10 German Restaurants In California You Have To Try At Least Once
Craving something hearty? Something old-world. Something that feels worlds away from the usual dinner routine? These German restaurants bring exactly that energy to the table.
Think golden schnitzels with the perfect crunch, sausages rich with smoky flavor, and soft pretzels that arrive warm enough to melt the butter on contact. The kind of food that slows the night down in the best way.
California has a way of turning a simple German meal into a full experience you didn’t even know you needed.
Some spots buzz with beer garden liveliness, where steins clink and laughter carries across long communal tables.
Others feel intimate and nostalgic, filled with wood accents, imported décor, and recipes that haven’t changed in decades.
You’ll find family legacies, cultural traditions, and comfort dishes that taste like they’ve been perfected over generations.
Whether you’re chasing Oktoberfest vibes or just want a cozy escape from the everyday dining scene, these restaurants offer more than great food. They offer atmosphere, character, and a reason to linger long after the last bite.
1. Wirtshaus
Bavarian culture comes alive at this lively spot on La Brea Avenue, where the outdoor beer garden creates an atmosphere that feels transported from Munich.
The restaurant sits at 345 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036, in a neighborhood known for its diverse dining options.
Long communal tables encourage conversation among strangers who quickly become friends over shared plates and laughter.
The menu focuses on traditional favorites that satisfy hearty appetites without pretension. Sausages arrive sizzling hot with golden-brown casings that snap when you bite into them, releasing flavorful juices.
Sauerkraut provides the perfect tangy contrast, while soft pretzels come out of the oven with coarse salt crystals dotting their twisted surfaces.
Service moves at a comfortable pace that matches the relaxed vibe, with staff members who know the menu well and can guide newcomers through unfamiliar dishes.
The space gets busier on weekend evenings when the energy level rises and the beer garden fills with groups celebrating various occasions.
Weekday visits offer a quieter experience where conversation flows easily without competing against background noise.
Parking can require patience during peak hours, so arriving a bit early helps avoid circling the block. The restaurant welcomes families during earlier hours, though the atmosphere shifts toward adults as evening progresses.
2. Schroeder’s
History permeates every corner of this San Francisco institution that has served German fare since 1893, making it one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in the city.
Dark wood paneling lines the walls while vintage photographs document decades of patrons who have passed through its doors.
The atmosphere at 240 Front St in San Francisco carries a sense of permanence that newer establishments cannot replicate, with worn floorboards and aged fixtures telling stories of countless meals shared over generations.
Classic preparations dominate the menu, executed with consistency that keeps regulars returning for their favorite dishes year after year.
Sauerbraten showcases the patience required for proper marinating, resulting in tender beef with complex flavors from its sweet-and-sour sauce.
Potato pancakes arrive crispy on the edges while remaining soft in the center, served alongside applesauce that provides sweetness to balance savory elements.
The dining room accommodates a mix of business professionals during lunch hours and diverse crowds during dinner service.
Long tables foster a communal dining experience where strangers might find themselves seated elbow-to-elbow, particularly during busy periods.
Service maintains efficiency without feeling rushed, with servers who have often worked at the restaurant for years.
Downtown location makes parking challenging, so public transportation or ride services offer practical alternatives. The restaurant closes on Sundays, so planning ahead prevents disappointment for weekend visitors.
3. Suppenküche
Comfort defines the experience at this Hayes Valley spot where German home cooking takes center stage without fancy presentations or elaborate plating.
The name translates to “soup kitchen,” reflecting the restaurant’s focus on hearty, satisfying meals that warm both body and spirit.
Exposed brick walls and simple wooden furniture create an unpretentious environment where the food speaks for itself.
Portion sizes reflect European sensibilities rather than American excess, though dishes still satisfy hungry diners without leaving them uncomfortably full.
Goulash arrives in a deep bowl with tender chunks of beef swimming in rich gravy, accompanied by bread for soaking up every last drop.
Vegetable sides receive equal attention as meat dishes, prepared simply to highlight natural flavors rather than masking them with heavy sauces.
The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis without accepting reservations, which can mean waiting during peak dinner hours.
Communal seating arrangements at 525 Laguna St, San Francisco encourage interaction among diners, creating a social atmosphere that some find appealing while others prefer more privacy.
Staff members maintain a casual, friendly approach that matches the overall vibe of the space.
The neighborhood location puts the restaurant within walking distance of cultural venues and entertainment options, making it a convenient choice before or after events.
Street parking requires patience and possibly circling several blocks, so arriving early or using alternative transportation reduces stress.
4. Brotzeit Lokal
Contemporary German dining gets a California interpretation at this 1000 Embarcadero, Oakland spot that honors tradition while embracing local ingredients and current culinary trends.
The open kitchen allows diners to watch preparations, adding an element of theater to the meal.
Industrial design elements combine with warmer touches like wooden accents and soft lighting to create a space that feels both modern and welcoming.
Seasonal menu adjustments reflect ingredient availability, though core German dishes remain constant throughout the year.
Bratwurst gets sourced from quality purveyors who understand proper seasoning and texture, grilled to achieve caramelized exterior while maintaining juicy interiors.
Potato salad arrives at room temperature as tradition dictates, dressed with vinegar and oil rather than mayonnaise for a lighter, more refreshing side.
The restaurant attracts a younger crowd compared to more traditional German establishments, with a lively atmosphere that builds as evening progresses.
Noise levels can climb during busy periods, making conversation challenging for those seated near the bar area. Earlier dining times offer a calmer experience better suited for those seeking quieter meals.
Staff training emphasizes both menu knowledge and hospitality, resulting in service that balances attentiveness with giving diners space to enjoy their meals.
The restaurant accommodates dietary restrictions when possible, though advance notice helps the kitchen prepare appropriate alternatives.
5. Old World Restaurant
Cultural preservation drives this Huntington Beach establishment that has served as both restaurant and German market since 1978, creating a gathering place for the local German-American community.
The space combines dining areas with retail sections selling imported goods, allowing guests to take home ingredients for recreating dishes at home.
Decorative elements throughout reflect German heritage, from flags and crests to photographs documenting the restaurant’s history.
Home-style cooking emphasizes comfort over refinement, with generous portions that recall meals prepared in German households rather than restaurant kitchens.
Rouladen showcases the technique of rolling thin beef slices around savory fillings, then braising until fork-tender in rich gravy.
Red cabbage appears as a classic accompaniment, its sweet-and-sour profile providing contrast to heavier meat dishes.
The restaurant hosts annual events that celebrate German culture, with Oktoberfest being the most prominent celebration that attracts crowds from across the region.
Traditional costumes, music, and dancing create an immersive experience during these special occasions.
Regular dining service maintains a more low-key atmosphere where families and couples enjoy meals without theatrical entertainment.
Located at 7561 Center Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647, the restaurant sits in a neighborhood setting that feels removed from tourist areas despite being near the beach.
Parking availability exceeds what many German restaurants offer, with a dedicated lot that accommodates the customer base without overflow issues.
6. Kaiserhof Restaurant
Old-world tradition anchors this long-running San Diego establishment, where Bavarian hospitality meets Southern California warmth at 2253 Sunset Cliffs Blvd, San Diego, CA 92107.
The dining room leans into its heritage with carved wood accents, steins lining the walls, and murals that echo alpine villages, creating an atmosphere that feels transported from Munich rather than coastal California.
Generations of diners have passed through its doors, giving the restaurant a reputation as one of the region’s most enduring German culinary fixtures.
The kitchen focuses on time-honored recipes prepared with deliberate care rather than modern reinvention.
Sauerbraten stands as a signature dish, marinated for days before slow roasting to achieve its distinctive tang and tenderness.
Spaetzle arrives buttery and soft, soaking up gravies that define the restaurant’s comfort-driven approach to plating.
House-made sausages round out the menu, offering smoky depth balanced by sharp mustards and braised cabbage.
Seasonal beer selections highlight German imports alongside regional brews, reinforcing the beer hall spirit without overwhelming the dining experience.
Oktoberfest celebrations bring added liveliness, though everyday service maintains a relaxed, neighborhood feel where regulars gather for familiar meals.
7. Anja’s
Family ownership shapes the identity of this Berkeley institution, which has operated at 1966 University Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94704 as a reflection of personal heritage rather than commercial trend.
The intimate dining room favors simplicity, with lace curtains, framed European landscapes, and shelves of imported décor creating a setting that feels closer to a private home than a restaurant.
Its longevity within Berkeley’s evolving food scene speaks to the loyalty it has cultivated over decades. Recipes emphasize traditional preparation methods passed through generations.
Jägerschnitzel highlights breaded pork cutlets topped with mushroom gravy, delivering earthy depth without unnecessary embellishment.
Potato pancakes arrive crisp at the edges and tender within, often paired with applesauce that balances savory richness.
House soups rotate seasonally, reinforcing the home-style philosophy that defines the kitchen. The restaurant’s scale encourages slower dining, where conversations stretch and meals unfold without rush.
Beer and wine selections remain concise, prioritizing German labels that complement the menu rather than overshadow it.
8. Rasselbock Kitchen & Beer Garden
Modern touches blend with traditional German cooking at this establishment that appeals to diners seeking both authenticity and contemporary style.
The interior design strikes a balance between old-world charm and current aesthetics, with clean lines and thoughtful lighting that creates an inviting ambiance.
Large windows allow natural light to fill the space during daytime hours, while evening brings a warmer glow from carefully placed fixtures.
Menu at 4020 Atlantic Ave in Long Beach offerings span familiar classics alongside less common dishes that showcase regional German specialties.
Schnitzel arrives properly pounded thin and breaded to golden perfection, with a crispy coating that stays intact through the entire meal.
Spaetzle appears as a side option, its tender texture soaking up rich gravies and sauces that accompany various meat dishes.
The beer garden extends the dining area outdoors, where pergolas provide shade during sunny afternoons. Comfortable seating encourages lingering over meals rather than rushing through courses.
Noise levels remain moderate even when the space fills up, allowing conversations to continue without shouting.
Weekday lunches offer a quieter experience compared to weekend evenings when the restaurant attracts larger crowds.
The staff demonstrates knowledge about ingredients and preparation methods, helpful when choosing between unfamiliar options.
Dietary accommodations receive consideration, though the menu naturally focuses on meat-centered dishes that define German cuisine.
9. Kathrin’s Biergarten
Modern biergarten culture meets traditional German fare at this Rocklin gathering spot located at 4810 Granite Dr A1, Rocklin, CA 95677.
The space blends indoor dining with an expansive outdoor patio, where communal tables encourage shared experiences reminiscent of Munich’s open-air beer gardens.
String lights and timber accents soften the contemporary build-out, creating an inviting balance between authenticity and California casual.
The menu leans into hearty classics while accommodating a social dining format. Bratwurst platters arrive paired with sauerkraut and warm pretzels, designed for pairing with steins of imported lagers.
Schweinshaxe, when available, showcases slow-roasted pork knuckle with crisped skin and tender interior meat. House mustard varieties add sharpness that cuts through the menu’s richer elements.
Beer remains central to the experience, with rotating German imports and regional craft collaborations drawing enthusiasts from across Placer County.
Seasonal festivals, including Oktoberfest and Maifest, expand the biergarten atmosphere with live music and traditional games.
10. Harry’s Hofbrau
Cafeteria-style service defines the experience at this San Leandro landmark, operating at 14900 E 14th St, San Leandro, CA 94578 since the mid-20th century.
The expansive interior blends German hofbrau inspiration with classic American carvery tradition, where guests move along serving stations selecting freshly carved meats and hot sides.
Decorative touches remain understated, focusing attention on the scale and abundance of the food displays.
Roast beef carved to order stands as a cornerstone offering, though German influences appear in dishes like bratwurst, sauerkraut, and potato salad.
Turkey dinners and baked ham expand the menu’s cross-cultural appeal, reflecting the hofbrau concept’s evolution within California dining history.
Portions emphasize generosity, reinforcing the establishment’s reputation for value and comfort. Beer service complements the carvery format, with draft selections poured quickly to match the cafeteria flow.
Large dining halls accommodate families and group gatherings, creating an atmosphere that feels communal rather than intimate.
Located along East 14th Street, Harry’s Hofbrau benefits from ample on-site parking and straightforward access from surrounding East Bay neighborhoods. Its scale and longevity position it as both a dining destination and a regional institution.
