Munich, the Bavarian state capital and annual mecca for thousands of Oktoberfest visitors in autumn, has much more to offer than a centuries-old beer brewing culture and white sausages that, as the saying goes, should not have heard the midday bells. A gourmet trip to Munich takes food lovers into a world of hearty delicacies, savory specialties, and upscale cuisine that need not shy away from comparisons with culinary metropolises like Vienna and Paris. Eckhart Witzigmann, who was named "Chef of the Century," has his roots in Munich, as does Alfons Schuhbeck, who knows how to impress not only on television with his creations and extraordinary spices from all over the world. Those who want to treat themselves to a very special evening in Munich can enjoy an opulent, three-hour show concept at Schuhbeck's Teatro, which certainly has its price but is worth every euro. The interplay of gastronomy at the highest level with musical and variety performances is unique and can be found exclusively in the Sanssouci Spiegelpalast in Munich.
Tasting Bavarian specialties at the Munich Hofbräuhaus
People in traditional Bavarian costumes, women in dirndls and men in sturdy lederhosen, are simply part of the Munich cityscape. And especially on weekends, many have only one destination in mind: the Munich Hofbräuhaus, THE culinary center for original Munich specialties. While there are still plenty of free seats at the long, sometimes centuries-old tables and benches in the early morning, by lunchtime, people are packed tightly together, marveling at the bustling activity. Various types of beer, served in a half-liter mug or as a "Maß" (liter mug), can be ordered, as well as hearty delicacies that taste excellent not only to locals. Because in addition to first-class brewing, which has a long tradition within these venerable walls since 1589, there are white sausages, naturally served with pretzels. But a snack platter with various spreads and types of sausage is also perfect for nibbling. An Obazda, a spicy cream made from cheese and spices, also goes well with a morning pint. Huge pork knuckles, roast pork with dumplings and gravy, and homemade apple strudel are offered in the rustic ambiance and represent true Munich cultural heritage.
Discovering culinary highlights at the Viktualienmarkt in Munich
Numerous stalls, butchers, and fruit and vegetable vendors can be found at the famous Viktualienmarkt in the heart of Munich. Just a few minutes' walk from the Hofbräuhaus is the well-known food market, which began back in 1807. Exotic, but above all local products from the region, are advertised here day after day. Numerous butchers offer not only meat and sausage products of first-class quality but also hot meals for consumption directly at the standing tables. Italian antipasti are just as abundant at the Viktualienmarkt in Munich as fresh bread, the scent of which reaches your nose from afar. Cheese from all over the world invites you to taste, and freshly pressed fruit and vegetable juices provide the necessary vitamin boost during your gourmet trip to Munich.
Authentic Bavarian specialties such as horse liver sausage, cold sliced roast pork, and, of course, the "Obatzter" in all its variations can be found on almost every corner. If your legs are tired from an extensive exploration tour through the Bavarian capital on the Isar, you can recharge your energy and strength in a cozy coffee house in the center. In addition to rustic furnishings and friendly service, you can look forward to a large selection of pastries and strudel variations. Besides all the culinary highlights in Munich, one should not forget the numerous sights, because that is the only way to ensure the gourmet trip to southern Germany becomes an unforgettable experience. That is why it will soon be time to say: Pfiat Di and Servus and see you again in Munich!
