fact, you can actually ask for a free schnitzel "refill" if you're still hungry for more!
Patrons rave about their gourmet experience at Gruber's, with positive reviews often highlighting its delicious traditional food, presentation and impeccable level of service.
If you're on a romantic day out and have an appetite for local specialties or Austrian dishes, be sure to add Gruber's to your list of fine-dining options in Cologne.
Address: Clever Str. 32, 50668 Köln, Germany
We ate at Grubers for the first time yesterday and were thrilled by the fantastic cuisine and the attentive service. We each had the 5th course traditional menu with the Wiener Schnitzel. From the starter to the dessert it was simply a treat for the eyes and stomach 
we will definitely be back!
- Jessica N, Gruber's reviewer
Schreckenskammer: Schnitzel with a buttery twist
Firstly, the name "Schreckenskammer" means "horror-chamber" in German, which is a curious name for a restaurant.
This unassuming brauhaus, standing next to a church, serves traditional pub fare and their own kölsch, so you may not think there's anything special about their schnitzel. But that's where you'd be wrong!
One of the special schnitzels served at Schreckenskammer is a schnitzel topped with a delicious béarnaise sauce, which is a rich and creamy sauce with a lemony tang.
They're super generous with their fries too, served piping hot and crispy just the way I like it.
Guests adore this restaurant for its genuine Cologne hospitality and praise the kölsch beer brewed right here.
If you're craving a schnitzel in an authentic pub atmosphere, Schreckenskammer is the perfect choice.
The "Kammer" is a beautiful, original brewery in the shadow of the Basilica of St. Ursula, which serves excellent Kölsch and very tasty food (my tip: Schnitzel Béarnaise). The service is great.
- Uli Cüster, Schreckenskammer reviewer
Peters Brauhaus: Known for their classic German schnitzel
Peters Brauhaus in Cologne is known among locals for its classic pork schnitzel, served with a slice of lemon and a heap of buttered potatoes!
Around since 1994, the restaurant offers a cozy space (sharing table with other patrons is not unheard of!) and warm hospitality that perfectly fits its traditional vibe.
When you visit Peters Brauhaus, you can expect fast and friendly service along with generous portion sizes. Their schnitzel, made from fresh and tender cuts of meat with a crispy breadcrumb coating, is highly recommended.
Other popular dishes include fried Camembert, which is best washed down with a refreshing glass of kölsch. [4] If you're looking for an authentic dining experience in Cologne, make sure to check out Peters Brauhaus!
Address: Mühlengasse 1, 50667 Köln, Germany
One of the best traditional German restaurants we ever had. The two pieces of pork schnitzel were very tender and moist, served with tasty browned crispy potatoes. Goulash soup was very well made as well, piping hot soup. It’s impressive overall with a nice well kept authentic indoor decor. Strongly recommended!
- Vivian Chan, Peters Brauhaus reviewer
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Schnitzel
Quality of meat: Look for fresh and tender cuts of meat
When choosing the best schnitzel, it is essential to prioritize the quality of the meat.
Look for cuts that are fresh and tender, as this will greatly enhance the overall taste and texture of your dish.
You want to select meats that have been properly butchered, with a smooth and uniform cut. In the US, marbled beef is considered higher quality for schnitzel due to its rich flavor.
In Europe, lean beef is preferred for a lighter and healthier option. So whether you prefer a juicy and flavorful schnitzel or a leaner alternative, choosing high-quality cuts of meat is key to enjoying an exceptional dining experience.
Breadcrumb coating: A crispy and well-seasoned coating adds to the overall taste
The breadcrumb coating is a crucial element of schnitzel, providing a crispy and flavorful experience. The key to achieving this delicious coating is using fine bread crumbs and seasoning them well.
By adding oil to the beaten eggs, you can create a puffy and golden crust when frying the schnitzel. The coating should be thick enough to enhance both the taste and texture of the dish.
So if you're looking for an unforgettable schnitzel experience in Cologne, be sure to savor every bite of the crispy breadcrumb coating that adds that extra level of enjoyment to your meal.
Accompaniments and toppings: Consider the different sauces and toppings offered
The different sauces and toppings offered with schnitzel dishes in Cologne, Germany are an important factor to consider when choosing the best schnitzel.
Germans love to top their schnitzel with a variety of flavorful options such as onion sauce, rahm sauce, jaeger sauce, mushroom cream sauce, mustard sauce, and more.
Some popular schnitzel variations are jaeger schnitzel, zigeuner (paprika) schnitzel, and rahmschnitzel also come with delicious sauce options.
These accompaniments and toppings not only enhance the flavors but also add a unique twist to the overall experience of enjoying a perfectly cooked and crispy schnitzel in Cologne.
In addition to sauces, there are various other toppings available that can further elevate your taste buds.
From the traditional buttered potatoes with parsley to tangy pickles or refreshing lemon wedges, these extras complement the crunchy texture of the breaded coating and tender meat inside.
Tips for Enjoying Schnitzel in Cologne
Pairing with local beer or wine: Enhance the flavors with a local beverage
Make the most of your schnitzel experience in Cologne by pairing it with a local kölsch beer or wine.
German cuisine is sometimes heavy, which is why they go perfectly with the unique tastes and aromas of these regional drinks.
When enjoying wiener schnitzel, consider opting for a wiesen bier or Kolsch beer at a beer garden, which are known to bring out the best in this traditional dish. The citrus notes in beer can enhance the flavors of schnitzel and provide a refreshing taste.
If you prefer wine, try pairing your schnitzel with a local German variety for the perfect flavor complement.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore and savor the local flavors while indulging in one of Cologne's top dishes!
See the best wine bars in Cologne here.
Trying different variations of schnitzel: Explore the different meats and flavors available
Explore the rich variety of schnitzel options by trying different variations. German restaurants offer a range of meats and flavors for your enjoyment.
Pork is tradition, but there's also veal, chicken and beef schnitzel options too.
Whether you prefer a classic breaded schnitzel or want to experiment with different sauces like mushroom or paprika, most places offer a variation that satisfies your cravings. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and discover new flavors while indulging in this iconic dish.
Reserving a table in advance: Ensure you don't miss out on a popular restaurant
To make sure you don't miss out on experiencing the best schnitzel in Cologne, it is highly recommended to reserve a table in advance. With the popularity of these top-rated Cologne restaurants, securing a spot can save you from disappointment.
If you can't find what you like here, Tripadvisor has listed the best schnitzel options in Cologne based on over 30,000 traveler reviews, so reserving ahead of time will give you peace of mind knowing that you won't be turned away at the door.
From the local favorite restaurant known for good value-for-money options to Michelin-starred establishments, making advanced bookings guarantees that you'll have a seat at these top dining spots.
Conclusion: Top Schnitzel in Cologne
Discovering the best schnitzel in Cologne, Germany is a culinary adventure worth embarking on. From the hearty portions at Bei Oma Kleinmann to the authentic flavors at Peters Brauhaus, there are plenty of options to satisfy your schnitzel cravings.
So grab a table, indulge in this traditional German dish, and experience the deliciousness that Cologne has to offer. Prost!
Key Takeaways
- Bei Oma Kleinmann serves the largest portions of schnitzel in Cologne, Germany.
- Restaurant Brucken offers a variety of schnitzel options to cater to different preferences.
- Gruber's is a Michelin-star restaurant known for serving exceptional schnitzel.
- Schreckenskammer is a traditional pub that serves schnitzel with a delicious béarnaise sauce.
FAQs
1. Where can I find the best schnitzel in Cologne, Germany?
The best place to find schnitzel in Cologne, Germany is at traditional German restaurants or pubs that specialize in local cuisine.
2. What makes a schnitzel the best?
A great schnitzel is made from tenderized and thinly pounded meat, coated with breadcrumbs, and fried until golden and crispy. It should have a juicy interior and be served with traditional accompaniments like lemon wedges or potato salad.
3. Are there different types of schnitzel available in Cologne?
Yes, besides the classic Wiener Schnitzel made from veal or the Schweineschnitzel created with pork, you can also find variations like Jägerschnitzel (served with mushroom sauce), Zigeunerschnitzel (topped with bell peppers and onions), or Rahmschnitzel (served with creamy sauce).
4. Can vegetarians enjoy schnitzels in Cologne?
Yes, vegetarian versions of schnitzels are available in many restaurants throughout Cologne. These are typically made using plant-based proteins such as seitan or tofu instead of meat.
