Brauerei Paeffgen ★ 4.1
Brauerei Paeffgen on Friesenstrasse in Cologne is the last independent house brewery in the city, founded by Hermann Päffgen in 1883; still hand-brewing.
Where to eat kölsch
Kölsch in Cologne
Brauerei zur Malzmühle ★ 4.3
Brauerei zur Malzmühle on Cologne's Heumarkt has brewed Mühlen Kölsch since 1858 and once served Bill Clinton; consistently fresh pours in the Altstadt.
Order: Halve Hahn, the traditional rye roll with aged Gouda, alongside a freshly tapped Mühlen Kölsch
Tip: Monday to Thursday from 14:00, Friday to Sunday from noon. Less tourist-heavy than the Cathedral-adjacent Brauhäuser.
Früh am Dom ★ 4.1
Früh am Dom in Cologne is the second-largest brewery pub in Germany, steps from the Cathedral, seating 1,500 and pouring Früh Kölsch all day.
Order: Himmel un Ääd with Mettbrötchen to start; the Bratwurst platter for the table
Tip: Open from 08:00 on weekends; the best terrace tables face the Heinzelmännchenbrunnen fountain.
More cities are in research. Want kölsch covered somewhere specific? Tell us where you want to eat.