19 Must-Try Oktoberfest Food & Drink– What to Eat and Drink

So you’re heading to Oktoberfest in Munich — and yeah, sure, everyone talks about the beer. But let’s be honest: the food is just as important. Maybe even more important, especially if you’re the kind of person who can’t drink on an empty stomach (that’s us 🙋‍♀️).

When we first went to Oktoberfest, we thought it’d be all pork knuckles and bratwurst. And to be fair, there is a lot of meat. But what surprised us? Just how diverse, delicious, and yes — vegetarian-friendly the food actually is.

Our go-to foodie Oktoberfest routine?
Start the day with a giant warm Brezn (pretzel), share a Käsespätzle, and on the way home, munch on a bag of gebrannte Mandeln (roasted almonds).

In this guide, we’ll share:

✅ The absolute must-try foods at Oktoberfest
✅ Vegetarian & vegan options (yes, they exist — and they’re tasty!)
✅ Traditional food at Oktoberfest
✅ How to pay (spoiler: bring cash)

Traditional Bavarian Food at Oktoberfest – Hearty and Sweet

Oktoberfest isn’t just a beer fest — it’s a full-blown foodie’s dream. You’ll smell roasted almonds, grilled sausages, and warm dough long before you even see the tents.

Whether you’re looking for hearty meals, sweet treats, or vegetarian bites, here are the foods (and drinks!) that actually make the experience unforgettable.

We marked the vegetarian and vegan dishes so you can easily see which options are suitable for you.

1. Brezel (Pretzel) – Vegetarian

If Oktoberfest had a mascot, it’d be the giant Bavarian Brezn.

These soft, chewy, salty pretzels are bigger than your face (literally) and can be found everywhere — beer tents, food stalls, beer gardens, even on necklaces (yep, that’s a thing).

We usually grab one the moment we arrive — still warm, sometimes with butter inside, always shared between two (okay fine, sometimes not).

Pairs perfectly with: a Maß of Oktoberfestbier or a light Radler.

2. Obatzda (Cheese Spread) – Vegetarian

Creamy, tangy, and slightly addictive. Obatzda is a traditional Bavarian cheese spread made from Camembert, butter, and spices, often served with onions and sprinkled with paprika.

You’ll usually find it on appetizer platters in beer tents — but it also shows up at smaller food stalls and beer gardens.

We love scooping it up with a Brezn and calling it lunch. It’s perfect for vegetarians who love bold flavors.

⚠️ Be cautious though — for some, it might be a bit strong. Anna’s not a fan… but Anne could eat a whole bowl solo.

💡 Tip: Some tents serve “Brotzeit Teller” – a Bavarian snack plate — which often includes Obatzda, pickles, and radish.

3. Leberkäse (Bavarian Meatloaf) – Vegan Options available

Okay, here’s the thing: Leberkäse sounds weird (it literally translates to “liver cheese”) but don’t let that scare you. It’s basically a thick slice of warm, savory meatloaf served in a crusty bun with mustard.

For meat eaters, it’s quick, filling, and super satisfying.

Vegan Leberkäse

But for us vegetarians and vegans, the exciting part is this: more and more vendors now offer vegan Leberkäse, made from plant-based protein like seitan or soy.

It mimics the texture and taste surprisingly well! It’s served in a similar way, with mustard or in a fresh roll, so even non-meat eaters can enjoy this classic Bavarian dish!

💡 Look out for signs that say “Veganer Leberkäse” or ask — it’s becoming more common every year.

5. Kandierte Äpfel (Candied Apples) – Vegan

These shiny red apples look like they jumped straight out of a cartoon. But under that glossy sugar shell is a real apple — so you can technically say you’re being healthy.

We like to split one between us — it’s fun to eat while wandering around the rides. Just don’t try to bite into it like a sandwich unless you’re ready to commit.

6. Lebkuchenherzen (Gingerbread Hearts) – Vegetarian

You’ll see them everywhere — heart-shaped gingerbread cookies hanging from ribbons with cheeky sayings like “Spatzl” (=sweetheart) or “Ich liebe Dich” ( I Love you) or “Oktoberfest”.

Are they actually good to eat? Meh.
Are they adorable souvenirs and totally part of the vibe? 100%.

These iconic hearts also show up at Christmas markets all over Germany. And yep — while they’re technically edible, most people use them as decoration. If you keep them dry, they’ll last for years. (We may or may not have one from 2016 still hanging in the kitchen…).

7. Gebrannte Mandeln (Candied Almonds)- Vegan

Our personal favorite. Full stop. Gebrannte Mandeln are warm, sugar-coated roasted almonds sold in paper cones — crispy on the outside, nutty on the inside, and wildly addictive.

You’ll smell them roasting from across the grounds. They’re our go-to snack on the way out — especially if we skipped dessert (and even if we didn’t).

Traditional Oktoberfest Food – Hearty and Sweet

8. Hendl (Roast Chicken)

Golden-brown, crispy-skinned roast chicken turning slowly on a spit — that’s Hendl. It’s the go-to meal in the big tents, served half or whole, usually with a bread roll or potato salad.

We’re vegetarian, but we get the hype — it’s simple, juicy, and pairs perfectly with beer. If you’re going with meat-eating friends, chances are this is the first thing they’ll order.

9. Weißwurst (White Sausage) with pretzel

This one’s for the morning crowd! Weißwurst is a traditional Bavarian sausage made from veal and pork, flavored with parsley, lemon, and spices. Locals eat it before noon (seriously — it’s a rule), usually with sweet mustard and a Brezn on the side.

And don’t use a knife and fork — the traditional way is to “zuzeln” (suck it out of the casing). Though we’ll admit… we skip that part. 😅

💡 Vegetarian? Some newer food stalls offer plant-based Weißwurst now — worth checking if you’re curious! If you don’t find them at Oktoberfest, you can get them at Kaufland or REWE. Just heat them in hot water, but don’t let the water boil.

10. Bratwurst (Grilled Sausage) with Sauerkraut

Grilled sausage in a crusty bun, slathered with mustard.

Classic.

It’s easy to eat on the go and everywhere at Oktoberfest — from the beer tents to tiny outdoor food carts.

You can also order it on a plate with Sauerkraut as a side.

Even if you’re not into meat, the smell of sizzling Bratwurst is one of the signature scents of the Wiesn.

💡 Heads up: German sauerkraut tastes way different than the stuff you might know from the U.S. — it’s more tangy and less sweet.

11. Schweinshaxe (Pork Knuckle)

Massive, meaty, and not for the faint of stomach. Schweinshaxe is a slow-roasted pork knuckle with crispy skin and tender meat inside. Usually served with potato dumplings or Sauerkraut, it’s a sit-down-and-feast kind of dish.

It’s one of the most photographed meals at Oktoberfest, just behind the Maßkrug selfie.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re ordering this in a tent, be ready to share — it’s huge.

12. Käsespätzle (Cheese Noodles) – Vegetarian

Ahhh, Käsespätzle. If you take mac & cheese, give it eggy Bavarian noodles, and top it with crispy onions — that’s what you get.

This is our go-to Oktoberfest meal. Warm, gooey, and insanely satisfying.

It’s usually tucked away on the menu behind the meaty stuff, but trust us: this is the real hidden gem for vegetarians.

💡 Heads up: If you’re vegetarian, be sure to ask for the vegetarian version of Käsespätzle—otherwise, it might come with bacon sprinkled on top.

13. Steckerlfisch (Grilled Fish on a Stick)

Need a break from all the meat and cheese? Try Steckerlfisch — whole trout or mackerel grilled on a stick over open flames.

It’s smoky, salty, and smells like the beer garden by the river on a summer evening. While it might not be for everyone (we usually skip it), it’s one of the more unique Oktoberfest dishes.

Oktoberfest Desserts

14. Apfelstrudel (Apple Strudel) – Vegetarian

Apfelstrudel is basically a hug in pastry form. Thin, flaky dough wrapped around spiced apples, raisins, cinnamon — often served warm with powdered sugar on top.

We always intend to share it, but that usually turns into a fork duel halfway through. If you’re lucky, you’ll find a version with vanilla sauce or ice cream on the side.

Totally acceptable breakfast, by the way.

15. Kaiserschmarrn (Shredded Pancake) – Vegetarian

We might be biased here, but this one’s special. Our friend Max has a Kaiserschmarrn stand at Oktoberfest — and getting a food stall there is seriously no joke. The competition is fierce, so support the locals when you can!

Kaiserschmarrn is a shredded, fluffy pancake that’s lightly caramelized and served with powdered sugar and fruit compote (plum, apple, or cherry). It’s sweet and ridiculously addictive.

And unlike most desserts, it’s not just for kids — we see plenty of beer-happy grownups going full pancake-mode with this one.

16. Schmalznudeln (Bavarian Doughnuts) – Vegetarian

These are deep-fried pillows of joy — Bavarian doughnuts made from yeast dough, fried until golden, then dusted with powdered sugar.

They’re crispy on the outside, soft in the middle, and best eaten fresh and hot while walking between rides. Some stands even offer versions filled with jam or custard.

We usually grab one while taking a breather between tents. The sugar helps balance out the beer… kind of.

Traditional Bavarian Drinks – Alcoholic and Non-alcoholic

17. Oktoberfest Bier (Beer)

This is what people travel halfway across the world for — the official Oktoberfestbier. Brewed specifically for the Wiesn, it follows the Reinheitsgebot (German Beer Purity Law), so it’s made from just water, barley, hops, and yeast.

But don’t let the simplicity fool you. It’s malty, smooth, and dangerously drinkable — and it’s strong. Like… stronger-than-you-realize strong.

Served in a 1-liter Maß mug, it’s more than just a drink — it’s a ritual. Loud music, toasts every few minutes, and someone spilling at least half of theirs while dancing on a bench? All part of the vibe.

💡Good to know: Beers here are around 6% ABV. Go slow, drink water between rounds, and eat something before your third Maß. Trust us.

What about Non-alcoholic Beer at the Oktoberfest?

Want the full Oktoberfest beer experience without the buzz? No problem. Non-alcoholic beer is widely served at the Wiesn.

The cool thing? It’s brewed using the same traditional methods as regular beer, so you still get that classic malty flavor, just without the alcohol content. It’s not just fizzy barley water — it’s legit beer, just… sober.

We’ve had a few that honestly taste so close to the real deal, you forget there’s no booze in them. Perfect for anyone who wants to toast, sing along, and dance on benches — and still remember it all the next morning.

💡 Tip: Ask for “Alkoholfreies Bier” — and if you want more handy phrases like that, check out our German language guide for Oktoberfest with useful sentences for ordering food, finding your tent, and more.

18. Radler (German Lemon Beer)

If you like the taste of beer but don’t want to get wobbly too fast, Radler is your best friend. It’s a 50/50 mix of beer and sparkling lemonade, making it super refreshing and less boozy.

Perfect for hot afternoons, dancing breaks, or pacing yourself between heavier drinks.

This is often our go-to if we’re spending the day at the fest — it keeps the buzz but not the blackout.

19. Apfelsaft (Apple Juice)

Not everyone at Oktoberfest is drinking alcohol — and that’s totally okay.

Apfelsaft is a sweet, non-alcoholic option that’s widely available, especially at stalls selling sweets and snacks.

Even better: ask for an Apfelschorle — that’s apple juice mixed with sparkling water. It’s fizzy, refreshing, and way less sugary than straight juice, making it perfect to sip between salty snacks or sweet desserts.

Apfelschorle is especially popular with kids, drivers, and people pacing themselves at the Wiesn. And hey, sometimes you may need a break between beers too.

💡 Fun Tip: In Germany, you can basically make any fruit juice into a Schorle — grape, rhubarb, blackcurrant… if it’s in a bottle, someone’s mixing it with bubbles. Just ask for a “[fruit]schorle” and you’re good to go.

There are also plenty of soft drink options like Coca-Cola, lemonade, and sparkling water, so there’s something non-alcoholic for everyone.

Where to buy food and drinks at Oktoberfest?

You won’t be hungry (or thirsty) for long at the Wiesn — food and drinks are everywhere, but where you buy them can totally shape your experience. Here’s what to expect in each spot:

Beer Tents – The Full Bavarian Experience

If you want the full sit-down-and-feast Oktoberfest vibe, the big beer tents are the place to be. There are 14 main tents, each with its own beer, food specialties, and personality. Some are rowdy and party-heavy, others are more traditional or family-friendly.

You’ll find all the classics here:

🎟️ Some tents require a reservation, but daytime walk-ins are possible — especially during the week.

💡 Good to know: If you’re planning to eat a full meal inside a tent, it’s smart to go early. Tables fill up fast, and the crowds (and volume) build up quickly.

Food Stalls – Our Favorite Way to Snack

Small food stalls and carts are scattered across the festival grounds, selling everything from candied almonds to vegan Leberkäse to freshly fried Schmalznudeln.

This is our favorite way to eat at Oktoberfest — no reservations, no table stress, and you’re supporting local vendors like our friend Max (hi Max 👋), who runs one of the best Kaiserschmarrn stalls at the Wiesn.

Plus, you can grab something sweet, wander over to a ride, and snack your way through the festival without ever sitting down.

Small Beer Stands – Skip the Tents, Keep the Beer

Don’t want to fight your way into a massive beer tent? No problem. There are smaller beer kiosks and open-air stands all over the Theresienwiese grounds where you can grab a Maß Bier or a Radler on the go.

It’s less about the party atmosphere here, more about quick refreshment — but that can be perfect if you’re doing a more chill Oktoberfest loop (or waiting in line for Schmalznudeln).

Biergärten – Chill Vibes, Same Great Food

Some tents have outdoor Biergärten, and there are a few dedicated spots just outside the main madness too. These are way more relaxed:

We often drink a Radler here and take a moment to regroup before diving back into the chaos.

💡 Vegetarian Bonus: Biergärten are a great place to find vegetarian dishes — less rush, more flexibility to ask about ingredients.

How to Pay for Food and Drinks at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest may be a world-famous festival, but when it comes to payment, it’s still pretty old-school in a lot of ways. You can use cards in some places, but don’t count on it everywhere — especially outside the big beer tents.

Here’s how to pay without stress (or getting hangry in line):

Cash – Still King of the Wiesn

If you remember just one thing: bring cash.

Many food stalls, smaller beer stands, and even some beer tents only accept cash, especially during peak hours when the card readers start lagging or go offline altogether.

We recommend bringing small bills and coins — especially for snacks like Gebrannte Mandeln or a quick Apfelschorle.

Keep your cash in a secure zip pocket or money belt — Oktoberfest is safe, but it’s crowded, and you don’t want to lose your beer and your budget.

👉 See our ultimate packing list for Oktoberfest for more useful items to bring, from card holders to comfy shoes.

Card Payments – Possible, But Not Guaranteed

Some of the larger beer tents and more modern stalls now accept credit and debit cards, including contactless payments. But acceptance is still hit or miss.

Always ask before ordering, especially if you’re planning to get a full meal and drinks. There’s nothing more awkward than being handed a massive pork knuckle and realizing they don’t take Visa.

💡 Ask in German: “Kann ich mit Karte zahlen?” (Can I pay by card?) →
Check out our German guide for more handy Oktoberfest phrases here

Food & Drink Vouchers – Prepaid, Pre-organized

Some tents offer voucher systems, especially for large groups or reserved tables. You pay upfront (either online or at a counter), and then exchange the vouchers for food and drinks inside.

It’s a smooth way to avoid waiting on service — and great if you’re organizing for a group.

💡 Tip: Ask your tent when booking if they use vouchers — or check the tent’s website in advance.

ATMs – There When You Need ‘Em, But Not Ideal

There are ATMs around the Oktoberfest grounds if you run out of cash — but they tend to have long lines and high fees.

If you can, it’s way better to withdraw cash in the city center (before entering the festival).

💡 Backup Plan: Some hotels near the Wiesn have lobby ATMs with better access and less wait time.

Final Verdict: Is the Oktoberfest Food & Drink Worth It?

Absolutely — yes, yes, and another Maß of yes. 🍻

Whether you’re here for the legendary beer, the crispy pork knuckle, the veggie-friendly Käsespätzle, or just the excuse to eat roasted almonds while wearing lederhosen — Oktoberfest food is half the fun.

For us as vegetarians, we were honestly surprised by how many options we could enjoy. From giant pretzels to cheesy comfort food, and Max’s Kaiserschmarrn (seriously, go find him), there’s something warm, satisfying, and delicious around every corner.

And if you’re more of a sweet tooth or a non-drinker? You’re still covered. The non-alcoholic drinks, desserts, and snack stalls make it easy to join in without missing out.

So…

🥨 Come for the beer, but stay for the food.

🍰 Skip the diet — try the Kaiserschmarrn.

💶 Bring cash, wear stretchy pants, and have fun!

📌 Your Next Steps

👉 Not sure what to pack for Oktoberfest? Don’t miss our Ultimate Packing List for Oktoberfest — with the best things to bring (and what to leave at home).

👉 Nervous about ordering? Grab our Useful German Phrases for Oktoberfest so you sound like a pro.

👉 Want more tips like this? Sign up for our newsletter for insider travel advice & German culture goodies!

FAQ: Must Try Oktoberfest Dishes