Dining Out in Germany: Expat Guide

Dining Out in Germany: A Complete Expat’s Guide to Restaurant Culture, Etiquette & Food Adventures

Introduction

Are you new to Germany and feeling a little nervous about your first restaurant visit? Imagine this: you walk into a bustling German eatery, unsure whether to wait to be seated, confused by the menu terms, or wondering—how much should I tip? Whether you’re used to different dining customs or just want to avoid that rookie expat mistake, understanding how dining out in Germany works will make each meal more enjoyable.

At liveingermany.de, we’ve helped thousands of expats and newcomers navigate moments like these. This comprehensive guide unpacks the ins and outs of dining Germany style—covering eating out Germany etiquette, German restaurants, food culture, and those all-important practical details. Let’s make your next culinary adventure in Germany stress-free and delicious!

Expat Challenges: Navigating the German Dining Scene

Moving abroad is exhilarating, but settling into a new country comes with its own set of emotional and practical hurdles. For many expats, the German restaurant experience can feel strange at first—there’s the language, unspoken etiquette, and even payment methods to decode.

Take Anna, a Canadian expat in Berlin. “The first time I dined out, I froze at the door, not knowing if I should wait or just sit. The menu was full of words like ‘Vorspeise’ and ‘Hauptgericht’, and I wasn’t sure if I was being rude by waving at a waiter.”

If you’ve felt similar uncertainty, you’re not alone. Understanding these customs not only helps avoid embarrassment but also can be the first real connection to Germany’s rich culture.

Mastering Meals: Practical Guidance & Cultural Know-How

Drawing on research and the lived experience of countless expats, here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about eating in Germany’s restaurants.

Seating & Reservations

• No need to wait: Unlike in the US or UK, you don’t usually wait to be seated. Walk right in, find any free table, and make yourself comfortable 1(https://www.dmrtravel.com/tips-for-dining-out-in-germany/).
• Table sharing: If a restaurant is busy, you may be asked to share your table—or you can ask others for a seat at theirs. This is friendly, not intrusive.
• Reservations: For groups larger than four, making a reservation is wise, especially in popular places.

Ordering & Decoding the Menu

• The menu is your “Speisekarte.” A “Menü” actually refers to a set meal, not the entire card 2(https://speechling.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-to-dine-in-germany/).
• Essential vocabulary:
• Vorspeise = Starter
• Hauptgericht = Main course
• Vegetarisch = Vegetarian
• Waitstaff typically won’t check on you constantly; signal when you’re ready to order or need the bill (“die Rechnung, bitte”).

Drinks & Water—Don’t Get Caught Out

• Water is not free: Tap water can be a strange request; instead, order “stilles Wasser” for still or “Mineralwasser” for sparkling 1(https://www.dmrtravel.com/tips-for-dining-out-in-germany/).
• Bottle sizes: Bottled water and soft drinks come in specific sizes and prices; larger bottles are often better value.
• Want to drink like a local? German beers and regional wines are always a safe (and tasty) bet.

Mealtimes & Traditions

• Main meal (Mittagessen): Traditionally, lunch is the main hot meal, but dinner is a popular time for dining out too 3(https://www.study-in-germany.com/en/germany/discover-germany/german-food-culture/).
• Kaffee und Kuchen: Join in the cherished afternoon ritual of coffee and cake—social, comforting, and not to be missed.

Table Manners & Tipping

• Continental style: Keep your hands (not elbows!) on the table; use fork in the left hand and knife in the right 4(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-EhOnrkuOo).
• Bill only on request: Your check won’t arrive until you specifically ask for it.
• Tipping: Rounding up or 5–10% is standard; say, “Make it €19, please,” if your bill is €17.80. 15% for exceptional service is appreciated, but less is acceptable for poor service.

Restaurant Types & What to Expect

• Choices are vast—from döner kebab stands and currywurst stalls to fine dining and bakeries.
• Look for regional specialties like Schnitzel or Käsespätzle; vegetarian dishes are increasingly available—and labeled 5(https://amyseo.ca/germany-and-food/).
• Upscale spots: opt for smart casual attire, otherwise, dress codes are quite relaxed 2(https://speechling.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-to-dine-in-germany/).

Language & Payment Practicalities

• Language barrier? In cities, English menus and staff are common, but learning key phrases or scanning the menu for “vegetarisch” or “vegan” is helpful.
• Bring cash: Many smaller restaurants or bakeries don’t accept cards.

Practical Tips for Expats

1. Learn Essential German Dining Phrases: - “Ein Tisch für zwei, bitte” (a table for two, please) - “Ich hätte gern …” (I’d like …) - “Die Rechnung, bitte” (the bill, please)

Want to speed up your language learning? Try a tailored app like Memrise German app and make every ordering experience more relaxed and confident. (Affiliate link – we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.)

2. Plan for Payment: - Ask, “Nehmen Sie Karte?” (Do you accept card?) before ordering to avoid surprises. - Always carry some euros for those cash-only venues.

3. Respect Local Rhythms: - Check opening hours—many places close after lunch before reopening for dinner. - Embrace traditions: Table sharing is normal, and bread with meals is cherished.

Reflective Question:

What is your biggest challenge or funniest experience eating out in Germany?

Contextual Affiliate Recommendations

• Want to explore more regional food and culture or stock your kitchen with local specialties? Check out Lidl for affordable groceries and authentic German items. (Affiliate link – we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.)

Live in Germany’s Expertise: Your Partner in Expat Life

At liveingermany.de, our mission is to empower expats and internationals to thrive in Germany—not just survive. Our resources are crafted by writers and editors who’ve been exactly where you are: staring at a German menu, learning how to tip, or figuring out what “Kaffee und Kuchen” really means.

We don’t just offer guides like this one—we bring together practical checklists, a thriving expat community, and trustworthy tips updated for 2025 and beyond. That’s why thousands turn to us as their simplest path to feeling at home in Germany.

Sources

1. Tips for Dining Out in Germany | DMR Travel
2. What You Need to Know to Dine in Germany | Speechling Blog
3. German Food Culture | Study in Germany
4. Dining Etiquette in Germany | YouTube
5. Germany and Food | AmySEO

FAQs: Dining Out in Germany

1. What is dining culture like in Germany?
Dining culture in Germany is relaxed but structured. You seat yourself in most restaurants, signal to order or pay, and will often find a strong emphasis on regional dishes and traditions like Kaffee und Kuchen. Table sharing is normal, especially in busy places. (Sources: DMR Travel, Study in Germany)

2. How much should I tip in restaurants?
Generally, 5–10% or rounding up the bill is customary. For exceptional service, 15% is appreciated. Tipping is done by stating the total amount you want to pay, rather than leaving money on the table. (Source: YouTube – German Dining Etiquette)

Dining out in Germany doesn’t have to be daunting—armed with these insights and tips, every meal can become an opportunity to connect, explore, and enjoy! For more advice, community stories, and practical guides, keep exploring liveingermany.de.