Max Stark

Dark wood, chandeliers, a lively dining room – and off the beaten tourist paths: hearty home-style cooking. That's what Max Stark stands for in Cologne's Kunibertsviertel – between Ebertplatz and Cologne Central Station, named after the Romanesque church St. Kunibert.

Since the 1930s, Max Stark has been offering you an authentic Cologne atmosphere in vintage style and a typical brewhouse experience in one of Cologne's smaller, cozy taverns – without carnival and music blaring. Nevertheless, it is bustling, full, and lively. On the wooden tables, you find classic Cologne, thus meat-heavy, tavern cuisine and Päffgen Kölsch beer on tap.

Hearty and traditional: the menu

Let's take a closer look at the concise menu of this popular traditional inn with Cologne classics, from large to small: sour kidneys or horse sauerbraten are included. Of course, there's also goulash, various schnitzel options, thumb-thick pork chops, bratwurst, or thick beans with bacon, Himmel un Ääd, or Halve Hahn. On certain weekdays, fresh potato pancakes or pork knuckles are added. The prices are pleasantly moderate.

Moreover, there is also a daily menu – here, the offerings are special and change regularly. On tap is freshly tapped Päffgen Kölsch, which is not too often found in Cologne brewhouses, from the namesake and oldest house brewery in Cologne, Brauhaus Päffgen. For vegetarians, the menu offers salads or small dishes.

History: An inn with roots back to 1889

The tavern was founded as early as 1889 – by none other than Max Stark. It was heavily damaged in World War II, had to close, and only received an emergency roof again in 1953. Several ownership and name changes followed. At the turn of the millennium, the brewhouse came back to life under its old name. In the wood-paneled rooms, you sit with regulars, local celebrities, and convivial groups in good old rustic tradition. It always gets jam-packed – so it’s better to think about making a reservation in advance!