Imbisse

Imbisse is the plural of the German noun Imbiss, referring to a small snack bar or fast-food stand that offers inexpensive, ready-to-eat meals. In German-speaking countries, the term can denote both the establishment and the food sold there. Imbisse are typically compact, with limited seating or take-away service.

Forms and equivalents include Imbissstand or Imbissbude (a street stall or kiosk) and Imbisswagen or Imbisskutsche (a mobile cart or trailer). They are common in urban areas, near train stations, markets, and office districts, and often focus on quick, portable dishes rather than full meals.

Common offerings vary by region but often include sausages (such as currywurst or bratwurst), fries (Pommes), schnitzel, döner kebab, pizza slices, and other fried or grilled items, as well as beverages and snacks. Prices are typically affordable, positioning Imbisse as practical options for commuters, students, and workers seeking a fast, convenient bite.

Historically, Imbisse developed with industrialization and urban growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, evolving into a staple of street food culture in German-speaking areas. They remain a familiar element of city life, with some formats evolving into modern food trucks and hybrid shops while others preserve traditional kiosks.

Regulation and operation are governed by local food-safety and licensing rules; establishments may be take-away oriented, with limited or no seating, and signage often emphasizes "Imbiss" or "Takeaway."