Germans have always loved their meat, potatoes and beer. However, the cooking found in Germany today has evolved and is perhaps the best in Europe. From Schnitzel and Spatzle to Sauerkraut and Spicy Sausages, each region has its own particular food and drink that are a large part of its defining culture. During your visit to Berlin, do sample some of the local dishes such as Eisbein mit Sauerkraut und Erbsenpuree (pork knuckle with sauerkraut and mushy peas), bouletten (meatballs) or currywurst (curried sausages)!

Turkish food is very popular in Berlin and numerous Turkish ‘imbiss' stands selling delicious, authentic ‘falafel' or ‘kebabs' can be found all over the city. There are also many fine Indian and Italian restaurants in Berlin. Open-air markets such as Winterfeldpl opens every Saturday morning and has a lot to offer. For good cheap food Kastanienallee is better. It's a popular area with artists, and students and has a certain Bohemian charm. Try the Prater Garten, Berlin's oldest beer garden and an excellent place in the summer. When in the Bavarian region of the country, you should also try Brez'n, which is a type of pretzel, with Leberwurst spread on top.

With over 800 breweries in Bavaria, beer is thoroughly enjoyed by Germans. First class wines are also produced in Franconia and on the Rhine and Mosel. Visitors to Berlin should try the local brew, Berliner Weibe mit Schub (a mixture of wheat beer and syrup).