A beloved Munich neighbourhood restaurant in the Au district specialising in Bavarian dumplings (Knödel) in extraordinary variety — the house speciality is 'Knödelküche' with creative takes on this Bavarian staple. Rustic, crowded, loud, and utterly authentic. Very popular with Munich locals.
Wirtshaus in der Au, in Munich's Au district, has built its reputation on one thing above all: Bavarian dumplings, or Knödel, served in an extraordinary range of styles under what regulars call the Knödelküche — a dumpling kitchen taking a traditional Bavarian staple and running it through countless creative variations, savoury and sweet. The restaurant is rustic, loud, and often crowded, with a genuinely local energy rather than a polished tourist presentation, and communal seating pushes the noise level up during busy service. The Sunday Knödel brunch is a well-established Munich institution, drawing a loyal weekend crowd, and the Kirsch-Rohrnudeln — yeast dumplings with cherry sauce — is a standout dessert version of the same dumpling theme. No dress code applies; the atmosphere is entirely unpretentious. Beer and Bavarian wine are served alongside the food, chosen to complement the hearty menu rather than headline it. Given the restaurant's popularity, especially for the Sunday brunch, reservations are essential and should be made one to two weeks ahead.
| Price | €€ |
|---|---|
| Hours | 11:30 AM–3 PM and 6 PM–midnight (Mon–Fri); 10 AM–midnight (Sat–Sun) |
| Reservations | Essential — book 1–2 weeks ahead |
| Address | Lilienstraße 51, 81669 München |
Location
Lilienstraße 51, 81669 München
Highlights
- Signature Knödelküche serving Bavarian dumplings in extraordinary variety
- Well-known Sunday Knödel brunch, a genuine Munich institution
- Kirsch-Rohrnudeln yeast dumplings with cherry sauce for dessert
- Rustic, loud, and authentically local atmosphere in the Au district
- Reservations essential given strong local popularity
Tips for visiting
- Order the Sunday Knödel brunch — a Munich institution
- Try the Kirsch-Rohrnudeln (yeast dumplings with cherry sauce) for dessert
Accessibility
The restaurant has step-free entry from Lilienstraße; the interior can be tightly packed with communal tables during busy service.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Knödelküche?
It is the restaurant's house concept of serving Bavarian dumplings, or Knödel, in an extraordinary range of savoury and sweet variations.
Is the Sunday brunch worth planning for?
Yes, the Sunday Knödel brunch is a well-established Munich institution and draws a loyal crowd, so booking ahead is recommended.
How far ahead should reservations be made?
One to two weeks ahead is recommended given the restaurant's strong local popularity.
What is a must-try dessert?
The Kirsch-Rohrnudeln, yeast dumplings served with cherry sauce, is a standout dessert.