When I planned my trip to Hamburg, I knew I was stepping into a city rich in history, culture, and maritime charm. But what I didn’t fully anticipate was the sheer variety and quality of food available at every turn. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional German dishes, fresh seafood from the nearby North Sea, or a taste of the city’s growing international food scene, Hamburg’s culinary offerings are truly a food lover’s dream.
In this blog, I’ll take you through my personal culinary journey in Hamburg—from discovering authentic local cuisine to sampling some hidden gems. If you love food as much as I do, these are the spots you need to add to your Hamburg itinerary.
1. The Iconic Fischbrötchen at Brücke 10
No trip to Hamburg would be complete without tasting the city’s most famous sandwich—the Fischbrötchen. As a seafood enthusiast, this was at the top of my list, and there’s no better place to experience this humble yet iconic dish than at Brücke 10, located right by the bustling Landungsbrücken along the Elbe River.
Location: Brücke 10 is easy to find along the waterfront, just a short walk from the Landungsbrücken U-Bahn station. The vibrant atmosphere of the harbor added an extra layer of charm to my meal.
What I Ate: I ordered the classic Matjes (a type of pickled herring) Fischbrötchen, served on a fresh crusty roll with onions, pickles, and a tangy sauce. For a lighter option, I also tried the smoked salmon version. The freshness of the fish was unparalleled, and the simplicity of the sandwich really let the flavors shine through.
My Experience: Sitting by the harbor, with seagulls flying overhead and boats passing by, I couldn’t think of a more perfect way to enjoy this local favorite. There’s something wonderfully rustic and authentic about biting into a Fischbrötchen while taking in the sights and sounds of Hamburg’s historic port.
Recommendation Rating: 9/10. For an affordable, quick, and utterly delicious introduction to Hamburg’s seafood culture, Brücke 10 should be your first stop.
2. VLET in der Speicherstadt – A Modern Take on Hamburg Classics
Next on my food journey was a visit to VLET in der Speicherstadt, a restaurant that seamlessly blends tradition with modern culinary techniques. Located in the historic Speicherstadt, this upscale restaurant specializes in reimagining traditional Hamburg dishes with a gourmet twist.
Location: Tucked away in one of the beautiful brick warehouses of Speicherstadt, VLET offers a cozy yet sophisticated dining experience. The setting alone, surrounded by Hamburg’s iconic waterways, made the meal feel special.
What I Ate: I opted for the Labskaus, a dish steeped in Hamburg’s maritime history. Traditionally a sailor’s meal, Labskaus is a hearty mix of corned beef, mashed potatoes, and beetroot, topped with a fried egg and served with pickled herring. At VLET, the dish was elevated with modern presentation and flavor twists that I hadn’t expected but fully appreciated. I also tried their version of Pannfisch, a local fried fish dish served with mustard sauce and potatoes, which was cooked to perfection.
My Experience: The food at VLET struck the perfect balance between honoring tradition and pushing the boundaries of fine dining. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere, with its blend of industrial chic and historic charm, made the meal all the more enjoyable. It’s on the pricier side, but for a memorable evening, it’s well worth it.
Recommendation Rating: 8/10. If you’re looking to experience Hamburg’s culinary heritage in a more refined setting, VLET should definitely be on your list.
3. Dulfs Burger – A Hidden Gem for Burger Lovers
After indulging in some traditional Hamburg fare, I craved something a little more casual and comforting. That’s when I stumbled upon Dulfs Burger, a place known to locals as one of the best spots for gourmet burgers in the city.
Location: Dulfs Burger is located in the Karolinenviertel neighborhood, a trendy area that’s a bit off the beaten tourist path. I loved the vibe of this district, with its mix of street art, vintage shops, and laid-back cafes.
What I Ate: I went for the Classic Cheeseburger with a side of sweet potato fries. The beef was juicy and cooked just right, with a perfectly toasted brioche bun, fresh lettuce, tomato, and a tangy house sauce. What really set it apart, though, was the quality of the ingredients—you could tell they put care into sourcing their meats and produce.
My Experience: Dulfs is the kind of place where you can relax and enjoy a great meal without any pretense. The burgers are big, bold, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect spot for a casual dinner. I also appreciated the friendly service and the lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
Recommendation Rating: 9/10. For a no-frills, high-quality burger experience in Hamburg, Dulfs is a must-visit.
4. Café Paris – A Touch of French Elegance in Hamburg
For breakfast or a leisurely brunch, Café Paris became my go-to spot. With its Parisian-inspired decor and elegant atmosphere, this café brings a bit of French flair to Hamburg while serving up a delightful mix of both French and German dishes.
Location: Conveniently located in the heart of Altstadt (Old Town), near the Rathaus (City Hall), Café Paris is easy to find and perfect for starting a day of sightseeing.
What I Ate: I couldn’t resist the Croque Madame, a classic French dish of toasted bread with ham, melted cheese, and a fried egg on top. Alongside it, I had a basket of freshly baked croissants and a café au lait. Everything was rich, buttery, and delicious.
My Experience: Café Paris was a delightful mix of elegance and comfort. The beautiful tiled interior and high ceilings made it feel like a piece of old-world Europe, while the warm service and perfectly executed food ensured that it wasn’t just about the aesthetics. It’s a popular spot, so I recommend going early or making a reservation.
Recommendation Rating: 8/10. If you’re in the mood for a charming café experience with a mix of German and French flavors, Café Paris will not disappoint.
5. Alt Helgoländer Fischerstube – Seafood Lovers’ Paradise
For seafood lovers like me, Alt Helgoländer Fischerstube was a dream come true. Located near the St. Pauli district, this traditional seafood restaurant is known for serving fresh catches from the North Sea, prepared with a focus on simplicity and flavor.
Location: Nestled in a quiet corner of the St. Pauli neighborhood, Alt Helgoländer Fischerstube offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a short walk from the Reeperbahn, making it a great place to enjoy a peaceful meal before diving into Hamburg’s nightlife scene.
What I Ate: I started with a bowl of their famous Fischsuppe (fish soup), which was hearty, fragrant, and full of flavor. For the main course, I went with the Scholle Finkenwerder Art (fried plaice with bacon and onions), a dish that’s native to the region. The combination of crispy fish and smoky bacon was absolutely divine.
My Experience: The restaurant has a charming, old-world feel, with wooden furniture and maritime decorations that transport you back to Hamburg’s seafaring days. The staff were warm and knowledgeable, happy to recommend dishes based on seasonal availability. This was the perfect place for a relaxed, satisfying seafood dinner.
Recommendation Rating: 9/10. If you love seafood and want to experience the best of Hamburg’s maritime culinary traditions, Alt Helgoländer Fischerstube is a must-visit.
6. Hobenköök – Farm-to-Table Dining at its Finest
For something a little different, I visited Hobenköök, a restaurant and market that prides itself on offering local, sustainable ingredients in every dish. This farm-to-table concept is a refreshing break from the more tourist-heavy spots, and it gave me a real sense of what Hamburg’s local food scene is all about.
Location: Hobenköök is located in the Oberhafen quarter, an area that’s been undergoing a bit of a revival in recent years. It’s a bit off the usual tourist path, but well worth the trip.
What I Ate: I opted for the daily special, which changes based on what’s fresh and available from local farms. On the day I visited, it was a perfectly roasted piece of chicken served with seasonal vegetables and potatoes. The flavors were clean, fresh, and unpretentious—the kind of food that makes you feel good about what you’re eating.
My Experience: Hobenköök has a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere that made me feel right at home. I also loved browsing the adjacent market, where you can pick up local produce, meats, and artisanal goods to take home. It’s a great spot if you want to connect with Hamburg’s sustainable food culture.
Recommendation Rating: 8/10. For fresh, locally-sourced meals in a laid-back environment, Hobenköök is a hidden gem worth seeking out.
Hamburg’s food scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Whether you’re craving traditional German fare, fresh seafood, or something with an international twist, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.
