1. Best Cheap Eats in Berlin
2. Discover Local Delicacies
3. Street Food Highlights
Best cheap eats in Berlin and where to find them
Fact checked by
Michelai Graham
Berlin is a city constantly on the go, and the food scene profoundly reflects this dynamic atmosphere. From bustling sausage vendors to convenient Späti shops on virtually every corner, visitors can indulge in excellent food at any time of day.
Explore the top street foods that define Berlin’s culinary landscape and discover the best spots to enjoy them. Savor a variety of dishes, from sausage to döner to falafel.
Bratwurst
When one imagines German sausage, the bratwurst usually comes to mind. This delectable sausage can be pan-fried in beer and is often served with rotkohl and potatoes, yet it is best recognized as the ultimate street food. Enjoy this authentic German meal-on-the-go directly from a grillwalker, who carries their bright orange grills at hip level, selling €1.50 bratwurst nestled in a roll (brötchen) with your choice of mustard and/or ketchup. Don’t be surprised if the sausage hangs out from both ends; that’s just the way it’s meant to be.
Search for vendors around Alexanderplatz or wherever crowds of hungry patrons gather.
Döner Kebab
In Berlin, Döner Kebab takes on an elevated status. While often viewed as a late-night snack, a well-prepared döner can be a culinary experience. This dish, adapted by Turkish immigrants to cater to German tastes, symbolizes the multicultural essence of Berlin.
You will likely encounter vertical spits of meat before placing your order. The impressive giant cones of lamb, chicken, or veal mingle in imbiss windows, grilled to perfection and shaved off into tender strips. This meat is placed in a pide, adorned with fresh salad and a selection of flavorful sauces.
Your choice of döner may be influenced by your locality; many residents favor stands that are conveniently near their homes. For an exceptional experience, consider visiting Imren Grill 2, renowned for its unique blend of spices and freshly assembled meat skewers. Additionally, sample other Turkish delights like köfte, börek, and lahmacun (often likened to Turkish pizza).
Burgers
Burgers, a beloved international staple, have made a strong presence in Berlin. Initially considered a mere imitation of American-style burgers, they now offer an array of flavorful options throughout the city. Whether you prefer classic combinations like bacon and cheese, adventurous variants like peanut butter, or embrace the city’s hipster veggie vibe with plant-based alternatives, there’s something for everyone.
For a taste of early American burger culture, visit The Bird, or enjoy a local classic at Kreuzberg, where Burgermeister serves up gourmet burgers in a quirky location beneath the U-Bahn.
Halbes Hähnchen
You may not immediately associate half a chicken with street food, yet establishments like Hühnerhaus 36 in Kreuzberg have transformed this concept. A grill here can have you feasting within 10 minutes. Popular among everyone, from cab drivers to families to those recovering from a night out, this small chicken stall near Görlitzer Park often has a queue. With its crispy skin concealing juicy white meat, it pairs perfectly with a side of salad or fries, often totaling around 5 euros. The spot has even expanded to feature a sit-down restaurant across the street.
For a different take on chicken, consider trying the increasingly popular fried chicken at halal establishments like Riza Chicken, which has branches throughout the city.
Falafel
This list isn’t entirely carnivorous.
Another cherished import, falafel — deep-fried chickpea balls — can be enjoyed in a sandwich or plated (teller) along with various tantalizing sauces, hummus, halloumi, and roasted vegetables.
In addition to traditional falafel, seek out the Sudanese variation, which features a distinct peanut sauce.
Currywurst
One of the memorable German phrases is “Alles hat ein ende, aber Wurst hat zwei” (Everything has an ending, but a sausage has two). Thus, what better way to encapsulate the essence of German street food than with sausage?
Germany’s ubiquitous wurst also delights with a curry twist in Berlin. Currywurst can be sampled almost anywhere — from biergartens to sporting events, even in upscale German restaurants. This dish consists of a bratwurst, expertly deep-fried and served either with skin (mit Darm) or without (ohne Darm), topped with flavorful curry ketchup and a sprinkle of curry powder. Typically, it’s served alongside fries (pommes) or a roll to soak up the savory sauce.
While German cuisine may not emphasize spiciness, currywurst can deliver a delightful surprise of heat. Seek out stands that specialize in spicier versions, but order at your own risk!
