The hippest restaurants & cafés in Aachen

Eating in Aachen – young, creative and full of surprises

Aachen is often associated with its famous cathedral, traditional Printen biscuits and its location at the border triangle of Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands. But take a closer look and you will quickly notice that the city has developed into a real hotspot for good food. Students, international visitors, start-ups and a lively creative scene shape the city – and its gastronomy.

The food spots in Aachen are diverse, experimental and often surprisingly stylish. From third-wave coffee and relaxed brunch spots to vegan street food concepts and hip casual dining restaurants, the city has plenty to offer. This guide shows you where to eat, drink and enjoy Aachen at its best.

Stylish cafés & third-wave coffee

Aachen has a vibrant café scene, especially popular with students, creatives and freelancers. Coffee here is not simply served – it is celebrated.

Leni liebt Kaffee is small, minimalist and charming for exactly that reason. High-quality beans, carefully brewed coffee and homemade cakes ensure that many guests stay longer than planned. Perfect for working, reading or people-watching.

At Café Total, everything revolves around specialty coffee. With rotating roasteries, knowledgeable baristas and a relaxed atmosphere, it is a favourite meeting place for coffee lovers.

OSKAR focuses on sustainability and attention to detail. Warm wood tones, a lounge-like atmosphere and excellent cakes make it an ideal spot for a relaxed break.

CH.Lingen Café & Bar works as a café during the day and turns into a bar in the evening. Stylish, young and always lively, it is perfect for afternoon coffee and evening drinks alike.

Breakfast & brunch: the best way to start the day

Anyone looking for the best breakfast in Aachen is spoilt for choice. The city offers plenty of brunch spots that impress both visually and in terms of flavour.

Mr. Baker is known for creative breakfast dishes such as avocado toast, pancakes and smoothie bowls. Portions are generous, presentation is modern and the atmosphere lively.

At Nela – Café & Deli, beautifully plated dishes, plenty of vegetarian options and a sunny outdoor seating area take centre stage. Especially at weekends, Nela is a popular brunch destination.

LivingRoom lives up to its name with a cosy, living-room-style atmosphere. A large brunch menu, fresh waffles and homemade lemonades make it perfect for long, relaxed mornings.

Vegan & vegetarian trend cuisine

Plant-based cuisine has firmly established itself in Aachen’s food scene. Vegan and vegetarian options are no longer niche, but an integral part of the city’s culinary identity.

Nobis Café surprises many visitors with its vegan selection. Alongside classic baked goods, you will find vegan cakes and snacks that prove how simple and delicious plant-based food can be.

Yuzu Streetfood brings Asian-inspired flavours to Aachen. Bowls, bao and dumplings dominate the menu, many of them vegan or vegetarian. Fresh, modern and ideal for anyone looking for something different.

Street food, bowls & quick healthy spots

For a quick bite or an easy lunch, Aachen offers plenty of street food options.

Nela & friends serves bowls to go made from fresh ingredients, with a sustainable concept and strong Instagram appeal. Healthy food meets modern design here.

At Tijuana, things are colourful and lively. Mexican-inspired dishes bring street food vibes, generous portions and a relaxed atmosphere – perfect for a casual evening out.

Hip restaurants & casual dining

If you are looking for something a little more polished in the evening while keeping things relaxed, Aachen has plenty of great options.

Homeburgers is an urban burger bar with street-art décor, craft beer and creative burger combinations. Ideal for comfort food with style.

Sourkraut reinterprets German comfort food in a modern way. Classic dishes are given a contemporary twist, creating an exciting blend of tradition and modernity.

Aposto Aachen combines a stylish setting with pizza, pasta and cocktails. It is particularly popular for groups and long, sociable evenings.

Egmont offers a modern brasserie feel, complete with a lovely terrace, solid cuisine and excellent drinks – perfect for a relaxed night out with friends.

Sweet, creative & special

Aachen is also a great destination for those with a sweet tooth.

Del Negro Gelateria is famous for its handmade ice cream. Modern flavours, high quality and a loyal following make it one of the city’s most popular ice cream parlours.

At Ludwig Chocolade Café, everything revolves around chocolate. Stylish, creative and highly photogenic – a true paradise for chocolate lovers.

Aachen is, of course, known for its Printen. Modern Printen manufacturers show that this traditional biscuit can be reimagined with chocolate, nuts or vegan variations – classic, but contemporary.

Frequently asked questions about food in Aachen

Which food spots in Aachen are particularly popular?
Cafés, brunch spots and burger restaurants are among the most popular places to eat.

Where can you find the best breakfast in Aachen?
Mr. Baker, Nela and LivingRoom are among the top addresses for breakfast and brunch.

Is there good street food in Aachen?
Yes. Spots like Tijuana and various bowl concepts offer modern street food in Aachen.

Aachen is a true food destination

Aachen surprises visitors with a young, creative and international food scene. The mix of stylish cafés, vegan cuisine, street food and casual dining makes the city an exciting destination for food lovers.

The a&o Hostel Aachen Hauptbahnhof is centrally located and perfectly connected, making it easy to explore Aachen’s culinary highlights. Fancy a change of scenery? The Dutch border is close by – check out our tips for a day trip to Maastricht from Aachen.

Got hooked?

Then book your trip with a&o to Aachen!