5 Best Places to Eat Sauerbraten in Berlin

Sauerbraten is a traditional type of German pot roast that’s very popular in Berlin. It is slowly marinated, then braised until tender to create a meat that’s deeply rich with tangy-sweet flavors. It’s typically served with red cabbage, potato dumplings, and a rich gravy. It’s a must-try dish for any authentic Berlin food tour.  

What Is Sauerbraten? The Story Behind Germany’s Signature Roast

Sauerbraten is considered by many to be Germany’s national dish. Its history dates back to the time of Charlemagne when marinating meat in vinegar and spices was a method of preservation before refrigeration.

Over the centuries different regional variations developed. Berlin-style sauerbraten is heartier with well-spiced gravy. It’s cherished by Berliners for its deep, slow-cooked flavors and connection to Germany’s rich culinary heritage.

Where to Eat Authentic Sauerbraten in Berlin

Explore some of my favourite sauerbraten spots below.  

Zur letzten Instanz

With a history dating back to 1621, Zur letzten Instanz lays claim to being Berlin’s oldest restaurant. They also serve a truly authentic Sauerbraten where you can taste the heritage while dining in such a historic setting.

Zur letzten Instanz version of sauerbraten is very traditional. They use slowly braised marinated beef, served with a rich gravy. Along with classic sides like red cabbage and potato dumplings.

I recommend trying sauerbraten here first to experience what it was and is today. Then you can go to other places to experience what sauerbraten can be.

Zur letzten Instanz (€30–40) – Waisenstraße 14-16, 10179 Berlin, Germany.

Max und Moritz

Photo credit: Max und Moritz

This beloved tavern in Kreuzberg specializes in hearty, old-school German cuisine, including a perfectly executed sauerbraten. The cozy, vintage atmosphere adds to the experience, making it a great place to enjoy a slow-cooked roast paired with local beer.

If you’re looking for a laid-back setting that also offers an authentic taste of sauerbraten, this is the place to go. It’s also a great opportunity to try other classic German dishes to start your Berlin food tour off on the right foot.

Max und Moritz (€30–40) – Oranienstraße 162, 10969 Berlin, Germany. 

Lebensmittel in Mitte

This is a stylish, upscale German restaurant that offers a more refined version of sauerbraten. It typically incorporates seasonal ingredients that connect you with the local terroir of the marketplace.

The cozy yet modern ambiance makes it an excellent spot for enjoying German classics in an elevated dining experience. It’s one of my top takes for a special occasion meal, with sauerbraten that is simultaneously authentic, with minor creative twists.

Lebensmittel in Mitte (€20–40) – Rochstraße 2, 10178 Berlin, Germany. 

Das Lemke

Photo credit: Das Lemke

This is a craft brewery near Alexanderplatz, with a Bavarian feel and nostalgic vibe. Brauhaus Das Lemke pairs its Sauerbraten with house-brewed beer, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. You can even taste the copper kettles they use in the brewing process, and how they influence the flavor of the beers.

Their take on sauerbraten features a deep, malty sauce. This both enhances the slow-cooked meat’s richness, while also creating a perfect complement to many of the beers they have on tap. Making it what might be the perfect spot in Berlin to enjoy beer and sauerbraten at the same time.

Das Lemke (€20–30) – S-Bahnbogen 143, Dircksenstraße, 10178 Berlin, Germany.

Wilhelm Hoeck 1892

Wilhelm Hoeck is conveniently near Charlottenburg Palace, making it an easy stop for a meal after touring. With a history dating back to 1892, it is one of Berlin’s oldest pubs, with a nostalgic ambiance that matches the centuries-old traditional German menu.

They are best known to the locals for dishes like flammkuchen, and small plates experiences that pair with the staggering assortment of German beers they have on tap. However, I think their sauerbraten is also a secret gem, that beautifully showcases the hearty Berlin style of the dish.

In a perfect world, you could tour the Charlottenburg Palace in the afternoon. Then stop at Wilhelm Hoeck for some small plates appetizers and beers. All leading up to a main course of some of Berlin’s best sauerbraten.

Wilhelm Hoeck 1892 (€20–30) – Wilmersdorfer Str. 149, 10585 Berlin, Germany.

Cooking Sauerbraten in Berlin: Where to Learn the Recipe

 

If you’re eager to master the art of Sauerbraten, Berlin offers a variety of cooking classes and workshops that make it easy to learn this classic German dish. It’s especially nice if you’re staying for more than a week in a vacation rental, where you can make sauerbraten in your own kitchen.

Culinary schools like Goldhahn & Sampson provide hands-on sauerbraten cooking lessons. They cover important topics like traditional marination techniques, slow-cooking methods, and how to find the perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors.

At Berlin Food Stories Cooking School, expert chefs will guide you through the entire process, from selecting high-quality ingredients to preparing authentic side dishes like red cabbage and potato dumplings. They also have a wide selection of other dishes, which can help you go deep into classical German cuisine.

Kochhaus in Berlin offers a deeply immersive experience with private sauerbraten workshops. These intensive classes are the perfect opportunity for you to refine your culinary skills.

Sources:

Zur Letzten Instanz. (n.d.). Zur Letzten Instanz – Berlin’s oldest restaurant. Retrieved March 17, 2025, from https://zurletzteninstanz.com/

Instagram. (n.d.). Lebensmittel in Mitte [Instagram location page]. Retrieved March 17, 2025, from https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/605449233178652/lebensmittel-in-mitte/

Max und Moritz. (n.d.). Max und Moritz Restaurant Berlin. Retrieved March 17, 2025, from http://maxundmoritzberlin.de/

Goldhahn und Sampson. (n.d.). Goldhahn und Sampson Online Shop. Retrieved March 17, 2025, from https://www.goldhahnundsampson.de/shop/index.php?language=en

Instagram. (n.d.). Kochhaus [Instagram profile]. Retrieved March 17, 2025, from https://www.instagram.com/kochhaus/

Wilhelm Hoeck 1892. (n.d.). Wilhelm Hoeck Berlin. Retrieved March 17, 2025, from http://www.wilhelm-hoeck.de/

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Berlin food tours. Retrieved March 17, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/berlin/