Here's the truth about Oktoberfest: it's a carnivore's paradise. Half a million chickens. Hundreds of whole roasted oxen. Over 100,000 pork sausages. The festival grounds literally smell like a butcher shop mixed with beer.
But this doesn't mean you have to skip Oktoberfest if you're vegetarian or vegan. In fact, in recent years, the festival has made remarkable strides in accommodating plant-based diets. What was once a challenge has become genuinely manageable—and even enjoyable.
The key is knowing where to go, what to order, and how to navigate the festival strategically. This guide gives you everything you need to have an authentic, satisfying Oktoberfest experience without compromising your dietary values.
The Honest Truth About Oktoberfest for Vegetarians and Vegans
Let's start with reality: Oktoberfest is fundamentally a meat-centric festival. The culture, the tradition, and the cuisine revolve around meat. You'll be surrounded by the smell of roasted chicken and pork. You can't escape it.
But—and this is important—every large tent now offers at least one vegetarian and vegan option. This wasn't true even five years ago. The Association of German Vegetarians has actively worked with tent operators to ensure inclusion. The result: Oktoberfest 2025 offers more plant-based options than at any point in the festival's 200-year history.
If you're vegetarian, your experience will be quite good. If you're vegan, it will require more intention and research, but you absolutely can eat well.
The Best Vegetarian and Vegan Tents
Ochsenbraterei: The Surprising Vegan Champion
Why it's perfect: Here's the irony: the tent famous for roasting entire oxen (it's literally in the name—Ochsenbraterei means "ox roastery") has the largest and most creative vegan menu of any Oktoberfest tent. This isn't marketing—it's genuine commitment to sustainability and environmental impact reduction, led by vegan chef Sebastian Copien.
Vegan options:
- Vegan "Zwiebelrostbraten" (onion roast beef) made from fava beans, soy, and rice, medium rare, with mashed organic potatoes, gravy, and crispy fried onions (€29.30)
- Vegan bratwurst made from pea protein with potato salad, browned breadcrumbs, champignon-marjoram gravy, and radish cress
- Vegan mushroom goulash "pulled" made from peas with noble mushrooms and potato dumplings
- Allgäuer Käsespätzle with Bavarian mountain cheese, Tilsiter, and fried onions
Vegetarian options: Everything above plus non-vegan cheese options, fresh creamy mushrooms (Rahmschwammerl) with stone mushrooms, porcini, chanterelles, and button mushrooms served with pretzel bread dumplings, homemade spinach-pretzel dumplings with mountain cheese and tomato ragout
Why they do this: The tent's owners have publicly stated their commitment to sustainability and animal welfare. Offering robust plant-based options aligns with that mission. Chef Sebastian Copien develops genuinely hearty, satisfying vegan dishes that honor Bavarian culinary tradition while being 100% plant-based.
Pro tip: The vegan menu here is diverse enough that you won't feel like you're eating "special" food. You're eating equally thought-out options, just plant-based. This tent proves vegan Bavarian cuisine can be authentically delicious.
Hacker-Festzelt: The Artistic Alternative
Why it's perfect: Famous for its painted cloud ceiling ("Bavarian Heaven"), the Hacker-Festzelt has also modernized its approach to dietary inclusivity. The vegan options include genuinely creative dishes, not afterthoughts.
Vegan options:
- Vegan Käsespätzle made with cashew-based cheese (remarkably creamy) with fried onions and salad (€19.90)
- Stewed eggplant with peperonata, polenta, and basil oil (€17.80)
- Baked potato with vegan herb sour cream, marinated leaf salad, roasted cashews, and pumpkin seeds (€17.50)
Vegetarian options:
- Käsespätzle with tangy mountain cheese, fried onions, and leaf salad (€19.90)
- Sliced roasted ricotta-spinach bread dumpling with tomato ragout (€18.50)
- Mushrooms in cream with bread dumpling (€19.50)
- Caesar salad with Roman lettuce, spicy dressing, roasted white bread croutons, and grated parmesan (€14.50)
Pro tip: This tent is visually stunning and relatively accessible without reservation during weekday afternoons. You can combine great food with an Instagram-worthy backdrop.
Augustiner-Festhalle: The Local Choice
Why it's perfect: Munich's oldest brewery tent has a long tradition but has adapted thoughtfully to modern dietary needs. The food feels less touristy here because locals actually attend.
Vegan options:
- Marinated mountain lentil salad with pumpkin falafel and fresh cress (€14.80)
- Durum pasta with tomato vegetable bolognese (€15.50)
- Vegan schnitzel (surprisingly good)
- Pretzel dumplings with mushroom sauce
Vegetarian options:
- Mushrooms in cream with bread dumpling (€17.50)
- Cheese dumplings with root vegetables and red cabbage (€17.90)
- Pasta filled with spinach and curd with mushrooms in cream (€17.50)
- Various vegetable patties with spinach and quark
Pro tip: Augustiner attracts more Munich regulars than international tourists. The atmosphere feels more authentically Bavarian, and service staff are generally knowledgeable about dietary preferences.
Armbrustschützenzelt: The Balanced Option
Why it's perfect: This tent offers a well-thought-out selection of both vegetarian and vegan dishes with proper attention to flavor and presentation.
Vegan options:
- Baked potato with herb dip and grilled vegetables (€18.90)
- Seitan goulash with potato dumplings (€27.50)
Vegetarian options:
- Salad plate with cheese dumpling (€21.90)
- Spätzle with cheese, onions, and salad (€23.90)
- Mushrooms in cream with bread dumpling (€25.50)
Pro tip: The seitan goulash here is particularly well-prepared and rivals the meat versions in richness and satisfaction.
Bräurosl (Pschorr-Bräurosl): The Innovative Tent
Why it's perfect: This tent has embraced modern plant-based cuisine with creative, flavorful options.
Vegan options:
- Two kinds of vegetable cutlets with kohlrabi and celery in crispy panko breadcrumbs, served with potato and cucumber salad and vegan herb mayonnaise (€19.90)
- Barley risotto with organic barley, vegetables, mushrooms, parsley, and vegan cheese (€22.90)
Vegetarian options:
- Organic Spätzle with cheese and onions (€20.90)
- Mushrooms in cream with bread dumpling (€25.90)
Important note: The cheese dumplings (Kaspressknödel) aren't vegetarian due to bacon in the sauerkraut, which isn't mentioned on the menu—always ask about hidden ingredients.
Fischer-Vroni: The Fish Tent with Surprises
Why it's perfect: Despite being famous for grilled fish, Fischer-Vroni offers creative vegan options that go beyond the typical.
Vegan options:
- Lasagna with vegetables, soy mince, and oat béchamel sauce (€20.90)
- Krautfleckerl: steamed Bavarian cabbage extinguished with dark beer, crispy vegan bacon, and broad noodles (€18.50)
Vegetarian options:
- Mushrooms in cream with bread dumpling (€19.90)
- Organic Spätzle with cheese and onions (€24.90)
Pro tip: The Krautfleckerl is an authentically Bavarian dish made vegan—it's hearty, flavorful, and truly satisfying.
Schottenhamel: The Historic Innovator
Why it's perfect: As the oldest and most historically significant tent (where the first keg is tapped), Schottenhamel has embraced modern dietary trends.
Vegan options:
- Vegan goulash made from butternut squash and sweet potatoes
- Kartoffelpuffer (fluffy potato waffles) served with herby mushroom ragout
Vegetarian options:
- Allgäuer Käse-Spätzle
- Fresh chanterelles in cream with pretzel dumplings
- Roasted dumplings with egg and onions
Pro tip: The vegan goulash here is exceptionally well-prepared and captures authentic Bavarian flavors.
Löwenbräu-Festzelt: The Party Tent with Plant-Based Pride
Why it's perfect: Despite being one of the most party-focused tents, Löwenbräu has a surprisingly good vegetarian menu.
Vegan options:
- Veggie strudel on tomato-basil ragout with roasted chanterelles
Vegetarian options:
- Champignons, button mushrooms, and reherl mushrooms with parsley in fine cream sauce with bread dumplings
- Roasted Schupfnudeln (potato noodles) on sauerkraut
- Swabian Käsespätzle with Emmental and roasted onions
Pro tip: The veggie strudel is genuinely excellent—layers of crispy pastry with savory filling.
Hofbräu-Festzelt: The International Tent Goes Vegan
Why it's perfect: The most internationally famous tent has adapted its menu to include plant-based options.
Vegan options:
- Vegan currywurst with potato bread roll
- Vegan vegetable patties with natural jus and potato salad
Vegetarian options:
- Standard vegetarian fare including Spätzle and dumplings
Pro tip: The vegan currywurst is surprisingly authentic-tasting and satisfies that craving for festival street food.
Paulaner Festzelt: The Bavarian Breakfast Option
Why it's perfect: Paulaner has introduced vegan versions of traditional Bavarian specialties.
Vegan options:
- Vegan Bavarian breakfast sausage (Weißwurst) with sweet mustard and pretzels
- Multiple vegetarian dishes developed by chef Andreas Geitl
Vegetarian options:
- Various traditional dumpling and Spätzle dishes
Pro tip: The vegan Weißwurst is a game-changer—enjoy it with a Hefeweizen before noon for the authentic Bavarian breakfast experience.
Weinzelt: The Sophisticated Wine Option
Why it's perfect: Specializing in sparkling wines and champagne rather than beer, the Weinzelt attracts a more upscale, sophisticated crowd. The food philosophy aligns with this elevated approach.
Vegan options:
- Stuffed peppers with rice
- Roasted vegetable skewers
- Fresh bread with hummus and herb dips
- Seasonal vegetable compositions
Vegetarian options:
- All above plus dairy-based additions
Pro tip: The Weinzelt moves at a slower pace than beer tents. This makes it ideal if you want a more civilized dining experience. Bonus: vegan wine options are clearly marked.
Münchner Knödelei (Small Tent): The Dumpling Paradise
Why it's perfect: This small tent was specifically designed around dumplings, with an exceptionally strong vegetarian and vegan focus. The menu reads like a vegetarian's dream.
Vegetarian dishes:
- Red beet dumplings
- Spinach dumplings
- Organic cheese dumplings
- Mushroom and Alpine cheese dumplings
- Mountain cheese and chanterelle dumplings
- Spinach and cheese dumplings
- Bread dumplings with mushroom cream sauce
- "Triple loop" dumpling combinations
Vegan options:
- Vegetable dumplings with mushroom ragout
- Dumpling combinations with seasonal vegetables
Pro tip: Reserve ahead if possible. This tent is incredibly popular with both vegetarians and dumpling enthusiasts, so seats fill quickly even at off-peak times.
Festzelt Tradition (Oide Wiesn): The Calm Alternative
Location: Oide Wiesn (Old Oktoberfest section)
Why it's perfect: The Oide Wiesn requires a €4 entrance fee, which actually works in your favor—it keeps crowds more manageable and attracts visitors genuinely interested in traditional culture.
Vegan options:
- Vegan dumplings with mushroom ragout
- Hearty vegetable soups
- Traditional bread with herbal spreads
- Vegan potato goulash (exceptionally well-prepared)
Vegetarian options:
- Cheese variations
- Traditional Bavarian vegetable dishes
Pro tip: The Oide Wiesn's calmer atmosphere and guaranteed crowd management make it an excellent choice for vegetarians/vegans who find the main festival overwhelming.
Street Food and Snacks: Naturally Vegan Treasures
Some of the best vegetarian and vegan Oktoberfest foods are found at street vendor stands:
Gebrannte Mandeln (Roasted Almonds)
These caramelized, cinnamon-sugar-coated almonds are completely vegan and absolutely addictive. The scent guides you throughout the festival grounds. €3-4 per bag. Also available: roasted cashews, macadamias, and walnuts prepared the same way.
Roasted Chestnuts (Maroni)
Vendors roast these right in front of you over open flames. Naturally vegan, delicious, and warming. €4-6 per portion.
Pretzel (Breze)
Those massive twisted pretzels are typically vegan (made with vegetable oil, not lard). €3-4 each. Always confirm they're not made with butter.
Kartoffelpuffer (Potato Pancakes)
Crispy fried potato pancakes served with applesauce. Usually vegan if fried in vegetable oil—confirm with vendor. €5-7.
Roasted Vegetables
Some vendors offer grilled vegetable skewers with herbs—a plant-based alternative to Steckerlfisch. €6-8.
Candied Fruit Skewers
Fruit dipped in chocolate or candied coating, often with nuts. Many are vegan if the chocolate coating is plant-based.
Schupfnudeln on Sauerkraut
Roasted potato noodles on sauerkraut—often vegan. Available at multiple stands. €6-8.
Vegan-Friendly Beer: The Easy Part
Here's genuinely good news: all six official Oktoberfest beers are completely vegan. No exceptions.
Why? Germany's Reinheitsgebot (Beer Purity Law) mandates that beer contains only four ingredients: water, malted barley, hops, and yeast. Nothing else. No animal products whatsoever.
This means:
- Spaten beer: Vegan ✓
- Paulaner beer: Vegan ✓
- Augustiner beer: Vegan ✓
- Hacker-Pschorr beer: Vegan ✓
- Löwenbräu beer: Vegan ✓
- Hofbräu beer: Vegan ✓
Avoid: Cream liqueurs, egg-based cocktails, butter-based drinks, or non-beer beverages unless confirmed vegan. Stick to beer and you're absolutely safe.
Universal Vegetarian Dishes Available Everywhere
Nearly every tent offers these vegetarian staples:
Käsespätzle
Homemade egg noodles mixed with melted cheese (usually Emmental or mountain cheese) and topped with crispy fried onions. Available at almost every tent. €18-24. Some tents offer vegan versions with cashew cheese.
Rahmschwammerl (Mushrooms in Cream) with Bread Dumpling
A Bavarian classic. Creamy mushroom sauce served with fluffy bread dumplings. €17-26. Not typically vegan due to cream base.
Semmelknödel (Bread Dumplings)
Made with bread, eggs, milk, and seasonings. Often served with mushroom sauce or as a side. Vegetarian: yes. Vegan: not typically.
Obatzda
A traditional Bavarian cheese spread made from soft cheese, paprika, and spices. Served with bread and radish. Vegetarian: yes. Vegan: No (contains dairy).
Navigating the Language and Menu Barriers
This is genuinely challenging. Most tent menus are in German with traditional Bavarian names.
Learn key words:
- Vegetarisch = Vegetarian
- Vegan = Vegan
- Fleisch = Meat
- Käse = Cheese
- Pilze / Schwammerl = Mushrooms
- Gemüse = Vegetables
- Brühe = Broth
- Rahm = Cream
- Butter = Butter
- Speck = Bacon
Ask directly: "Gibt es vegan oder vegetarisch?" (Do you have vegan or vegetarian?) or "Ist das vegan?" (Is this vegan?)
Watch for hidden ingredients: Many "vegetarian" dishes contain bacon, lard, or meat-based broths. Always ask specifically.
Strategic Planning for Vegan/Vegetarian Diners
Book ahead when possible
Vegetarian tents (particularly Münchner Knödelei and Ochsenbraterei for vegan) fill up quickly. Reserving seats ensures you're not stuck without options when hunger hits.
Hit tents early
Walk-in availability is much better during non-peak hours. Arrive before noon on weekdays or right when the festival opens.
Know your backup options
If your first choice tent is full, know which backup tents have good vegetarian options. Have a mental list of 2-3 alternatives.
Embrace street food
You don't have to do all meals in tents. Street vendor snacks (almonds, pretzels, potato pancakes) can supplement tent meals.
Use Family Days strategically
Tuesdays offer discounts on food and rides, making it more affordable to sample multiple vegetarian options.
What to Avoid
Hidden animal products: Gravy often contains meat stock, bread may be made with lard, fried items may use animal fat, and "vegetarian" dishes sometimes contain bacon or cheese made with animal rennet.
Ask about everything: Butter, cream, eggs in batters, lard in bread, meat broth in soups, bacon bits in sauerkraut, and cheese made with animal rennet.
The 2025 Reality Check
Oktoberfest is genuinely more vegetarian-friendly than ever before. The Association of German Vegetarians has successfully worked with tent operators. Vegan chef Sebastian Copien's collaboration with Ochsenbraterei has set a new standard. Multiple tents now feature dedicated vegan sections on their menus.
But let's be honest: you're still in a meat-centric festival. You might get frustrated. You might eat simpler meals than meat-eaters. You might miss some iconic festival foods.
That's okay. You're still having an authentic Oktoberfest experience. You're still drinking real Munich beer. You're still celebrating Bavarian culture—just aligned with your values.
The Bottom Line
Vegetarians and vegans can absolutely have a great Oktoberfest experience in 2025. The key is planning ahead, knowing which tents are most accommodating (Ochsenbraterei leads the way), understanding the menu, and embracing the significant growth in plant-based options.
Don't skip Oktoberfest because of dietary restrictions. Come, eat thoughtfully, drink the world's best vegan beer, dance in your dirndl, and celebrate Bavarian culture—your way.
Prost!