As an American trying German food for the first time, I wasn’t sure what to get beyond a bratwurst and maybe a pretzel but what I discovered was a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly diverse culinary experience that went far beyond the stereotypes. I tried schnitzel, perfectly breaded and golden brown, served with fries and a side of tangy sauerkraut. The textures and flavors were simple but incredibly satisfying. I quickly realized that German food isn’t flashy, but it’s deeply rooted in tradition and comfort. What surprised me most was the variety not only with the food items but the types of Red Bull and Monster offered here that isn’t in America and also freshly baked pretzels that were soft on the inside and perfectly salted. Every dish seemed made to warm you up and fill you up, which makes sense given the country’s cold winters. Dessert was good too. I had gelato and ice cream that somehow wasn’t too sweet, just rich and balanced. As someone used to fast food and sugary snacks, I found German food to be slower, more thoughtful, and built around better health. By the end of my first experience, I felt not just full, but the joy of eating well.
