This is a guide to Viktualienmarkt Munich, covering the best stalls, local delicacies, and insider tips.
Viktualienmarkt was established in 1807 by King Maximilian I when the original food market at Marienplatz became too crowded for the growing city of Munich. The name “Viktualienmarkt” comes from the Latin word “victualia”, which means “provisions” or “food” (and “Markt”, which means “market” in German). Over the centuries, it evolved from a simple farmers’ market into a permanent, richly diverse marketplace known for its regional specialities, traditional crafts, and deep-rooted Bavarian heritage. Situated in the city centre close to Marienplatz, this historic market provides a distinctive combination of tradition and flavour. Here locals and visitors alike gather to explore a vibrant mix of fresh produce, Bavarian specialities, and gourmet delights.
In this guide, you’ll discover the top spots for authentic local flavours and get insider advice on how to experience this iconic destination like a true Münchner. At each stall we recommend, we highlight something we believe is definitely worth trying. However, feel free to explore and discover your own favourites as you wander around!
To enjoy your meal while seated, there are seats and stools available at some of the stalls, as well as a central beer garden with tables.
Metzgerei Schäbitz (Leberkäse)
Metzgerei Schäbitz is the best of the butcher shops that line the street from Marienplatz to the market. The typical Munich Weisswurst can be sampled here or bought for home preparation. But, more importantly, you must try here the exquisite Leberkäse in a fluffy bun with mustard. Leberkäse is a traditional German meat dish made from a blend of pork, beef, and bacon, which is roasted in the oven until it develops a dark, crispy crust. Despite its name, which translates to “liver cheese,” it does not actually contain liver or cheese. It is a delicacy that excels in its simplicity.
Schlemmen am Markt (Sausage sandwich)
For the classic “sausage sandwich experience” with a lively market atmosphere, Schlemmen am Markt is your best bet. It is situated in a strategic location in the market, near the beer garden. The queue may be long, but it moves quickly—and the reward is a fresh, flavourful sandwich. If you’re short on time or want to avoid the longest queue, Kleiner Ochsnbrater is an authentic, delectable and organic alternative just feet away.
Münchner Käse Manufaktur (Grilled cheese sandwich)
Münchner Käse Manufaktur, located beside butchers’ row, provides a selection of high-quality, long-aged artisan cheeses. The Münchner Käse Manufaktur is Munich’s first and only cheese factory. The most popular dish here is the excellent grilled cheese sandwich. They prepare it with artisan sourdough bread from the local Brotzeit bakery, aged Gruyere, vintage cheddar, and pickled veggies.
Marinas Feinkost (Italian panini)
A few metres lower down, on the market’s periphery, is a hidden Italian corner. Marinas Feinkost stall prepares excellent Italian panini using high-quality authentic Italian ingredients. The variety is excellent (including vegan alternatives), and if you prefer Italian cuisine, you will love it. The queue can be long at times, but the wait is worthwhile.
Caseus (Alpine cheeses)
Caseus, located near Marina Feinkost, is a great place to try high-quality cheeses. Caseus sells French soft cheeses, a variety of quality Alpine mountain cheeses, handmade cream cheese, typical Italian cheeses such as taleggio, burrata, and mozzarella, as well as a few goat and sheep ones. Those who adore cheese should try this place!
Die Saure Gurke (Pickles)
Located close to Caseus, Die Saure Gurke serves a colourful selection of tangy, crunchy treats that highlight the art of traditional German pickling. This lovely stall, which specialises in house-made gherkins, tempts locals and tourists with barrels filled with dill pickles, spicy varieties, and even sweet-sour combinations. They steep pickles in brine laced with garlic, herbs, and secret spices. Die Saure Gurke embodies the essence of Bavarian street food—simple, bold, and unforgettable.
Münchner Suppenküche (Soups)
Of course, you may pair your pickle with a great soup from the shop directly across. The Münchner Suppenküche, which was named one of the 50 greatest restaurants in Munich in 2020, delivers wonderful soups and has long lines of locals every lunchtime. Whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, vegan, or just a foodie, they’ll spoil you with a range of delicious soups, stews, curries, and more. Among their soups, we liked the carrot and coconut as well as the asparagus soup.
Caspar Plautz (Potatoes)
If you enjoy potatoes, continue your stroll to Caspar Plautz. This kiosk, in addition to inventive and excellent potato meals, has a success story. Two pals left their jobs as goldsmith and project manager to buy a market stall. Today, it is one of the market’s most popular spots among locals. Their primary priority is obtaining high-quality raw materials. They have twenty different varieties of potatoes. Except for three kinds imported from France, they source all of their potatoes from area growers in Bavaria. Their second priority is the creation of unique recipes based on tradition that have a modern twist. All of their dishes feature a raw salad, a potato, and a topping.
Kaffeerösterei (Coffee)
Kaffeerösterei is a cosy and aromatic gem nestled within Munich’s vibrant Viktualienmarkt. Renowned for its artisanal coffee blends and freshly roasted beans, this quaint cafe provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, ideal for a quick espresso or a leisurely cup. Its rich aromas and friendly service attract both locals and tourists alike.
Cafe Frischhut (Schmalznudel)
And, of course, no visit to the market is complete without a stop at the traditional Cafe Frischhut. It is positioned somewhat outside the main market square (Prälat-Zistl-Straße 8) yet is a vital element of it. Nothing in Munich is more traditional than this Bavarian cafe.
Here you will try the famed schmalznudel, a simple sugar-coated pancake that will remind you of the joys of simplicity. Although there is a sitting hall where this delicacy can be enjoyed with coffee, most people choose to have it on the go.
A memorable adventure
A visit to Munich’s Viktualienmarkt is more than just a pleasant experience—it’s a flavourful journey through the culinary heart of Bavaria and Europe. While it might seem primarily geared towards tourists at first glance, you’ll soon observe locals enjoying their favourite stalls and embracing longstanding traditions.
The market offers an authentic introduction to Munich’s culinary tradition, serving as perhaps the most accessible and insightful way to experience it. In every sense, it’s a memorable adventure for both the palate and the traveller.
