9 Delicious Food in Hamburg You MUST Eat

Updated on February 27, 2024  

food in Hamburg

When it comes to food in Hamburg, the city offers a diverse culinary landscape that caters to various tastes and preferences.

From traditional German dishes like sausages and pretzels to international cuisines, Hamburg has something for everyone. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the vibrant and delicious world of food in Hamburg.

9 Traditional Local Food Of Hamburg

Franzbrötchen

Picture a soft, flaky pastry with the warm aroma of cinnamon. This is Franzbrötchen, a must-try sweet treat straight from Hamburg's heart.

Crafted with layers of buttery dough, it gets its signature twist from sugar and cinnamon filling that caramelizes into golden goodness.

franzbrtchen-pastry

Legend has it that French soldiers brought their love for croissants to Hamburg long ago.

The locals added a pinch of German flair, creating something truly special – not quite a croissant and much more than just bread.

Each bite offers the perfect mix of crunch and tender chewiness, capturing the soulful spirit of traditional food in Hamburg.

You'll find Franzbrötchen all over the city, but each bakery adds its personal touch. Some might sprinkle extra sugar on top or embed bits of marzipan or chocolate within these delightful rolls—the choice is yours to explore!

Currywurst

You must try currywurst in Hamburg. It's a tasty mix of pork sausage cut into chunks and topped with a special curry ketchup.

The dish bursts with flavor from the very first bite. People all over Germany love it, but in Hamburg, you'll find some of the best versions.

currywurst-and-fries

Head out to any street stand or local restaurant in Hamburg; they almost always serve up this iconic dish. Locals and visitors flock to these spots for a taste of this German fast food staple.

The unique blend of spices in the curry sauce makes each mouthful unforgettable. Currywurst has become more than just food – it's a part of Hamburg's culture.

Labskaus

Labskaus might surprise you with its unique look and taste. This traditional sailor's dish from Hamburg dates back to the 16th century.

Imagine a hearty stew that gets its bright pink color from beets, mixed with salted corned beef and mashed potatoes.

It's a one-of-a-kind meal.

labskaus

Many locals are proud of Labskaus, often adding fried eggs and pickles on top. Don't miss out on this authentic experience!

Head to a local restaurant and give it a try. Your visit to Hamburg won't be complete without tasting this polarizing yet iconic seafarers' stew.

Rote Grütze

Rote Grütze, a traditional German dessert popular in Hamburg, is a delightful treat made from pureed red berries like raspberries and cherries.

rote-grutze

This mixed berry and cherry dessert is served with custard and is widely loved for its refreshing taste, making it an essential part of summer dining in the region.

Despite its unattractive name, Rote Grütze captivates both locals and visitors alike as one of the most delicious German summer desserts.

Fischbrötchen

Fischbrötchen, a must-try in Hamburg, is a popular sandwich featuring fresh fish like herring or mackerel on a crusty bun.

The combination of pickles, remoulade, onions, and lettuce adds to its delightful taste.

fischbrotchen

This dish holds significant importance in the city's food culture and is often considered the star of Hamburg’s culinary scene.

It's a beloved snack that perfectly captures the essence of Northern Germany's flavors and traditions.

Grünkohl

Grünkohl mit Pinkel is a hearty winter dish in Hamburg, featuring kale stew with ham and sausages like Pinkel, Kassler, and Kochwurst.

This traditional German meal is beloved by locals and forms part of the Grünkohlessen tradition celebrating the seasonal specialty.