Culinary Leipzig: 5 Places to Taste and Discover
Image: Gregory Lee
GERMANY: Leipzig is full of surprises – not only through its rich culture, music, and history, but also with a diverse and exciting culinary scene. From nostalgic coffee houses to historic cellar taverns and trendy bars – Leipzig serves taste with atmosphere and invites visitors to discover its flavours. These five dining spots are perfect for anyone looking to add a dash of flavour to their city trip. And all just a short stroll from the Adina Hotel Leipzig.
Kaffeehaus Riquet: Art Nouveau meets Leipziger Lerche
A touch of Belle Époque charm surrounds the iconic Kaffeehaus Riquet in Leipzig’s city center. Its striking facade with two elephant heads immediately catches the eye – a historic nod to the Riquet company’s former trademark. Inside, guests are greeted with stucco ceilings, dark wood, and nostalgic flair. For over 100 years, the café has been serving fine coffee and tea alongside homemade pastries and local classics such as the "Leipziger Lerche." For lovers of elegant coffeehouse culture, this is the perfect place to take a tasteful break steeped in history.
Café Hin & Veg: Vegan breakfast in Leipzig
For a fresh and creative vegan or vegetarian breakfast, head to Café Hin & Veg in Leipzig’s vibrant Südvorstadt district. This cosy café is a local favourite, offering colourful plant-based breakfast options like bowls of bright pink hummus and organic scrambled "eggs." Flammkuchen, homemade cakes, and fair-trade coffee also feature on the menu. The cuisine is not only sustainable and regional, but also lovingly prepared. Whether its a relaxed breakfast or a delicious lunch in modern surroundings – Café Hin & Veg is one of Leipzig’s top vegan cafés.
Auerbachs Keller & Mephisto Bar: A toast to literary legends
A visit to Leipzig's most famous restaurant is a must – especially for fans of Goethe. Auerbachs Keller is one of Germany’s oldest inns and became world-renowned thanks to a scene in the movie “Faust.” Today, you can enjoy traditional Saxon specialties in its historic vaulted rooms brimming with character. Upstairs lies the stylish Mephisto Bar, named after Goethe’s clever devil. With velvet, mirrors, and golden accents, it playfully flirts with the theme of temptation - it's the perfect spot for a cocktail in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Together, Auerbachs Keller and the Mephisto Bar offer a unique blend of history, flavour, and Leipzig identity.
Ratskeller Leipzig: Saxon cuisine under historic vaults
Beneath the impressive New Town Hall, the Ratskeller Leipzig invites you on a culinary journey through time. In the spacious vaulted cellars with ornate ceiling paintings, Saxon culinary traditions meet warm hospitality. Dishes include classics like “Leipziger Allerlei,” pike-perch fillet, and marinated beef – all prepared with regional ingredients and great attention to detail. The extensive wine list features more than 500 selections, including many fine Saxon wines. Whether its a festive dinner, a relaxed lunch, or a glass of wine in the evening – the Ratskeller is a Leipzig culinary gem.
Imperii Bar: Award-winning mixology meets creative cuisine
Right next to the Adina Hotel Leipzig on Brühl Street, Imperii Bar impresses with stylish ambiance and culinary finesse. It has received multiple awards – most recently the prestigious black toque from the Gault&Millau restaurant guide in 2025 - a special honour for founders André Pintz and André Kempe. Inspired by their international experiences in cities like Paris and New Orleans, the duo has created an atmosphere that blends Southern charm with Saxon comfort. Alongside innovative cocktails on a rotating menu, the Imperii also serves seasonal dishes and is ideal for a romantic evening or nightcap before heading back to Adina Leipzig.
Adina Leipzig: Your retreat in the heart of the city
The Adina Hotel Leipzig is the ideal base for exploring the city’s best restaurants and bars. Centrally located, many dining destinations are just a short walk away. After a day full of eating and drinking, unwind in your own spacious apartment with kitchen and living area, or enjoy the modern wellness area with pool, sauna, and gym. And of course – a stylish hotel bar for the perfect end to a flavourful day.