When I first arrived in Berlin, I had no idea where to buy what. With so many supermarkets, which one gives you the best value? After a few years in Germany, I developed a shopping strategy that saves me a significant amount each month.
Discount Supermarkets: ALDI and Lidl (Best for Daily Basics)
ALDI is split into two independent brands: Nord and Süd (Berlin is mostly ALDI Nord), while Lidl is uniform nationwide. These are the cheapest supermarkets in Germany for everyday staples: milk around €1.05/liter, eggs (10-pack) about €1.99, toast bread €1.29, and butter (250g) €1.79.
Every week, they have a "special offer section" (middle aisles) with rotating items like electronics, sports gear, and tools at surprisingly low prices. However, selection and stock are limited, so go early if something catches your eye. The downside is a narrower product range—some specific ingredients may not be available.
Mid-Range Supermarkets: Rewe and Edeka (Widest Selection)
Rewe and Edeka are the two most common mid-range chains in Germany. They are similar, but Edeka tends to have a slightly higher quality feel.
I highly recommend using the Rewe App. It offers personalized discount coupons every week (usually 10%-20% off). Just scan the coupon before checkout. I save €3-5 weekly with this app, which adds up. Some Edeka stores have a wider range of fresh produce and imported goods. Occasionally you'll find Asian ingredients like tofu, fish sauce, or rice vinegar, but they are much pricier than at Asian supermarkets.
Asian Supermarkets: The Real Source for Chinese Ingredients
For Chinese cooking, Rewe or Edeka won't cut it. Berlin has many Vietnamese and Chinese supermarkets, such as Go Asia (one near Potsdamer Platz) and specialty shops in Chinatown. You can find Laoganma, Pixian bean paste, dried tofu skin, and various rice and flour at much lower prices than German supermarkets. On your first visit, stock up on your favorite sauces and condiments.
Hypermarkets: Kaufland and Globus
Kaufland is like a big-box store in China—large, with a wide range including a deli counter and fresh fish section. It's great for a weekly bulk shop. Prices fall between discount and mid-range, and their own brand (K-Classic) offers good value.
Two Things You Must Know
Pfand (Deposit Bottles): Most plastic bottles and cans in Germany have a €0.25 deposit. Return them to the Pfand machine at the supermarket entrance for a refund. Don't throw them in the trash.
Closed on Sundays: The vast majority of German supermarkets are closed on Sundays (except those in train stations). Make sure to stock up for the week every Saturday—it takes some getting used to.
My Actual Shopping Split
Milk, eggs, bread, yogurt → ALDI / Lidl; Fresh vegetables, meat, snacks → Rewe (with app discounts); Chinese seasonings, rice, flour → Asian supermarket (monthly restock); Bulk or special offers → Kaufland. This system saves me €30-50 per month compared to buying everything at Rewe.
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