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This Parma Restaurant’s Golden Schnitzel Is So Authentic It’ll Transport You Straight To Bavaria

Forget everything you think you know about German food in Ohio.

Das Schnitzel Haus opened in 2005 when the Djurin family, Serbian-Croatian immigrants who lived in Germany for nine years, recognized that Parma’s diverse European community was craving a taste of authentic home cooking.

This family-owned restaurant made history by introducing Cleveland’s first covered beer garden, and nearly two decades later, it remains the gold standard for German cuisine in Northeast Ohio.

What started as a dream has become a local institution, consistently ranking among Cleveland’s top 20 restaurants and earning rave reviews from visitors who compare it favorably to authentic German eateries they’ve experienced in Germany itself.

The moment you approach the building, you’ll feel the unmistakable German pride that permeates every corner of this cozy establishment.

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Menu Highlights That Keep Customers Coming Back

The Schnitzel Selection: You’ll discover multiple variations including the crowd-favorite Käse Schnitzel – tenderized chicken breast smothered in provolone cheese and served atop their signature lemon sauce, plus traditional pork and veal options that are pounded thin, breaded to perfection, and crisped golden brown. The schnitzel arrives moist and tender on the inside with that satisfying crunch on the outside, exactly how authentic German schnitzel should be prepared.

Legendary Potato Pancakes: These aren’t your average potato pancakes – they’re frequently described as “the best we’ve ever eaten” and appear as both a beloved appetizer and creative sandwich component. The Kassler Fleisch features grilled smoked pork chops served with these crisp potato pancakes and cooked sauerkraut for a smoky, satisfying combination.

From-Scratch Appetizers: The hand-twisted Bavarian pretzel arrives warm with bacon cheese sauce and German mustard, while the house-made pierogies come with grilled onions and sour cream. Adventurous diners love the sauerkraut balls – made with cream cheese, corned beef, and kraut, then topped with house aioli.

Hearty Traditional Entrées: The Wurst Platte delivers one plump bratwurst and one succulent knockwurst with your choice of two sides, while the seven-day marinated Sauerbraten comes braised in tangy gravy. The Walleye, baked in garlic white wine sauce, has earned particular praise from local diners who call it “the best in Cleveland.”

Sides That Steal The Show: The spätzle comes with rich, beefy gravy that could easily be a meal on its own, while the red cabbage strikes the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The German potato salad and authentic sauerkraut with its intense, well-developed seasoning round out the traditional accompaniments.

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Atmosphere & Décor

Bavarian Lodge Aesthetic: The interior design transports you directly to a Bavarian pub with extensive wood paneling, hardwood floors, and images of the German countryside adorning the walls. The attractive wood and brick exterior gives way to an intimate dining room that feels authentically European.

Cleveland’s First Covered Beer Garden: The heated outdoor biergarten represents a true first for the area, allowing year-round enjoyment of German beers and cuisine in an authentic European setting. This covered, heated space means you can experience the beer garden atmosphere practically anytime.

Cozy Yet Spacious: Comfortable booths and wood seating create an upscale yet welcoming environment, while the surprisingly large restaurant fills quickly during peak hours, testament to its popularity among locals and visitors alike.

Other Considerations

Exceptional Value Pricing: Many entrées, including full schnitzel dinners with two sides, come in under $10, making this authentic German experience surprisingly affordable compared to other specialty restaurants in the Cleveland area. The restaurant prides itself on offering reasonably priced German food and drinks.

Generous Portions: Expect large portions that frequently result in taking leftovers home – the restaurant doesn’t offer smaller lunch portions, so come hungry or plan to share.

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Family-Friendly Atmosphere: This is an excellent spot for friends and family gatherings, with accommodating service that has handled groups as large as 21 people while maintaining quality and efficiency.

Parking & Accessibility: Adequate parking is available on-site, and the restaurant offers both steps to the main dining room and a handicap ramp on the building’s other side.

Connected Brewery Experience: Schnitz Ale Brewery sits directly across the street, also owned by the Djurin family, offering house-made German-style beers that pair perfectly with your schnitzel dinner.

Timing Your Visit: Like a true European restaurant, don’t expect rushed service – when your food arrives from the kitchen, it will be hot, fresh, and worth the wait.


Das Schnitzel Haus
📍 5728 Pearl Road, Parma, OH 44129

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Writer: Tom Wheylan
Click to read bio

An Ohio native who grew up just outside of Dayton. I spent most of my life exploring the hidden corners of the state I call home! I'm a high school history teacher turned small business owner who writes content and creates media for local businesses. I've got a passion for telling stories, hiking trails, and eating a solid brunch meal.