The great restaurants in Dortmund excellently reflect the fact that, as the largest city in the Ruhr Valley, it's a hotbed of German culture that's renowned for its honest and wholesome traditional cuisine. The Westphalian city has a thriving food scene, with award-winning chefs putting their own inspired twists on local dishes such as currywurst, rostbraten and pumpernickel.

From luxurious 6-course meals to wholesome neighbourhood bistros, Dortmund and its surrounds play host to some of the finest eateries in the region. Whether you’re after a slow dining experience or perhaps something a little more laid-back, the following restaurants serve up fare that will leave you nothing short of satisfied.

  • 1

    Der Schneider

    An elevated dining experience headed by one of Germany's finest chefs

    Der Schneider
    • Food

    Der Schneider takes its name from head chef Phillip Schneider and prides itself on its modern dishes with innovative twists. The contemporary decor will put you at ease while you decide whether you want to tailor-make your meal from the à la carte menu or choose their famous 6-course set menu.

    Although many of Chef Phillip’s dishes push culinary boundaries, he and his team make sure to incorporate seasonal produce from the surrounding Dortmund region into their menus. A meal at Der Schneider wouldn’t be complete without a wine pairing, and a recommendation from the expert sommeliers is the best way to cap a truly memorable Dortmund dining experience.

    Location: Am Gottesacker 70, 44143 Dortmund, Germany

    Open: Tuesday–Saturday from 6 pm to 10 pm (closed Sunday–Monday)

    Phone: +49 (0)2314773770

    Map
  • 2

    Pfefferkorn Hoher Wall 38

    Feast on the finest cuts at this trusted Dortmund steakhouse

    Pfefferkorn Hoher Wall 38
    • Food

    Pfefferkorn prides itself on delivering a world-class steakhouse experience to its Dortmund patrons, with the Hoher Wall 28 branch in particular famed for its Prime Nebraska beef and dry-aged Irish beef cuts. Although mainly for meat lovers, the diverse menu caters for other tastes too, with the schnitzel and cod fillet coming highly recommended.

    The team here are well-versed in the various cuts of meat, with the eager and attentive staff on hand to provide their expert recommendation to patrons. The rustic interior exudes an ambience that invites you to enjoy warm hospitality in one of Dortmund’s signature steakhouses.

    Location: Hoher Wall 38, 44137 Dortmund, Germany

    Open: Monday–Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm, Friday–Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm (closed on Sundays)

    Phone: +49 (0)231143644

    Map
  • 3

    Das Hoesch

    Traditional German dishes take on a contemporary twist

    Das Hoesch
    • Food

    Das Hoesch is set in the old industrial Phoenix West quarter of Dortmund. It's a bistro that oozes upscale elegance. The chefs here have garnered a reputation for delivering exquisitely plated meals worthy of any foodie’s Instagram feed.

    Although the menu changes frequently, you can be assured that staples like the dry-aged fillet and free-range chicken are always prepared to perfection. Smaller bites like the pastas, burgers and salads are just as appetizing, served with a healthy selection of sides. Cap your meal with a wonderfully decadent dessert and immerse yourself in the ambience of this Dortmund hotspot.

    Location: Phoenixplatz 3, 44263 Dortmund, Germany

    Open: Tuesday–Saturday from 5 pm to 11 pm (closed Sunday–Monday)

    Phone: +49 (0)23170088888

    Map
  • 4

    EMIL Broil & Meer

    A high-end steakhouse set in the historic Auerbachkeller

    EMIL Broil & Meer
    • Food

    EMIL Broil and Meer is a sophisticated Dortmund restaurant that elevates the steakhouse experience, not just by sourcing the finest cuts of meat, but also by using a unique method of broiling their steaks at 800°C. The staff are more than willing to walk patrons through the various menu options, advising them on the different qualities of each cut of meat.

    The interior deserves an honorable mention, too, as the warm lighting in the former Auerbachkeller creates a warm and inviting atmosphere; the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal. Under the watchful eye of award-winning chef Sebastian Felsing, you can rest assured that you will leave EMIL Broil and Meer both satiated and amazed by his team’s extraordinary culinary creations.

    Location: Emil-Moog-Platz, 44137 Dortmund, Germany

    Open: Wednesday–Saturday from 6 pm to 11 pm, Sunday from 5 pm to 10 pm (closed on Mondays)

    Phone: +49 (0)23147647814

    Map
  • 5

    Grüner Salon

    Enjoy a lazy brunch while you take in the sights and sounds of the Nordmarkt

    Grüner Salon
    • Food

    Grüner Salon is a quaint Dortmund neighbourhood café set in Nordmarkt Park. This is a delightful spot to enjoy bistro dishes, cold beers, or a range of vegan and vegetarian options. Weekend visitors to Grüner Salon are in for a treat, as they serve their breakfasts from 9.30 am to 2 pm, with a selection including a scrumptious English breakfast and irresistibly flaky croissant sandwiches.

    While the menu changes regularly, customers are quick to rave about the cozy atmosphere and creative dishes. Those with a sweet tooth will be delighted at the cakes and pastries on offer – perfect with a cappuccino. Overall, Grüner Salon is a lovely spot to while away the hours while visiting Dortmund.

    Location: Nordmarkt 8, 44145 Dortmund, Germany

    Open: Tuesday–Friday from noon to 10 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 9.30 am to 10 pm (closed on Mondays)

    Phone: +49 (0)15140396816

    Map
  • 6

    Pferdestall

    You won't find many other Dortmund restaurants serving this level of homey fare

    Pferdestall
    • Families
    • Food

    Set on the outskirts of Dortmund city, Pferdestall is a restaurant steeped in history. Enter the stunning Zollern colliery and you will find a former stable converted into a majestic dining hall, capable of seating up to 130 people. Instead of Steiger horses and carriages, Pferdestall is nowadays famous for offering a range of regional Westphalian dishes such as Currywurst, Ruhrpott tapas and Dortmunder Rostbraten.

    In addition to the expansive colliery are the outdoor terraces, where patrons can enjoy a leisurely dining experience. Families are also catered for with a kids' playground next to the former stables. Most importantly, Pferdestall check marks the boxes when it comes to hearty, home-style cuisine. Be sure to stop off here for some signature Dortmund hospitality.

    Location: Grubenweg 5, 44388 Dortmund, Germany

    Open: Tuesday–Friday and Sunday from noon to 10 pm, Saturday from noon to 12 am (closed on Mondays)

    Phone: +49 (0)2316903236

    Map

    photo by Frank Vincentz (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified

  • 7

    Gute Stube

    A premium Michelin-rated dining experience worth every euro

    Gute Stube
    • Food

    Gute Stube combines first-class gastronomy with warm Westphalian hospitality, all set in the lavishly appointed Parkhotel. As far as Dortmund eateries go, this upscale restaurant features dishes worthy of its coveted Michelin rating. Expect local flavors with a sprinkling of international influence; the signature 7-course set menu is a veritable feast of different tastes.

    In addition to the variety of set menus, there is no shortage of wines for the perfect pairing. Waiters are always on hand to provide expert advice when it comes to crafting the perfect meal. Take your time and savor every bite, because a meal at Dortmund’s Gute Stube is slow dining at its finest.

    Location: Schaeferstraße 109, 44623 Herne, Germany

    Open: Thursday–Sunday from 6 pm to 10 pm (closed Monday–Wednesday)

    Phone: +49 (0)2323955333

    Map
  • 8

    David’s Dortmund

    A laidback and relaxed diner where you can soak up the Dortmund hospitality

    David’s Dortmund
    • Food

    Billed as an American diner featuring local delicacies, David’s has become something of a Dortmund institution for those who love burgers and beer. They’re also renowned for their desserts, with a tantalizing selection of oven-baked cakes on offer. If you’re feeling peckish then nibble on one of their cheese platters, or order from their vegan menu if you prefer your meal meat-free.

    The major draw for a restaurant like David’s is not just the fantastic fare, but the welcoming, laidback atmosphere and efficient service. Open all year round, visitors to Dortmund can enjoy the beer garden on balmy summer days, and escape to the heated terrace when the temperatures start to dip in winter.

    Location: Baroper Str. 316, 44227 Dortmund, Germany

    Open: Sunday, Tuesday–Thursday from 4 pm to 10 pm, Friday–Saturday from 4 pm to 12 am (closed on Mondays)

    Phone: +49 (0)23197976104

    Map
  • 9

    Kartoffel-Lord

    Get your late-night foodie fix at this Dortmund institution

    Kartoffel-Lord
    • Food

    Kartoffel-Lord is Dortmund’s premier vegan and vegetarian restaurant, where meat-free options abound. Signature items on the ‘The Lord’s’ menu include a moreish falafel wrap, handmade flatbreads and dips, and of course, baked potatos with an appetizing selection of fillings.

    Night owls will be delighted to know that Kartoffel-Lord is open until the early hours at the weekend, making it the perfect spot for some snacking after a night out. The trendy interior features contemporary lumber and bamboo finishes, while the outside patio is a great spot to park during the Dortmund summer. With a heritage dating back more than 25 years, Kartoffel-Lord is a well-deserved stalwart of Dortmund's restaurant scene.

    Location: Gerberstraße 1, 44135 Dortmund, Germany

    Open: Monday–Thursday from 10.45 am to 9.45 pm, Friday–Saturday from 10.45 am to 12 am, Sunday from 11.45 am to 9.45 pm

    Phone: +49 (0)231572049

    Map
  • 10

    Café Tucholsky

    A well-known bistro loved by Dortmund locals

    Café Tucholsky
    • Food

    Café Tucholsky always serves up fresh, wholesome fare befitting its 33-year-old heritage, whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner. Set in the art Hotel Tucholsky, about 30 minutes from Dortmund, this bistro combines attentive service with a menu that caters to a wide variety of tastes. Expect fresh salads, exotic curries and juicy burgers.

    The refined decor from the art Hotel Tucholsky filters down to the café, with an understated elegance to the interior that makes eating here a joy. One thing is certain; when it comes to good food, Café Tucholsky gets the basics right. The fare is worth the drive out from the Dortmund city.

    Location: Viktoriastraße 73, 44787 Bochum, Germany

    Open: Monday–Friday from 7 am to 10 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 8 am to 10 pm

    Phone: +49 (0)234964360

    Map
Stuart Hendricks | Compulsive Traveler