Where to go for German cuisine in Manchester

When it comes to German grub in Manchester, only Albert’s Schloss can top the list. The party palace might be most famous for its raucous parties and live entertainment, but the Cook Haus restaurant is a staple part of the Bavarian-inspired bar. Inspired by indulgent ‘Alpine dining,’ the impressive menu includes traditional German dishes such as schweinshaxe and schnitzel, alongside kebabs and bratwursts. This is authentic European food with a contemporary twist and it fits right in with the lively atmosphere of the bar. From the pilsner on tap to the rowdy Oompah bands, Albert’s Schloss takes inspiration from Bavarian culture at every corner. 

Serving Indian street food and local craft beer, you wouldn’t normally associate Bundobust with the very best of German cuisine. With its menu of bhajis, dahl and other vegetarian staples, the restaurant is hugely popular thanks to its winning combination of small plates and beer brewed right on its doorstep. To celebrate Oktoberfest, the eatery usually launches several creative interpretations of classic German dishes, such as a vegan kofta, made of veggie dumplings and served with a currywurst sauce. You can also try a Kartoffelpuffer, a traditional potato and sauerkraut fritter, or a Bataka Salat – potatoes combined with a curried sour cream and crunchy pastry. For the limited period, the dishes can usually be paired with a proper German-style Schwarzbier pint.

Almost every city has a Bierkeller – a Bavarian-themed bar with long benches for seats, a vast menu of German beer and bites, and live music from a resident Oompah band. The atmosphere is always lively, with guests often seen dancing on the sociable benches and waving their steins around to the beat. However, the venue is not just a drinking den for those looking for a good time. Inspired by the beer halls of Munich, the food menu is packed with the likes of bratwursts, schnitzels and tender hog-roast sliders, and you’ll be served by staff clad in traditional lederhosen.

A jewel in the crown of Manchester’s hospitality scene, The Spärrows is an original eatery that can be found in the depths of the Green Quarter. Once you ring the bell and enter the unassuming black door, you’re welcomed into a warm space and greeted like an old friend by the staff. Drawing on a medley of influences from across Central Europe, the globetrotting menu touches base in Russia, Poland, Germany and beyond. Spätzle – or little sparrows – is egg pasta that originates in Germany’s Bavaria and it forms the heart of the continental menu, alongside a selection of homemade sauces. The German influences certainly don’t stop there, with various meats and cheeses imported from the continent.

With several eateries across Manchester, German Doner Kebab is known for serving gourmet kebabs across the globe. Using only top quality ingredients, the meat for the kebabs is imported directly from Germany and the plump bread is made by hand in-store. Every kebab is accompanied by the three signature sauces – of the garlic, spicy and yoghurt varieties. If you fancy a quick fix when it comes to sampling Bavarian cuisine in Manchester, German Doner Kebab certainly doesn’t compromise on either filling or flavour.