Liam AndersonI once ate a schnitzel so dry, I considered using it as a coaster for my beer. I won’t name names, but let’s just say their idea of “authentic German cuisine” meant sauerkraut straight from a can.
And when the server—bless her heart—asked if I wanted ketchup with my bratwurst. Ketchup. I nearly wept.
So since then, I’ve tried different recommendations, and after plenty of taste tests—I’ve compiled my favorites, so on your next day trip in Vancouver, you don’t have to risk your dinner on a disappointing schnitzel.
1. Jägerhof Restaurant
– Media credit: jagerhof.restaurant
Address: 71 Lonsdale Ave
Hours:
- Thursday, Sunday – 5 PM to 9 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 5 PM to 10 PM
Phone: +1 604-980-4316
Price: $$
Jägerhof Restaurant is great for families, friends, and anyone who enjoys live music with their German food—there’s always a lively atmosphere on Friday and Saturday nights thanks to the local musicians.
The menu at Jägerhof keeps things simple and true to tradition. One of my favourites is the Trio of Artisan Sausages, which gives you a taste of Thüringer Bratwurst, Wild Boar, and Debreziner sausages.
Each sausage is served with just enough sauerkraut and both Dijon and grainy mustard to balance the richness.
Jägerhof also has an excellent selection of German beers, from the strong yet easy-drinking Holsten Maibock to the lighter, refreshing Warsteiner Premium Verum pilsner.
| Pro Tip: If you like booze with your coffee, I recommend trying the Jägerhof Coffee—a warm, boozy mix of German brandy, apricot brandy, and Kahlua. |
2. Kaisereck Deli
– Media credit: kaisereckdelicatessen
Address: 1689 Johnston St #114
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 6 PM
Phone: +1 604-685-8810
Price: $
Kaisereck Deli is the go-to spot for anyone craving a quick, satisfying taste of German comfort food.
If you’re a fan of classic German street food, the Traditional Currywurst Plate is a must. The bratwurst is always cooked just right—juicy on the inside with a nice snap to the casing.
It’s topped with a tangy curry sauce that adds a bit of warmth and spice, and you can choose between crispy fries or a creamy potato salad on the side.
One of my personal picks is the Schnitzel on a Kaiser Bun. The pork schnitzel is made in-house from Fraser Valley pork, and it’s always tender with a crisp coating.
| Pro Tip: Order the potato and onion perogies deep-fried. They stay soft and flavourful inside, but that extra crunch just enhances the flavours. |
3. The Tannenbaum Restaurant
– Media credit: thetannenbaum
Address: 66 10th St #110, New Westminster
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 2 PM, 5 PM to 9 PM
Phone: +1 604-544-3151
Price: $$
The Tannenbaum is a warm, family-run spot that’s perfect for anyone who loves German and Bavarian-inspired comfort food.
One of my favourite starters here is the Hunter Spätzle. The handmade German noodles are tender and topped with a creamy mushroom gravy that’s both rich and comforting.
If you’re craving something classic, the Zigeuner is a traditional schnitzel topped with a zesty tomato and red pepper sauce that gives it a bit of a kick. The pan-fried potatoes and vegetables on the side round out the meal and soak up every bit of sauce.
For something a little more hearty, I recommend the Rinds Rouladen. This is a true German classic—thin strips of beef rolled around zesty mustard, bacon, onion, and a baby dill pickle, then slow-cooked until they’re fork-tender.
| Pro Tip: You can build your own schnitzel. You get to pick your schnitzel base, toppings, and sauce, so you can customize your meal exactly how you like it. |
4. The Old Bavaria Haus Restaurant
– Media credit: theoldbavariahausrestaurant
Address: 233 6th St, New Westminster
Hours: Tuesday to Friday – 4 PM to 9 PM
Saturday & Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Phone: +1 604-524-5824
Price: $$
The Old Bavaria Haus Restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored century-old home and the menu features classic German dishes.
One of my favourites is the Roasted Garlic Potato Pancakes. They’re crispy on the outside, soft inside, and topped with a rich black forest mushroom sauce that adds an earthy depth of flavour.
For mains, the Schnitzel and Rack of Lamb Baden Baden is my pick. You get the best of both worlds—half a tender schnitzel and half a marinated rack of lamb, baked with mustard and bread crumbs.
| Pro Tip: The Old Bavaria Haus has a fantastic selection of German wines. I recommend trying one of their Rieslings, like the DR Loosen Mosel, Selbach Mosel, or Deinhard Piesporter. Each pair beautifully with the rich, savoury flavours of the food and adds a refreshing touch to your meal. |
