Hamburg is not only an important port city, but also a true culinary gem of Germany. Here are some recommendations for restaurants and dishes to try when you are in Hamburg:
Traditional Hamburg dishes
- Fischbrötchen: A sandwich with fish, usually with fresh or pickled herring or lightly salted salmon, with onions, cucumbers, and sauce. This classic street food is a must-try.
- Labskaus: This traditional North German dish consists of mashed potatoes, beets, and corned beef, often served with eggs and herring. It may look unusual, but the taste will surprise you!
- Aalsuppe: Despite the name, it doesn't always contain eel. It is a thick soup with lots of vegetables, fruits, and greens.
- Rundstück Warm: This is a sandwich with fried meat and sauce - a classic dish that resembles a hamburger.
Restaurants and gourmet places
- Fischmarkt: Open every Sunday morning from the early hours. It is a great place to try fresh seafood and enjoy the atmosphere of a traditional market.
- Vlet: Modern German cuisine with an emphasis on local produce. The restaurant offers exquisite dishes that highlight traditional North German flavors.
- Das Weisshaus: A great place to try German wines and seasonal dishes.
- Henssler & Henssler: A famous restaurant offering Japanese cuisine and sushi that pair wonderfully with North German products.
- Restaurant Haerlin: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers exquisite cuisine that combines traditional German flavors with modern culinary techniques.
- Carls an der Elbphilharmonie: A lovely restaurant overlooking the Elbe River and the Elbphilharmonie where French and German cuisine is served.
Cafes and street food
- Café Paris: A great place for breakfast or late breakfast in a bistro style.
- Elbgold: This cafe serves some of the best coffee in the city.
- Dolce Gelato: If you love ice cream, be sure to stop by for freshly made gelato.
- Karo Fisch: A great place to try local fast food based on fish.
Gourmet tips
- Try the beer: Hamburg is famous for its brewing traditions. Be sure to try local beer varieties and visit one of the breweries, such as Ratsherrn Brauerei.
- Walk to the pier: In addition to Fischmarkt, a walk along the docks and piers of the city will offer you plenty of places to enjoy fresh seafood.
- Seasonal products: If possible, visit the city during asparagus (spring) or mushroom (fall) season - during this time, restaurants and markets offer a wide selection of fresh seasonal products.
Hamburg is a city with a rich culinary tradition and plenty of gourmet places. I hope this guide will help you discover all the gastronomy of this delightful city!
