The Gluten-Free Guide to Berlin

Visiting any new city can be a daunting experience for anyone with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, but in Berlin, gluten-free fare is abundant. Not only is it readily available, but it also tends to be high-quality and incredibly tasty.

I often need to make accommodations for gluten-free travelers on my Berlin food tours, and the variety of wheat-free options in the city means this isn’t typically too challenging. While some eateries have specific menu items that are gluten-free, Berlin also boasts some superb, fully wheatless establishments.

In this guide to going gluten-free in Berlin, I’ll break down the best restaurants, cafes, and bakeries that are safe and reliable for celiac foodies.

Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Berlin

Schnitzelei Mitte

Photo credit: Schnitzelei Mitte

Thanks to Schnitzelei Mitte, you won’t have to venture far to feast on some of Berlin’s most delectable, gluten-free takes on local cuisine. Situated in the central Mitte district, this slick, quintessentially German eatery features brick-covered walls and warm wooden decor.

All their schnitzels are available with gluten-free breadcrumbs, including the classic veal option. The meat was super tender and delicate, while the breadcrumbs had a satisfying crunch. I was also a fan of their sides, particularly the refreshing cucumber salad.

Schnitzelei Mitte (€20 – €30) – Chausseestr. 8 Hinterhof erreichbar über: Chausseestr. 8 oder, Novalisstraße 11, 10115 Berlin, Germany – Open every Monday to Saturday from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm and every Sunday from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

Mamma Monti

If you fancy a break from traditional dishes and street foods in Berlin, I advise you to check out Mamma Monti in Charlottenburg. A true Italian gem, complete with chequered tablecloths and a relaxed atmosphere, Mamma Monti is a stellar spot for any gluten-free diner in Berlin.

The gnocchi came highly recommended by the staff, and I soon learned why. I savored each pillowy morsel and also loved the choice of accompaniments, which included herbaceous, garlicky pesto, and tangy goat’s cheese.

Mamma Monti (€20 – €30) – Carmerstraße 11, 10623 Berlin, Germany – Open every Monday to Friday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm and every Saturday and Sunday from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

The Crazy Little Greek

Photo credit: The Crazy Little Greek

Those of you looking for food that’s both vegan and gluten-free in Berlin have to add The Crazy Little Greek in Mitte to your list. This place has all the vibes of a casual Greek taverna with its mosaic-like tables and welcoming staff.

My buddy and I decided to share the platter, which consisted of seven different snacking plates. My personal favorite was the melitzanosalata dip. It was made from smoked eggplant mixed with nutty garlic, fruity olive oil, and zesty lemon juice and teamed with crispy gluten-free crackers.

The Crazy Little Greek (€20 – €30) – Koppenpl. 1, 10115 Berlin, Germany – Closed every Monday and Sunday, open every Tuesday to Saturday from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

Gluten-Free Bakeries and Cafes in Berlin

Cafe Melon

Photo credit: Cafe Melon

A haven for food that’s primarily gluten-free in Berlin’s Winsviertel area, Cafe Melon whips up some seriously goodcakes, paninis, and breakfast dishes. This place also gets some extra points for the interior, as I loved the contrast between the stylish furniture and old-style brick walls.

I stopped by in the early afternoon with a hankering for a dessert or pastry and quickly settled on the gluten-free pain au chocolat. It was much airier and flakier than I’d expected from a wheatless version of a pastry like this and had a lovely, delicate flavor elevated by the sweet chocolate filling.

Cafe Melon (€10 – €20) – Greifswalder Str. 217, 10405 Berlin, Germany – Open every Monday and Wednesday to Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, closed every Tuesday.

Aera

Photo credit: Aera

Regularly dubbed as one of the top gluten-free bakeries in Berlin, Aera in Mitte is a must. The distinctive, cobalt-blue walls stopped me in my tracks when I was strolling around the area. However, I soon discovered that it was the sourdough sandwiches, homemade pastries, and oat-filled cookies that made this place so special.

It was a pretty chill afternoon in Berlin, so I opted for the grilled cheese. I was skeptical about how the gluten-free sourdough would taste, but it was crusty and lightweight, perfectly holding the sharp, gooey cheddar and juicy tomatoes inside.

Aera (€10 – €20) – Rosenthaler Str. 72, 10119 Berlin, Germany – Open every Monday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Friday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm and every Sunday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Brotquelle

Brotquelle, an unassuming little haunt in Friedrichshain, has everything I love in an old-school bakery. From the moment I stepped inside, the rustic wooden furnishings, the smell of freshly baked treats, and the kind staff made me feel right at home.

I came here with a friend who was on the hunt for gluten-free goods and left having tucked into one of the most incredible chocolate cakes I’ve ever tried. Amidst the lightweight sponge were layers of rich, velvety chocolate cream, all resting on top of a buttery biscuit base.

Brotquelle (€10 – €20) –Gärtnerstraße 2, 10245 Berlin, Germany – Closed every Monday, open Tuesday to Friday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm and every Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Celiac-Friendly Grocery Stores and Markets

Photo credit: Biogoods

Biogoods: Located close to the Kollwitzkiez area, Biogoods is a health food store that also serves as a delicatessen and coffee shop. They carry a bunch of gluten-free goods and even prepare delicious wheatless cakes, pastries, and breads.

Vitalia: Vitalia is a German chain that stocks everything from gluten-free bagels and cookies to celiac-friendly beers. In Berlin, you’ll find branches all over the city in districts like Mitte and Pankow.

Photo credit: Bio Company

Bio Company: Quality gluten-free fare is available in any of the Bio Company‘s numerous locations. Organic foods and products for those with specific dietary requirements are what these guys do best.

Photo credit: Rewe

Rewe: One of Germany’s best-loved supermarket chains, Rewe has a hefty selection of wheat-free items. Their stores are dotted across the city, which makes gluten-free dining in Berlin significantly easier for locals and visitors.

Navigating Gluten-Free Dining in Berlin

• Over half of Berlin’s population speaks English, but many people, particularly older residents, have little to no English. That’s why it’s a good idea to learn some key phrases before your trip to ensure you can communicate your needs, such as “Ich habe Zöliakie” (I have celiac disease) or “Ist das glutenfrei?” (Is this gluten-free?).
• Alternatively, you may prefer to acquire a gluten-free restaurant card in German, which will explain your allergies and specific requirements.
• Watch for gluten-free certifications in restaurants or cafes, which may be displayed near the entrance or on the menu.
• Apps like ‘Find Me Gluten Free’ are fantastic, as they show you entirely gluten-free spots and those with suitable menu items.
• A general tip for gluten-free living in Berlin is to always speak to the staff about the measures they take to accommodate those with gluten intolerances. If they can’t assure you that your dishes will be prepared in a separate area with different appliances and utensils, it’s best to avoid dining at that establishment.

Conclusion

Germany’s capital has a staggering number of celiac-friendly dining options, and these spots are the best in business. These eateries prove that you can enjoy Berlin’s finest gluten-free grub while still immersing yourself in the city’s thrilling culinary scene.

Sources:

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Berlin food tours & culinary experiences. Eating Europe. https://www.eatingeurope.com/berlin/

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Berlin street food: The ultimate guide. Eating Europe. https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/berlin-street-food/

Schnitzelei. (n.d.). Schnitzelei Mitte. Schnitzelei. https://schnitzelei.de/mitte/en/

Lily Burger. (n.d.). Lily Burger – Berlin. Lily Burger. https://lily-burger.de/

Mamma Monti. (n.d.). Mamma Monti – Italian cuisine. Mamma Monti. https://www.mamma-monti.com/

Brotquelle. (n.d.). Brotquelle – Organic sourdough bakery. Brotquelle. https://brotquelle.de/

Café Melon. (n.d.). Café Melon Berlin. Café Melon. https://www.cafemelon.de/

ÆRA Bread. (n.d.). ÆRA Bread – Sourdough bakery Berlin. ÆRA Bread. https://aerabread.com/

BioGoods. (n.d.). BioGoods – Organic products. BioGoods. https://www.biogoods.de/

VITALIA Reformhaus. (n.d.). VITALIA Reformhaus Berlin Friedrichstraße. VITALIA Reformhaus. https://www.vitalia-reformhaus.de/marktfinder/vitalia-reformhaus-berlin-friedrichstrasse

BIO COMPANY. (n.d.). BIO COMPANY Markt – Köpenicker Straße, Berlin. BIO COMPANY. https://www.biocompany.de/bio-company-markt-finden/l/berlin/kopenicker-strasse-103/3380392

REWE. (n.d.). REWE Markt Uhlandstraße, Berlin-Charlottenburg. REWE. https://www.rewe.de/marktseite/berlin-charlottenburg/1931619/rewe-markt-uhlandstr-30/