Max Stark

Really liked the overall experience! They let us in after 30 mins because it was too full, but totally worth it! This food portions were insanely big so I recommend sharing a plate with someone else if you eat like a normal person, but if you come hungry then for yourself! The schnitzel was absolutely amazing and would go back to eat another one, and might be for myself only. Part of the staff was a bit rude (considering we were tourists and only one in the table spoke German) but the guy who attended us was extremely nice. The beer was cold and delicious. I’d go back to this place 100%

Huge portion of food (and the food was delicious!), excellent and VERY friendly staff, the beer was great as well! The waiter even took the time to explain Köln brewery customs / rules to us, which was very kind. 10/10 would recommend to anyone.

We lucked out finding this spot—just a short 15-minute walk from the cathedral, and it was worth every step. Proper German food, huge menu, the kind where you stop counting after a while. Stuff like pork knuckle with pea purée, rump steak with fried potatoes, Wiener schnitzel, veal roulade, Sauerbraten made with horse meat, pork fillet with mushrooms, Kasseler neck with green beans, goulash with dumplings, and even giant bratwurst. On top of that, the Tuesday potato pancakes baked with cheese were killer. The vibe is classic—dim, buzzing, with waiters keeping the Kölsch flowing until you cover your glass. For visitors, that’s a whole experience on its own. The food? Straight-up tasty. My steak was perfect, and those cheesy potato pancakes were next level. Cozy, loud in a good way, and super friendly staff. Felt like home the minute we sat down.

We had the absolute pleasure of dining at Max Stark and were blown away by both the food and the atmosphere. From the moment we stepped in, the charm of the place wrapped around us like an old friend: cozy, welcoming, and full of local character. We decided to try the Farmer’s Omelette and the Bratwurst Dinner, and both dishes were nothing short of exceptional. The omelette was fluffy, well-seasoned, and generously packed with fresh ingredients… the kind of hearty breakfast that feels like it was made with care. The Bratwurst Dinner, on the other hand, was the perfect example of comfort food done right. Juicy, flavorful bratwurst paired with French Fries which were perfectly crispy made it a meal to remember. It was the kind of dish that leaves you full in the best possible way not just in the stomach, but in the soul too. A special mention must go to the oldest microbrewery in Cologne, Päffgen, which was recommended to us. It was our first time trying it, and what a treat it was! Crisp, refreshing, and full of character; a true Cologne gem that perfectly complemented our meal. We’re now fans for life. But what truly made the experience unforgettable was the outstanding service we received. Our server, Glenn, was an absolute star. Friendly, attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about making sure we had a great time. He took time to explain the menu, offered thoughtful suggestions, and made us feel like honored guests rather than just customers. Glenn’s service was world-class and elevated the entire experience. In short, Max Stark delivered on every level: delicious, hearty food, delightful local beer, and the kind of customer service that sets a gold standard. We left full, happy, and already talking about our next visit. Highly recommended!

When looking for a place close to our hotel that has good schnitzel, Max Stark came up in our search. As we approached, we could hear lively conversation through the open windows and we could already smell great food. The place was hoping and we got the last two seats available at a common table. The server came quickly and provided an English menu from which we ordered beer. The schnitzel and beef goulash that we ordered after our drinks were both amazing and worthy of a return visit next time we are in Köln (Cologne).