Germany’s second-largest city is famous for its harbor views, maritime spirit and striking blend of old-world charm and modern culture. But, if there’s one thing visitors shouldn’t miss, it’s the cuisine. Drawing inspiration from its North Sea location, Hanseatic heritage and multicultural population, Hamburg serves up a unique menu of hearty, comforting dishes with a coastal twist. Whether you're walking along the Elbe River or wandering through the Speicherstadt, the best foods in Hamburg are as diverse and flavorful as the city itself.
If you’re wondering what to eat in Hamburg, this guide offers 12 traditional and beloved local dishes that every food lover should try — from fish sandwiches and stews to indulgent desserts and handmade chocolate.
1. Fischbrötchen
Few foods are more iconic in Hamburg than the fischbrötchen or fish sandwich. Served in a crusty roll, these sandwiches are filled with pickled herring, Bismarck herring or smoked salmon, often accompanied by onions, pickles, remoulade or horseradish. They're sold at fish markets, waterfront stands and casual eateries all over the city. It's the ultimate on-the-go snack that perfectly represents Hamburg’s maritime soul.
2. Labskaus
This traditional seafaring dish might look unusual, but it’s packed with flavor and history. Labskaus is a mash of corned beef, potatoes and onions, typically topped with a fried egg, pickled beetroot and gherkins, and served with a side of rollmops (pickled herring). Originally created to feed sailors on long voyages, it remains a hearty staple in Hamburg today. You’ll find it in many local pubs and restaurants where tradition still holds strong.
3. Aalsuppe
Despite the name, which translates to “eel soup,” aalsuppe doesn't always include eel these days. It’s a sweet and sour soup made with a broth base, seasonal vegetables, prunes, apples and sometimes pieces of smoked eel. The flavor is uniquely balanced — tangy, rich and slightly fruity. It’s one of the best foods in Hamburg to try if you’re curious about the city’s old-world recipes with unexpected twists.
4. Franzbrötchen
Franzbrötchen is a sweet, cinnamon-sugar pastry that looks a bit like a flattened croissant. Made from buttery yeast dough and layered with cinnamon and sugar, it’s baked until caramelized and golden. Soft in the middle with slightly crisp edges, it’s the go-to pastry for locals in the morning or as a midday treat with coffee. You’ll find it in nearly every bakery in Hamburg — and once you try one, you may not stop at just one.
5. Rote Grütze
This bright red berry dessert is a summer favorite throughout northern Germany, especially in Hamburg. Rote Grütze is made from a mix of red currants, raspberries, cherries and strawberries, gently cooked and thickened with a bit of cornstarch. It’s served chilled, often with vanilla sauce, cream or ice cream, making it both refreshing and indulgent. It’s a simple, yet beloved dish that brings a sweet finish to any meal.
6. Finkenwerder Scholle
Named after the Hamburg fishing district of Finkenwerder, this dish features pan-fried North Sea plaice (a type of flatfish) served with crispy bacon and onions. The flavors are bold and savory, with the salty crunch of bacon enhancing the delicate fish. Often paired with boiled potatoes or cucumber salad, it’s a perfect balance of light and hearty. If you love seafood with a side of tradition, this is a must-try.
7. Grünkohl mit Pinkel
A cold-weather favorite, grünkohl mit pinkel features hearty kale slow-cooked with onions, bacon and spices, served alongside pinkel — a smoked sausage made with oats and pork. It’s a warming, rustic dish that’s popular during winter festivals and traditional dinners. The kale becomes tender and flavorful, soaking up the richness of the meat and seasonings. Best enjoyed with mustard and a cold beer, it’s one of the best foods in Hamburg during the colder months.
8. Hamburger Rundstück Warm
Rundstück warm is a savory sandwich that predates the modern hamburger — a roll filled with slices of roast pork, drizzled in gravy. The name translates to “warm roll,” and it’s been a popular working-class meal since the 19th century. Unlike the fast-food version it may have inspired, this dish is all about deep, comforting flavor and a satisfying texture. Look for it in traditional German restaurants or local markets for a taste of Hamburg’s history.
9. Matjesfilet
A northern German specialty, matjesfilet is young, mild herring fillet that has been cured in a light brine. It’s typically served with onions, apples or a cream-based sauce and accompanied by potatoes or rye bread. The result is a delicate and slightly sweet seafood dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or pilsner. It’s a great introduction to the region’s love of preserved fish and fresh, clean flavors.
10. Kartoffelsalat
No Hamburg meal is complete without a helping of kartoffelsalat or potato salad. But, here it’s often served warm with a tangy vinegar and mustard dressing (rather than mayonnaise). The potatoes are sliced and dressed with onions, broth and fresh herbs, allowing the simple ingredients to shine. It’s a common side dish at both casual and formal meals and pairs well with sausages, schnitzel or fish. Each family has its own recipe and the variations are part of the fun.
11. Currywurst
Though originally from Berlin, currywurst has become a favorite in Hamburg’s casual dining scene. It features a grilled sausage sliced and smothered in a tangy curry ketchup sauce, often served with fries. It’s quick, flavorful and found everywhere — from food trucks to beer gardens. If you're looking for something comforting and easy on the go, this is a no-fail street food classic.
12. Chocolate From Chocoversum
For dessert with a bit of flair, visit Chocoversum, Hamburg’s interactive chocolate museum. Here, you can not only learn about the chocolate-making process, but also create your own custom chocolate bar with flavors and toppings of your choice. Locally made, high-quality chocolate is a specialty here — and a sweet souvenir to bring home. It’s a treat that blends education, indulgence and hands-on fun for all ages.
Food Excursions to Savor in Hamburg
Exploring Hamburg’s culinary scene is even more memorable when paired with excursions that bring the city’s food stories to life.
- Harvest Heaven: Hamburg’s Altes Land & Fruit Farm Experience
- Step outside the city to the charming Altes Land, northern Europe’s largest fruit-growing region. At a historic family-run farm, you’ll learn how apples are cultivated, taste homemade cake and sip tea or apple juice made from the orchard’s own harvest. This peaceful, scenic excursion is perfect for those who want to enjoy rural flavors and get a taste of Hamburg’s agricultural roots. The experience is both relaxing and delicious — a perfect balance to the city’s urban energy.
- Charming Hamburg Delights
- Start with a guided tour through Hamburg’s UNESCO-listed Warehouse District, learning about its maritime past and architectural beauty. Then, head to Chocoversum, where you’ll dive into the world of chocolate-making. Customize your own chocolate bar and learn how Hamburg became a hub for cocoa trade. It’s an engaging way to satisfy your sweet tooth and experience local food culture firsthand.
What Foods is Hamburg Famous For?
From fish rolls on the harbor to cinnamon-swirled pastries in morning cafés, Hamburg’s best foods reflect the city’s maritime heritage and northern German heart. Whether you're tucking into a bowl of labskaus, savoring pan-fried fish in bacon or creating your own chocolate masterpiece, every dish tells a story. The variety is wide, the flavors are bold and the traditions run deep.
Ready to explore Hamburg’s culinary side? Check out these shore excursions to explore more of the city. And for more travel inspiration, visit what Hamburg is known for and what to buy in Hamburg before you go.
