Top 5 Places to Eat in Cologne

Written by Celine Fournier, Elsa Holm, Felix Schmidt, Finn Weber, Sandrine Simon
16/09/2025
Stunning view of Cologne Cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge illuminated at dusk over the Rhine River.
Renato Dehnhardt, Pexels

Cologne's dining scene offers a delightful blend of traditional German heartiness, innovative fine dining, and authentic international flavors, catering to diverse tastes from casual diners to discerning foodies.

1. Bei Oma Kleinmann

Cuisine: Traditional German (Schnitzel)

Stepping into Bei Oma Kleinmann feels like visiting a beloved German grandmother's home – if she served the most incredible schnitzel. The atmosphere is consistently lively, unpretentious, and full of local charm. I found the portions generous and the schnitzel, particularly the veal, cooked to perfection with a golden, crispy crust and tender interior. It is a quintessential Cologne experience for those seeking hearty, authentic German fare. Insider tip: It can get very busy, so be prepared for a wait, or try to visit outside peak hours.

Price: €15-€25 per person

Getting There: Located in the Kwartier Latäng neighborhood, it is easily reachable by tram (Rudolfplatz station) or a comfortable walk from the city center.

2. Rievkoochebud

Cuisine: German Street Food (Reibekuchen)

For an authentic, quick, and incredibly satisfying Cologne snack, Rievkoochebud is my top recommendation. This modest street-side window specializes in one thing: Reibekuchen, traditional potato pancakes. Each one is freshly prepared, delivering a perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, flavorful potato inside. They are typically served with classic apple sauce, which provides a lovely sweet and tangy contrast, but a chili-honey option is also available for a twist.

Price: €3-€7 per person

Getting There: Found in the heart of the Old Town on Salzgasse, it is a short walk from the Cologne Cathedral and Heumarkt.

3. Ox & Klee

Cuisine: Inventive Pan-European Fine Dining

Ox & Klee offers an extraordinary two-Michelin-starred dining experience within the modern, architectural beauty of the Kranhaus buildings along the Rhine. The atmosphere is refined yet relaxed, focusing on the innovative 'Experience Taste' menus. Opting for either the 'Ox' (fish and meat) or 'Klee' (vegetarian) journey, each course is an artful presentation of unique flavors and textures, meticulously crafted. The non-alcoholic drink pairings are also a creative highlight.

Price: Tasting menus typically range from €150-€250+ per person, excluding curated drink pairings.

Getting There: Situated in the Rheinauhafen district (Im Zollhafen 18). It is a pleasant scenic walk along the Rhine, or a short taxi ride from the city center. Tram stops like Severinstraße or Ubierring are also within reasonable walking distance.

4. CARUSO Pastabar

Cuisine: Authentic Italian (Pasta)

CARUSO Pastabar, a Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient, is a delightful, intimate spot dedicated to the art of handmade pasta. The focus here is on quality ingredients and masterful preparation, resulting in pasta dishes that truly stand out. I particularly enjoyed the fusilli with ox cheeks and the rich squid ink pasta with seafood. The burrata, consistently fresh, pairs beautifully with their sweet peperonata peppers, adding another layer to the authentic Italian experience. It provides a warm, genuine ambiance ideal for couples or a relaxed evening.

Price: Main pasta dishes typically range from €15-€25.

Getting There: Located on Kasparstraße, it is quite central and easily accessible by foot from areas like Rudolfplatz or via various tram lines.

5. Ginti Indisches Restaurant

Cuisine: Authentic North Indian

For those craving the rich and diverse flavors of Indian cuisine, Ginti Indisches Restaurant on Heumarkt delivers an authentic experience. The menu boasts a fantastic array of North Indian specialties, from succulent tandoor-cooked meats, which impart a wonderful smoky char, to creamy gravies and aromatic curries. The naan bread is always fresh and complements the dishes perfectly. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a comfortable choice for a flavorful meal, whether you prefer something mild or a dish with a robust spice profile.

Price: Main courses typically range from €12-€25.

Getting There: Conveniently located on Heumarkt, it is easily accessible on foot from the Cologne Cathedral and major public transport hubs in the city center.

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