Apart from the fun things to do in Hamburg, there are many tastes you can savor while you are in this lovely German city. If you are not sure about what to eat in Hamburg, this blog post is for you. Reading further, you’ll have a clearer idea about the famous local foods in Hamburg and where to have them.
Fischbrötchen
One of the best foods to eat in Hamburg is Fischbrötchen. It is a traditional German fish sandwich that is especially popular in the north of Germany. The sandwich usually includes a bread roll filled with pickled or fried fish such as herring, mackerel, or salmon, along with onions, pickles, lettuce, and several sauces. It’s a perfect combination of salty, sour, and fresh flavors. Fischbrötchen is often eaten on the go and is a must-try street food for visitors in Hamburg.
Where to Eat Fischbrötchen in Hamburg
Hamburg is full of great places to try Fischbrötchen. One of the most famous spots is Brücke 10, located at the Landungsbrücken by the Elbe River. This place is popular with both locals and tourists for its fresh fish and beautiful harbor views. Another great option is Nordsee, a chain restaurant that offers various seafood dishes including Fischbrötchen, perfect for a quick and tasty lunch. For a more local experience, you can also visit the St. Pauli Fischmarkt on Sunday mornings, where vendors sell freshly made Fischbrötchen right by the water. Next time you fly to Hamburg, remember to add these restaurants to your list.
Did You Know?
Fischbrötchen is so iconic in Hamburg that there’s even a local saying: “If you haven’t had a Fischbrötchen by the Elbe, you haven’t really been to Hamburg!
Labskaus
Labskaus is one of the most traditional Hamburg foods, especially loved by sailors and people living near the North Sea. It might look unusual at first, but it’s full of flavor and history. The dish is made with mashed potatoes, corned beef, onions, and sometimes beetroot, all mixed into a hearty mash. It’s usually served with pickled gherkins, pickled herring, and a fried egg on top. Labskaus is a real comfort food, warm, filling, and full of northern character.
Where to Eat Labskaus in Hamburg
One of the best places to try Labskaus in Hamburg is the Old Commercial Room, a historic restaurant near St. Michael’s Church. They serve Labskaus just like it’s been made for generations. Another good option is Gasthaus Heimathafen, a cozy spot offering traditional northern German cuisine in a modern setting. If you want something more casual, check out the Fischmarkt area on Sundays. Some food stalls serve Labskaus in smaller portions, perfect for tasting while exploring.
Did You Know?
Labskaus was once a popular meal among sailors because it could be made with preserved ingredients during long sea voyages when no fresh food was available.
Currywurst
One of the most popular answers to “What food is Hamburg known for?” is Currywurst. This tasty street food consists of a sliced sausage covered in a rich, spiced ketchup-based curry sauce. It’s usually served with fries or a bread roll on the side. While Currywurst originally became famous in Berlin, it quickly spread throughout Germany and became a local favorite in Hamburg too. It’s delicious, quick to eat, and perfect for a casual snack or lunch during your city walk.
You can also check out our article on what to eat in Berlin if you wish.
Where to Eat Currywurst in Hamburg
The range of food hotspots where you can get a real taste of authentic Kiez cuisine spans from traditional snack bars to creative street food joints. In the Schanze district, a visit to Curry Queen is well worth it – their classic and hearty currywurst variations are sure to impress. If you’re craving something hearty, head to Kleine Pause, also in Schanzenviertel – a favorite among night owls, students, and anyone looking to satisfy their hunger. And for those wanting to experience currywurst right in the heart of the Kiez, Lucullus on the Reeperbahn is the place to be – where classic sausage-making meets the vibrant energy of Hamburg’s nightlife.
Did You Know?
Currywurst was invented in Berlin in 1949 by Herta Heuwer, who mixed ketchup, curry powder, and Worcestershire sauce. It quickly became a post-war comfort food. Even today, Germans eat over 800 million Currywursts every year!
Finkenwerder Scholle
Finkenwerder Scholle is a traditional North German dish made with pan-fried plaice, which is a type of flatfish. The fish is usually cooked with bacon, onions, and butter, giving it a rich and savory flavor. This dish is a great example of Hamburg’s maritime cuisine; fresh, simple, and full of local character.
Where to Eat Finkenwerder Scholle in Hamburg
One of the best places to try Finkenwerder Scholle is Alt Helgoländer Fischerstube, located near the harbor, their recipe stays true to tradition. You can also enjoy it at Fischereihafen Restaurant, a more upscale seafood spot with beautiful views of the Elbe. For a cozy and authentic atmosphere, try Kleinhuis’ Restaurant, where local dishes are served with a modern twist.
Did You Know?
The dish was named after Finkenwerder, a former fishing village now part of Hamburg. In the past, fishermen would prepare this hearty fish meal right on their boats using freshly caught plaice and simple ingredients like bacon and onions.
Hamburger Hummersuppe
When thinking about things to eat in Hamburg, seafood is a must, and Hamburger Hummersuppe is one of the most elegant dishes you can try. This rich lobster soup is made with lobster stock, cream, vegetables, and a splash of white wine or cognac for extra depth. It’s smooth, flavorful, and often served as a starter in high-end restaurants. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just want to try something luxurious and local, Hummersuppe is a perfect choice.
Where to Eat Hamburger Hummersuppe in Hamburg
There are some wonderful places in Hamburg where you can enjoy a delicious lobster soup. The Fischereihafen Restaurant in HafenCity is known for its high-quality seafood and serves an especially flavorful lobster soup in an elegant setting. In the charming district of Eppendorf, you’ll find Hummer Pedersen – a small but refined seafood restaurant that often features homemade specialties made from the freshest catch.
Did You Know?
Hamburger Hummersuppe was once considered a luxury only served in fancy restaurants, but today it’s becoming more common in modern German cuisine, often featured in holiday menus or special seasonal dishes.
