Introduction to German Restaurants
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OuHtOWJAyn0&pp=ygUSR2VybWFuIFJlc3RhdXJhbnRz
When asked about German restaurants in Singapore, most people will think of the Oktoberfest related icons such as beer jugs, sausages and checked aprons. Well, most of the time that’s exactly what to expect when visiting a German restaurant.
German restaurants are often decked in rustic furniture and provide some homely vibes, think cutting board platters, warm atmosphere (though not featuring a fireplace cause it’s Singapore), wooden furniture, woven baskets of bread and generous servings of meat and gravy.
Most German restaurants feature a microbrewery, or a widespread collection of beer taps just because the Germans do love their beers (and bar snacks). So, fret not about having a lack of alcohol choices when visiting a German restaurant because we are sure you’ll be spoilt for choice with their extensive menu.
German cuisine has existed for decades and shares many similarities with the traditions of Central European countries like Austria, Switzerland and the Czech Republic.
German cuisine consists of large, family-sized dishes, perfect for sharing over jugs of ice-cold beer.
Where to find German restaurants in Singapore?
Oktoberfest is not the only period where you can enjoy German fare. In fact, German restaurants are actually quite abundant in Singapore and they are open all year round! Here are some notable ones that you can visit for an exclusively German gastronomic adventure and perhaps relive your Oktoberfest experience.
Restaurant |
Brotzeit |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $$ |
| Website | https://brotzeit.co/ |
| Address | Check for locations here |
| Telephone | Contact numbers available here |
| Operating Hours | 11am to 10.30pm daily |
Restaurant |
Wilder Mann |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $ |
| Website | http://www.wilder-mann.com.sg/index.html |
| Address | 906M Upper Thomson Road S787110 |
| Telephone | 6459 1090 |
| Operating Hours | Daily: 5pm to 8.30pm (closed on Mondays) |
Restaurant |
Paulaner Brauhaus |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $$ |
| Website | https://www.paulaner-brauhaus-singapore.com/en/ |
| Address | 9 Raffles Boulevard, #01-01 Millenia Wak, S039596 |
| Telephone | 6592 7912 (reservations), 6883 2572 (enquiries) |
| Operating Hours | Check website for opening hours |
Restaurant |
Stuttgart Blackforest Boutique S-Cafe |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $$ |
| Website | https://www.scafe.com.sg/ |
| Address | 35A Scotts Road, S228228 |
| Telephone | 6336 8675 |
| Operating Hours | Check website for operating hours |
Restaurant |
Leopold Gastrobar |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $$ |
| Website | http://leopold.sg/gastrobar/about/ |
| Address | 96 Tanjong Pagar Road, S088517 |
| Telephone | 6534 7644 |
| Operating Hours | Daily: 12pm to 6pm (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays) |
Restaurant |
Frieda |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $$$ |
| Website | https://www.kempinski.com/en/singapore/the-capitol-singapore/dining/arcade-at-the-capitol-kempinski/frieda |
| Address | 13 Stamford Road, Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski, S178906 |
| Telephone |
6715 6873
|
| Operating Hours | Daily: 11.30am to 2.30pm & 6pm to 10pm |
Restaurant |
Hans Im Gluck |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $$ |
| Website | https://hansimglueck-burgergrill.sg/ |
| Address | Check for locations here |
| Telephone | Make reservations here |
| Operating Hours | Refer to website for each outlet’s opening hours |
Restaurant |
Bread, Beer & Brez’n |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $$ |
| Website | https://bbnb.sg/ |
| Address | 314A Tanglin Road, Phoenix Park, S247673 |
| Telephone | 6610 0915 |
| Operating Hours | Daily: 10am to 10pm |
Restaurant |
Baden |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $$ |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/baden.sg |
| Address | 42 Lorong Mambng, Holland Village, S277696 |
| Telephone | 6463 8127 |
| Operating Hours | Refer to website for operating hours |
Restaurant |
Brauhaus Restaurant & Pub |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $$ |
| Website | https://www.brauhaussg.com/ |
| Address | 101 Thomson Road, #B1-13/14, S307591 |
| Telephone | 6250 3116 |
| Operating Hours | Daily: 12pm to 12am |
Restaurant |
Der Biergarten |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $$ |
| Website | http://www.biergarten.com.sg/ |
| Address | 48 Prinsep Street, #01-01, S188677 |
| Telephone | 9630 3079 |
| Operating Hours | Daily: 4pm till late |
Restaurant |
Knuckles Bistro |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $ |
| Website | https://m.facebook.com/knucklesbistro/ |
| Address | 212 Hougang Street 21, #01-33, S530212 |
| Telephone | 6285 0549 |
| Operating Hours | Daily: 12pm to 10.30pm |
Restaurant |
German Marketplace |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $$ |
| Website | https://germanmarketplace.sg/ |
| Address | 609 Bukit Timah Road, S269710 |
| Telephone | 6466 4044 |
| Operating Hours | Mon-Fri: 10am to 5pm
Sat: 9am to 5pm (closed on Sun & PH) |
Restaurant |
Brewerkz |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $$ |
| Website | https://brewerkz.com/ |
| Address | Check for locations here |
| Telephone | Reservations can be made here
Other enquiries can be made here |
| Operating Hours | Refer to website for details |
Restaurant |
The Rebel Bar |
| Speciality |
|
| Pricing | $$ |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/rebelbarcompany/ |
| Address | 28 Stanley Street, S068737 |
| Telephone | 6224 7088 |
| Operating Hours | Daily: 10.30am to 10.30pm (closes at 3pm on Sat and are closed on Sun) |
German cuisine specialties
Now that we have got you thinking of German food, let us give you a sneak peek on what to expect to see on the menu.
German bread
Bread in Germany are referred to as either Brot or Brotchen, with the former meaning a loaf and the latter denoting a roll with a crust. German breads are different from the usual bread you can find in other parts of Europe. The variety of bread you can expect from German restaurant will be dark, hearty and dense which are perfect accompaniment to meaty meals with homey sauces. Heavy grain and rye are some of the commonly enjoyed bread varieties.
Pork knuckle
If you’ve been to an Oktoberfest party, you’d have heard of the famed German pork knuckle, or Schweinshaxe. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, the meat falls off the bone easily and it comes in portions measuring about the size of an adult’s head. It is almost the perfect party dish apart from the need to cut it up and that someone may be carving out a portion that’s bigger than yours.
Breaded cutlet
Breaded cutlet may not be the name that most people are acquainted with, and you may be more familiar with the term Schnitzel. It means breaded cutlet, often paired with a special sauce to be eaten with. The meat used can be anything, from veal to chicken, beef or even fish (which resembles fish and chips).
German potato pancakes
A German potato pancake or Kartoffelpuffer, is similar to a Swiss Rosti, just that it’s made with egg and flour added. It is usually accompanied with proteins like additional eggs and bacon or as a side with other meat dishes.
Pretzel
The German name for pretzel is Brezel, and the brezel is fluffy on the inside with a chewy and slightly crunchy crust. Most people are familiar with the shape of a pretzel, which is a knot that is analogous to the symbol of the holy trinity. Brezels are often available in many flavours, from sweet to savoury. Bite-sized crunchy brezels are also available as bar snacks in most restaurants.
German sausages
Germany has come a long way in sausage making and there are more than 1000 types of traditional sausages. The more commonly available sausages in Singapore’s German restaurants are the Bratwurst, Knockwurst, Weisswurst and Currywurst, which refer to grilled sausage, boiled sausage, bacon sausage and sausage with curry sauce respectively. With Currywurst being a metropolitan favourite and the Bratwurst an all-time favourite across many generations.
Roast beef stew
German stews are a hearty addition to every meal, with meat being marinated over a few days in wine vinegar and then slow cooked to tender perfection. Sauerbraten, the name for German roast beef stew is a favourite among German family meals. Apart from beef, venison and rabbit are other common meats used in the stews (unfortunately rabbit is not available in our country due to their appearance in many households as domestic pets).
German beer
Beer or bier is a German staple. A huge variety awaits in most German restaurants, from pilsners to dunkel, covering the entire colour spectrum of existing beers. If you fancy a beer with your meal, that’s a specialty of the German cuisine and in most cases, you will not be disappointed.
German dining etiquette
(or Tischmanieren, German table manners)
Dining out in Germany or at a German restaurant here need not be a daunting experience, with the following tips you can dine at any German restaurant with confidence.
- German cuisine is continental, which means the knife is held at the right hand and the fork on the left, keep to that and you will be saved from awkward questions and looks.
- Repeat the toast of the host if he/she raises his/her glass for one, common phrases are “Prost!” and “Zum Woh!” both meaning “health”.
- Inform the host/waiting staff at the start should there be any dietary restrictions since Germans are direct communicators, such requests made earlier are considered courteous and respectful.
- When posed with the question “How are you?” (Wie geht es Ihnen? in German, a common opener with German hosts), a reply is expected, and vice versa when asking the question, one should always wait for a reply before continuing the conversation.
- Be punctual, Germans aren’t well acquainted with “fashionably late” and being punctual will show that you care and are looking forward to the dinner by the host.
- Sharing platters are not finger food dishes, and Germans are not fans of eating with their hands, and neither should you!
- If you’re dining in a group, you should wait for everyone to sit and have food on their plate, and the host or someone to say “Guten Appetit!” before starting on your food or drink.
Best Tips on How to Choose an Authentic German Restaurant
Are you a fan of German cuisine? Do you find yourself longing for a taste of hearty sausages, crispy schnitzels, or delectable pretzels? If so, then finding an authentic German restaurant is a must! Whether you’re planning a special night out or simply want to explore the rich flavors of German cuisine, choosing the right restaurant can make all the difference. Here are our top tips to help you find the best German restaurant in town.
Research the Menu and Authenticity
When searching for an authentic German restaurant, start by researching their menu. Look for classic German dishes like sauerbraten, bratwurst, spaetzle, and sauerkraut. A genuine German restaurant will prioritize traditional recipes and ingredients to ensure an authentic dining experience. Pay attention to the preparation methods and see if they align with traditional German cooking techniques.
Check Online Reviews and Ratings
One of the best ways to gauge the authenticity and quality of a German restaurant is by checking online reviews and ratings. Websites like TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google Reviews provide valuable insights from previous customers. Look for restaurants with consistently positive reviews that highlight the authenticity of the food, attentive service, and overall dining experience. Pay attention to any specific mentions of traditional German dishes or the use of authentic ingredients.
Seek Recommendations from Locals or German Communities
If you have access to local communities or forums where Germans gather, don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. Locals or members of German communities are likely to have firsthand knowledge of the most authentic German restaurants in the area. They can provide insider tips and guide you to hidden gems that may not be as well-known to the general public.
Ambiance and Decor
Authentic German restaurants often pay attention to creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the traditions and culture of Germany. Look for restaurants that feature rustic wooden interiors, traditional German decorations, and maybe even live music playing in the background. The right ambiance can greatly enhance your dining experience and transport you to the heart of Germany.
Authentic German Beverages
A true German dining experience is not complete without sampling some of the famous German beverages. Check if the restaurant offers a wide selection of German beers, both on tap and bottled. Look for renowned German breweries such as Paulaner, Bitburger, or Erdinger on their drink menu. Additionally, don’t forget to explore the variety of German wines, especially Rieslings, which pair exceptionally well with German cuisine.
Consider the Chef’s Background and Expertise
The expertise and background of the chef can significantly influence the authenticity of the dishes served. Take some time to research the chef’s credentials, training, and experience in German cuisine. A chef who has studied or worked in Germany or has a deep understanding of German culinary traditions is more likely to deliver an authentic and delicious dining experience.
Authentic Ingredients
Authentic German cuisine relies heavily on fresh and high-quality ingredients. When choosing a German restaurant, inquire about the sourcing of their ingredients. Do they prioritize using traditional German ingredients? Are they committed to supporting local farmers and suppliers? Restaurants that go the extra mile to source authentic ingredients demonstrate their dedication to maintaining the true essence of German cuisine.
Portion Sizes
German cuisine is known for its generous portion sizes, and a truly authentic German restaurant should reflect this. Traditional German dishes are often hearty and filling, meant to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. When browsing the menu, pay attention to the portion sizes indicated. A German restaurant that offers substantial servings is more likely to stay true to the traditional dining experience.
Bread and Pretzels
Bread holds a special place in German cuisine, and a good German restaurant should offer a variety of freshly baked bread or pretzels. German bread is famous for its rich flavors, crusty exterior, and soft interior. Look for establishments that serve a selection of bread or pretzels as complimentary starters or as part of their menu. The presence of freshly baked bread is a sign of a restaurant that pays attention to detail and aims to provide an authentic German dining experience.
Warm and Friendly Service
Authenticity isn’t just about the food; it’s also about the overall experience. German hospitality is known for its warmth and friendliness. When you visit a German restaurant, observe the level of service provided. Are the staff welcoming and attentive? Do they go the extra mile to make you feel comfortable? A genuine German restaurant will strive to create a warm and friendly atmosphere, ensuring that your dining experience is enjoyable from start to finish.
Traditional Events and Specialties
Some authentic German restaurants organize special events or highlight seasonal German specialties. Look out for Oktoberfest celebrations, where you can experience the lively spirit of Germany with traditional music, dancing, and of course, beer. Seasonal specialties like Christmas markets or Easter brunches can also provide a unique and immersive German experience. Keep an eye out for such events or specialties to make your visit to a German restaurant even more memorable.
Ask Questions and Engage with the Staff
When you’re at a German restaurant, don’t be afraid to ask questions and engage with the staff. Inquire about the origin of certain dishes, the story behind a particular recipe, or the cultural significance of a traditional German ingredient. Authentic German restaurants take pride in their heritage and are often eager to share their knowledge and passion for German cuisine. By engaging with the staff, you can gain a deeper understanding of the food and the culture it represents.
Price Range
Consider the price range of the German restaurant you’re considering. Authentic German cuisine is worth the investment, but it’s important to find a restaurant that offers good value for money. Compare prices across different establishments and take into account the portion sizes, quality of ingredients, and overall dining experience. Remember that while a higher price doesn’t guarantee authenticity, suspiciously low prices may indicate compromises on quality or authenticity.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
If you or someone in your party follows a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, it’s essential to find a German restaurant that caters to these dietary preferences. Authentic German cuisine isn’t just about meat-heavy dishes; it also includes a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Look for restaurants that offer plant-based versions of traditional German dishes or have dedicated vegetarian/vegan menus. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the authentic German dining experience.
Variety of Traditional German Dishes
An authentic German restaurant should offer a diverse range of traditional German dishes to choose from. While signature dishes like bratwurst and schnitzel are a must, a wider selection demonstrates the depth and breadth of their commitment to German cuisine. Look for restaurants that offer regional specialties from different parts of Germany. This allows you to explore the unique flavors and culinary traditions of various German regions.
Authentic German Desserts
Don’t forget to leave room for dessert! German cuisine boasts a delightful array of sweet treats that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Look for restaurants that offer classic German desserts like Black Forest cake, apple strudel, marzipan treats, or the ever-popular German chocolate cake. The presence of these authentic desserts on the menu is a good indication of a German restaurant’s commitment to providing a comprehensive culinary experience.
Online Presence and Website
A reputable German restaurant should have an informative and user-friendly website. Check their online presence to gather more information about their history, menu, ambiance, and any special events they may host. A well-designed website that showcases their commitment to German cuisine and culture is a positive sign. Additionally, an active presence on social media platforms can give you a glimpse into the restaurant’s daily operations and customer interactions.
Hygiene and Cleanliness
When choosing any restaurant, hygiene and cleanliness are of utmost importance. A genuine German restaurant will prioritize cleanliness and maintain high standards of hygiene in their food preparation and dining areas. Look for establishments that have excellent health and safety records, as this ensures that your dining experience will be both enjoyable and safe.
Follow Your Instincts
Lastly, trust your instincts when choosing an authentic German restaurant. If a place gives you a warm and welcoming vibe or resonates with your idea of a true German dining experience, it’s likely a good choice. Sometimes, your gut feeling can guide you in finding the perfect restaurant that will exceed your expectations.
In conclusion, finding an authentic German restaurant involves a combination of research, recommendations, and personal experiences.
By considering factors such as menu authenticity, online reviews, ambiance, and the expertise of the chef, you can increase your chances of discovering a genuine German dining experience.
So go ahead, embark on a culinary adventure, and indulge in the flavors of Germany at a restaurant that captures the essence of this rich and diverse cuisine. Prost! (Cheers!)
Editor’s Note:
While every precaution has been made to ensure the accuracy and fairness of this listing, we acknowledge that they may be inaccuracies. Therefore, we urge you to contact the service provider above for the correct information and/or contact us with the correct information.
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