Absolutely. Döner is Germany’s unofficial equalizer. No matter where you are in the country, you can find a Döner shop: in train stations, side streets, tiny villages and big cities. Students, construction workers, office employees, and families all line up for the same freshly wrapped sandwich.
Döner also reflects Germany’s multicultural background. Inspired by a traditional Turkish meal but adapted to the German market, Döner mirrors Germany’s diversity and highlights how immigrants blend traditional flavors with Germany’s culture of efficiency and practicality.
Döner has even been used by German politicians to illustrate economic issues. The Left and Green parties, for example, proposed a Dönerpreisbremse, or cap on Döner prices, to highlight the effects of inflation on everyday life.
For me, trying Döner was a way to connect with my students and experience a part of their daily culture. Its invention is also a reminder of the power of cultural exchange. Creativity, migration and collaboration can come together to create something entirely new (and delicious!)
