Munich’s food scene is often introduced through clichés: lederhosen, litre-sized beers and endless sausages. But look a little closer and the city reveals a dining culture that balances deep-rooted Bavarian tradition with contemporary flair, global influences and an uncompromising respect for quality.
From historic beer halls to refined neighbourhood kitchens, these are the best places to eat in Munich – where bratwurst is just the beginning.
The classic Wirtshaus experience
To understand Munich, you have to start in a wirtshaus. These traditional taverns are the backbone of local dining, serving dishes that haven’t changed much in generations… and don’t need to. At Augustiner-Klosterwirt, just steps from Marienplatz, roast pork, dumplings and sausages are served with precision and pride, washed down with beer from Munich’s oldest independent brewery. It’s polished without losing its soul. For something slightly more local in feel, Wirtshaus in der Au offers an outstanding selection of sausages – especially its famously generous dumplings – in a warm, lived-in setting beloved by Münchners.
Beer halls, done right
Yes, Munich’s beer halls are famous, but the best ones are more than mere tourist attractions. Augustiner Bräustuben, near the main station, feels refreshingly unpretentious. Locals crowd long tables for crispy pork knuckle, veal sausages and cold, perfectly poured beer. It’s hearty, honest cooking at its best. Meanwhile, Hofbräuhaus, while undeniably busy, still earns its place for atmosphere alone. Order simply, eat early, and you’ll be rewarded with a slice of Munich history: loud, lively and unapologetically traditional.
Neighbourhood favourites locals swear by
Some of Munich’s most satisfying meals can be found far from the historic centre. Görreshof, tucked away in Schwabing, is a quiet favourite for classic Bavarian dishes done exceptionally well. The mood is relaxed, the portions generous, and the crowd reassuringly local. In the same spirit, Gasthaus Weinbauer offers seasonal menus rooted in Bavarian tradition, with a level of care that elevates familiar dishes into something memorable. These are the places where Munich’s food culture feels most authentic.
Sausages and street-level bites
For a quicker taste of the city, Viktualienmarkt remains unbeatable. This open-air market is where Munich’s obsession with quality ingredients comes into focus. Grab a fresh bratwurst from a stand, pair it with mustard and a bread roll, and eat standing up like the locals do. It’s simple, satisfying and deeply Munich.
Beyond Bavaria
Contrary to popular belief, Munich’s dining scene doesn’t stop at sausages, and the city has quietly become a hub for refined international cuisine. Les Deux, near the Residenz, blends French technique with local ingredients in an elegant yet approachable setting. For a more intimate experience, Broeding offers multi-course menus that change daily, showcasing modern European cooking with a distinctly regional sensibility.
Munich may be famous for its bratwurst and weisswurst, but its best meals come from understanding how tradition and innovation coexist here. Whether you’re sitting at a long wooden table in a beer hall or enjoying a carefully plated dish in a quiet neighbourhood restaurant, the city’s food tells a story of pride, patience and precision.
