The Oktoberfest is not only the largest folk festival in the world, but also a true paradise for lovers of Bavarian cuisine. From hearty delicacies to sweet treats – the culinary variety is overwhelming. But which dishes should you definitely not miss? We asked our students and Oktoberfest visitors and compiled their top food tips, as well as adding a few of our own. Here you can find out which dishes you shouldn’t miss at Oktoberfest!
Aber welche Speisen sollte man auf keinen Fall verpassen? Wir haben unsere Studierenden und Oktoberfestbesucher gefragt und ihre Top-Essens-Tipps zusammengestellt und auch ein paar unserer eigenen Tipps beigesteuert. Hier erfährst du, welche Gerichte du auf dem Oktoberfest nicht verpassen solltest!
Half Roasted Chicken
The roast chicken is an absolute classic at the Oktoberfest and should not be missing from any culinary list. Crispy fried and perfectly seasoned, the half chicken is one of the most popular dishes at the Oktoberfest. It is traditionally served with a pretzel or potato salad – a hearty meal that goes perfectly with a pint of beer. If you visit the Oktoberfest, you should definitely not miss out on this Bavarian delicacy!
Pretzel
The Brezn, or pretzel, is another must at the Oktoberfest and a true Bavarian classic. With its golden-brown crust and soft interior, it is the perfect accompaniment to many Oktoberfest specialties such as roast chicken or veal sausage. Whether on its own, with butter or even as an accompaniment to a hearty Obazda – the pretzel is an indispensable treat at the Oktoberfest and ideal for quenching your thirst for a cold beer.
Duck with red Cabbage and Dumplings
Duck with red cabbage and dumplings is a real highlight of Bavarian festival cuisine and an absolute delight for lovers of hearty food at the Oktoberfest. The crispy roast duck is usually served with juicy red cabbage and a large, fluffy potato or bread dumpling. This hearty combination offers a perfect balance of strong flavors and is ideal to fortify yourself on a long Wiesn day. If you like it traditional and filling, you should definitely not miss out on this Bavarian delicacy!
German Mac and Cheese
Käsespätzle are the epitome of Bavarian soul food and a real insider tip at the Oktoberfest. The homemade spaetzle is mixed with plenty of melted cheese and often refined with crispy fried onions. This hearty, creamy specialty is a must for cheese lovers and offers a delicious alternative to the meat-heavy dishes at the Wiesn. Käsespätzle are not only filling, but also the perfect way to recharge your batteries after a pint of beer and start the next round of festivities.
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a modern snack that is becoming increasingly popular at Oktoberfest. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside and slightly sweet in taste, they offer an exciting alternative to classic chips. They are often served with delicious dips such as garlic aioli or a spicy chili mayo, making them the perfect snack between meals. Especially if you are looking for something lighter or vegetarian, these sweet and savory fries are a great addition to traditional Bavarian cuisine.
German famous Potato Salad
Potato salad is an essential side dish at the Oktoberfest and goes perfectly with many Bavarian classics such as roast chicken or veal sausage. In Bavaria, it is traditionally prepared without mayonnaise, instead refined with a light marinade of vinegar, oil, onions and fresh herbs. This refreshing, hearty salad brings a pleasant balance to the more hearty main courses and is a must for anyone who wants to enjoy typical Bavarian cuisine to the full. Potato salad is a real classic that never fails to impress at the Oktoberfest!
Obatzter
Obatzter, or Obatzda, is a typical Bavarian cheese spread and an absolute favorite at the Oktoberfest. Made from mature Camembert cheese mixed with butter, cream cheese, onions and spices such as paprika, caraway and sometimes a dash of beer, it is a hearty specialty that goes perfectly with pretzels. Obatzter is often served in beer gardens and festival tents as a hearty snack and is particularly popular with cheese lovers. Creamy, spicy and simply irresistible – this spread should not be missing from any visit to the Wiesn!
Ox Shreds Roll
The ox shreds in a roll is a real insider tip for meat lovers at the Oktoberfest. This hearty delicacy consists of tender, juicy ox shoulder meat, which is served in fine strips – the “shreds” – in a fresh roll. The meat is often freshly cut directly from the huge ox on the spit, which gives it its unique taste. The whole thing is complemented by tasty sauces and sometimes fresh coleslaw. The Ochsenfetzen-Semmel is the perfect snack for anyone who wants to enjoy something hearty and typically Bavarian!
Gingerbread Hearts
Gingerbread hearts are one of the sweet classics of the Oktoberfest and are not only a treat, but also a popular souvenir of a visit to the Wiesn. The heart-shaped gingerbread cookies are often colorfully decorated and inscribed with loving or witty sayings. Although they are particularly popular as a gift or souvenir, they can of course also be eaten directly. With their spicy gingerbread flavor and light sweetness, they are a delicious treat and are simply part of every Oktoberfest experience!
Kaiserschmarrn
Kaiserschmarrn is a sweet temptation that is a must at the Oktoberfest. This fluffy, pan-fried pancake batter is torn into large pieces, lightly caramelized and often sprinkled with powdered sugar. Kaiserschmarrn is traditionally served with apple sauce, stewed plums or other fruity toppings. This heavenly combination of fluffy dough and sweet and sour fruit makes Kaiserschmarrn the perfect dessert or sweet snack for in between meals – a must for anyone with a sweet tooth at the Oktoberfest!
If you want to see our students rave about their favorites at the Oktoberfest, watch our short video “What is your favorite Food at the Octoberfest?“ on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube.
