Discover the Best German Food in Chicago

Are you in Chicago and looking for some delicious German food? Well, you’re in luck because the Windy City has some of the best German restaurants in the country. From hearty sausages to tangy sauerkraut, Chicago’s German cuisine is sure to delight your taste buds. So, let’s dive in and explore the best German food in Chicago.

1. The Berghoff

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Traditional German Fare Since 1898

The Berghoff is a Chicago institution and has been serving up traditional German fare since 1898. Their menu is full of classic dishes like bratwurst, schnitzel, and sauerbraten. They even have their own brewery where they make their signature Berghoff beers. You can’t go wrong with a visit to The Berghoff.

2. Chicago Brauhaus

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A Taste of Bavaria in Chicago

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Bavaria, look no further than Chicago Brauhaus. This restaurant has been serving up German food and beer for over 50 years. They have a wide selection of sausages, schnitzels, and even a giant pretzel that’s perfect for sharing.

3. Resi’s Bierstube

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A Cozy Neighborhood Spot

Resi’s Bierstube is a cozy neighborhood spot that’s been serving up German food and beer since 1972. They have a great selection of sausages, including some vegetarian options, and their schnitzel is top-notch. Don’t forget to try their homemade sauerkraut.

4. Laschet’s Inn

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A Family-Owned Restaurant Since 1967

Laschet’s Inn is a family-owned restaurant that’s been serving up German food and beer since 1967. They have a great selection of sausages, including some rare varieties like blood sausage and liverwurst. Their potato pancakes are also a must-try.

5. DANK Haus German American Cultural Center

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A Cultural Center with German Food and Beer

DANK Haus German American Cultural Center is a unique spot that not only offers German food and beer but also hosts cultural events and classes. They have a small menu of traditional German dishes like schnitzel and pork roast, but their beer selection is extensive.

6. Mirabell Restaurant

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A Taste of Austria in Chicago

While technically not a German restaurant, Mirabell Restaurant is a great spot to try some Austrian cuisine. They have a cozy atmosphere and a menu full of schnitzel, spaetzle, and apple strudel. Don’t forget to try their Austrian wines.

7. The Radler

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A Modern Take on German Cuisine

The Radler is a modern German restaurant that puts a unique spin on traditional dishes. They have a great selection of sausages, including some exotic options like rabbit and veal tongue. Their beer list is also impressive, with a wide variety of German and Belgian brews.

8. Prost!

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A Beer Hall with German Eats

Prost! is a beer hall that serves up German eats alongside their extensive beer list. They have a great selection of sausages and their pretzels are some of the best in the city. Don’t forget to try their homemade mustard.

9. The Radler’s Döner Kebab Pop-Up

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A Unique German-Turkish Fusion

If you’re looking for something a little different, check out The Radler’s Döner Kebab Pop-Up. This unique spot offers a German-Turkish fusion with their take on the classic döner kebab. Their homemade pita bread and tzatziki sauce are not to be missed.

10. Himmel’s

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A German-Italian Hybrid

Himmel’s is a unique spot that combines German and Italian cuisine. They have a great selection of schnitzel and pasta dishes, and their pizza is not to be missed. Don’t forget to try their homemade limoncello.

11. Kaiser Tiger

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A Bacon-Focused Menu with German Flavors

Kaiser Tiger is a bacon-focused restaurant that also offers some tasty German dishes. Their bacon flight is a must-try, and their sausages are made in-house. Don’t forget to try their bacon-wrapped dates.

12. Dinkel’s Bakery

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German Bakery Delights

Dinkel’s Bakery has been serving up German baked goods since 1922. They have a wide selection of bread, pastries, and cakes. Their strudel and black forest cake are not to be missed.

13. Lutz Café & Pastry Shop

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A Taste of Germany in Lincoln Square

Lutz Café & Pastry Shop is a Lincoln Square staple that serves up German pastries alongside their coffee and tea. They have a great selection of baked goods, including their famous Bee Sting cake.

FAQs

1. What is German food?

German food is a cuisine that is known for its hearty, meat-centric dishes that are often accompanied by potatoes and sauerkraut. Classic German dishes include bratwurst, schnitzel, and sauerbraten.

2. What are some traditional German drinks?

Beer is a big part of German culture, and there are many different types of German beer to try. Other traditional German drinks include schnapps, wine, and herbal liqueurs like Jägermeister.

3. What is the best time to visit a German restaurant in Chicago?

Weekends are typically the busiest times for German restaurants in Chicago. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting on a weekday.

4. What is the difference between German and Austrian cuisine?

While there is some overlap between German and Austrian cuisine, there are also some distinct differences. Austrian cuisine is known for its use of spices like paprika and caraway, as well as dishes like schnitzel and apple strudel.

5. Are there any vegetarian options at German restaurants in Chicago?

Yes, many German restaurants in Chicago offer vegetarian options like potato pancakes and vegetarian sausages.

6. What is sauerkraut?

Sauerkraut is a dish made from fermented cabbage. It is often served as a side dish with German meals.

7. What is schnitzel?

Schnitzel is a thin, breaded cutlet of meat (usually pork or veal) that is fried until crispy. It is often served with a side of potatoes or spaetzle.

8. What is spaetzle?

Spaetzle is a type of soft egg noodle that is a staple in German cuisine. It is often served as a side dish or used in soups.

9. What is bratwurst?

Bratwurst is a type of sausage that is made from pork, beef, or veal. It is often grilled or fried and served with sauerkraut and mustard.

10. What is the history of German cuisine in Chicago?

German immigrants have had a significant impact on Chicago’s culinary scene. German cuisine has been popular in Chicago since the mid-1800s, and many of the city’s oldest restaurants serve traditional German fare.

11. What is the best German dessert?

Black forest cake is a popular German dessert that is made with layers of chocolate cake, whipped cream, and cherries.

12. What is the most popular German beer?

There are many different types of German beer, but some of the most popular include pilsner, lager, and hefeweizen.

13. What is the best German restaurant in Chicago?

That’s a tough question as there are so many great German restaurants in Chicago. Some of our favorites include The Berghoff, Chicago Brauhaus, and The Radler.

Conclusion

Chicago has some of the best German food in the country. From classic dishes like bratwurst and schnitzel to unique fusion spots, there’s something for everyone. So, why not take a culinary tour of Chicago’s German cuisine and discover your new favorite spot?

Don’t forget to try some traditional German drinks like beer and schnapps, and save