Kempten
The Best Restaurants in Kempten: Authentic Allgäu Cuisine

Kempten, Germany's oldest city, doesn't just impress with its rich history, but also with a diverse dining scene. The restaurants in Kempten offer everything your heart desires, from traditional Allgäu cuisine to international specialities. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner, eating out with the family, or entertaining business partners - you're guaranteed to find the right restaurant in Kempten.
Kempten's culinary landscape is characterised by its authenticity and quality. Many restaurants use regional ingredients and maintain centuries-old recipes. At the same time, new, innovative concepts are constantly emerging, giving traditional Allgäu cuisine a modern twist.
Restaurants in Kempten Old Town: Culinary Treasures in the Historic Centre
Kempten's old town is the heart of the local dining scene. Here you'll find cosy inns, elegant restaurants and charming cafés lined up side by side. The restaurants in Kempten's old town benefit from the unique atmosphere of the historic buildings and the lively pedestrian zone.
Traditional Inns with History
Many restaurants in Kempten's old town look back on centuries of tradition. These inns have proven themselves over generations and serve authentic Allgäu specialities in a historic setting.
- The inn "Zur Alten Post" with its over 300-year history
- The "Hirsch", a family-run restaurant since 1850
- The "Krone" with its famous Käsespätzle variation
- The "Ratskeller", located right beneath the historic town hall
💡 Tip: Book ahead at the traditional inns, especially at weekends and during the tourist season.
Modern Interpretations of Allgäu Cuisine
Alongside the traditional inns, modern restaurants have also established themselves in the old town, creatively reworking regional ingredients. These venues combine tradition with innovation, creating unique flavour experiences.
Best Restaurants in Kempten: Our Top Recommendations by Category
The best restaurants in Kempten stand out through various quality markers: excellent cooking, friendly service, an appealing atmosphere and good value for money. We've categorised Kempten's dining scene for you.
Fine Dining and Upmarket Cuisine
For special occasions, several restaurants in Kempten offer top-level fine dining. These venues use only first-class ingredients and present their dishes with real artistic flair.
- Restaurant "Maximilian" - Modern European cuisine with a Michelin recommendation
- "Das Kleine Restaurant" - Intimate atmosphere with changing menus
- "Schlossberg" - Panoramic restaurant overlooking Kempten
- "Zur Residenz" - Classic French cuisine in an elegant setting
- "Villa Kunterbunt" - Creative fusion cuisine with regional influences
Family-Friendly Restaurants
Many restaurants in Kempten specialise in catering for families, offering children's menus, play corners and flexible opening hours. These venues create a relaxed atmosphere for parents and children alike.
Allgäu Cuisine in Kempten: Traditional Specialities and Regional Delicacies
Allgäu cuisine in Kempten stands for hearty, authentic dishes passed down through generations. Cheese plays a central role, as do game, fish from the Allgäu lakes and seasonal vegetables.
Typical Allgäu Specialities
Every restaurant serving Allgäu cuisine in Kempten should have these traditional dishes on the menu:
- Käsespätzle with roasted onions
- Allgäu roast pork with sauerkraut
- Trout "Müllerin style" from local waters
- Game goulash with cranberries
- Dampfnudeln with vanilla sauce
- Allgäu mountain cheese in various stages of maturity
💡 Tip: Be sure to try the local Allgäu mountain cheese - many restaurants in Kempten source it directly from regional dairies.
Seasonal Specialities
Restaurants in Kempten adapt their menus to the seasons. Spring is dominated by asparagus and fresh herbs, summer brings berries and vegetables from the region, autumn is all about game dishes, and winter sees hearty stews and roasts served up.
Restaurants in Kempten for Every Occasion: From Business Lunch to Family Celebration
The diverse restaurants in Kempten offer the right setting for every occasion. Whether it's a quick lunch, a romantic dinner or a big family celebration - Kempten's dining scene has the perfect venue for every need.
Business Restaurants and Lunch Menus
Many restaurants in Kempten specialise in business meals and offer separate areas for uninterrupted conversation. The lunch menu is often more affordable and timed to suit the lunch break.
- Fast service between 11:30am and 2:00pm
- Separate areas for business discussions
- Wi-Fi and a quiet atmosphere
- Nearby parking
Romantic Restaurants for Special Moments
For dates and anniversaries, certain restaurants in Kempten offer a romantic atmosphere with soft lighting, carefully selected wines and discreet service.
International Cuisine in Kempten: Variety Beyond Allgäu Tradition
Alongside traditional Allgäu cuisine, restaurants in Kempten with international concepts have also become established. This variety makes Kempten's dining scene particularly interesting.
Italian Restaurants
Italian restaurants in Kempten are hugely popular and offer authentic pasta, pizza and risotto dishes.
Asian Cuisine
From Thai and Chinese to Japanese sushi - Asian restaurants in Kempten bring Far Eastern flavours to this Allgäu town.
- Fresh ingredients and authentic spices
- Vegetarian and vegan options
- Modern décor with Asian design elements
- Takeaway and delivery available
💡 Tip: Many Asian restaurants in Kempten offer affordable lunch menus at midday.
Restaurants in Kempten with Special Atmosphere: Venues with Character
Some restaurants in Kempten stand out for their exceptional location or décor. These special venues make a restaurant visit an unforgettable experience.
Restaurants with Terraces and Beer Gardens
Restaurants in Kempten with outdoor areas are especially popular during the warmer months. Here, guests can dine outside in good weather and enjoy the Allgäu landscape.
Historic Venues
Several restaurants in Kempten are housed in historic buildings, which lend them extra charm. These venues combine culinary enjoyment with cultural experience.
Price Categories and Budget Planning: Restaurants in Kempten for Every Wallet
Restaurants in Kempten cover every price category - from cheap snack bars to upmarket fine-dining restaurants. Good planning helps you find the right restaurant for your available budget.
Budget-Friendly Options
Even on a small budget, you needn't miss out on good food in Kempten. Many restaurants in Kempten offer affordable lunch menus or daily specials.
- Lunch menus at traditional inns (8-15 euros)
- Student-friendly restaurants near the university
- Snack stalls and food trucks with regional specialities
- Happy-hour offers at selected restaurants
Upmarket Price Range
For special occasions, premium restaurants in Kempten offer exquisite menus with matching service. This investment is worth it for unforgettable culinary experiences.
💡 Tip: Many upmarket restaurants in Kempten offer cheaper business menus at lunchtime.
📍 Discover more: Explore further recommendations for Kempten on our city page.
Conclusion: Restaurants in Kempten Offer Culinary Variety for Every Taste
Restaurants in Kempten win people over with their variety, quality and authenticity. From traditional Allgäu cuisine to international specialities, locals and visitors alike find culinary highlights here for every occasion and budget.
The key takeaways about restaurants in Kempten:
- Traditional Allgäu cuisine: Authentic specialities with regional ingredients
- Diverse venues: From historic inns to modern restaurants
- Every price category: Budget-friendly to upmarket dining options
- Seasonal cuisine: Fresh, regional ingredients depending on the time of year
- International variety: Complementing local cuisine with influences from around the world
Visit the restaurants in Kempten and discover the culinary treasures of Germany's oldest city for yourself. Book ahead, especially during the high season, and let Kempten's hospitality spoil you.
Frequently Asked Questions about Restaurants in Kempten
Which are the best restaurants in Kempten for Allgäu cuisine? The traditional inns in the old town, such as "Zur Alten Post", "Hirsch" and "Krone", serve authentic Allgäu specialities. These restaurants use regional ingredients and maintain centuries-old recipes.
Do restaurants in Kempten also offer vegetarian and vegan options? Yes, many restaurants in Kempten have expanded their offering and now serve vegetarian and vegan dishes. The Asian and modern restaurants in particular have extensive plant-based options on the menu.
What are the opening hours of restaurants in Kempten? Most restaurants in Kempten open for lunch between 11:30am and 12:00pm and in the evening from 5:30pm. Many have a break between 2:30pm and 5:30pm. Some restaurants are closed or have reduced opening hours on Sundays.
Do you need to book at restaurants in Kempten? A reservation is particularly recommended at weekends, on public holidays and during the tourist season. Upmarket restaurants in Kempten and popular inns in the old town are often fully booked.
Which restaurants in Kempten are suitable for families with children? Many restaurants in Kempten are family-friendly and offer children's menus, high chairs and, in some cases, play corners. Traditional inns and restaurants with beer gardens are especially well suited to families.
Laura Zimmermann