The aroma of freshly baked pretzels, the sizzle of bratwurst on the grill, and the clinking of beer steins – if you’re craving authentic German cuisine in the Emerald City, you’re in luck! Beyond the iconic Space Needle and the bustling Pike Place Market, Seattle boasts a surprisingly vibrant German food scene. This guide highlights some of the best places in Seattle to find traditional German dishes, from hearty sausages and pretzels to comforting schnitzel and apple strudel, catering to both seasoned German food lovers and curious newcomers eager to experience a taste of Deutschland. While this list focuses primarily on restaurants and bakeries, we may also touch on markets selling German ingredients for home cooks hoping to recreate those flavors at home. So, get ready for a culinary journey; it’s time to explore the best German food Seattle has to offer!
Top German Restaurants in Seattle
Seattle’s German restaurants offer a wide range of experiences, from cozy, family-owned establishments to more modern interpretations of classic dishes. Each offers something unique to the discerning diner.
The Berliner Döner Kebab
A relative newcomer to the Seattle German food scene, The Berliner Döner Kebab, located in the heart of Capitol Hill, brings a taste of Berlin’s street food culture to the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let the name fool you – while they specialize in the famous döner kebab, this establishment also offers a range of German-inspired delights. The döner itself, featuring thinly sliced, marinated meat roasted on a vertical spit, is a must-try. Marinated meat is shaved into a warm pita bread pocket alongside fresh veggies and a generous helping of tangy sauce. The currywurst, another Berlin street food staple, is also a highlight, featuring sliced German sausage smothered in a flavorful curry ketchup.
What makes The Berliner Döner Kebab special is its dedication to using high-quality ingredients and authentic recipes. They source their spices directly, and you can taste the difference. The restaurant has a casual, modern vibe, perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.
Price Range: $$
Address: 340 15th Ave E, Seattle, WA 98112
Website: (Typically online ordering platforms and social media)
Rhein Haus
Step into Rhein Haus and be transported to a Bavarian beer hall without leaving Seattle. Located in Capitol Hill, Rhein Haus offers a lively atmosphere, complete with communal tables, bocce ball courts, and an extensive selection of German beers. This is a great way to experience German food Seattle style.
The menu features a wide array of traditional German dishes, including various kinds of wurst (sausage), giant pretzels served with Obatzda cheese, and hearty entrees like Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle). The Flammkuchen, a thin-crust German pizza, is another popular choice.
What sets Rhein Haus apart is its vibrant atmosphere and its commitment to providing an authentic beer hall experience. It’s a great place to gather with friends, enjoy some German food and beer, and participate in a game of bocce ball.
Price Range: $$
Address: 912 E Pine St, Seattle, WA 98122
Website: rheinhausseattle.com
Bavarian Meats
While technically not a restaurant in the traditional sense, Bavarian Meats in Pike Place Market is a must-visit for any German food enthusiast in Seattle. This family-owned business has been serving up delicious German sausages and meats since 1933.
Here, you’ll find a wide variety of sausages, including bratwurst, knockwurst, weisswurst, and more. You can buy them fresh to cook at home, or you can grab a grilled sausage from their stand to enjoy right away. They also offer a selection of German cheeses, mustards, and other specialty items. Don’t miss out on trying their Leberkäse, a type of Bavarian meatloaf.
Bavarian Meats is special because of its long history and its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes. It’s a great place to sample a variety of German sausages and experience a taste of old-world craftsmanship.
Price Range: $
Address: 1928 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101
Website: bavarianmeats.com
Feierabend
Feierabend, located in South Lake Union, offers a modern take on traditional German cuisine. While they still serve classics like schnitzel and spaetzle, they also offer a variety of creative dishes that showcase German flavors in new and exciting ways.
The menu changes seasonally, but you can typically find dishes like Käsespätzle (cheese spaetzle) with caramelized onions, schnitzel with various sauces, and creative sausage platters. They also have an extensive beer and wine list, with a focus on German and European selections.
Feierabend is special because of its modern approach to German cuisine and its emphasis on using fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s a great place to go if you’re looking for a more upscale and refined German dining experience.
Price Range: $$$
Address: 605 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
Website: feierabendseattle.com
Edelweiss Sausage
Located in the heart of Seattle, Edelweiss Sausage provides a comprehensive German deli experience. The store offers an extensive range of German meats, cheeses, and imported goods, making it a one-stop shop for all things German cuisine. Edelweiss Sausage is known for its authentic sausages, prepared with traditional recipes, ensuring a truly German taste experience.
Customers can find a variety of German products, including sausages, smoked meats, pickles, mustards, and chocolates. They are particularly known for their knackwurst and bockwurst sausages, made fresh in-house. Moreover, Edelweiss Sausage offers ready-to-eat sandwiches and platters, perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic.
What sets Edelweiss Sausage apart is its commitment to quality and authenticity. They have been serving the Seattle community for many years and are known for their friendly service and knowledgeable staff. If you’re looking for authentic German food Seattle style to prepare at home or a quick bite on the go, Edelweiss Sausage is a great choice.
Price Range: $$
Address: 2208 NW Market St, Seattle, WA 98107
Website: Not readily available, typically found on local directories.
Beyond Restaurants: German Bakeries & Markets
While Seattle boasts excellent restaurants, it’s also worth exploring its bakeries and markets for more German culinary delights.
Borracchini’s Bakery & Mediterranean Deli
While not exclusively German, Borracchini’s offers a selection of German-inspired baked goods that are worth checking out. Look for their streusel cakes, fruit tarts, and other treats that showcase German baking traditions. While you’re there, explore their Mediterranean deli for other European specialties. Borracchini’s is a Seattle institution with a long history, known for its delicious baked goods and friendly atmosphere. It makes for a good side trip when looking for German food Seattle.
Uli’s Famous Sausage
Found at Pike Place Market, Uli’s is not just a market vendor, but a purveyor of some of the finest German-style sausages in Seattle. While you’ll find a variety of flavors (not all German), their traditional bratwurst and other German-inspired creations are a must-try. Pick them up for cooking at home, or enjoy a grilled sausage right there at the market.
Spotlight on Key German Dishes
No exploration of German food would be complete without a closer look at some essential dishes.
Bratwurst
This iconic German sausage comes in many varieties. Nürnberger bratwurst are small and thin, while Thüringer bratwurst are larger and more heavily seasoned. Look for bratwurst made with high-quality pork and natural casings. Many places offer different varieties, each with unique spice blends. Find excellent bratwurst at Bavarian Meats and various restaurants mentioned above.
Pretzels
A good German pretzel should be dark brown, slightly crispy on the outside, and soft and chewy on the inside. The salt should be coarse and flavorful. Pretzels are often served with Obatzda, a Bavarian cheese spread made with cream cheese, butter, paprika, and beer. Rhein Haus is a great place to find excellent pretzels.
Schnitzel
Schnitzel is a thin, breaded, and pan-fried cutlet of meat, usually pork or veal. Wienerschnitzel is specifically made with veal, while Jägerschnitzel is served with a mushroom sauce. Look for schnitzel that is tender and crispy, with a flavorful breading. Feierabend often features interesting schnitzel variations.
Beer
German beer is world-renowned for its quality and variety. From crisp lagers to malty bocks, there’s a German beer to suit every taste. Pair a Pilsner with bratwurst or a Dunkel with schnitzel. Ask your server for recommendations on the best German beer pairings for your meal.
Tips for Experiencing German Food in Seattle
To make the most of your German food adventure in Seattle, keep these tips in mind:
Reservations
For popular restaurants like Rhein Haus and Feierabend, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
Seasonal Specials
Many German restaurants offer seasonal specials, such as Oktoberfest celebrations in the fall or asparagus dishes in the spring. Be sure to check their websites or social media pages for updates.
Dietary Considerations
If you have any dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free, be sure to check the menu or ask your server about available options. While inherently meat-focused, many restaurants are becoming more accommodating.
Ordering Tips
Don’t be afraid to ask your server about the dishes. German cuisine can have regional variations and differing preparation methods. Enquire about ingredients and authenticity to make the best choices for your preferences.
Conclusion
Seattle’s German food scene offers a delightful blend of tradition and innovation, with something for everyone to enjoy. From hearty sausages and giant pretzels to comforting schnitzel and refreshing German beer, you’re sure to find a taste of Deutschland right here in the Emerald City. So, grab your appetite (Lederhosen optional!) and embark on a culinary adventure to explore the best German eats Seattle has to offer. Prost! Remember to check online reviews and opening hours before you visit. Happy eating!
