Sünner Stube

A brewery set to open in 2020—what on earth could that be in Cologne? In any case, it’s only a distant comparison to the beer culture served up by other breweries—such as the Sünner Stube, with its more than 160 years of beer and brewing tradition.

So if you’re longing for the classic seating arrangement of cozy comfort in a historic ice cellar or the folksy accent and rough-and-tumble charm of a Köbe, you’ll be searching in vain here. It’s not hard to guess: this is by design—and it works. Because here, away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, you’ll find an innovative take on the traditional brewery concept: hearty fare with a gourmet twist.

A Modern Take on Brewery Cuisine

The Sünner Stube’s concept has its own unique charm, and if you’re to believe the experts on current food trends, you might wonder what solutions this blend offers to the problems, wishes, and longings that the Sünner Stube—under the banner of classic brewery culture—might offer its guests here. After all, the restaurant serves Austrian-German-Italian bistro cuisine—with seasonal changes on a straightforward menu.

The answer isn’t easy, but it lies somewhere between the need to recognize the familiar flavors of the good old days and the desire to still be at the cutting edge of culinary trends. Thus, you’ll find the best of both worlds in a charming, satisfying harmony: bold flavors rather than a delicately balanced interplay of aromas. Not too much, not too little. The Sünner Stube surprises its guests.

The Founders: No Novices

Ioannis Karagiannis and Pino Bruno, the founders of the Sünner Stube, are no newcomers to the restaurant business. The two restaurateurs, who grew up in Cologne, have long been in the culinary business. From pizzerias to bars and discos, as well as clubs, their own restaurant, and their parents’ restaurant—a wealth of experience comes together here. This also benefits the menu in its departure from the all-too-typical brewery-style cuisine, where you’ll often find unexpected dishes prepared in a tasty, hearty style—from appetizers to desserts.

A Quick Look: The Menu

The menu at Sünner Stube is based on the seasonal availability of select ingredients. The offerings are complemented by traditional Kölsch, wines by the glass, and Sünner spirits such as limoncello and dry gin. The Sünner Kölsch served here, as well as the spirits, come—as the name unmistakably suggests—from Sünner, Cologne’s oldest brewery still in operation, which has its own distillery. It was founded as early as 1830—and in addition to the hearty, innovative cuisine, the Sünner Stube’s bar carries on the tradition of old-school beer culture.

The ever-changing menu features—to name just a few examples—appetizers such as beef tartare, sea bream, or goat cheese. The main courses are meat-heavy, ranging from Wiener schnitzel to pulled pork burgers. And for dessert, there’s a small but exquisite selection ranging from Kaiserschmarrn to chocolate cake. However, you won’t find any explicitly labeled vegan options.

Venue: Also for Your Celebrations

Also worth mentioning is the option for your private events; the Sünner Stube offers space for up to 70 people—from consultation and planning to execution, including a set menu or buffet. You can reserve individual areas or the entire venue.