Bavarian Alps, Germany
Bavarian cuisine is hearty, traditional, influenced by agricultural roots and proximity to Austria. It highlights meat (pork, beef), various dumplings, potatoes, and often rich sauces.
Beer is central to the culinary culture. Flavors are savory, with caraway seeds, juniper, and horseradish. Comfort food that satisfies.
Recommended for dinner, especially on weekends or in popular restaurants, to secure a table.
Generally, round up to the nearest Euro or add 5-10% for good service. See Section 2.3 for more details.
To ask for the bill, say "Zahlen bitte" (check please) or "Ich möchte zahlen" (I'd like to pay). The waiter brings the bill directly to your table.
Roast pork with crispy crackling. It often includes a rich dark gravy and a bread or potato dumpling.
Found in nearly all traditional Bavarian restaurants (Gasthöfe).
Traditional Bavarian white sausage, made from veal and pork. Best eaten before noon, with sweet mustard, a pretzel, and Weißbier.
Look for it in traditional Bavarian eateries and butcher shops.
A Bavarian meatloaf, hot in thick slices with sweet mustard, or fried with an egg and potatoes.
Available at butcher shops (Metzgerei) and some pubs.
Beer (Bier), Weißbier/Hefeweizen, Helles, Dunkel, Radler (beer with lemonade). Non-alcoholic: Apfelschorle (apple juice with sparkling water). Schnapps as a digestif.
Brezn (Pretzel), Apfelstrudel (apple strudel), Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake).
For an upscale experience: Reindl's Restaurant (Reindl's Partenkirchner Hof) for refined Bavarian/international cuisine, or Atelier (Grand Hotel Sonnenbichl) for gourmet dining.
Many traditional Gasthöfe (e.g., Gasthof Fraundorfer, Alpentraum) have hearty Bavarian meals. Various Italian and international restaurants also deliver good value.
Imbiss stands for quick and affordable options like Bratwurst, Currywurst, or Döner. Bakeries for breakfast and lunch. Supermarkets for self-catering groceries.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen hosts weekly farmers' markets. Purchase local produce, cheese, and meats. Butcher shops (Metzgerei) and bakeries also have ready-to-eat items.
No large indoor food halls exist as in major cities.
Beyond Bavarian fare, restaurants have Italian, Greek, Asian, and other international cuisines. The Garmisch district typically has a wider selection.
Explore diverse flavors.
White asparagus (Spargel) dishes are very popular in spring (April-June).
Pfifferlinge (Chanterelle mushrooms) are in dishes in late summer/early autumn.
Wild Game (Wild), like venison and wild boar, appears on menus in autumn.
Enjoy Glühwein (mulled wine), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and roasted almonds.
Awareness of allergies is growing. Clear communication is best.
Larger hotels or modern restaurants are more accommodating.
Carry a Translation card for dietary needs if language is a barrier.
A Translation app helps communicate requirements clearly.
Clearly state your dietary requirements. Ask about ingredients and cooking methods.
For specific dietary needs like Halal or Kosher, self-catering from supermarkets might be the most reliable option.
A popular choice for traditional Bavarian cuisine and lively folk music evenings.
A cozy restaurant with traditional Bavarian dishes, known for its hearty portions and rustic charm.
A popular spot for breakfast, coffee, and cakes in a modern yet cozy setting.
For quick bites like Currywurst and Döner Kebab. Many are scattered throughout town.
Fast and affordable.
Great for fresh rolls, pastries, and sandwiches for breakfast or a light lunch.
Excellent morning choices.
Some smaller restaurants or guesthouses may have limited hours, especially outside peak season. Verify before visiting.
Learning a few basic German phrases like "Guten Appetit" (enjoy your meal) or "Zahlen bitte" (check please) is appreciated by locals.
Tap water (Leitungswasser) is not typically offered automatically with meals but you can request it.
Exploring dining options beyond the main tourist streets often uncovers hidden gems with local character and authentic cuisine.
