Don't Fall into the Trap! Ordering Drinks in Germany is Like a Game of “Truth or Dare”
Did you also think the biggest challenge of traveling the world was just sorting out flights and hotels?
How naive! The real challenges often hide in the most unassuming moments.
Imagine this: You're finally sitting in a charming German restaurant, ready to dig in. A waiter approaches with a smile, and before you've even had a chance to look at the menu, he asks, "What would you like to drink?"
Your heart flutters a bit. You think, "I'll just get some water first," and confidently say, "Water, please." The result? You're served a glass of... sparkling water? You take a sip, and your tongue starts tingling.
Welcome to the first hurdle of traveling in Germany: ordering drinks. This seemingly simple task is actually a game of "Truth or Dare" full of "cultural pitfalls." Order correctly, and you unlock an authentic new experience; make a mistake, and you might have to gulp down a "surprise" with tears in your eyes.
Today, we're going to reveal the secrets of this German "Drink Survival Guide," turning you from a travel newbie into an instant ordering pro.
The Story Starts with a Glass of “Water”
In China, we're used to looking at the main dishes first after sitting down, and waiters typically bring complimentary tea. But in Germany, the order is completely reversed—you order your drinks first, then take your time deciding what to eat.
This is their custom, and it's your first challenge.
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Pitfall #1: The default "water" is carbonated If you just ask for "Wasser" (water), nine out of ten times you'll get a glass of sparkling soda water (
mit Kohlensäure). Germans absolutely love this fizzy texture, but you might not be used to it. Pro Tip: Always be sure to specify "still" (ohne Kohlensäure). Or, if you want to save money, you can try asking if the restaurant offers free "tap water" (Leitungswasser). German tap water is safe to drink, but not all restaurants are willing to provide it. -
Pitfall #2: "Juice" might also give you a "surprise" Want to order an apple juice for your child? Be careful, you might end up with sparkling apple juice (
Apfelschorle). Germans love to mix juice with sparkling water; this type of drink is calledSchorle. It's refreshing and excellent value for money, but if you're expecting 100% pure juice, you might be a little surprised. Pro Tip: If you want pure juice, remember to check whether the menu saysSaft(juice) orSchorle(juice spritzer).
Don't Want to Risk It? Here's Your "Safe Bet"
If you don't want to rack your brains and just want a delicious drink that absolutely can't go wrong, remember this word: Radler (pronounced like 'RAH-dler').
This is practically the "jack-of-all-trades" of German beverages. It's a mixture of half beer and half lemon soda, low in alcohol, with a sweet and refreshing taste that's loved by everyone, young and old. Even if it's not on the menu, just ask the waiter directly, and they'll definitely make it for you.
When you're not sure what to drink, a simple "Ein Radler, bitte!" (A Radler, please!), is absolutely your best choice.
The Ultimate Challenge: The "Cider" You'll Love to Hate
Alright, now let's switch to "expert mode." In the Frankfurt region, you'll encounter a specialty that sounds delightful: Apfelwein (apple wine).
Based on the name, do you think it's a sweet and tart, intensely fruity apple cider?
Think again!
Traditional German Apfelwein is made from fermented apples, and it's often quite sour and astringent, even carrying a rather unhappy taste. Many tourists try it because of its reputation, only to frown after the first sip. This is definitely the biggest "gamble" on the German drink menu.
So, is this drink truly unsalvageable?
Of course not! Locals rarely drink it straight; they have their own "secret method" of enjoying it.
Ultimate Pro Tip: Transform it just like ordering a Radler! You can tell the waiter you want Apfelwein, but "with half lemon soda, and make it sweet, please!" (mit Limonade, süß, bitte!).
And voilà! The magic happens! The sour and astringent apple wine is perfectly neutralized by the sweetness of the soda, instantly transforming into a special drink overflowing with fruity aroma, praised by everyone. See, a small change turns a potential "pitfall" into a "pleasant surprise."
The Real Secret: Confidently Expressing Your Needs
From a glass of water to a glass of Apfelwein, you'll find that when traveling abroad, the most crucial thing isn't memorizing countless vocabulary words, but rather understanding cultural differences and confidently expressing your needs.
But what if you forget these "pro tips"? Or what if you want to make more complex requests, like "less ice," "half sugar," or "mix two kinds of juice together"?
That's when a tool that breaks down language barriers becomes your "ultimate hack."
Try Intent. It's a chat app with built-in AI translation that lets you communicate with anyone in the world using your native language.
When you're unsure how to order, simply type your request in Chinese into Intent, for example: "Hello, I'd like an Apfelwein, but could you please fill it with lemon soda? I like it a bit sweeter." It will immediately translate it into authentic German for you. Just show it to the waiter.
This way, you'll not only avoid ordering awkwardness but also be able to create your own perfect drink, just like a local, exactly as you wish.
True travel isn't just superficially checking off sights; it's about delving deep, feeling, and connecting. Next time you sit down in a foreign land, don't be afraid to speak up.
Because every successful order is a small cultural victory.
Ready to start your adventure?
Prost! (Cheers!)