Hello, Berlin: Three German Restaurants in New York

[Flickr/akuban]


It's been 20 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, which for us is as good a reason as any to suss out some of New York's best German food. Here are three restaurants where a toast to reunification would be particularly appropriate.


Heidelberg: Located in what was once a vibrant German neighborhood, Heidelberg has the look, feel and taste of Deutschland down to a science. Chow down on some of the city's best wurst, including the perfectly cooked smoked bratwurst served with potato salad and sauerkraut and a two-liter draft. Save room for their out of this world apple strudel. 1648 Second Ave. Stay nearby at the Franklin NYC.


Rolf's: Opened in 1965, Rolf's is the quintessential Black Forest-in-NYC experience. This Gramercy Park restaurant is best during the holiday season, when the entire place brims with Christmas decor. Wash down the German fare like potato pancakes and wiener schnitzel with an over-sized stein. 281 3rd Ave. Stay nearby at the Gramercy Park Hotel.


Hallo Berlin: Known as New York's "Wurst Restaurant", guests at Hallo Berlin can also dig into light fish platters. This Hell's Kitchen spot -- with the typo on the awning -- also has a beer garden with an appropriately long list of lagers and pilsners. 626 10th Ave. Stay nearby at the Milford Plaza.


– Andrew Hickey, of The Brooklyn Nomad.