Peters Brauhaus has one of the best locations in Cologne's old town, in a side street just off Alter Markt. It's always full of people who find the building's beautiful façade irresistible as well as those simply looking for a great meal. This German brauhaus has a superb atmosphere, with an impressive stained glass ceiling in the main room and rustic wooden furniture throughout the restaurant. The friendly service is fast and the traditional German cuisine is delicious. This spot is also family-friendly and perfect for a large group of friends. Make sure to try the Kölsch, which is Cologne's local beer.

Located a stone's throw from the Dom and Hohe Straße, Früh am Dom is a real institution that attracts both tourists and locals alike. The Früh is to Cologne what the Hofbräuhaus is to Munich, in being that it is the preferred local brew. As well as serving up freshly-brewed Kölsch beer, there is a menu which contains a fine selection of local and German specialties on scrubbed wooden tables. If you are looking for a glass of tasty local beer and a fine traditional German meal, this place is a must for any visitor.

Nestled in a former brewery dating backing to the 17th century, Brauhaus Sünner im Walfisch has a cosy setting. This brewpub is known for its tall glass tap tubes where patrons can have between three to five litres (more than six to 10.5 pints) of Kolsch. This family-friendly bar also has vegetarian platters in their menu. Savour regional specialities like Metthappen with Öllich, Stuffed Schnitzel, Himmel un Ääd (fried black pudding with fried onions, mashed potatoes and apple sauce), Sudhausteller (grilled knuckle meat in brown beer sauce) and Brauhaus Spit.

Definitely worth a visit is Malzmuhle, at Heumarkt in the Altstadt. Founded in 1858, this Brauhaus serves tasty Muhlen-Kolsch beer. You cal also learn about the entire process of production from malting, crushing, maceration, etc. when you come to this place. Former guests include American President Bill Clinton. There is a restaurant as well that serves traditional fare that is heavy on the meat; you can order a whole pig's foot without anyone looking at you funny.

If you're looking for traditional food in a historic setting, Gaststätte Max Stark is a great place to try. This restaurant features old-fashioned décor with its dark woods and high ceilings, and a lively ambiance. Welcoming a pleasant mix of locals and tourists alike, it's a great place to mingle over a friendly pint of beer. The food here isn't fancy, but it is authentic, hearty and generously portioned. Try the Kölsche Kaviar or black pudding with onions to start, follow it up with a Schweinekotelette, double pork chop with braised onions and fries or a Rindergulasch, beef goulash with noodles and apple sauce; they pair well with chilled beer or a glass of Bavarian wine. For group reservations, contact the restaurant.

There is a story that when President Bill Clinton was in Cologne for the World Economic Summit, he wanted to eat at this restaurant. The owner declined, however, because he didn't want his regular customers to not be able to get a table. That is the kind of service, love and gratitude one can expect at Gaststätte Lommerzheim. Come here and gorge on a huge pork chop and huge bratwursts, then enjoy the friendly atmosphere and drink good beers. Gaststätte Lommerzheim is a must visit restaurant if you are visiting Cologne.

The Päffgen has been selling good Kölsch since 1883 and for that reason alone you should visit at least once. The beer made by Cologne's smallest brewery is only served there and in virtually no other bar. Find traditional dishes and typical brewery atmosphere in this German establishment. With excellent cuisine and beer, the Päffgen is a good choice of venue for sampling Kölsch.

If you're looking for the Kölsch Brauhaus experience without so many tourists, the Früh em Veedel in the Südstadt is a good choice. Delicious, fresh Kölsch beer and hearty, traditional local food are served here. The less central location allows for a much more authentic, less hurried atmosphere than at the otherwise excellent Früh Brauhaus near the Dom.

Over a hundred years old, this bar is tucked away in Nippes district of Cologne. The legendary Em Golde Kappes features two stories and three individual dining rooms. The kitchens here serve delicious local cuisine along with refreshing local brews, most significantly the Früh Kölsch beers, amidst a warm, friendly atmosphere. Apart from some delicious finger food and small plates, the place hosts interesting events like murder mystery dinners and entertaining shows. A perfect place for big groups or large families, Em Golde Kappes truly has a lot to offer.

Located in a former ice cellar, Sünner Keller is a popular hangout spot among locals and tourists. The interiors exude an old-world charm with the exposed brick walls and dim lighting. Learn the art of making your favorite beverage while you visit the in-house brewery at Sünner Keller where the friendly guides give you an interesting narration of the beer making process. After the tour, relish some freshly brewed beer or sit back and relax while you devour a scrumptious gourmet meal. During summers, the beautiful beer garden is available in addition to its elegant interiors. The outdoor seating is a great spot to enjoy some perfectly chilled beer over the long conversations with your friends on a warm evening.

Opened in 2002 by Dusseldorf transplant Peter Esser Braustelle continues to flaunt its reputation as Cologne's smallest brewing operation, ironically with the biggest selection. Germany's only "appellation controlee" beer Kolsch is fiercely proud of its singularity and as a result, its approximate 25 breweries produce little else. Historic rivalry with Dusseldorf has seen to a virtual embargo of Germany's other exotic Rhineland ale Altbier, with locals saying that even trying to order the darker heavier brew can pass for fighting words. Thankfully the connoisseur in Cologne has Braustelle. Pouring an aggressive Kolsch, a fruity Weizen, and Cologne's only Altbier, Braustelle clearly pushes the brewing envelope in a city not given to deviation. With a rotating seasonal on tap and several strong assertive beers (a Tripplebock, among others) available to go in champagne magnums, the last thing Braustelle feels is small. Brewery tours can be arranged.