Best Oktoberfest Food To Eat

Prost to the best part of Oktoberfest—the food! Forget everything you know about festival eats; authentic Oktoberfest food is a hearty symphony of crispy pork knuckle (Schweinshaxe), smoky Nuremberg bratwurst, and pillowy soft pretzels served with tangy mustard. From savory schnitzel to cheesy spaetzle, these traditional German dishes are the soul of Munich’s legendary celebration. Ready to discover must-try Oktoberfest foods that’ll make you book a flight to Bavaria? Let’s dig in!

Dish	Description	Price (€)	Dietary
Bratwurst	Juicy grilled pork sausage with spices	8-12	Meat (veg options)
Sauerbraten	Sweet-sour marinated beef roast	15-22	Meat
Schnitzel	Crispy breaded cutlet (veal/pork)	12-18	Meat (veg versions)
Soft Pretzel	Chewy, salty Bavarian staple	3-5	Vegetarian
Currywurst	Sliced sausage with curry ketchup	4-7	Meat
Spaetzle	Egg noodles (often cheesy)	8-12	Vegetarian
Weisswurst	Delicate white sausage (eaten pre-noon)	6-9	Meat
Potato Pancakes	Crispy fried potato patties	5-8	Vegetarian (vegan options)
Leberkäse	Bavarian meatloaf (no liver/cheese!)	4-7	Meat
Apple Strudel	Flaky pastry with spiced apples	4-6	Vegetarian

Pro Tip: Most beer tents are cash-only – bring enough euros for food and drinks!

The Ultimate Oktoberfest Experience Awaits 🇩🇪

Oktoberfest isn’t just about the world’s largest beer festival – it’s a celebration of Bavaria’s rich culinary heritage that transforms Munich into a foodie paradise every September and October. Whether you’re planning an Oktoberfest party at home or heading to Germany for the full Oktoberfest experience, understanding the traditional menu is essential for any food lover.

The beer tents of Munich serve up hearty, soul-warming dishes that have been perfected over centuries. These aren’t just recipes – they’re edible pieces of German culture that tell the story of a nation through flavour. From the smoky aroma of grilled sausages to the comforting warmth of potato pancakes served warm, every bite connects you to authentic German traditions.

10 Must-Try Oktoberfest Dishes That Will Blow Your Mind 🤤

1. Bratwurst – The King of German Sausages

What makes it special: These thick, juicy pork sausages are the heart and soul of any oktoberfest menu. Traditionally grilled to perfection, bratwurst combines coarsely ground pork with a secret blend of spices that varies by region.

How it’s served: Nestled in a fresh German bun with tangy mustard and sauerkraut, or enjoyed on its own with a side of german potato salad.

Cost: Expect to pay €8-12 ($9-13) at beer tents in Munich

Vegetarian option: Many vendors now offer plant-based bratwurst alternatives made from soy or wheat protein.

oktoberfest food- Bratwurst and Beer

2. Sauerbraten – Germany’s National Dish 🥩

The ultimate comfort food: This traditional German pot roast involves marinating beef in a mixture of wine, vinegar, and spices for several days before slow-cooking to tender perfection.

Flavor profile: The meat becomes incredibly tender with a sweet-and-sour taste that’s absolutely addictive. The rich gravy pairs beautifully with red cabbage and potato dumplings.

Cost: €15-22 ($16-24) at traditional restaurants

Cooking tip: The recipe requires patience – the longer the marination, the more delicious the final dish

3. Schnitzel – Crispy Golden Perfection

What you need to know: This breaded and pan-fried cutlet (traditionally made with veal but often prepared with pork or chicken) is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to satisfy.

Serving style: Served hot with a lemon wedge, creamy potato salad, and lingonberry sauce. The crispy coating gives way to tender, juicy meat inside.

Cost: €12-18 ($13-20) depending on the meat choice

Vegetarian twist: Many restaurants now offer cauliflower or mushroom schnitzel for plant-based eaters

4. Soft Pretzels (Brezn) – The Perfect Beer Companion 🥨

Why they’re iconic: These twisted beauties are more than just a snack – they’re a symbol of Bavarian culture. The exterior is chewy and salty, while the inside remains soft and warm.

Best enjoyed: Fresh from the oven with coarse salt, served alongside creamy obatzda (Bavarian cheese spread) or sweet mustard.

Cost: €3-5 ($3-6) at beer tents

Fun fact: Germans consume over 500 million pretzels annually!

Young multi ethnic people group eat brezel and drinking beer at brewery bar restaurant at happy hour

5. Currywurst – Berlin’s Street Food Legend

The backstory: This beloved dish combines sliced bratwurst with tangy curry ketchup and a sprinkle of curry powder. It’s comfort food at its finest.

Where to find it: While not traditionally from Bavaria, currywurst has become a staple at modern Oktoberfest celebrations worldwide.

Cost: €4-7 ($4-8) at street food stalls

Serving suggestion: Best enjoyed hot with a side of crispy fries and a cold lager

6. Spaetzle – Germany’s Answer to Pasta

What makes it special: These irregular-shaped egg noodles are tender, chewy, and incredibly versatile. They’re made fresh daily and can be served as a side dish or main course.

Popular preparations:

Käsespätzle (cheese spaetzle) – topped with caramelised onions and melted cheese
Served as a creamy side dish with schnitzel or sauerbraten

Cost: €8-12 ($9-13) for a main portion

Vegetarian-friendly: Naturally vegetarian and often vegan-friendly depending on preparation

7. Weisswurst – The Bavarian White Sausage

Traditional serving: These delicate veal and pork sausages are served warm in hot water (never boiled) with sweet mustard, soft pretzels, and a wheat beer.

Cultural note: Traditionally eaten before noon, there’s even a saying: “Weisswurst should not hear the church bells chime twelve!”

Cost: €6-9 ($7-10) for a pair

Eating etiquette: Remove the casing before eating – it’s not meant to be consumed

8. Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer) – Crispy Comfort Food 🥔

What they are: Grated potatoes mixed with onions, eggs, and flour, then pan-fried until golden and crispy. These hearty pancakes are the ultimate comfort food.

Serving options:

Sweet: With applesauce or lingonberry jam
Savory: With sour cream or as a side to meat dishes

Cost: €5-8 ($6-9) per serving

Vegan option: Many recipes can be made vegan by substituting eggs with flax eggs

9. Leberkäse – Bavaria’s Mystery Meat

The surprise: Despite its name (literally “liver cheese”), this dish contains neither liver nor cheese! It’s a smooth, pink meatloaf made from finely ground corned beef, pork, and bacon.

How it’s served: Sliced thick and served hot with mustard and a fresh bun, or as a hearty breakfast with fried eggs.

Cost: €4-7 ($4-8) at traditional butcher shops

Texture: Smooth and slightly spongy, with a mild, satisfying flavor

10. Apple Strudel – Sweet Finale

The perfect ending: This flaky pastry filled with spiced apples, raisins, and breadcrumbs is the ideal way to end your Oktoberfest meal.

What makes it special: The paper-thin pastry is stretched by hand until it’s almost transparent, then filled with the sweet apple mixture and baked until golden.

Cost: €4-6 ($4-7) per slice

Serving suggestion: Best enjoyed warm with vanilla sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream

apple strudel with vanilla ice cream

Vegetarian & Vegan Oktoberfest Options

Traditional Vegetarian Dishes

Käsespätzle – Cheese noodles with caramelised onions
Potato pancakes – Served with applesauce or sour cream
Soft pretzels – With various dips and spreads
German potato salad – Made with vinegar-based dressing

Vegan-Friendly Alternatives

Many modern Oktoberfest celebrations now cater to plant-based diets:

Vegan bratwurst – Made from soy or wheat protein
Plant-based schnitzel – Using cauliflower or mushrooms
Vegan potato pancakes – Using flax eggs instead of chicken eggs
Sauerkraut – Naturally vegan and probiotic-rich

Popular Vegan Restaurants in Munich

Gratitude – Upscale plant-based dining
Max Pett – Vegan comfort food and burgers
Lebenskraftwerk – Raw and cooked vegan options
Bodhi – Asian-inspired vegan cuisine

Oktoberfest Recipe Ideas for Your Home Party

Easy Oktoberfest Recipes to Try:

German Potato Salad Recipe:

Use waxy potatoes for the best texture
Dress with warm bacon dressing while potatoes are still hot
Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley
Serve at room temperature for authentic flavour

Homemade Soft Pretzels:

Mix flour, yeast, and warm water
Shape into traditional pretzel form
Boil briefly in baking soda water
Bake until golden and brush with melted butter

Simple Sauerkraut:

Use quality jarred sauerkraut as a base
Enhance with apple, caraway seeds, and white wine
Simmer gently to develop flavours
Perfect side dish for any German meat

Where to Stay During Oktoberfest

Top Hotels Near the Festival Grounds:

Luxury Options:

Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski München – Historic luxury in the city center

Bayerischer Hof – Traditional Bavarian elegance

Sofitel Munich Bayerpost – Modern luxury with classic touches

Budget-Friendly Stays:

Meininger Hotel München City Center – Modern hostel with private rooms

Hotel Jedermann – Family-run establishment

A&O München Central – Affordable and clean accommodations

Don’t Miss Out on Oktoberfest!

Munich books up fast during Oktoberfest—hotels sell out months ahead! Whether you’re craving sizzling bratwurst in a buzzing beer tent or hunting for vegan German eats, you’ll need the perfect home base for your food adventure.

From first-bite pretzels to last-sip beers, make every moment delicious. Book your ideal Oktoberfest stay with CuddlyNest today—find hotels, apartments, and unique stays just steps from the action!

Secure Your Spot Now →

FAQs For Oktoberfest Food

1. What’s the best time to visit Oktoberfest to avoid crowds but still enjoy the food?

Answer: Weekday mornings (before 3 PM) are less crowded but still lively—perfect for trying food without the rush!

2. Can I bring kids to Oktoberfest, and what child-friendly food options are there?

Answer: Yes! Kids love mini pretzels, sweet pancakes (Kaiserschmarrn), and grilled chicken (Hendl). Beer tents have high chairs and kid menus.

3. Are there gluten-free Oktoberfest food options?

Answer: Some vendors offer gluten-free sausages (check for certified labels) and potato dishes (like roasted potatoes or salad). Always ask about cross-contamination.

4. How much cash should I bring for Oktoberfest food?

Answer: Most tents are cash-only. Budget €30–50/day per person for meals (dishes cost €5–20 each). ATMs on-site charge high fees—bring euros in advance!