Aachen, the charming German city near the borders of Belgium and the Netherlands, is a dream for food lovers. With a mix of traditional German flavors and international influences, my day exploring Aachen’s culinary scene was nothing short of delightful. Here’s a rundown of what I ate and loved during my foodie adventure!
Breakfast: A Sweet Start at Nobis Printen
You can’t visit Aachen without trying Aachener Printen, the city’s signature spiced gingerbread. I started my morning at Nobis Printen, one of the best bakeries in town. Their traditional Printen cookies had a perfect balance of spice and sweetness, with varieties dipped in chocolate or studded with nuts. Paired with a strong German coffee, it was the perfect wake-up treat!
Mid-Morning Snack: Indulging in a Pastry at Café Middelberg
For a mid-morning pick-me-up, I stopped by Café Middelberg, a cozy café known for its fresh pastries. I couldn’t resist their Bienenstich (Bee Sting Cake)—a soft yeast cake filled with creamy custard and topped with caramelized almonds. Every bite was heavenly!
Lunch: Traditional Flavors at Zum Goldenen Einhorn
When lunchtime rolled around, I craved something hearty. I headed to Zum Goldenen Einhorn, a traditional German restaurant serving regional specialties. I ordered Sauerbraten, a slow-marinated beef dish served with red cabbage and potato dumplings. The meat was tender, the flavors rich, and the accompanying gravy was irresistible.
Afternoon Break: Coffee & Cake at Van den Daele
No foodie day is complete without a coffee and cake stop. I visited Van den Daele, an old-world café with charming decor. Their Apfelstrudel, served warm with a side of vanilla sauce, was a comforting afternoon treat. The flaky pastry and cinnamon-spiced apples made for a perfect combination.
Dinner: A Culinary Delight at Ratskeller Aachen
For dinner, I chose Ratskeller Aachen, an elegant restaurant inside the historic town hall. I tried the Himmel un Ääd, a traditional dish featuring mashed potatoes, black pudding, and caramelized onions. It was a wonderful mix of savory and slightly sweet flavors, reflecting the region’s rustic charm.
Final Stop: Drinks & Views at Aachener Brauhaus
To wrap up the night, I stopped by Aachener Brauhaus, a local brewery offering a variety of German beers. I sipped on a refreshing Aachener Lager while soaking in the cozy atmosphere. The crispness of the beer was the perfect end to my foodie day in Aachen.
