Story

The Concept of the Urban German…

came to life after I shared my plans and the company's name with a friend. His laughter sealed the deal for me, and I was convinced that this was the perfect fit. My upbringing in the streets of West Berlin during the 80s and 90s, particularly in the midst of the historic fall of the wall in '89, played a significant role in shaping my culinary journey. I started my career working at the Sven Vorkauf Deli store during that pivotal time.

After managing food carts and catering for several years, I made the move to Portland, OR, in 2010. The city's unique food scene fascinated me, prompting me to open a pop-up at the St. Johns Farmers Market soon after my arrival. Connecting with this vibrant neighborhood was a rewarding experience, and even today, I encounter former customers at the restaurant, engaging with them is a true pleasure.

By the end of 2016, I expanded my presence to festivals, farmers' markets, and private events across Portland. In early 2018, the dream took a solid form when I opened my first brick-and-mortar in the St. Johns Workshop building next to Cathedral Park. The location, with its spectacular views of the St. Johns Bridge, proved to be a perfect fit for my niche product, especially within the creative community of small businesses in the Workshop Building.

Over the years, I dedicated time to enhance my sausage-making skills through various trainings and workshops, including at the butchery Erchinger in Berlin and the famous meat spot, Bratwurst Hotel Fleischrei Böbel, in Nürnberg. Today, Carlton Farms is a key partner, providing all pork and beef for the restaurant and co-packing the complete Urban German Sausage Brand. Their premium quality ensures the best results, and their unwavering support during the pandemic has been a solid anchor for my business.

I prioritize sourcing most of the products from local businesses, such as greens and vegetables from Lil' Farms or bread and rolls from Fressen Artisan Bakery. As the owner of Urban German, I am committed to maintaining the sustainability and quality of the products I provide to my customers. It's not just about serving food; it's about creating an experience rooted in authenticity and community connection.