Eating My Way Through Nuremberg

Brezel, Baklava, and Bavaria—with a twist

Surviving in Bavaria as someone who doesn’t eat pork might sound like a challenge—but lucky for me, this wasn’t my first sausage-free rodeo. I already knew what Nuremberg had cooking in the gastronomy department—fried, beloved, and very pork. But skipping it? Not a big deal. I’ve actually eaten exceptionally well. Every meal? A win. No struggles here—just full plates and a happy me.

But surprise—I didn’t just survive. I thrived.

The truth is, you can absolutely enjoy Nuremberg’s food scene even if you skip the schnitzels (or at least the pork ones). Here’s how:

First of all: Brezel is life

Warm, chewy, golden perfection. It’s everywhere—sold fresh on the street, in bakeries, in cafés, on the go. I don’t even know how many Brezeln I had, but let’s just say my jeans felt it. Pair it with butter, cheese, or just eat it straight—there’s no wrong way.

The Café Scene is Strong

Bavaria knows how to do coffee. Nuremberg’s cafés are cozy, stylish, and often come with homemade cakes or flaky pastries. Even as someone who’s not into pork-heavy menus, I never felt like I was missing out. Between lattes, sweet treats, and people-watching, I was living.

Gelato. Waffles. Sweet Tooth Heaven.

Don’t ask me how Germany does gelato so well—but it does. Every other corner had a gelateria, and yes, I tried them. The scoops are generous, the flavours are legit, and they’re open even in cooler months. A little unexpected joy on every stroll.

And for my fellow dessert lovers?
I’m not usually a big sweets person, but when I’m travelling—or when it’s something a bit different—I’ll absolutely give it a go. And let me tell you, the waffles in Nuremberg? Worth it. Thick, golden, and topped with fresh fruit and a scoop (or two) of ice cream. Warm, cold, crunchy, juicy… all in one bite. Not exactly traditional Bavarian fare, but honestly? It hits every time.

Now let’s talk Turkish food

Here’s something people don’t always realise: Nuremberg has a strong Turkish community, and it shows in the food (in the best way). After World War II, Germany invited workers from several countries to help rebuild the economy. Many of them came from Turkey as part of the Gastarbeiter (guest worker) program in the 1960s. Some stayed temporarily, but many settled permanently—and their influence is everywhere.

Which brings us to: Doner kebabs.
Juicy, flavourful, wrapped in fresh bread and topped with crunchy lettuce and garlic sauce. They're everywhere, and honestly? Sometimes better than the tourist-trap sausage stands. Plus, you’ll find amazing Turkish restaurants with savoury kebabs, pilaf (Turkish rice), mezze, and baklava that makes you question your loyalty to strudel.

Chicken Schnitzels & Veggie Options

Yes, schnitzel is often pork, but chicken schnitzel is popular too—and delicious. Crispy, juicy, and usually served with chips or potato salad. And surprisingly, veggie and fish options are pretty easy to find if you know where to look—especially in cafés and casual restaurants.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just Bratwurst

Sure, pork may be king in Bavaria. But if you’re not into it? You’re not doomed. Between the Brezel, the Turkish gems, the café culture, and the surprise gelato, there’s plenty to love and even more to eat.

So no bratwurst? No problem. Trust me—you’ll be full anyway.