Schmalznudel - Cafe Frischhut

This cozy café has a warm, wood-themed interior and serves Schmalzgebäck along with a nice variety of pastries. Schmalznudel is a traditional Bavarian fried donut pastry—crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. There’s also a lovely courtyard, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy something sweet for both locals and tourists alike. Unfortunately, it was raining that day, and a bit too chilly to wait outside for takeout, so we decided to eat inside. We were lucky to get a seat at the very back of the upstairs area. The place was pretty busy, but we still managed to enjoy a cozy and relaxing time. Definitely recommended!

Absolutely must come here a try these authentic and delicious Schmalznudeln. Don't forget to bring cash. No wonder there is always a line here. But while you wait you can watch as everything is prepared by hand and freshly. What a spectacle. Needless to say they are delicious!!! Even my German Grandma would agree that they taste almost as good as hers. I could sit there all day eating one after another.

Jeez. Where do I even begin. I would give 10 stars if I could. The freshly fried doughnut is out of this world! Hands down, this was tastiest doughnut I have ever eaten so far! There are different shapes available to buy and I would recommend you to get the circular shaped one. The inner part is crispy and the sides are chewy and delicious. Trust me on this one, you must come and try their doughnuts.

Well known cafe that specialises in Bavarian pastries - and they are all delicious!! They are around 5 Euros a piece. Also one of the few cafes in Munich that advertised ‘Iced Latte’ - extra point from me. Everything was super delicious and service was lovely. Only downside is that the outside area is located next to a somewhat busy road.

We stopped by this Cafe near Viktualienmarkt after seeing it pop up on nearly every Munich food list and many Tik Tok videos. It’s clearly popular, and there’s no doubt the Bavarian pastries are made fresh and served hot….especially the namesake schmalznudel. But beyond the fried dough novelty, the experience was a bit underwhelming. The service felt rushed and impersonal, and while that might be expected at busy spots, there wasn’t much warmth from the staff to balance it out. One thing to note: they only accept cash, which caught more than one tourist off guard including myself. As for the pastry itself it was light and crispy, but flavour wise, fairly plain. Also picked up a Krapfen that was filled with marmalade that was light and fluffy. If you’re into hot, simple fried dough the schmalznudel might hit the spot. Otherwise, it’s more of a quick snack than a must eat moment. Overall, glad we tried it once, but it didn’t quite live up to the buzz.

A very famous Bavarian Bakery that in my experience, lived up to the hype. I actually went twice because once was not enough and the service was pretty good and with a smile which is sometimes rare in the service industry. The schalmznudel was pretty and was hot off the frier so tasted the best with a little dusting of sugar.

Tried this café in Munich after seeing all the glowing Google reviews, but it really didn’t live up to the hype. The biggest disappointment was the coffee—it came from a basic vending-style machine like the ones you find at train stations, not a proper espresso machine. For a café, that’s a dealbreaker. The desserts were also overrated and forgettable. On top of that, they only accept cash, so I had to leave and find an ATM just to pay. I must say that the staff was very friendly and welcoming, but unfortunately, that alone doesn’t make up for the poor quality. Definitely not worth the visit.

If you’re following travel blogs about Munich, you’ve probably come across Schmalznudel - Cafe Frischhut, a well-loved spot near Viktualienmarkt. Known for its traditional Bavarian pastries, this café offers a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere that makes for a pleasant stop during a city stroll. The service is friendly and efficient, adding to the welcoming vibe of the place. Even when it’s busy, the staff keeps things moving while maintaining a warm attitude. The interior is charming and simple, with a classic café feel that makes you want to linger over a cup of coffee. As for the star of the show—the Schmalznudel (fried dough pastry)—it’s served fresh and hot, which is a definite plus. While the texture is light and crispy, the taste itself is somewhat average, lacking the depth of flavor that one might expect after reading all the rave reviews. However, if you enjoy traditional pastries straight from the fryer, it’s worth trying at least once.

How is simple fried dough so good?! If you don't know what to get, don't worry, they are all simple fried dough with a light sugar coating -- you just have to choose the shape. I like their original schmalznudel (round flat shape) and striezerl (long braided shape). Easy to order to-go. Dine-in is €4 extra. Tables are tiny -- they can fit one fried dough and a cup of coffee, although you'll be tempted to place a second, or third, order of fried dough. Note: Cash only.

Cute cafe! There are a few pastry options with rotating flavors for some. Indoor or outdoor seating. Simple selection of beverages. This is a cash only business so come prepared

So good! I don't usually like fried dough or donut but I would eat those at this place any time! A subtle sweetness went well with coffee. I think I am gonna try it with wine next visit as coffee cost more than alcohol... :D Go early as it could get packed inside and takeout line could get long.

It's a established local bakery /coffee house with delicious schmalznudel and donuts with great coffee drinks. Service is quick and responsive. It's cash only place and English is OK. Ambient is very casual and good coffee house like atmosphere. Inside and outdoor seating with many tables in multi levels inside. Outdoor is accessible.

Came for the schmalznudel and left wishing I got more of their other pastries to try. Before the cafe opened, a line was already forming. You can see their popular items in the window display. I grabbed the fried dough topped with sugar to go. Highly recommend enjoying it fresh. It was the perfect quick bite to grab on a cold rainy day.

If you're near Marienplatz and Viktualienmarkt, Schmalznudel - Cafe Frischhut is a must-visit for a classic Bavarian breakfast. This charming café, run by the Frischhut family since 1973, is famous for its lard noodles--a beloved local specialty. You can watch through the shop window as the yeast dough is baked to a crispy golden brown. Though I didn't try the lard noodle, I opted for a pastry with apricot jam in the middle, and it was delicious. The perfect field for my morning.

Delicious. I got the kapfen(?), I might have spelt that wrong. It has an apricot filling inside and topped with just the right amount of sugar. The one pastry filled me up for the morning as of lately I haven't been big on eating breakfast. I also got a cappuccino, which was good too. Service was good as well and I had no issues. The woman helped me as I have little to no german speaking skills. Would recommend to anyone. PS: they are cash only and their prices are fair

came back multiple days for the schmalznudel alone! you can either order to-go or dine in. plenty of seating upstairs, service was more prompt downstairs than upstairs though. For drinks we ordered a latte and cappuccino, both were decent but the pastries stood out more. The krapfen was just like a jam donut. the strizerl was similar in flavor to the outer portion of the schmalznudel but doughier texture. Tastes like a Chinese donut almost, but you sprinkle sugar over it and the texture is so much lighter. Wish we had something like this back home

Coffeehouse with legendary pastries. The cafe is quaint, and service efficient and comfortable. Do yourself a favor and indulge!

After traversing through Bavaria for 10 days, I can officially say that Café Frischhut is the best cafe there is! We tried Café Frischhut during our first morning in Munich and could not stop thinking about it during the rest of our trip. Every single cafe we tried after was compared to Café Frischhut which set the bar too high! Café Frischhut had good coffee and AMAZING pastries. We tried the schmalznudel and krapfen (donut with apricot filling). Both fresh out of the fryer and delicious! We especially loved the krapfen and now need to figure out how we can get more when we go back to the States. Service was good, and the cafe was very cozy. There's a huge back seating area that we didn't first realize was there. Wish we had a Café Frischhut back home! Until we meet again.

Not sure what the big hype is. Found this place on a hipster guide to local eats. I ate outside and the cafe was underwhelming for its fare. I tried the famous traditional Bavarian pastry which was just flat fried greasy dough with sugar you put atop yourself. It really was nothing special and that combined with the slow, 'meh' service (bad even for Germany), I cannot in good faith recommend this to anyone else. If you need a break to sit down, I'd recommend somewhere else.

It's exactly what it sounds like. It's a fried piece of dough with sugar on top of it. It's basic yet delicious. It's not overly greasy, not too heavy and I think it's a great day starter! Service was great, very fast. You can buy upfront to-go or you can go in and eat there. The place gets pretty deep so plenty of seating! It's a refreshing traditional looking place in contrast to its very modern neighbor, Eataly.

Yum! I throughly enjoyed my schmalznudel. It is a flat, fried dough dipped in sugar. It was light and not too sweet. It's a must if you find yourself in Munich!

Was brought here on a food tour and did not disappoint. The freshness and lightness of the pastry was so good. Highly suggest!

IDK , maybe it was my experience ( unpleasant waitress ) but I'd say just average - don't believe the hype . First I was directed to go downstairs ( America section it appears ) No seats Went upstairs- plenty of seats and mainly only locals . As mentioned, server was not so nice , refused to bring my utensils, granted I only had pastries, but she rudely recommended that I use my hands . The pastries themselves were only really average. Nothing special . But don't misunderstand, they were tasty all the same !

Found this place online- the pastry that they are known for was super delicious- almost like an American funnel cake without the powdered sugar. Not sweet at all. The donut was so delicious. Wait staff spoke English and very cosy inside

Delicious and fresh homemade doughnuts! Great for a quick breakfast if you're in rush.

Final stop on the food tour and probably my favorite one. We had a schmalznudel which is best described as a "jelly donut." Imagine a sweet bread that's about the size of a dinner roll with stewed plum baked/fried inside of it. It. Was. Heavenly. I think it needs only a hot cup of coffee to go with it and that's why I would suggest making this a morning stop rather than an afternoon one. Delicious! [Review 12027 overall, 1810 of 2019.]

Cafe Frischhut is an all-time favorite stop in Munich. It's a family-run business, and even though it's located in the heart of the city it has a super homey feel. The prices are more than reasonable. The bakers have been making their signature schmalznudel donuts the same way for decades with a recipe that's hundreds of years old, and watching the process on YouTube (or better-- in person!) is mesmerizing. This past visit, we sat inside for the first time. The back room is very cozy, outfitted in pale wood and benches with small tables. The vibe is relaxed, and the staff never rushes you. You're free to sip your coffee and nibble your baked goods at a leisurely pace, which is what we did. (Though not too leisurely-- more exploring to be done!) This cafe is a perfect resting place, especially after traipsing around Munich and Viktualienmarkt.

I went to visit schmalznudel while on a short visit to Munich . These have to be the most amazing type pasty ever eaten . They melt in your mouth. They are freshly made when you first walk in to the right . One can sit down or just grab one to go ( with or without powdered sugar ) . I had powered sugar on mine and would definitely recommend and go back to when in Munich . Sehr lecker .

Umm traditional German donuts??? Yes, please. When I saw the reviews of this place, I just knew we had to stop by for some afternoon coffee and donuts. As others have already said, it's centrally located close to many main tourist sights, which is convenient. When we went in the afternoon, all the tables were full, but people cycle out fairly regularly so we didn't have to wait long. You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu here. There aren't a ton of choices, but it's probably better that way so they can focus on quality rather than overwhelming customers with a quantity of options. We ordered 2 of the 4 and loved both. If you like pastries and desserts, you have to come here when in Munich!

Cute little cafe! There wasn't much of an English translation and it is a cash only business but they were kind and patient with us. The schmalznudel was absolutely amazing! It was nice and flaky but also melted in your mouth with each bite.

Oh my goodness! Handmade donuts prepared right in front of your face or while your sitting sipping your cappuccino? YES, please! My husband and I had a 6 hour layover while heading home from the Yelpless country of Greece so we decided to take the train from the Munich Airport to Marienplatz. This yummy little wooden clad donut shop is about a 5 minute walk from the Glockenspiel. They only take cash so come prepared. Today we had apricot jelly filled donuts that were still warm! When do we (Americans) ever get apricot anything? They do offer up a few other yummy breakfast type donuts as well as some bread like cinnamon rolls. They have the rolls until they sell out so if you are a fan, come early! It's a great place to come and take a break from touring Munich.

Yummy donuts here. Unfortunately they weren't making the krapfen donut with abricot jam inside(they stop near closing time) tomorrow we will get that. But the other donuts were super fresh and tasty. Everyone enjoyed this spot. Update, got the apricot one today, yum!

Overhyped. No line on a sunny weekday afternoon in March. Came all the way from California to make a pit stop here on a short layover and was unimpressed. Standard cream-filled sugar-covered malasada. We opted to have it packed to-go and decided to sit outside to enjoy the pastry only to be hastened out of our seats by a yelling staff member implying the seats are only for customers who bought "for here." I guess they're not known for their hospitality, but they succeeded in making us feel unwelcome.

Superb service delivering fresh breakfast pastries and hot coffee. Very near Munich's Marienplatz.

Located within walking distance of Marienplatz and the famous Glockenspiel it is at Café Frischhut that locals and tourists alike gather, the smell of Yeast and Sugar hanging in the air at least three meters outside the shop and frequently replenished by a continuous flow of traffic in and out the door. Truly a local flavor, the presence of fried Dough outside Bavaria undoubtedly common but Schmalznudel themselves almost entirely a product of Munich and its surroundings, guests entering the wood and brick eatery will immediately find the item they covet steps inside, though additional baked goods as well as seating are also offered. Cash only and fast-paced, the entire transaction for most less than sixty seconds as a woman takes money and bags items while the man behind her fries stretched Dough prior to adding Sugar, it is while walking that most begin to indulge, first in this case on Raisin-studded Brioche known in Munich as Rohrnudeln or Buchteln. Onward next to Krapfen, the exterior almost too warm to touch and the inside filled with thick Apricot Preserves, it was after returning to the car that Café Frischhut's signature item was un-bagged and devoured, the taste reminiscent of Funnel Cake given similar constituents though the texture is far lighter all the way from rounded-edge to paper-thin center.

Good place for coffee and pastry..Those of you looking for breakfast like a typical one in the US this is not where you will get it. I think that's what my friends thought they would be able to get. I was ok with a pastry and coffee, and mimosa. I decided to try the mini bread with plum instead. It was really different nothing I ever had and I'm glad I tried it. Very tasty!

A definite must-go to place when in Munich. They serve traditional Bavarian donuts and they are VERY good at making them. The service for takeout is very straightforward, order your donut and/or coffee and you're out within 60 seconds. However, there is tons of seating indoor and outdoor which we opted in doing. Th service here was super friendly and helpful in explaining what the different types of donuts are and to help clarify any of the items that we couldn't understand into English. We ended up getting the Schmalznudel (the original), espresso, and latte (Milchkaffe). The Schmalznudel is absolutely fantastic and I was so sad when we finished it. It's basically like a thin fried dough and it tasted even better when we had it sprinkled with sugar. Will definitely be coming back! The coffee here is also very good - I've never had coffee that tasted like this (they did mention it was German coffee) and I was immediately hooked on it. Love this place so much.

I was here two years ago and had a Auszogne to go. This time, we stayed for Auszogne and Rohrnudeln mit Zmitschgen, both are delicious! The service is outstanding, our lovely waitress was sweet, funny and attentive, and cute as heck. I miss this place already....sigh...

Schmalznudel Café Frischhut is a very nice and cozy spot very close to Marienplatz, making it a perfect before or after stop of the famous plaza. We tried all the different German donuts, and all were good. I liked the most simple ones as they were so soft and perfectly fluffy. There is a lot of seating in the downstairs area. There is also an outside seating area for nice days. While there were many tourists inside, there were also a good amount of locals. They do not accept credit cards and it is cash only.

Very popular fried dough place in Munich. Fresh off the fryer and dusted with sugar, these sweet treats are an amazing blend of crispy and soft that have you eating bit after bite. Great to have a cup of coffee with on their patio and enjoy some good weather.

I am convinced that "schmalznudel" is German for "heaven" because these pastries are so fresh and delicious you will think you have died and are being rewarded by a loving creator for a lifetime of good deeds. Seriously, if you see a line beginning to form out the door, it is not because they are slow but because they are waiting for the next batch of fresh pastries to come out of the fryer. They take them directly out and serve them within minutes. The krapfen was my fave. It is essentially a jelly-filled, sugar coated donut. On the day we visited, I believe the filling was apricot. Oh baby. The namesake pastry, the schmalznudel, is a must, as well. Basically just thinly pounded fried dough covered in sugar, but the thinness means it gets slightly crispy in the fryer. Good stuff. They serve coffee too, so you will get your caffeine fix. They have indoor seating, an outdoor garden, and some seating in front facing the market, but since it is steps away from the Viktualienmarkt, we just took ours to go and grabbed an open seat. Not to be missed!

Fresh made, absolutely delicious. And the coffee was fantastic as well. There's often a lineup first thing in the morning when it opens.

I went here with hubby and sat downstairs. The waitress didn't speak english, so we ordered the wrong thing. I came back several times since then and just picked up a schmalznudel with sugar at the take out counter. Then I trot off happily (with my warm bag) to the Viktualianmarket for my "gros caffe krema" and sit at the benches watching the world go by. Heaven! So just pick up from the counter to go, and head across the street... you won't be sorry...

I'm never eating a doughnut/fried thing from anywhere else ever again! These things are amazing! Fried crack dipped in sugar! Seriously though, do yourself a favour and get one of the schmalznudel fresh out of the fryer. It's crunchy, sweet and warm. We were going to skip this place because we thought 'what's the hype?' But after accidentally walking past and seeing no line we quickly jumped in and got one. Just next to the farmers market be prepared with cash as they don't take card.

Beautifully fried delicious traditional dough! It is a must-go if you are in munich. Grab one and an espresso then enjoy watching the hustle and bustle of Viktualienmarkt.

Friendly cafe with traditional Bavarian donuts that you can watch being made right in the front window.

Fantastic pasties and cappuccino. It's actually the latter that I enjoyed the most - probably the best cappuccino I had in Germany. Also, lovely location to sit outside and enjoy the area!

Freshly fried dough. Sprinkle a little sugar on it, OMG. What's not to love? If you are in Munich, make sure you visit this charming little cafe. Add: I just looked this up on Tripadvisor, and realized I should have also tried a "Rohrnudel" filled with plums. *!#$@#@ I guess I will need to return to Munich. Darn. Don't make the mistake I made, order both! (This place is rated #18 out of 2,221 restaurants on Tripadvisor... must mean something!)

Cute spot! We walked straight to the back, found some seats, sat down, and a server came by pretty quickly to take our orders. Be warned though, I believe the staff speaks limited English--I wound up having to order for my two friends. All three of us went with the Krapfen, which was filled with a warm apple-pie-like jam/jelly, and water. The Krapfen was a puff of sugary, light, doughy heaven. We ate ours pretty quickly, asked for the check, and left probably 15 minutes after we arrived. Tip on how to order a Krapfen and water: "Einen Krapfen und ein Wasser, bitte." :) ("Stilles Wasser" for regular water and "Sprudelwasser" for sparkling.) Enjoy!

They say that you have to try the Schmalznudel if you're in Munich, and that this is the place to do it. The staff is friendly, if just a bit distracted, but understandably so, as the cafe gets extremely crowded especially at peak times. The star of the menu did not disappoint! I had mine with a cappuccino - they went perfectly together at cost me 6,20€, which is reasonable for a Friday afternoon coffee break.

This little cafe packs a lot of character, flavor and good service at am awesome price! Really enjoyed the atmosphere in this Munich mainstay. It's nestled right next to the Viktualienmarkt in the city center & across the street from a great brewery. Would highly recommend a quick stop here as the Schmalznudel is pretty affordable & makes for a nice snack. The Schmalznudel itself is like a fried donut, reminded me a lot of beignets but with less powdery sugar on it. Their other raisin & plum breads are great as well.

Oh goodness. Stopped in for a donut on the recommendation of many Yelpers, and was not disappointed, which is a feat considering that I generally dislike pastry and can only manage 1/4 of a donut before my body revolts. Unfortunately this place was out of my top choice, but the backup was amazing. Like most donuts, they're best fresh out of the fryer and not great later (my standards are high, I suppose), and these are pleasantly sweet and fluffy without being sickly sweet or waxy (disjoin' "K2" and its waxy nastiness, which I can't stand...I could actually eat my Schmalznudel). The international clientele in line with me was fun too, and it's in a good spot near the market. Not diet food but worth a stop!

One of the best donut type desserts I've ever had! Order the krapfen, which is like a jelly filled donut. They are so fresh since they fry them as they go. Inside, the filling is an apricot jam that isn't too sweet. On the outside, the donut is coated with sugar crystals. They are lightly, airy, fluffy, soft, to die for. Cost: 2 euros.

Is it good as they say it is? Yes, I can say it is so. I've walked by Café Frischlut several times in Viktualienmarkt and on one rainy day I needed to try it myself after noticing plenty of single guests going in and out of the café with white paper bags clutched in their hands. I quickly walked over with my umbrella over my head and a very smiling, gentleman opened the door for me that happened to be the mystical cook that assembles die Schmalznudel sweetness. Die Schmalznudel are suggested to be sugar coated, and I took the waitress' advice on it, although in my opinion, it could have been just as good without it as it is quite crisp around the edges. For just 2€, I think it is worth a visit, and a cappuccino pairs well too x

Krapfen Krapfen Krapfen!!!! An absolute masterpiece of a donut. Served warm by very friendly and helpful staff. Filled with apricot jam. Perfection.

Hand made schmalznudel. Coffee shop had a sit down outside area. Very beautiful setting. Some space upstairs as well. Great staff. Loved it.

Fried dough goodness with sugar - what more can you ask for? I came twice during my 3 day stay in Munich. It's all the same dough I believe with different shapes/size. Say the shape and they'll know what you mean if you don't speak German. €2 for each one. I waited 5 minutes for a fresh donut with sugar and it was worth the wait! The inside is so soft. You should definitely try to have it fresh if you happen to be in Munich!