Browse by Cuisine
Restaurants in Colmar
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsSignature Dishes
Colmar's cuisine offers a hearty and flavorful experience, characterized by rich sauces, savory meats, and the prominent use of local wines. Expect dishes that are both comforting and reflective of the region's agricultural bounty.
Choucroute Garnie
The quintessential Alsatian dish: sauerkraut cooked with various cuts of pork (sausage, bacon, ham), potatoes, and often served with different types of sausages, like Knackwurst and Montbéliard. A hearty and flavorful meal, typically simmered in Riesling wine.
Baeckeoffe
A traditional slow-cooked stew, typically made with a mix of beef, pork, and lamb marinated in white wine with vegetables and herbs. It's cooked in a covered earthenware dish (Baeckeoffe translates to 'baker's oven') for several hours, resulting in tender meat and flavorful broth.
Tarte Flambée (Flammkuchen)
A thin, crispy flatbread topped with crème fraîche, thinly sliced onions, and bacon lardons. It's traditionally cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a slightly charred and smoky flavor. Variations with Munster cheese or mushrooms are also common.
Spaetzle
Small, soft egg noodles that are often served as a side dish with meat dishes or as a main course with cheese and butter. They have a slightly chewy texture and a mild flavor.
Kougelhopf
A traditional Alsatian sweet yeast bread baked in a distinctive fluted mold. It's often flavored with almonds, raisins soaked in kirsch, and dusted with powdered sugar. Perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Munster Cheese
A strong-smelling, soft cow's milk cheese with a pungent flavor. It's often served with caraway seeds and rye bread or used in dishes like Tarte Flambée.
Local Tips
To truly experience the cuisine of Colmar, consider these helpful tips for your culinary journey.
Visit Local Markets
Explore the local markets to discover fresh, seasonal produce and regional specialties. This provides a great opportunity to sample local cheeses, charcuterie, and other delicacies, and to interact with local vendors.
Try a Winstub
For an authentic Alsatian experience, dine at a Winstub. These traditional taverns offer a cozy atmosphere, regional dishes, and a selection of local wines. Look for Winstubs that are popular with locals for the best experience.
Don't Miss the Wine Route
Take a drive along the Alsace Wine Route (Route des Vins d'Alsace) to visit vineyards and sample local wines. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, providing an opportunity to learn about the region's winemaking traditions.
Learn Some Basic French/German Phrases
While many people in Colmar speak English, knowing a few basic French or German phrases will enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture. Simple phrases like 'Bonjour', 'Merci', and 'Bitte' go a long way.
About Colmar
Grand Est
Food History
Alsatian cuisine, and therefore the food of Colmar, reflects a unique blend of French and German culinary traditions. Situated on the border between France and Germany, the region has been influenced by both cultures throughout its history, resulting in a distinctive and hearty cuisine. The use of ingredients like pork, sauerkraut, potatoes, and rich sauces are hallmarks of this blend.
Food Culture
Food in Colmar is deeply intertwined with the region's cultural identity. Meals are often a social affair, celebrated with family and friends, and accompanied by local wines. The emphasis is on fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Wine Pairing
Alsace is renowned for its white wines, particularly Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. These wines are frequently paired with Alsatian dishes. Riesling, with its crisp acidity, complements choucroute perfectly. Gewürztraminer's aromatic notes enhance dishes with strong flavors and spices, while Pinot Gris pairs well with creamy dishes and poultry.
Christmas Markets
Colmar is famous for its Christmas markets, where regional delicacies and festive treats are abundant. You'll find stands selling pain d'épices (gingerbread), bredele (Christmas cookies), and vin chaud (mulled wine), creating a magical culinary experience.
Winstubs
Winstubs are traditional Alsatian wine taverns that offer a cozy and convivial atmosphere. They often serve simple, hearty dishes alongside local wines, providing a perfect introduction to Alsatian cuisine and culture.