Historic cellar restaurant beneath Munich's New Town Hall on Marienplatz. Vaulted ceilings, traditional decor, Bavarian specialties, and unbeatable location make this reliable choice for experiencing Munich dining culture.
Ratskeller München occupies the vaulted basement cellar beneath Munich's Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) on Marienplatz, the city's historic central square. Restaurants in the cellars of German town halls — the Ratskellers — are a centuries-old institution, and the Munich example is among the most atmospheric in Germany: low arched ceilings, brick columns, warm candlelit alcoves, and a layout that unfolds through a series of rooms and corridors. The kitchen serves traditional Bavarian and German food: Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz (boiled beef with broth and condiments), Schweinsbraten, weisswurst, and seasonal specials including game dishes in autumn. The menu is oriented toward classic German cooking rather than contemporary reinterpretation, and portions are substantial. Beer and wine are both well represented. The location on Marienplatz is unbeatable for visitors spending time in the Altstadt: the Ratskeller provides a reliable sit-down meal in a genuinely historic setting within steps of the Glockenspiel, Viktualienmarkt, and the main shopping streets. It is not the cheapest Munich restaurant nor the most cutting-edge, but the combination of location, atmosphere, and food quality represents reasonable value for the position.
Signature dishes
- Wiener Schnitzel — $22
- Tafelspitz (boiled beef) — $19
Good to know
- Hours
- Daily 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Reservations
- Recommended
Location
Marienplatz 8, 80331 München
48.1374, 11.5758 View on map
Highlights
- Vaulted cellar restaurant beneath Munich's Neues Rathaus on Marienplatz — exceptional location
- Atmospheric low-ceilinged brick rooms with alcove seating and warm lighting
- Traditional Bavarian menu including Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, and seasonal game
- Steps from the Glockenspiel and Viktualienmarkt — ideal for Altstadt sightseeing days
- Extensive beer and wine list with Bavarian regional selections
Tips for visiting
- Book a table in one of the smaller alcove rooms for the most atmospheric dining experience
- Visit for lunch rather than dinner for shorter waits and slightly more relaxed service
- The Tafelspitz is the kitchen's most refined dish — worth ordering over the more predictable Schnitzel
- The cellar rooms vary in character — ask for a table away from the main tourist thoroughfare rooms
Accessibility
Access to Ratskeller München is via a staircase descending from Marienplatz into the cellar. There is no lift access to the main dining areas. Visitors with mobility requirements should contact the restaurant before visiting to discuss any available alternatives.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is Ratskeller München?
Directly beneath Munich's New Town Hall on Marienplatz — the entrance is on the south side of the square, leading down into the vaulted cellar.
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are recommended, particularly for dinner and on weekends. The cellar can be busy with large groups. Weekday lunches are often accessible without booking.
What is the price range?
Mid-range — mains typically €18–26, with the central Munich location carrying a slight premium. The quality and setting justify the price for most visitors.
Is it suitable for a business lunch?
Yes — the quieter alcove rooms and traditional atmosphere make Ratskeller München appropriate for informal business meals, particularly with visitors to Munich unfamiliar with the city.