Bamberg's legendary half-timbered brewery and tavern, producing the world-famous Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier (smoked beer) since 1678. The dark, smoked beer is an acquired taste (it genuinely tastes like liquid smoked ham) but is one of Germany's most unique beers. The tavern serves traditional Franconian cuisine alongside the beer.
Schlenkerla, housed in a half-timbered building in Bamberg's old town since 1678, is one of Franconia's most famous breweries and taverns, built entirely around its Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier — a dark, distinctly smoked beer produced by drying malt over open beechwood fires, a Bamberg specialty found almost nowhere else in Germany. The flavour is genuinely polarising on first sip, often compared to liquid smoked ham, but regulars insist it grows on the palate by the second or third glass, and the Märzen Rauchbier is the classic starting point. The kitchen serves traditional Franconian cuisine to match, with the Schäufele (smoked pork shoulder) the standout dish alongside dumplings and regional sides. The tavern's interior is dark, wood-panelled, and centuries-old in character, loud and communal with long shared tables rather than intimate seating, and beer is still served straight from the cask in the traditional style. No dress code applies, and the atmosphere is unpretentious and thoroughly local despite its fame with visitors. Reservations are only needed for large groups; most guests simply walk in, though queues can form during peak tourist season in Bamberg's old town.
| Price | €€ |
|---|---|
| Hours | 9:30 AM–11:30 PM daily |
| Reservations | Walk-in; reservations for large groups |
| Address | Dominikanerstraße 6, 96049 Bamberg |
Location
Dominikanerstraße 6, 96049 Bamberg
Highlights
- Historic Bamberg tavern producing the world-famous smoked Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier since 1678
- Beer served straight from the cask in a centuries-old half-timbered building
- Signature Schäufele smoked pork shoulder pairs with the smoked beer
- Distinctive smoky flavour considered an acquired taste that grows on drinkers
- Loud, communal tavern atmosphere with long shared tables
Tips for visiting
- Order the Märzen Rauchbier first — the flavour grows on you by the third sip
- The Schäufele (smoked pork shoulder) is the classic dish to eat here
Accessibility
The historic building has some steps at the entrance typical of Bamberg's centuries-old old town structures; visitors with mobility needs should inquire ahead about seating options.
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Frequently asked questions
What makes Schlenkerla's beer unique?
It is a Rauchbier, a dark beer made from malt dried over open beechwood fires, giving it a distinctive smoked flavour unique to Bamberg.
Is the smoked beer an acquired taste?
Many first-time drinkers find it intense, tasting almost like liquid smoked ham, but regulars say the flavour grows on the palate after a few sips.
What food pairs best with the Rauchbier?
The Schäufele, a smoked pork shoulder, is the classic dish ordered alongside the smoked beer.
Does Schlenkerla take reservations?
Walk-ins are standard; reservations are mainly needed for large groups.