Wow! We ordered up the Easter special of Fennel Braised Lamb Shank, Spaetzle, Red Cabbage and Black Forest Cake. It was our 1st "visit" to Schnitzel Kitchen but had to do t/o due to the Corona Virus. They accepted our dine in groupon as they should have. Kudos! The food was absolutely amazing! Some of the best food we have had in Sarasota! And t/o no less! Great Job! We will be back for sure. read more

I'm of German ancestry and traveled all over Europe. When in Sarasota, from my home in San Francisco, I always head to this gem of a restaurant. You're transported the moment you walk in the door ... and the fabulous owner / staff welcome you with genuine enthusiasm. Casual, intimate and sometimes boisterous (see Octoberfest photo) ... the decorations including Cuckcoo Clock are all fun and authentic. Order a boot of draft Lager bier, the Wiener Schnitzel and Strudel. The food is delicious. Five stars all the way! read more

Schnitzel Kitchen - German Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Delicious German cuisine! My husband had the Schweinhochsen and we had enough leftover to make Split Pea soup the following day. I had a Weiner Schnitzel with a mushroom sauce. All prepared deliciously seasoned and tender. read more

Enjoyed everything from the mixed salad appetizer to the jager schnitzel and curry bratwurst. Ask for Jared...he was such a great guy and server! Thank you Jared for the great "German" experience! read more

See all

Lived in the area quite a while and finally tried this restaurant. It was very crowded but lively with chatter. The wait was worth it. The service was very good and the staff kind and friendly. We received very fair portions of good, authentic German food and the dessert was yummy. Look forward to returning. read more

Very friendly service. Somewhat small portions, especially for appetizer. The food and environment are authentic. It's probably overpriced given the ingredients. read more

We arrived about 7pm, and stood at the hostess station for a good 15 min. I finally approached the wait staff standing around and asked for a table. I was then approached by who I think was the owner 5 min later who asked if I had a reservation, which I didn't, and she was going to turn us away. Another woman interrupted and told us 5 min. After a 15 min wait, we were seated..... kinda. She pointed in a general direction and I guessed which table to sit at. Not a good start. I grew up in a german household, with great grandparents and family who came directly from Germany. This was not german cooking. We waited 10 min for someone to come take our drink order. We started w the pretzels and cheese which literally were about the same quality as something I would get at target food court. We also ordered Diet Coke and a german Heff. My dates coke came in a can, warm. My beer didn't come until I asked for it after our food came. We then got our entrees. Mine was pork schnitzel with red cabbage and potato dumpling, my dates was bratwurst with sauerkraut and german cold potato salad. The schnitzel was extremely thin w a ton of breading. The gravy was lackluster w one mushroom. The red cabbage was good but I'm sure it came from a can, not homemade as described. The potato dumpling was gross w slimy outside and and almost solid inside. There was almost no flavor or seasoning. My dates bratwurst was more of a fancy sliced hotdog w mustard. The sauerkraut was good but not awesome. The cold potato salad was something I could buy at Walmart in the deli section. I usually don't leave super shitty reviews but seriously, the food sucked. I was really looking forward to german food reminiscent of home cooking growing up as the reviews here and their website described. I suggest going to the german restaurant on 64 in Bradenton, my german grandfather used to take me there all the time. read more

It was our second time there but we still don't love the food. I ordered their potato pancakes, but good luck finding any potatoes. very doughy and blah. The pretzel as an appetizer wasn't much, either. My husband didn't enjoy his meal, either. We think their prices are high, especially compared to the German restaurant we frequent in Bradenton. Everyone who works there is very friendly and nice décor and entertainment. read more

Every time we come to Siesta Key we always stop here. It is absolutely the best meal, by far, that we have on our trip. If I'm ever on death row, my last meal will be from The Schnitzel Kitchen. read more

Schnitzel Kitchen - I have no idea what this thing is. It was on the wall above pur table. - German Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Very disappointing, especially for the price! Food was bland. Authentic wall decor are a distractor to the nasty carpeting and ceiling tiles

Totally authentic, incredible german food and a very fun atmosphere! You will love the people!

Kitschy decor and vibe, but excellent food and service. Don't be put off by the outside...store front in a strip center in Gulf Gate. Warm and cozy inside and all are made to feel welcome. read more

Wonderfully mediocre food! As a chef and frequent visiter to Germany, I will say that the Beer and red cabbage are excellent! I take exception with the words "Berlin trained chef": The owner's daughter is a line cook at best with no hint of creativity in her dishes, just simply prepared food sold at "Fine Dining" prices. The portions were more French meaning that the appetizers were more like Amuse Bouche and the entrees more like appetizers. Please don't tease me with a schnitzel that doesn't usurp the plate at a filet mignon price - even in post war East Berlin, the portions were magnificent! The reviews here are interesting but I am also aware of the less than discerning palates of the Florida retirees who bounce from Groupon to Early Bird Special to avoid cooking at home. Most of these folks would be delighted with a fried chuck steak served with boiled potatoes. The decor, while reminiscent of a german tavern but could use a good cleaning, decluttering and updating. Our waiter, while friendly, hovered too much and was overly chatty: Please simply recommend, take our order and check back periodically once you've delivered said order. Your money is better spent at far better eateries in Sarasota. read more

If you're a minority, don't bother going there. They won't seat you... And yes... I made reservations and a couple who were walk ins were seated before us after being told it would be a 15 - 20 min wait. .We left 15 minutes after our reservation and having walk ins sat before us. The first time we were turned away and told to make a reservation... this was our 2nd and last attempt. Why tell us to make reservations if you had no intentions of seating us? read more

I will start with a positive. Ambiance is very charming. The place decorated with the quintessential German steins, antlers, and such. Very homey. Portions: Ridiculously small. Stuffed cabbage is peasant food cheap ingredients. $20 for two. For 20 bucks, I could feed the entire restaurant with two or three stuffed cabbage. Really, could you spare the spaetzle?? Again a staple of peasants because of its ease but wow. Flavor: stuffed cabbage- I cannot put my finger on the flavor. Old shoe comes to mind. Definitely something missing. Sauerkraut- cooked to within an inch of its life. Sauerkraut is supposed to be crisp even when heated. I mean I get it; it's Sarasota, but even the older crowd doesn't want baby food. All in all, I will not eat there again. read more

We were pretty excited about trying this place out. However, it turned out to be more than disappointing. First of all, the space itself is tiny. In no way is it family/kid friendly because of the close proximity of each table to one another and the general tininess of the place. Second of all, the older woman waitress is extremely rude. She made impolite remarks to our children which were far beyond appropriate. Third of all, the food sucked. The produce was not fresh and the portions were very small. One of the children with us just ordered a side of fries and it seemed like we just got leftovers from someone else's plate that was too full. Also, the schnitzels were so thickly breaded it was impossible to taste the meat. And the Jäger topping tasted way too thick with only one mushroom on my schnitzel. Anyway, I would steer clear of this place. Yes, they're German, but no, it's not tasty, the service was horrible (took forever and not nice at all): ". And far too overpriced--ridiculously so, I'd say. read more

Update to my previous review in 2014... it's just as good as it was back then! My wife and I ate here again this evening and weren't disappointed. Our waiter was Adam who was professional yet easy going. Kirsten was her usual bubbly self and the atmosphere was laid back. My wife's schnitzel was tender and super thin (which is how I grew up eating it!).I had the Kassler with egg which had great flavor--not overly smoky. I have always found the portions here to be just right. I read a previous review stating that there was no "creativity" in the dishes. Being born and raised in Germany I cant tell you, there isn't much "creativity" to be had with the main course. Meat, potatoes, cabbage, etc. on your plate... BAM. Now eat. You wont find dangly twisty fruity French stuff piled on top of your meal. It's never been that way! Forget the reviews and just stop in and give it a try. I don't think you'll be disappointed! read more

Great place. The food was good and beer was cold. Service slightly slow but there only waitress and they had about 12 tables going between the 2 of them. Otherwise they were very nice and it was a great overall experience. We will be back. read more

We ate there for the first time and will be back. Jared was our waiter and he is awesome. I suggest reservations due to it being aprox. 60 seat place. I can not even tell you how wonderful the food was. Being that the place is homey even the Chef/Owner comes around to see how your food and service was. Even the other diners made it like you were eating at the owners home and not a restaurant. Coo Coo Clocks sing out the hours and the music is just right. We did not have dessert only because we were to full from dinner, but next time!! We drove about an hour to get there and it was well worth it. Parking is tight, and I would not suggest small children, but that does not mean they would not be welcome. Check it out, you will not be disappointed ! read more

Do not know where those rave reviews came but I find this place nothing to brag about. Hair thin pork schnitzel - all what you can taste is bread crumps- served with three table spoons of cucumber salad for $13 - way too much considering the cost of the ingredients. Two potato pancakes for almost $8 - the potatoes must be really golden :) The positive stuff - the beer that my boyfriend had was pretty good even for me who usually does not touch this type of drinks but I tried it tempted by its golden color and foam on the top to cover the taste of my yucky tea. Ice tea was pretty stale but the waitress argued that it was fresh. Sorry guys, but I had better tasting food worth spending money on even at small not fancy diners. I was so curious who left 5 stars reviews - 80% of people who have 1 to 7 reviews at all. Definitely not high experts in the culinary world. read more

The best German food in the entire area. The entrees are perfectly prepared and presented. Everything is delicious. The pork shank is a special treat. Slow cooked and smoky, it has a flavor and tenderness that are unmatched. The service is friendly and welcoming. The ambiance is country German. It is a small venue, so I would recommend making a reservation. read more

It had been too long since our last visit, but a Jägerschnitzel, Rotkraut & a couple steins of lager brought it all back...always a pleasure! Warm German decor & true hospitality, this gem of a restauraunt is perfect fot a lovely evening. read more

You can't do any better than here! Finest German food anywhere. Everything is made to perfection. Don't miss it! Nothing more needs to be said. read more

Schnitzel Kitchen - German Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

If could give more than 5 stars, I would! This was a fantastic dining experience! The ambiance was charming and the hospitality was overwhelmingly upbeat and pleasant. The food was remarkably good, with tremendous flavor and very generous portions! We started with soft pretzels with beer cheese. Then, my companion had the Chicken Cordon Bleu Schnitzel with mashed and the most amazing red cabbage. I enjoyed the Wiener (veal) Schnitzel with sunny side up egg, spaetzle (pasta) and a goulash soup. Wunderbar! We finished with a divine Black Forest cake. Macy, our server, guided us well and always with a smile. Heidi, the proprietor and recipe creator, made sure to visit us and engage with us along the way. Honestly, this spot cannot be beat for customer Service, quality and taste. You can thank me later!! read more

One of the best German restaurants I've been too. The service is wonderful and the food is amazing and a Groupon is always available! Make sure you call ahead for reservations or you'll be waiting a while! read more

Awesome German food and atmosphere. Very small place so I would make a reservation. If it is a special occasion let them know, they love to celebrate with you! read more

The best German food I have ever had outside of Germany. Small and comfy with a warm feel. Food is outstanding on all levels. Not large so I would suggest reservations. Cozy atmosphere makes dining a nice experience. For me this is worth a trip to Sarasota!!!! read more

Schnitzel Kitchen - Outstanding on all levels. Best German food this side of the Atlantic. Not large so reservations must during season. - German Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

First things first, let me just say that I love - and I mean LOVE - Schnitzel Kitchen. Service: The staff here is incredibly friendly and attentive. Without realizing a reservation was preferred my dining partner and I showed up hoping for a table. They asked us if we had a reservation(we did not) and I had a moment of panic thinking that we'd be turned away BUT the staff were so kind and figured out a way to seat my party last minute. I was so pleased! We initially had a wonderful woman helping us and she was kind enough to explain the menu as well as the specials. She truly made me feel welcome and that can be hard to find these days. Though we had our main server everyone working today was attentive and checked on my party often to make sure we had everything we needed. Atmosphere: The dining space is small but in my opinion that is a good thing. Schnitzel kitchen is nicely decorated with German accents and just has a great feel all around. Food: I was truly wowed by my meal! I ordered the special which consisted of roasted pork in gravy covered in fried onions along with red cabbage and potato salad as my sides. I cannot begin to describe just how fork tender this pork was, it was just ridiculously good. My dining partner ordered the beef stroganoff with egg noodles and a potato dumpling; I got a chance to sample this meal and I can tell you that it was absolutely delicious as well. Edit: I visited Schnitzel Kitchen again but this time I had the schxeinshaxe and it did not disappoint! The outside had the perfect crust but the meat inside was moist and tender. A must try! I'd definitely suggest giving Schnitzel Kitchen a shot but don't forget to call ahead! read more

See all

So nice to write a good review for a change. Fantastic food at a reasonable price. I ordered the chicken schnitzel covered in mushroom cream sauce with sauerkraut and a dumpling. The serving size was such that I intended to take half the meal home, but once I started eating I couldn't stop. The service was exceptionally friendly and the chef/owner even came out to chat. The experience tasted and felt like a family meal. This is a place that truly loves what they do and it shows. Bon Appétit! read more

Wonderbar! Enjoyed a very fun evening with pretty good dinner, excellent apple strudel, and merry singing and friendship with all. Great birthday spot. read more

Great atmosphere. Very good service. Good German beer selection. Had pork schnitzel, spaetzel, and cucumber salad. Added a potato pancake. Food was outstanding :) read more

The best German Restaurant in Sarasota! The staff there are mainly 3 people, (I'm not sure if anyone else works there actually). Brother and sister, and their mom. The food is beyond belief... It's an amazing German meal - my whole family loved it. And ABSOLUTELY get the plum cake.... The staff there is what really made it amazing, the brother and sister always came up to us and joked around, and made us laugh.... It was a fantastic experience overall... read more

The people here are very friendly and very nice! The food was great, too. I went during the Oktoberfest activities and there was a buffet and festivities. I have to say though that I wish I could've went to see how it is there normally. Tried the Jagerschnitzel and the sauce was amazing, the schnitzel was pounded just a little too thin for my liking, but it was still good. $20 for the buffet during this time. I asked for a regular plate from the menu but was told I could only do the buffet. Didn't eat enough to justify the $20 place, but I guess that was my only option! Good place though, all in all. read more

Schnitzel Kitchen - A game during Oktoberfest to see who can hold the full steins up the longest. #oktoberfest #german #beer - German Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Always great food and friendly service. We had the chicken paprika's and roast pork with crispy fried onions. Both delicious and the sides of spatzle and red cabbage were fabulous. Call for reservations as season is on us and tables will fill quickly! read more

Amazing food. Great atmosphere. Very friendly. Definitely will be going back. Portions were large and delicious.

We had another great German meal at the Schnitzel Kitchen! They don't call it the "schnitzel kitchen" for nothing. We had the pork variety which I highly recommend. I personally am a big fan of the Jaeger sauce - a very flavorful mushroom gravy. The sides of warm red cabbage and spätzle are wonderful. The selection of German beers is very strong, as it the dessert offerings with staples like apple strudel and Black Forest cake. This is one of the kept secrets in SRQ. read more

The Food is awesome, best German authentic dishes. Zigeuner Schnitzel was awesome and the Schweinebraten was delicious. We had no room for desert read more

Possibly the best German food I have ever eaten in the U.S. four of us dined together and sampled each others meals and I can't choose a favorite because everything was so delicious. The service was outstanding and he manager and owner made everyone feel like they were family. The desserts were delectable and not too sweet and the coffee simply sumptuous. read more

Was really looking forward to trying this place out after the decent reviews. Extremely disappointed! Schnitzel was very bland and I think not seasoned at all, so we're the mashed potatoes. The plum cake everyone raved about was terrible burnt on the bottle and the crumble on top was very chalky and hard as a rock. Apple strudel was extremely dry. Chicken in the chicken paprika tasted canned, however the sauce was okay. I will say the mushroom cream sauce and spatzel we're actually very good. Would only return to order those 2 items if any. read more

Great food. Nice and clean inside. The beef gulasch was great. Thanks! read more

Schnitzel Kitchen - Beef Gulasch - German Near Me - Sarasota, Florida