Berlin is one of the best European cities for street food lovers. As you stroll through its streets, you’re met with an irresistible blend of mouthwatering aromas that reflect Berlin’s rich cultural mosaic. The food stalls are more than just a quick bite—they’re a gateway to the flavors of the whole world, all packed into one city.
Berlin’s street food culture is an essential part of the local experience. From local markets to hidden food trucks, you’ll find countless opportunities to sample everything from classic German snacks to international favorites. Whether you’re in a hurry or want to savor something unique, Berlin’s food scene offers the perfect bite at every corner.
Where to Find Street Food in Berlin
- Metro and Bus Stations
First, be aware that you can find food at almost every metro or bus station in Berlin. Those places are not just for transportation but also hotspots for tasty snacks.
But expect more than just pastries or hot dogs; you’ll discover an array of snacks like filled pretzels, sausages, and even salads. The aroma of fresh food fills the air, making it hard to resist picking up something while waiting for your train.
- Market halls
Berlin’s food markets are a must-visit for any street food lover. A great tip is to start your food tour of Berlin at market halls, where you’ll find plenty of fantastic food options and soak up the unique essence of each neighborhood. Some markets sell excellent quality groceries like artisanal cheese, meat, and bread.
One standout market is the Turkish Market in Kreuzberg, held twice weekly. This market is renowned for its lively atmosphere and mouthwatering street food, including falafel, Turkish dumplings (manti), and various kebabs.
It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a food tour of Berlin and a way to connect with the community.
Iconic Berlin Street Foods
- Kebab: The King of Berlin Street Food
The term Döner Kebab means “rotating grilled meat.” Is the kebab a Berlin invention? Well, while kebabs originated in Turkey, a Turkish immigrant named Kadir Numan transformed them from a sit-down dish into a sandwich.
This clever twist made it a beloved on-the-go meal for Berliners. Did you know there are around 1,000 places selling kebabs across the city?
Where to Find the Best Kebabs in Berlin
Nearly everyone agrees that the best kebab in Berlin comes from Mustafas Gemüse-Kebap. This small, unassuming stall is always packed with eager local and tourist customers.
Kebab with Attitude is another favorite spot worth trying, especially for vegetarians (it has a great selection of meat-free salads).
- Currywurst: A Must-Try Classic
Not only does Berlin thrive on sausages and kebabs, but it also offers some unique gems—like the legendary Currywurst!
So, what exactly is a Currywurst? It’s a pork sausage that’s boiled, fried, sliced, topped with ketchup and curry powder. It often comes with fries, a bread roll, or both because who doesn’t love carbs?
In Germany, people consume 1,500 currywurst sausages per minute, totaling about 800 million servings annually. Yes, you read that right! So, if you find yourself in Berlin, trying a currywurst is a rite of passage. Plus, it’s a great way to feel like a local among the Berliners.
Where to Find the Currywurst in Berlin
Currywurst can be found at the usual street stalls (called Imbiss), markets, and fairs around the city. It’s usually served in white cardboard trays with a plastic fork for easy eating on the go, making it a super convenient snack.
Rumor has it that Curry 36 serves the best Currywurst. Other notable spots include Konnopke’s and Witty’s Organic Food, where you can enjoy a lighter and more ecological version of the famous dish.
Fun Facts About Currywurst
Berlin once hosted the Currywurst Museum, an interactive space covering over 650 square meters. Upon entry, visitors were greeted with a currywurst! Unfortunately, this weird museum closed in 2018 for reasons unknown.
There’s a 2008 film titled Die Entdeckung der Currywurst (The Discovery of Currywurst), which humorously explores the origins of this beloved snack amid a love story set in the spring of 1945.
And here’s a surprising twist: Volkswagen once sold its own Currywurst! They began serving it to employees in 1973 and even had it cataloged under the item number “199 398 500 A.” Sadly, production ended in 2021.
So, there you have it! From kebabs to Currywurst, Berlin’s street food scene is an adventure waiting to be devoured. Grab your camera and your appetite, and explore all this great city offers!