GERMANY..

AS FROM DECEMBER 2018 THERE WILL BE NO MORE PUBS ADDED TO THIS PAGE

including,MUNICH, BAMBERG and FRANCONIA, DUSSELDORF, COLOGNE,  BERLIN and DORTMUND.

For the location enter full post code into the link below

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&tab=wl

 

MUNICH

Munich is capital city of the Bavaria region of Germany. The Bavaria region has the most number of breweries in Germany; (over 750 of Germany's 1300 breweries are here). Bavaria also has the biggest beer consumption, per person, in Germany. The large beer halls, big beer gardens in the summer, and people enjoying good beer are all images of Bavaria which are true.

Munich has 6 breweries, all producing some good beers, and some great pubs. As well as the city centre pubs, we have listed some pubs a short train ride outside the city centre, which are not so touristly

After drinking German lager beer, I am not sure how everyone can drink the mass-produced lager they make in the UK!

As well as the city centre pubs, we have listed some pubs a short train ride outside the city centre, which are not so touristy.

When it is possible I have tried to mention the price of the beer. Even coming from an expensive city like London, the cost of beer is high! Are Brau holdings and Inbev passing the cost of their takeovers on the customers?

Finally a mention for German toilets! They are so spotless and clean, sometimes I feel like I have to wear sunglasses! Some are cleaner than the interior of some English pubs! What the Germans think of our toilets and the French holes in the ground might be worth noting!

The beer tents of the Oktoberfest - usually the last two weeks in SEPTEMBER -are a great beer-drinking experience, but make sure you book rooms well in advance, as you won't find any rooms in Munich during festival week!

Stuart and I visited in October 2003. I have revisited some of the pubs in April 2009 with new reviews. Revisited in June 2013 in my tour of Franconia, doing a few favourites before leaving for Munich Airport. Revisited Franconia in June 2014 and June 2015.(see below)

Below is a list of some of Munich finest pubs-happy drinking.

CITY CENTRE

.Altes Hackerhaus, Senderlinger Str. 75, Munich 80331

Web site- www.hackerhaus.de

A nice quiet upmarket place owned by Hacker-Pschorr, which has lots of antiques and interesting bric-a-brac, including some interesting history of the Hacker- Pschorr brewery. Lots of different rooms; there is a small beer garden around the back. Low lighting makes for a cosy atmosphere Don't worry about the tablecloths-it's okay to have a drink here!

John 8/10 visit Oct 2003

Olde worlde place with several different seating areas. Our second visit confirms this to be a great drinkers' pub. A central beer garden with a u shaped bar. We had a beer and apfle sappe ( apple juice ) to settle our stomachs. Efficient service close to the centre.

Stuart 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

Not much has changed since my last visit still an upmarket place, with candles on the tables. Whilst it has nice atmosphere, maybe a little too foody.

There are  lots of memorabilia about the Hacker brewery on the walls. The back part of the pub is the most comfortable for beer drinking. A half litre

of Dunkel beer was 4.10 Euros.

John 7.5/10 April 2009

Andechser am Dom, Weinstrasse 7A, Munich 80333.

 

Web site- www.anechser-am-dom.de

 

It is worth the visit to try a non-Munich beer at this Andechser flagship pub, albeit at a price.  A strange pub with a wooden patio area on the side

of the pub with no windows.  Also has an outside pavement drinking area and a small drinking/dining area inside the pub.  There are photos of

various world figures like the Pope and Billy Clinton on the wall. Bayern Munich are playing at home and the fans are drinking up to get to the game.

 Beer was £3.75 for a half litre.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2009

 

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 Augustine Gaststatte, Neuhauser Str 27, Munich 80331

 

Web site- www.augustiner-restaurant.com

Flagship pub owned by Augustiner brewery, in a good central location. Nice traditional feel to the place, with lots of little alcoves and some excellent beer. On our last visit here in 1996 we met some Bayern Munich fans (see photo) on their way to a European match. The pub is large, but does still have a relaxed feel to it.

John 9/10 visit Oct 2003

A boisterous place with a multitude of drinking areas. Vault ceilings and dark panelled walls. The service is efficient but severe. Last time we were here it was full of Bayern Munich supporters.

Stuart 8/10 visit Oct 2003

This is a place of two halves! One entrance has a restaurant sign and the other has a beer hall sign-so make your choice! The beer hall is not as big

as some places in Munich, but has a great atmosphere and a wonderful wooden décor which looks like it’s been there for years.  The excellent

Augustiner beer is £3.55 a half litre.  A great drinking experience.

 

John  9.5/10 April 2009

 

 Augustiner am Platzl, Munzstrasse 8, Munich 80331

 

Web site- www.augustiner-am-platzl.de

 

Like the Ayingers Speis und Trank  this is a pub close to the Hofbrauhaus. This pub has a dark wood décor while the Ayingers has a light wood

décor. Both are about the same size. Good locals atmosphere for a city centre pub, with friendly waiter service. The Augustiner beers are the main

attraction with a good range of beers from the brewery. Dunkel beer was 2.95 a half litre-good for the city centre. Good find and enjoyable visit.

 

John 9/10 visit April 2009

 

 

Ayingers Speis und Trank, Am Platz 1A, Munich 80331

 

This pub is almost opposite the Hofbrauhaus. It looks like it might get some of the overflow from the Hofbrauhaus, but this is a good pub in its right.

Whilst a fair size; it is not the beer hall size of some Munich pubs, which creates a cosy atmosphere. Ayingers is a mainly wheat beer brewery in

Bavaria, so this must be a flagship Munich pub. One beer (lager beer) is served from the wooden barrel at the bar, in an earthenware mug with the

pub’s name on it. Décor is upmarket which might be why the beer is 3.75 a half litre!  Nice pub.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2009

 

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Donsil, 1 Wein Str, Munich 80333

 

Web site- www.bayerischer-donisl.de

A pub with a lot of different drinking areas. The place has a modern wood panelling feel, but the atmosphere is traditional. Also has an upstairs area to look down on everyone, which is the best place to sit. Pub has lost the stand-up area, on the right side, since my last visit. Also seems to be more into food

John 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

A two storey affair - we found this out when we went to the Gents! A split level bar. Interesting paintings on the wall. Food and beer available all day. A great local right in the city centre.

Stuart 8/10 visit Oct 2003

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 Hofbrauhaus, Platzi 9, Munich 80331

 

Web site- www.hofbraeuhaus.de

The most famous of all beer halls - now a little over-run by tourists, but still a great place. Every overseas visitor's image of what a German beer hall should look like. Still visited by the locals, who know where to get a good beer. Menu in different languages, and beer souvenirs at the front. A large pub seating over 2,000 people, but you won't find a seat on a Saturday night just move up on the benches and sing along. Where the world comes to party-join in!

John 9/10 visit Oct 2003

The biggest beer party in the world. Massive interior, a tourist trap but magnificently over the top. The archetypal beer hall. Minimum order is 1 litre. It's full of all nationalities' food served as well. Try the Weisee Wurst but take off the polythene skin first!

Stuart 8.5/10 visit Oct 2003

The one and only Hofbrauhaus! Possibly the most famous pub in the world!  Even the non-drinking tourists come in here! I am visiting on a Monday afternoon; even so the beer garden is crowded and the beer hall is 25% full. The special menu has beer in half litres with Dunkel and original at 3.45 euros and Weisse at 3.65 euros, the litre prices are 6.90 euros. Different atmosphere from my last visit which was an crowded Saturday night, but there is still a good buzz from this impressively large building!  Must have as many punters in a day than some pubs get in a year! Menu is expensive; so is the beer!

 

John 9/10 visit April 2009

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Mathaser Bierstadt, Bayer str 5

Whilst the Hofbrauhaus is the more famous beer hall, this place is larger, with seating for 5,000 people! Whilst this place also attracts tourists, it is bawdier and more down-to-earth. An oompah band plays in the centre, and, for a small fee, will let you have the baton! It was fun watching one pissed Japanese tourist try it! Close to the main station.

John 8.5/10 visit Sept 1996

Massive beer hall with its own chunder sinks. Apparently the Germans use these when they need to make more space for beer. In fact some of the beer-guts were impressive. We never did find the sinks, as there were half a dozen gents' in the place, all big enough to hold a market in! The Japanese loved it! 

Stuart 8/10 visit Sept 1996

Sadly this beer hall is now closed. Being a big site by the city's main railway station made it a prime location for developers.

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Nurnberger Bratwurst, Frenplatz 9, Munich 80331

 

Web site- www.bratwurst-gloeckl.de

Nice, cosy pub around the back of the cathedral, which gives it a kind of back-street local feel. This is not a big breweries' showpiece pub, like some in the centre of Munich. The beer comes from wooden barrels from the back bar; if you have nowhere to sit, try there. A few snacks including Nuremberg sausage, which the pub is named after and which you see being grill or set fired to in the kitchen!. Beware of short measures here, and do what the locals do-return back to the bar.

John 9/10 Oct 2003

A reliable traditional bar by the kitchen. John and I had roast Bratwurst and Sauerkraut. Lovely mixed with German mustard The kitchen seemed to be on fire - but that's how they cook the sausages!

Stuart 8/10 visit Oct 2003

Same problem as before with the short measures! For a pub in the city centre this place has a good atmosphere. Friendly staff who give me an English

Meal menu even when I am ordering the beer in German! Ask for the beer from the wooden barrel (Vom Holzfass). Good Augustiner beer at £3.60 a

half litre.

 

John 9/10 visit April 2009

 

I drank outside today for the first time. Augustiner Helles was 3.80 Euros.

 

John 8/10 visit June 2013

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Weisse Brauhaus, Tai 10, Munich 80331

 

Web site- www.weisses-brauhaus.de

Whilst I am not a great fan of wheat beer, this pub serves the excellent Schneider wheat beer on draught which I could drink all night!. If not, there are some Kameliten beers on draught which are also good. Nice traditional place with the bar in the middle of the pub and more seating room around the back. Lovely etched-glass windows at the front of the pub.

John 9/10 visit Oct 2003

This place serves the best wheat beer in the world. The waitresses have seen better days and the old net curtains have been removed. It no longer brews on the premises. There is loads of food available. A boisterous atmosphere !

Stuart 8/10 visit Oct 2003

Not too much has changed since my last visit.  Most people are drinking outside on the pavement as it’s a sunny day. Nice old paintings and photos

on the walls plus earthenware jugs on the shelves. Wheat beer is still as good as ever; you can have 3 types to choose from, as well as the regular

helles, pils and dunkel beers-but you do not come for that! Beer was 3.45 a half litre. Nice beer glasses.

 

John 8.5/10 visit April 2009

 

Still as crowded as ever, but managed to drink in the back part of the pub for the first time.  The beer as good as ever, the Blonde Weisse was 3.80 Euros.

 

John 9/10 visit June 2013

 

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EAST MUNICH

Hofbrau Keller, Inner Wiener str 19, Munich 81667.

 

Web site- www.hofbraeukeller.de

A large pub, there was a fair amount of people in on our visit, but you still feel it's half-empty! It's only when you go down to the toilets and see other rooms, you realise what a big pub this is! Green and white décor throughout the pub. Large beer garden on the side of the pub. To me the Hofbrau beers tasted better here than in the Hofbrauhaus. The tourists visit the Hofbrauhaus, the locals here.

John 8.5/10 visit Oct 2003

The less touristy outlet for the Hofbrauhaus. You wont find loads of Japanese tourists here. Its location means you get the authentic Hofbrauhaus experience sans the commercialism. A wide selection of food compliments the beer.

Stuart 8/10 visit Oct 2003

This is still a big barn of a place! Also has a large garden. Regular Hofbrau is 3.50 euros for a half litre, making it more expensive than their famous

Beer hall in the city centre. Close to Max Weber Platz subway station; along with the Union Brau makes a good 2 pub crawl.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2009

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Union Brau, Einstein Str 46, Munich 81675.

 

Web site- www.unionsbraeu.de

 

The last time I visited this brew pub, it was closed on a Sunday afternoon. This time the staff want me to use the small beer garden at the back-this

is where everyone is. The Helles and Dunkel beers are unfiltered and taste really good, not in Forschungs class-but good none the less. Close to

Max Weber Platz station, on the U4 line.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2009

 

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Paulaner Keller, Hoch str 77, Munich 81541

 

Web site- www.nockherberg.com

 

This is a fair walk from any transport connections, but it's worth the effort to make a visit. Not too many tourists get to find this pub. New pub, but done out in a traditional way. As with most German pubs, this takes up a lot of space. Copper above the bar and beer bottles about the side. As it's Paulaner try their famous Salvator beer. The river Isar is across the road.

John 8/10 visit Oct 2003

Right by the river this is a modern place. More wood panelling and tiled floor. It seems a bit up-market, but it is not. More for the older clientele. The Salvator is the beer to go for.

Stuart 8//10 visit Oct 2003

This place is the hardest to get to by public transport, but there is a nice walk by the Isar River along the wooden bank.  This modern shining building

 was opened in 2003 to replace the old one destroyed by fire in 1999. A nice pub, but needs that lived in feel. A good range of Paulaner beers, as you

might expect, including the famous Salvator. Beer garden on the side of the pub is a fair size. Beer was 3.80 euros for a half litre. 

 

John 7.5/10 visit April 2009

 

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NORTH MUNICH 

Haus der 111 Biere,  Franz str 3

The house of 111 beers, as well as 8 on draught! This pub gives the drinkers of Munich a chance to sample beers from all around the world, in a city dominated by 6 big breweries. Small modern pub with low lighting, and various beer memorabilia around the place, including neon light beer signs. The choice means higher prices. Close to Munchener Freiheit station, on the U3 or U6 line.

John 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

A trip to the North of the city centre. Definitely worth a visit and it does what it says on the tin ! Although all but 9 of the beers are served from a bottle. The ceiling is adorned with blue foil. Wooden walls and a tiled floor. The odd snack is also served.

Stuart 8/10 visit Oct 2003,

SADLY IS NOW CLOSED

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Max Emanuel Brauerei, Adalbert str 33, Munich 80779.

 

Web site- www.max-emanuel-brauerei.de

 

Big pub along a road with apartment buildings. White walls, low lighting and tiled floor. TV screen in the corner showing football Germany V Iceland-creating a lively atmosphere. Big beer garden around the back for 700 people in the summer.

John 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

Get off the train at the Universatt. This side street bar serves Lowenbrau - beer and wheat beer. A large sports screen at one end of the room busy with locals watching Germany v Iceland in the Euro qualifiers. The wheat beer was stunning with an acidic after-taste.

Stuart 8/10 visit Oct 2003

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Schelling Salon, Schelling str 54, Munich 80779,

 

Web site- www.schelling-salon.de

The exterior is a elegant five story building. The interior is elegant as well. The pub has 10 pool tables, all close together. This must be the most classiest pool hall in the world! As well as pool, the locals seen to like cards and chess as well. Friendly bar service. Hitler used this place, before he came to power. Until a unpaid bar bill! Bet there were no pool tables then!

John 8.5/10 visit Oct 2003

This is where Adolf Hitler left without paying his bar bill. I have never seen so many pool tables, 10 in all. The beer is available in various measures 0.25l upwards. The barmaid was fascinated by our beer travels but insisted on talking in English to us. A locals' pub with food served as well.

Stuart 8.5/10 visit Oct 2003

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SOUTH MUNICH

 

Forschungs,Unterhachinger Strasse, Munich 81737.

 

Web site- www.forschungsbrauerei.de

Opening times,

Closed Mondays, please telephone to check if open. We are not sure if this pub closes in the winter.

Tel 089-6701169

Getting there

Only pub away from the city centre; take the S-bahn line 1 to Perlach, turn left out of the station, along a country path, turn left at the end of the path over the level crossing, do the first right-turn after the crossing, at the end of the road turn right; on your left hand side around 70 to 100 yards.

The outside is a modern structure, but inside is a lot more cosy, with a nice family atmosphere. Modern decor with a fair amount of wood-panelling. There is a small beer garden at the front of the pub. Home brew pub the two beers - Pilsissimus Export and St Jakobus Pale Bock - served in litre and half-litre earthenware mugs - are excellent. The toilets are the cleanest I have ever seen! and the pub is spotless as well! Worth the trip for somewhere different to go, and for the great beer.

John 9.5/10 visit Oct 2003

Our second visit was as good as the first. The airport control tower of a brewery is magnificent. The nearest station is Perlach. They now sell ½ litre measures as well as 1 litre. Progress ? The beer is served in stoneware jugs. A variety of food is available. Two seating areas and a beer garden. The cleanest toilets in the world !

Stuart 9.5/10 visit Oct 2003

This brew pub is well worth the trip out to the Munich suburbs, for some of the best beer in the world. The two beers; the Jacobus Blond bock

(4.20 euros a half litre and 7.80 a litre) and the Pils Sissimus (3.80 euros a half litre and 7.20 a litre) are some of the best beers I have ever tasted!

As it is a nice sunny day I am in the beer garden at the front of the pub, drinking the beer from earthenware jugs with the pub’s name on it. Not

much wrong with the world at the moment!

 

John 9.5/10 April 2009

 

 Still the Same. St Jakobus was 4.50 Euros, Dunkel was 4.10 Euros and Exportbier was 4.10 Euros.

 

John 9/10 visit June 2013

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Paulaner Brahaus, Kapuzinerplatz 5, Munich 80337.

 

Web site- www.paulanerbraeuhaus.de

 

A Paulaner brew pub with a few different brews on the beer menu. Was the brew house of Thomasbrau until taken over by Paulaner, now back

brewing again. Décor is a little different from most German pubs, whilst there is some wood panelling there are also some white tiled walls-which

makes it look unusual, along with black and white photos on the walls. The ThomaB Zwicki beer was good; prices are from 3.50 to 3.60 for a half

litre.  Pub is near to the centre, but if you don’t want to walk take the train to Goetheplatz, then down Haberistrasse.

 

John 9/10 visit April 2009

 

WEST MUNICH

 

Augustiner Braustuben, Landsberger str 19, Munich 80339

 

Web site- http://www.augustiner-restaurant.com/home/augustiner_braestuben.html

 

There is not a great deal of choice to the west of Munich Central Station, but this pub is a gem!  It is next to the Augustiner brewery, serving

Augustiner excellent beers. As you walk into the corridor of the pub, you have the choice of two bars. I chose the more beery one on the right side.

Both bars are a fair size.  Pub has a standard German pub décor; with the benches creating a beer hall atmosphere. Pub is only 25% full, but has

a good lively atmosphere. Open kitchen at the front. Good beer, good pub.

 

John 9/10 visit April 2009

 

Augustiner Keller, Arnulf Str 52, Munich 80335.

 

Web site- www.augustinerkeller.de

Maybe we visited this pub at the wrong time of the year, for it has a large impressive beer garden, which must be nice in the summer. Inside is pleasant with standard German pub décor of white walls, wooden beams, and wooden tables and chairs. Interesting paintings on the wall. A nice drinking experience. Close for Hauptbahnhof rail station, most lines go through this station.

John 8/10 visit Oct 2003

A massive beer garden leads you to a wood-dominated bar. Wooden chandeliers and a bierstuben. A place to relax.

Stuart 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

Last time I was here I sat inside. This time I am in the beer garden; one of the largest in urban Munich. Seeing this much land just used for

drinking must have properly developers crying into their beer! For people from the local offices it must be a bit of countryside in the city. There

is a little playground in the corner for children. The beer garden is half service and half self service.  The Augustine beers are from wooden barrels

and are great.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2009

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Gafthaus Zur Feftwiesser, Schwanthalerstr 85, Munich 80339

 

Web site- http://www.augustiner-braeu.de/augustiners/html/de/gaststaetten/Zur_Festwiese.html

 

A small pub which is close to the North end of the Oktoberfest grounds. This is a nice compact sort of place; with hops over the bar, tankards

around the room and musical instruments on the windows, plus an old till. Friendly bar staff and Augustiner beers make for an enjoyable visit. This

is the only pub in Munich on my trip which allows smoking. I am not sure why-maybe it’s because there is no beer garden or area on the outside to

smoke? Note the opening hours on the web site when the Oktoberfest is on!

 

John 9/10 visit April 2008

 

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Isar Brau, Kreuzeck Str 23, Munich 82049

 

Web site- www.isarbraeu.de

 

Take the S7 train to Grobhesselohe, get off at the platform and the glass building you see is the Isar Brau brew pub. Unlike a lot of brew pubs, the

first thing which hits you is the wonderful smell of hops! Standard German décor with vents going through the ceiling.  There is a small narrow

drinking area alongside the railway line. Beers are good and are from 3.60 euros for a half litre. If you commute from here you are one lucky

person- my sort of railway station!

 

John 8/10 visit April 2009

 

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Lowenbrau Keller, Nymphenberger Str 2, Munich 80335.

 

Web site- www.loewenbraeukeller.com

Just one railway stop, out of the city centre ( Stiglmaier Platz, line U1, one minute walk ). The pub, beer garden and the Lowenbrau brewery at the back, all takes a fair amount of space. Traditional German pub décor in the large pub, with white walls, wooden tables and chairs, and some etched-glass windows. Nice cosy and relaxed atmosphere for a Sunday afternoon.

John 8/10 visit Oct 2003

On the corner of two busy roads. The impressive beer hall is worth a visit. Nice stained glass windows and a vaulted ceiling. Green and red tiles on the floor. We visited on Sunday and it was full of families and children enjoying the lunch time session. The beer is served in 0.25l measures. Remarkable for Munich but you can order lager if you want !

Stuart 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

 

The Lowenbrau brewery tap, which is another big German beer hall and garden. Worth the trip to see the impressive including white arch ceiling,

pillars , chandleries, old paintings and Masonic floor. The etched glass windows give the place an upmarket feel. The beer is 3.50 a half litre and

we are away from the city centre. Interestedly the wheat beer is Franziskaner from Spaten, both owned by Inbev. A sign of things to come! Sadly

such a nice place was ruined by poor table service, a long time waiting, and the wrong food order.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2009

 

Spaten Braustuberi, Marsstrabe 16, Munich 80335

 

This is the closest Spaten pub to the brewery. The brewery is at 46 Marsstarasse.   It is in a good location between the massive Augustiner Keller

and Lowenbrau Keller. This is a nice compact pub with various bits of Spaten memorabilia on the walls, mainly old photos. I ask for a Spaten beer

and get a bottle of dunkel beer! Go figure! Maybe this is an Spaten problem as Franziskaner wheat beer is their main beer and no one remembers

the Spaten name.  If you have time walk to the brewery, you are able to see inside, thanks to the massive windows.  Nice pub.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2009

 

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OUTSIDE OF MUNICH

ANDECHS

 

Monastery brewery outside Munich, which can be reached by public transport. Take the S8 train to Herrsching and then the 951 bus to Andechs. You will know which stop to get off, so you can’t miss the monastery.

 

Kolsters Andechs, Bergstraße 2, 82346 Andechs.

 

Web site- http://www.andechs.de/

 

 

Well worth the trip outside of Munich for some great views and great beer at this monastery brewery. From the bus stop it is a hard walk up the hill (try the steps on the right hand side they are easier). You are greeted by a large courtyard. Inside on your right side is the food and on the left is the bar counter; you wait your turn in the queue for some beer straight from the barrel. The beer was good but I thought the measure was a little short. The dunkel beer was 3.40 Euros. Great views from the courtyard on a hot summer’s day.

            

John 9/10 visit June 2013 

 

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MUNICH AIRPORT

 

Air Brau, Munich Airport, Terminalstraße Mitte 18, 85356 Munich

 

Web site  http://www.munich-airport.de/de/micro/airbraeu/index.jsp

 

 

Two minor miracles have occurred at Munich airport! The first is, after all these years travelling I find a good pub at an airport! Second miracle is at 2.60 Euros for beer (in Central Munich it is 3.80 Euros) it is reasonably priced! This brew pub is between terminal 1 and 2 at Munich Airport, next to the S-Bahn train entrance going to Central Munich.  There are large outside (under cover) and inside drinking areas. Inside, there are brewing vessels plus old photos of the airport on the wall. This is a unique place to start or end your German beer adventure. The beer is unfiltered and above average. I suppose a third minor miracle of a great beer was asking too much!

 

John 8.5/10 visit June 2013

 

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SOUTHERN BAVERIA

 

PASSAU

 

A town on the German/Austrian border on the river Danube.  It is famous for its river cruises and picturesque old town, but not its breweries.  To be fair we didn’t manage to visit any, as they were up a hill on the other side of the river.

 

Zum Alten Bräuhaus Bräugasse 5, 94032 Passau,

 

Web site- http://altes-braeuhaus.de/

 

 A pub in the lovely old town, which has a lot of cobbled streets and old buildings. While the beer was okay, they were not quite up to the standards of Franconia, from where we just come. But to be fair what beers are! Dunkles beer was 2.80 euros.

 

John 7/10 visit June 2013

 

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Kreuzweiss, Pfaffengasse 7, 94032 Passau

 

Web site- http://www.kreuzweis.de/

 

This small café/pub is down a hill on a cobbled street. Décor is a little like a basement cellar bar, even if it is on the ground floor! Food  is a little different from most places in Passau. Place has a student/Bohemian type atmosphere. Ziwher beer from Lang brau was 2.90 Euros.

 

John 7/10 visit June 2013

 

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BAMBERG

Whilst Munich is in Southern Bavaria, only an 2 hour 15 minute train ride from Munich is Bamberg, the leading town in Northern Bavaria region which is called Franconia. Bamberg is only a city of 70,000 people, but has 9 brew-pubs!

While only two of Bamberg's brew-pubs do the smoked beer, they are some excellent beers in the another pubs. Most pubs in Bamberg do a Kellerbier, a traditional beer with a high hop content and no pressure, usually served in a earthenware jug. Well worth a try.

Once in a while, when I review pubs I use the term ‘beer paradise’. In my opinion the whole of Bamberg is beer paradise! Even without the beer, Bamberg is a lovely town of Cobbled streets and old buildings well deserving its UNESCO World Heritage status. Having 9 brew pubs is the icing on the cake! Not only are the beers of high quality, but the prices are very reasonable. The average price for a beer in Bamberg is 2.40 euros, while in Munich it is 3.80 euros (in April 2009). The Munich brewers must be crying in their beer! If you are a true beer lover you must visit this town, at less once in your life.

 

Stuart and I visited in October 2003. I have revisited some of the pubs in April 2009 with new reviews. Revisited again in June 2013 and did 2 pubs in June 2015 while waiting for a train at Bamberg station.

 

Bamberger Weissbierhaus, Obere Konigstrasse 35, Bamberg 96052

A pub on a street with two brew pubs. Comfortable sort of place, which seems to be into serving a lot of food. A two room pub the first room was full. The second back room has a impressive orange ceiling and old photos of Bamberg with a horse theme. Lively atmosphere.

John 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

Along the road from the Spezial. This is a hotel as well as a pub. Interesting panelling on the ceilings and a vaulted ceiling at the back. The St Michals Bay Dunkel is the one to go for. The waitress carries trays full of beer effortlessly !

Stuart 8/10 visit Oct 2003

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Cafe Abseits, Podeldorfer Str 39, Bamberg 96052.

 

Web site- www.abseits-bamberg.de

 

This is the only pub to the North of the railway station. If you want a choice of beers in Bamberg this is the place to come. Over 42 beers on the

beer menu (which is on the last page of the menu) not including the non-alcohol beers! The beers are put in beer styles including lager, dunkel,

Pilsner, weisse, bock and rauchbier. The rauchbier section has 3 beers on it, but only one from Bamberg! Prices range from 2.40 to 2.90 euros for

bock beer. This place does have a café décor and atmosphere with modern paintings on the wall and Britpop music in the background. It is

different from most Bamberg pubs. Mahrs ungespundetes is served in earthenware jug and was excellent at 2.40 euros.

 

John 9/10 visit April 2009

 

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Eullenspiegel,  Ober Brucke 10, Bamberg 96049,  

 

Right by the Rathaus (town hall) by the bridge. Situated in a tiny cobbled street it was more of a café but still very good. A narrow / long room adorned by puppets. The dark panelling has mirrors set in it. Try the St Georgen Kellerbier. It was nice to see old ladies enjoying themselves, rather uncommon in old Blighty pubs. There is a small seating area on the street outside.

Stuart 8/10 visit Oct 2003

A pub on a bridge, which is a little bit of a tourist trap. This is why you are paying 2.30 Euros for a beer instead of 1.90 Euros- outrageous ! Long narrow pub, with low lighting and pictures and mirrors on the wall. Nice cosy sort of place, with mainly older clientele. Stuart and I are amazed at the amount of older ladies who come in and drink beer in Bamberg pubs-more power to their elbows! Try the St Georgen Kellerbier. Friendly staff.

John 8/10 visit Oct 2003

A tourist pub by the old bridge, which was not too busy at my time of visit. While foody it is okay to have a drink. Beers are from the excellent St

Georgen; they are the most expensive on my trip to Bamberg-2.70 euros for 0.4L. This a narrow pub with more seating at the back.  A pleasant

place with a good waiter service.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2009

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Fassia, Obere Konigstrabe 19,  Bamberg 96052

 

Web site- www.faessla.de

Brew pub

Another Bamberg brew pub, this one is opposite the Spezial. To have two so close together is great!. Like the Spezial, this brew pub also does accommodation. Standard German pub décor, lively atmosphere at the end of the evening, with the locals enjoying themselves. Good beer.

John 8/10 visit Oct 2003

A very large building with plenty of seats inside. It is however outshone by the Spezial.

Stuart 6/10 visit Oct 2003

The last time I was here it was the last pub of a long pub crawl. It was crowded and I didn’t remember too much! This time it is the first pub of the

trip I am glad I have done it this way round! A good laid back atmosphere with regulars near the bar. Standard wood-panelled German pub décor,

but  peasant none the less. My lager beer was 2.20 euros for a half litre-it was excellent; clear with no air bubbles.  Pub has a reasonably priced

meal  menu. There is a small courtyard out the back for outside drinking. Great pub.

 

John 9/10 April 2009

 

Stop in for a quick pint while waiting for a train at Bamberg Station. Had a Zwergla beer at 2.60 Euros for a half litre, the beer was the only beer which was a little gassy, on this trip. Friendly local who had good memories of London.

John 8/10 visit June 2015

 

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Gasthausbrauerei Ambrausianum, Dominikanerstrasse 10, Bamberg 96049

 

Web site- www.ambraeusianum.de

Brew pub

This brew pub was not here when I last visited Bamberg. It is two doors down from the Schlenkerla whose rauchbier they served. While traditional

the pub does have a different décor, with over-growing plants at the back giving it a tropical feel. While the beer is okay, in my opinion is it not up

to the standard of the other Bamberg brew pubs. Maybe they think just being a Bamberg brew pub will bring the pundits in! Hopefully a new set of

beers will do the trick.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2009

 

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Greifenklau, Laurenziplatz 20, Bamberg 96049

 

Web site- www.griefenklau.de

Brew pub

A long walk up one of Bamberg's 7 hills. The brewery has only been here since 1719! A single lager Bier plus a bock when in season. A friendly locals pub with yet more wood panelling, floors and tables. The lager Bier is a bit bland but drinkable. Because of the walk you do not get tourists here.

Stuart 7/10 visit Oct 2003

A fair walk out of the centre ( about 15 minutes ) and up a hill! Brew pub which just brews for this pub and no where else. Only one beer brewed, but by English lager standards it's a good beer! Good local’s atmosphere giving it a friendly feel. Good find.

John 8/10 visit Oct 2003

This time because it is a sunny day and there is no service in the bar-I am in the big beer garden at the back with views out on the Bamberg hills. The

lager beer was served in an earthenware jug and was good.   It was worth the walk up the hill.  The locals are enjoying a game of cards.

John 8/10 visit April 2009

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Gastsatte Hofbrau, Karolinstrabe 7, Bamberg 96049

Web site- www.hofbraeu-bamberg.de

Nice cosy sort of pub. Low lighting, red tablecloths, candles on the table and a relaxing atmosphere. Pub will be remembered for me accidentally sending fire to the menu with a candle, and Stuart playing the pub's piano! Two Americans sitting next to us-Ben and Becky will remember this!

John 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

John set light to the menu! An American couple sitting in the corner and a piano by the toilets. The food looked okay but the Japanese tourists were none too happy.

Stuart 6/10 visit Oct 2003

A stylish pub in the centre of the old town. While the décor is upmarket, most people are at the bar watching football; Hamburg V Breman

no sound) on the TV above the bar.  The beer range is different for Bamberg including Jever, Schlenkerla, Tucher and Guinness from 2.80 euros.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2009

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Kachelofen, Obere Sandstr 1, Bamberg 96049

Try St Georgen brew. This is a bit of a restaurant and don't try to sit in the stubel. The beer is very hoppy. \The service is swift and you can sit by the bar and beer served stoneware kruggs

Stuart 7/10 visit Oct 2003

Really a restaurant,;with no seats free we sat at the bar. The barman was impressive with us ordering the St Georgen Kellerbier. You must try this beer, it's a great brew. Beer served in earthenware jugs. Worth visiting for the beer, the food looked nice as well.

John 7/10 visit Oct 2003

When busy this is a restaurant, when not it is okay to drink.  There is an outside drinking area by the front door.  Well worth a visit because it sells

the full range of the excellent St Georgoen beers. On a cobbled street, in the heart of the old town. Good cosy atmosphere to match the good beer!

 

John 7.5/10 visit April 2009

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Kaiserdom Brauereigasthof,  Gaustadter Hauptstrasse 26, Bamberg 96049

 

Web site- www.hotel-kaiserdom.de

 

Brew pub

 

This is the Bamberg brew pub which is a long way out of the town. Visited by us beer nuts who want to do all the Bamberg brew pubs! Being away

from town the prices are reasonable, with beer from 1.90 euros for a half litre and meals from 5 to 6 euros. Friendly bar staff and locals. This being

Bamberg’s largest brewery, the beer is good-better than I thought it would be! Pub is part of an hotel which might explain the two punters with

laptops!

 

John 8/10 visit April 2009

 

 

Keesman, Wunderburg 5, Bamberg 96050

 

Brew pub

A 10 minute walk out of the centre rewards you with two brew pubs in the same street! Keesmann has the standard German pub décor of wooden tables and chairs and wood panelling. Try the Sterna lager-it is a unfiltered lager, and is excellent. Visited this pub at 11-30, and there was at least 10 people already in the pub! Well it was open at 09-00!

John 8/10 visit Oct 2003

A 10 minute walk from the centre of town. We entered at 11.30 and there were business men having a meeting. A couple of locals at the Stammtisch. The interior is panelled in beech. The brewery serves unfiltered Dunkel and a Bock.

Stuart 8/10 visit Oct 2003

A short walk from the town centre (10 minutes) brings you to the first of two brew pubs in Wunderberg. The décor looks newish; this being German

there is a lot of wood! At 1230 all the tables are occupied, with the pub doing a good trade in food. Good beer at 2.20 euros a half litre. Good cosy

atmosphere. Hours are a little strange, Monday to Friday 1130 to 1345 hours and 1700 to 2130 hours, Saturday 1130 to 1345 hours.

 

John 8.5/10 visit April 2009


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Klosterbrau, Obere Muhlbrucke 1/3, Bamberg 96049

 

Web site- www.klosterbraeu.de

Brew pub

The Schwartzbier is dark as expected and quite unusual in taste. This pub is the brewery tap which opened in 1988. As you enter the building the bar is on the right. Dark wood panelling with white upper walls and a wood floor. Old B&W pictures adorn the walls. The toilets were a bit of a let down for Germany!

Stuart 7/10 visit Oct 2003

Lovely exterior on a cobbled street. Take the right door to get into this pub. Traditional decor in this upmarket place, with old photos on the wall. Quiet atmosphere-just us and two locals! Try the Schwartzbeir if you fancy trying something different. This city centre pub is not easy to find, even with the tourist maps!

John 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

Whilst in the town centre, this brew pub is not easy to find-the road is not on the tourist info map. A nice exterior is matched by a good upmarket

interior with a cobbled courtyard as you enter the pub. Ask for the Schmwarzla the excellent dark beer, price is 2.60 euros for a half litre. Nice

wooden beam running through the pub.

 

John 8/10 April 2009

 

The Pils was 2.40 Euros. The pub has a riverside terrace open in the summer.

 

John 8/10 visit June 2013

 

 

 

Mahrs Brau, Wunderberg 10, Bamberg 96050

 

Web site- www.mahrs-braeu.de

Brew pub

Most of Bamberg's brew pubs you tend not to see the brewery. Here you get to see the brewery, including a beer shop next door to the pub, and barrels around the side. Genuine old atmospheric pub with low beams and old photos on the wall. Warm and cosy atmosphere unlike the corridor outside, where people were standing up drinking- this a Bamberg tradition! It was too cold outside for Stuart and me! Great pub, worth the walk out.

John 9/10 visit Oct 2003

A short walk along the street from the Keesmann. The pub has a brewery shop attached. The wonderful interior of the pub is unspoilt and it was full of locals. Dark wool panelling and old photographs on the wall. In the centre of the room was an old log burner, which kept the place very warm. The beer was average.

Stuart 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

Walk into the courtyard and you can see the brewery on your left hand side. Enter the room on the right side. This place has the décor and

atmosphere of an old English country pub. Low ceiling with what looks like original beams going through the middle, also old dark wood panelled

walls with old photos on them.  The beer is great as well; what more can you ask for, from this classic pub?

 

John 10/10 visit April 2009

 

Helles beer was 2.40 Euros.  I drank outside today for the first time. Still love this place.

 

John 9.5/10 visit June 2013

 


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Maisel Keller, Moostrasse 32, Bamberg

 

Ex- brew pub

Out of the city centre and beyond the railway. A very new look inside with pine boards instead of stained beech. The brewery is nearby. The extensive food menu included Nuremberger sausage and Sauerkraut. Many people eating during lunch time - always a good sign.

Stuart 8/10 visit Oct 2003

A way out to the North of the centre in the suburbs. Which means there is room for a beer garden! Inside the décor is recent, with new chairs and tables and various bric-a-brac above the bar. Needs to have that lived-in feel. Menu was reasonably priced, might be because it's away from the centre. On our visit a few Americans seem to have found this pub. Try the excellent Maisel Kellerbier.

John 8/10 visit Oct 2003

NO LONGER A BREW PUB

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Pelikan, Untere Sandstraße 45, 96049 Bamberg

 

Web site- http://www.pelikan-bamberg.de/

 

This is a pub which is a little way off the Bamberg tourists path. The décor and atmosphere added little bit of a student feel to it.  The candles on the table reminded me a little of an Amsterdam brown café.  Mainly food served here, but the Grasser Huppendorf at 2.60 Euros is different from most beers found in Bamberg. Also there was a long list of Scottish malts including some smoky ones from Islay (wonder why!)  Opens from 1700 hours and is closed on Wednesday.

 

John 7/10 visit June 2013 

 

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Reichelbrau,,Judenstr 5, Bamberg

A mixture of a pub, winebar and restaurant with consequently higher prices.
A big selection of beer and food. I had Jagerschnitzel, pomme frites and salat ( Stuart trying out his German-John ) which was superb. Vaulted ceiling and yet more wooded floors and walls. The most expensive pub we found but worth a try. We had Radler, by mistake ! It's a strange orange-tasting beer. A shandy basically ---argghh!

Stuart 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

Open 18-00 hours. More into food than drink. Kulmbacher beer, the beer we had tasted of orange! Food and beer was expensive for Bamberg, even for the city centre. Nothing special here.

John 5/10 visit Oct 2003

CLOSED

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Schlenkerla, Dominikanerstrasse 6, Bamberg 96049

 

Web site- www.schlenkerla.de

Brew pub

The other Rauchbier brew pub in Bamberg. Bottled beer is available in the UK. A sagging timber building. Cosy interior with wood panelling and locals consuming food which you can bring in yourself and eat up to 18.00 hours. John and I met a great Irish beer drinker. The Rauchbier was stronger in flavour than in the Spezial which I preferred. Fast efficient service. You MUST visit !

Stuart 9/10 visit Oct 2003

A nice timber framed building in the city centre. Rows of wooden tables and chairs, old photos and pictures on the wall create a very atmospheric pub. Wooden barrel on the bar serving the pub's smoked beer which is well worth drinking. Friendly Irish guy Dave ( are you reading this Dave?) and locals added to the visit. Closed on Tuesdays.

John 9.5/10 visit Oct 2003

What can I say-a classic pub serving a classic beer?  The Rauchbier here is excellent- smell the smokiness before you drink the beer.  It is one of

the great drinking experiences in the world. The beer is served from wooden barrels from the bar; it doesn’t get any fresher than this! Wonderful

décor, etched glass windows and old wood panelling all add to the wonderful atmosphere of the pub.  The bar to the left is the more atmospheric, but

if crowded the  bar on the right is comfortable as well. Beer was 2.30 euros for a half litre. As I said before a classic pub.

 

John 10/10 visit April 2009

 

Rauchbier was 2.50 Euros in this classic pub which serves a classic beer.

 

John 10/10 visit June 2013

 

Still a classic pub serving one of the best beers in the world. The Rauchbier was 2.70 Euros for a half litre ( check previous previews for prices). Place was very busy, with everyone seeming to have a beer and some food. Maybe best to avoid between 1200 and 1400 hours in the summer months!

John 9.5/10 visit June 2015

 

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Spezial, Obere Konigstrasse 10, Bamberg 96052

 

Web site- www.brauerei-spezial.de

Brew pub

This pub brews a excellent smoked beer, which is it's specially. Rows of tables, wood panelled walls with old photos, and beams. This all makes for a good beer in a good pub. Drinkers are mainly older, including women drinking their half litre smoked beer- more power to their elbows! We revisited this pub in the evening, it was busy with people supporting their local brewery by drinking the beer! The pub does rooms which are reasonably priced ( 45 euros for a double, 30 euros for a single ) and are good value- we know, because we have stayed there! Classic pub.

John 10/10 visit Oct 2003

Bamberg is a wonderful city! It is, in fact, paradise. Special is a jewel in the crown. The brew pub has been here since 1536, the same as some of the regulars! It offers 7 room accommodation, very reasonably priced at 45 euro a night each for 2 sharing. The bar reminds me of an Oxbridge dining room, with rows of narrow tables and newly-sanded table tops. Rauchbier , Lagerbier unfiltered, a Marzen and a Weissbier. The service is stern but efficient. The food looks very good and the locals indulging included a group of grannies supping the Rauchbier ! A separate Stuben for the locals and lodgers and a further room for overflow.

Stuart 9/10 visit Oct 2003

A classic Bamberg pub.  This very aptly-named pub is opposite the Flassia. If you live or work on this street you are one lucky person! This was

my first pub in Bamberg and is still my favourite. The atmosphere is different depending on what time you visit. In the afternoon it is quiet with

people reading their newspapers, in the evening it is more lively. The excellent Rauchbier is a big seller (2.30 euros a half litre). There is a small

courtyard out the back for outside drinking. Sunday hours are 0900 to 1400 hours, so if you fancy a drink at 0900 on a Sunday-this is the place

for you!

 

John 10/10 April 2009

 

Rauchbier was 2.40 Euros in this still classic pub.  I drank outside in the back courtyard for the first time, which was a pleasant drinking experience.

 

John 10/10 visit June 2103

 

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Spezial Keller. Sternwartstraße, 96049 Bamberg,

 

Bamberg best keller, which is not on Oberer Stephansberg like the others. Walk up a hill again for another great view of Bamberg. Very popular, especially with the seats with the best views; we were lucky to get a seat with a reasonably good view. The Spezial Rauchbier is 2.70 euros, which is more expensive than their pub in the town, so you must be paying for the view! The keller is closed on Monday and opens from 1600 weekdays.

 

John 9/10 visit June 2013

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Sternla, Langestrasse 46, Bamberg 96047

This is the oldest pub in Bamberg. In the city centre, with so many the other good traditional pubs in Bamberg, this pub is a little bit of a let down. To be fair it was a very quiet Monday evening when we visited, and nothing was happening. The Kellerbier we had was good.

John 6.5/10 visit Oct 2003

The chef was drinking rather than cooking ! Kellerbier was mediocre but served in Knuge and not much of an atmosphere.

Stuart 6/10 visit Oct 2003

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Tambosi, Promenadestrasse 11, Bamberg 96047

Very much a locals' pub catering for the older drinker. Try the Schesslitz bay Kellerbier. The food is reputed to be good and cheap. Its fairly modern inside with a red tiled floor and white walls. The Kellerbier is unfiltered and lower in gas than normal German beer.

Stuart 7/10 visit Oct 2003

City centre pub close to the bus station. Standard pub décor of white walls, wooden floor, and tables. While nothing special, it did have a good regulars' feel to it, from the mainly older clientele. Beers from Schmiitt, try the Kellerbier-again!

John 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

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FRANCONIA

 

Bamberg and the Franconia area has the largest density of breweries in the world, with many small villages or towns sometimes having two or three brewery taps. This was what it was like in most of Europe some 180 years ago, before railways and other transport links. For some reason (maybe local pride in an excellent product?) it is still like this today; for how long is anybody's guess? Visit while you can! Having visited Bamberg a few times I have always wanted to explore the surrounding area. My dream as now come true, thanks to my friend Mike Berger, who organised all trains, buses and rooms for this amazing trip which lived up to my expectations. All I had to do was turn up and eat and drink! Mike I am forever grateful. Great quality beer at low prices (between 1.80 to 2.20 Euros) in good pubs in lovely picturesque rural settings; what more can you ask for! Not only were the Franconian people friendly, but also below are listed some of the good deeds done by them! The pubs below were visited the last two weeks in June 2013, one week in June 2014 and 1 week in June 2015. 

Villages are listed separately, but the postal address is the nearest town.

Pubs were done in order I visited them.

FRANCONIA 2013

 

 

AMBERG

 

Small town of 44,000 people between Regensberg and Bayreuth. It has 4 brewery taps, we managed to visit 3; the fourth- Schloderer-was closed on a Saturday afternoon!  .

 

 

Zum Bruckmuller, Vilsstraße 2, Amberg 92224

 

Web site http://www.bruckmueller.de/

 

The brewery tap for Bruckmuller; in the old town just off the town square. Traditional pub (since 1490) and traditional beer garden with lots of shade from the trees on a hot summer’s day. The keller beer and the dunkles beer was 2.90 Euros and were the best beers of the Amberg breweries, in my opinion.

 

John 8.5/10 visit June 2013

 

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Winkler,  Untere Nabburger Str. 34,  Amberg 92224

 

Web site  http://www.brauerei-winkler.de/home/

 

This brewery tap is also in the old town and has been brewing for 100 years. It has a nice pub interior, but everyone was drinking outside today. Nice beer garden with creepers growing up the wall. Owner was a little grumpy when serving us, not sure why!  The keller beer was 2.70 Euros. Nice place.

 

John 8/10 visit June 2013

 

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Zum Kummert Braeu, Raigeringer Straße 11,   Amberg 92224

 

Web site http://www.zumkummertbraeu.de/

 

This brewery tap is about a 10 minute walk out of town and had more of a locals feel about it. The weather was perfect for a few beers outside in the beer garden, as well as some good food. House beer was 2.50 Euros and keller was 2.70 Euros. Opens from 1000 hours on Tuesday.

 

 

John 8/10 visit June 2013

 

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NEUHAUS AN DER PEGNITZ

 

Small town with a communal brewery.

 

Reindl, Unterer markt 3, Neuhaus an der Pegnitz 91284

 

This is a pub which does a beer from the town’s communal brewery; the beer was great, as was the price 2 Euros. (Eat your heart out global brewers!) Friendly place with friendly locals.  This is a small pub with a painting on the wall at the back of Gambrinus saying ‘There is no beer heaven so drink it now!’ Unique Bavarian place, only one beer but what a beer!

 

John 9.5/10 visit June 2013

 

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Wolfsberg, Postheimstraße 14,   Neuhaus an der Pegnitz  91284

 

Web site- http://www.gasthof-wolfsberg.de/

 

This is where we stayed in Neuhaus an der Pegnitz, the staff here were very friendly. A pleasant pub with beers from the local brewery Kaiser (which can be seen from the station) costing 2.20 Euros. Up a hill, follow the footpath from the park. Nice bar area, nice outside drinking area. After the Reindl, the pub and beer were a little bit of an anti-climax. Recommend staying here. 

 

John 7/10 June 2013

 

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BIERQUELLEN WANDERWAG

 

 

A beer walk which involves walking to 3 brewery taps below, it is well sign-posted. See web site for details.

http://www.bierquellenwanderweg.de/

 

 

 

LEUPS

 

Brauerei Gradl, Leups 6, 91257 Pegnitz,

 

Leups is a small village with 2 buses a day from Pegnitz going to it. Lucky for us a school bus driver from another route drove us here after he dropped his school children off. Nice touch. Brewery tap for Gradl, which does an excellent dunkel beer from the barrel for 1.90 Euros. One of the best dunkel beers I have ever tasted. Need to go to bar to get the drinks. Friendly locals were impress we found the place; we didn’t tell them about the bus driver! Rest day is Tuesday.

 

John 10/10 visit June 2013

 

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BUCHENBACH

 

Brauerei Herold, Marktstraße 29  91257, Pegnitz,

 

Web site http://www.beckn-bier.de/

 

After a 3 km walk from the Brauerei Gradl in Leups you are rewarded a good dunkel beer from the brewery tap here. Friendly place in a sleepy village, which has been in the family since 1568. Good to see 3 generations of the family helping each other out, which creates a good atmosphere. Stayed here the night the rooms were reasonably priced, as was the beer which was 1.90 Euros. Rest day is Tuesday.

Good Deed #1. I left my jacket here when catching a taxi, the owner knew we were going to Brauerei Kurzdofer  and dropped it off while we were at the pub. He did ask for a beer, which was fair enough!

 

John 9/10 visit June 2013

 

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LINDENHART

 

Brauerei Kurzdorfer, Brauhausgasse 3, 95473 Creußen

 

Web site http://www.brauerei-kuerzdoerfer.de/

 

Part 3 of the Bierquuellen Wanderweg. Got a taxi to Leups and walked from Leups to Lindenhart which was 2 km.  Worked up a thirst on a hot summer’s day and the result was another excellent dunkles beer from this brewery tap. Like the other beers on the walk it was 1.90 Euros.  I like the fact the non-alcohol beers are 2.50 Euros!  Décor is Swiss chalet style; the entrance is not easy to find- it is round the back. The outside drinking patio has a great view of the car park! Rest day is Monday

Good deed#2 Bit of a mix up the village bus stops! Long story! The owner gave us a lift to Pegnitz station-nice one.

 

John 9.5/10 visit June 2013

 

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EBERMANNSTADT

 

A small gateway town; sadly there is no great beer choice here!

 

Gasthaus Eisenbahn   Bahnhofstraße 15, 91320 Ebermannstadt,

 

This is a friendly locals pub close to the station. Not sure if it does food. Had a St Georgen keller at 2.20 Euros which was good. On a return visit at 0930 we waited here instead of the station for a train! We had a coffee but 3 other customers were all having a beer!

 

John 8/10 visit June 2013

 

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Biergarten Du Post, Rosengasse, 91320 Ebermannstadt,

 

Down an Ebermannstadt back street,  a place with a beer garden, which was perfect for our needs on a hot summer’s day! Monchshof Pils was 2 Euros;  the beer was very average compared to what we have been drinking so far on this trip.

 

John 6/10 visit June 2013

 

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UNTERZAUNSBACH

 

Brauerei Meister,  Unterzaunsbach 8,  91362 Pretzfeld,

 

Web site- http://www.xn--meisterbru-y5a.de/mod/main.php

 

This is a brewery tap in a village about 7 km from Ebermannstadt. Not much here apart from a classic pub selling an excellent beer! Standard German pub décor makes this a great place to chill out. There is a beer garden; while it does not have a great view it has a lot of trees to keep you cool on a hot summer’s day. Another friendly family place- rooms are a reasonable 22 Euros and the beer was 2 Euros. Rest days are Tuesday and Thursday.

Good deed #3, on checking out the brewer gave us a brewery glass!

 

John 9.5/10 visit June 2013

 

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HAGENBACH

 

Hans Richter, Hagenbach 23. 91362 Pretzfeld.

 

Web site-  http://www.gasthof-richter.de/

 

This is Schnapps Distillery/ Butcher/pub in the village for Hagenbach.  I had the vollbier from Penning which was 2.10 Euros; the beer had a smoky taste to it or maybe this comes from the butcher’s shop! Large range of schnapps and sausages to eat in or take away. The locals are having a noisy game of cards in the beer garden.

 

John 8/10 visit June 2013

 

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FORCHEIM

 

Stadtlockal Forchheim, Hauptstraße 52, 91301 Forchheim

 

Web site-  http://www.stadtlokal-forchheim.de/

 

A traditional pub in the old town.  I drank in the outside drinking area at the front of the pub; a great place to watch the world go by. As you walk inside the pub, the traditional area is on the left hand side further along the corridor is a cocktail/lounge area. The keller beer was 2.70 Euros.

 

John 7.5/10 visit June 2013

 

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Brauerei Josef Greif Serlbacher Straße 10, 91301 Forchheim

 

Web site- http://www.brauerei-greif.de/

 

This is the brewery bar not a brewery tap. Only the helles beer is on draught, but there are lots of different bottled beers. The anniversary bottled beer is well worth a try. There is a window for customer service and a small outside drinking area. Opens 0800 to 1800 hours Monday to Friday and 0830 to 1300 hours Saturday.

 

John 7/10 visit June 2013

 

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BUTTENHEIM

 

A town with two excellent breweries. The breweries, brewery taps, kellers and their hotels are all next door to each other. About a 15 minute walk from the station. 

 

 

Lowenbrau of Buttenheim Keller, on ST2960, 96155 Buttenheim

 

Lowenbrau has a brewery tap and a keller in Buttenheim. The keller is a 5 minutes walk from the brewery tap. The keller is a traditional place, with lots of trees giving us some much needed shade on a summer’s day. The building in which you are served is modern. It is also by a busy main road. The excellent keller beer was 2 Euros.

 

John 8.5/10 visit June 2013

 

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Gasthof Lowenbrau of Buttenheim, Marktstraße 8, 96155 Buttenheim

 

Web site http://www.loewenbraeu-buttenheim.de/

 

Like their kellers, the Lowenbrau and St Georgen brewery taps stand close to each other. Outside the pub was very busy; inside there are rooms going off the main corridor; the front bar is small and cosy. The Keller beer was 2 Euros and was served in an earthenware jug with a tin lid on it, which you put down when not drinking. A great beer at a great price. Very impressed with both waitresses who seem to be working at 100 mph, serving everyone on a busy night!

 

 

John 9/10 visit June 2013

 

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St Georgen Keller, on ST2960, 96155 Buttenheim.

 

Web site http://www.kellerbier.de/

 

Next to Lowenbrau keller, but you have to walk up a hill. It is well worth the effort as you are rewarded with an excellent view of the town. Add the fact you are drinking the excellent St Georgen keller beer at 2 euros on a lovely summer’s day: means there cannot be too much wrong with the world at the moment! 

 

John 9.5/10 visit June 2013

 

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St Georgen Brau, Marktstraße12, 96155 Buttenheim

 

Sadly did not get to drink here, as they had a sign telling us to drink at the keller. Something to do next time I am here.

 

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FORCHHEIM KELLERS

 

The Forchheim kellers are just outside of the town, in the woods’ where there are various kellers from local breweries all next to each other. We visited two weeks before the local Annafest ( a local folk festival): about half the kellers were open. Take the 261 or 266 buses to Kellerworld from the station to get here. What is a keller? In the days when it was too hot to brew beer in the summer, the beer was brewed in the winter and stored in kellers in the woods. People who didn’t want to wait went up to kellers, and drinking places were set up outside under the trees, which covered the entrance. 

 

Neder-Keller,  Auf den Kellern 25, 91301 Forchheim, 

 

This keller is on the top of the hill. On your way up you can see the kellers from the other breweries, which makes this place unique. The Neder Keller is surrounded by trees giving it a peaceful rural feel. The keller beer was 2.20 Euros and was good, as was the food and the service.

 

John 7.5/10 visit June 2013 

 

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Waldschenke EichhornKeller- Auf den Kellern 17, 91301 Forchheim

 

A little further down from the Neder keller. The man doing the BBQ seemed to determined to start a fire beyond his BBQ; which in these woods is not a good thing! Thankfully some customers help put it out! Opposite the entrance is a keller which is well worth looking at, showing the caves they store the beer in. Keller beer was 2.20 Euros. 

 

John 7.5/10 visit June 2013

 

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BURGEBRACH

 

Schwanenenkeller, Kellerberg 3, 96138 Burgebrach

 

This keller is by the woods on the outskirts of town, it is about a 15 minute walk from the railway station. The doors of the house are open; a bench is put in front of it and it becomes a serving area for food and beer! Outside drinking area is on a hill. There is reasonably priced Bavarian fare with the beer coming from Lowenbrau of Buttenheim at 2 euros.

 

John 8/10 visit June 2013

 

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UETZING

 

Metzerbrau, Stublangerstraße 2, 96231 Bad Staffelstein- Uetzing.

 

Web site- http://metzgerbraeu.com/

 

A unique butcher/brewer who serves his beer in the village shop in Uetzing.  To get to Uetzing you need to get the bus from Bad Staffelstein station, the shop is by the bus stop. There is a terrace area outside the shop, where you can drink the beer which was good and priced at 1.80 Euros, the cheapest beer on our travels. The brewery is above the shop and you are welcome to take a look. Hours are 0630 to 1215 and 1400 to 2100 hours weekdays and 0630 to 1800 hours Saturday. Well worth the trip.

 

John 9.5/10 visit June 2013

 

 

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ROBDORFER

 

A small village within cycling distance of Bamberg. Do together with Geisfeld.

 

Felsenkeller, Zum Pelsenkeller, 96129 Strullendorf- Robdorfer

 

Web site- http://www.brauerei-sauer.de/html/felsenkeller.htm

 

Out of the way keller on the outskirts of Robdorfer, on the edge of a wood. The two-storied house was built in 1914,  and looks a little like something a the children’s fairy tale!. Not too busy at the time of visit, but a pleasant place none the less. The keller beer was 2.10 Euros. Hours are after 1500 in good weather in the summer.

 

John 7/10 visit June 2013

 

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GEISFELD

 

A small village within cycling distance of Bamberg. Do together with Robdorter.

 

 

Griesskeller, Kellerweg 9, 96129- Strullendorf-Geisfeld

 

Web site- http://www.griess-keller.de/

 

About a 10 minute walk from the village brings you to this wonderful keller. It is on a hill which creates different platform levels to drink your beer in. It also has nice views of the surrounding green fields. Took a little while to find someone to serve us, as there was no one behind the bar!  Keller beer was 2.00 Euros. Hours are from 1630 hours Monday to Saturday, 1400 hours on Sunday. This keller is only 7 miles from Bamberg.

 

John 8.5/10 visit June 2013

 

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MEMMELSDORF

 

A village on a bus route from Bamberg.

 

Drei Kronen, Hauptstrabe 19, 96117 Memmelsdorf

 

Web site- http://www.drei-kronen.de/

 

This is a smart upmarket place which displays its Michelin food awards as you walk in, so maybe this is an unlikely place for a brewery tap! But the beer menu is just as impressive as the food, with a keller, unfiltered and rauch beer all at 2.50 euros. They are brewed to a high standard and were enjoyable beers. Opening times are 0900 to 2230 hours Tuesday to Saturday, 0900 to 15000 hours Sunday and 1500 to 2230 hours Monday.

 

John 8/10 visit June 2013

 

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WIILERSDORT

 

A village on a bus route from Bamberg.

 

Rittmayer, Willersdorf 108,  91352 Hallerndorf, 

 

Web site- http://www.rittmayer.com/

 

The locals part of this brewery tap is at the front; the further back you go it becomes more of a restaurant. The place was crowded for a Wednesday afternoon, but the single waitress was coping well! The food and the keller beer at 2.10 Euros were both good. Rooms next to the pub are 45 Euros a night. Friendly, well run place.

 

John 8.5/10 visit June 2013

 

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Gasthaus Zum Grunen Baum, Willersdorf 151, 91352 Hallerndorf

 

Web site- http://www.gasthaus-fischer.de/

 

Our second pub in Willersdorf. While the Rittmayer is more upmarket pub, this place is more of a regulars hangout.  There are only 4 locals in here, including the owner, at the time of our visit. Hot food is only done on certain days, so we settled for a cold food platter. Bottled keller beer was 2 Euros. Opens from 1600 hours, rest day is Tuesday.

 

John 7/10 visit June 2013

 

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SCHNAID

 

A village with 3 kellers.

 

Brauhaus am kreuzberg,  Kreuzberg 1, 91352 Hallerndorf

 

Web site- http://www.brauerei-friedel.de/

 

Up the hill from Schnaid are 3 kellers together, this was the only one open on a cloudy cold Wednesday afternoon. The other 2 are the Freidel and Rittmayer kellers. Looks like its inside drinking area which seems a good investment on a day like today. The place is displaying a lot of awards, but mainly for the schnapps.  The self service keller beer was 2 euros; it has some unusual brews for a Bavarian brewery, including a whiskey bok beer. Keller looks like it’s been rebuilt recently. Opens from 1100 to 2300 hours daily.

 

John 8/10/ visit June 2013

 

 

FRANCONIA 2014

 

This is the second trip Mike and I did to Franconia in one week in June 2014. Again done in the order in which we visited them.

 

KREUZBERG

A village with a monastery brewery.

 

Kloster Kreuzberg, Kreuzberg 2, Bischofsheim an der Rhön 97653

 

Web site- http://www.kreuzbergbier.de/

 

A wonderful monastery brewery on top of a hill ( like they all are in Germany!).  There is a serving hatch in the centre of the pub as you walk in, with various rooms and drinking areas which run of this area. Standard German pub décor; the room we were in was quiet at first, but it soon filled up within an hour, creating a good atmosphere.  Great beer at 2.40 euros for a half litre, but there is a 3 euros deposit for the earthenware jug. Closes at 20:00 hours. Basic rooms for the night; well it is a monastery! Unique place.

 

John 9/10 visit June 2014

 

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 MEMMELSDORF

See visit in June 2013 (above) for another entry for this village.

 

Brauerel Gasthof Hohn, Hauptstrabe 11, Memmelsdorf  96117

 

Web site- http://www.gasthof-hoehn-memmelsdorf.de/

 

Brewery tap which was closed for refurbishment on our visit to this village last year. The builders did a fine job. Standard German pub décor, like the photos of past family members in the corridor.  The beer was a little hoppy by German standards but  it was a nice brew. It was 2.40 euros for a half litre.

 

John 8/10 visit June 2014

 

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DROSENDORF

 

Brauerel Goller,  Scheßlitzer Straße 7, Memmelsdorf  96117

 

Web site- http://www.goeller-brauerei.de/

 

The exterior of this pub is not appealing, but the interior is. Unlike some German pubs this place is nice and cosy; this might be because of the low ceiling. Friendly locals and waitress who like to talk English to us. The excellent rauchbier was 2.20 a half litre.  

 

John 9/10 visit June 2014

 

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LOHNDORF

 

Brauerel Holzlein,   Ellertalstraße 13, Litzendorf  96123

 

Web site- http://www.brauerei-hoelzlein.de/

 

Friendly brewery tap in the village of Lohndorf. The place was busy for a Friday evening, but we manage to find a seat. While there was a room on the other side of the corridor, this was a small size pub for a brewery tap. If you want a meal to fill you up try the Schnitzel!  The vollbier was 2.10 euros and the pils was 2.20 euros.

 

John 8/10 visit June 2014

 

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SCHAMMELSDORF

 

Brauerel Knoblach,  Kremmeldorfer Straße 1, Litzendorf  96123

 

Web site- http://www.brauerei-knoblach.de/

 

Nice brewery tap with a garlic theme! The beer garden as you walk in is impressive, lots of tree shade for a sunny day. The pub looks okay from my short visit to the toilets. The Keller and dunkel beers were both excellent and were 4.20 euros together. The pub does its own schnapps.

 

John 9/10 visit June 2014.

 

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GIESFELD

See visit in June 2013 (above) for another entry for this village.

 

Brauerel Griess,  Magdalenenstraße 6, Strullendorf  96129

 

Web site-  http://www.brauerei-griess.de/

 

Having drank at their beer keller last year, it is only fair to sample their beers at the brewery tap this year. Only drank on a nice day, so I can not comment on the décor inside! The excellent keller beer was only 2 euros-beer heaven or what!

 

John 9/10 visit June 2014

 

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LITZENDORF

 

Gasthof Kraff, Giesfelderstraße 5, Litzendorf  96123

 

Drank at this place to try the Reh beer from Lohnsdorf, as they do not have a brewery tap. Had the dunkel beer at 2.20 euros, the beer was good but not great. Drank outside in the small drinking area out the front.

 

John 6/10 visit June 2014.

 

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TIESFENELLERN

 

Honig Brauerel,  Ellerbergstraße 15, Litzendorf  96123

 

Web site- http://www.brauerei-hoenig.de/

 

Another Franconia village, another Franconia brewery tap selling good beer at 2 euros-life can be so boring! Good beer garden which is large, which is just as well as there are lots of people enjoying a fine summer’s evening. Beers we drank were the Pils and the lager beer.

 

John 8/10 visit June 2014

 

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WAISCCHENFELD

A sizeable village/town in Franconian Switzerland

 

Gasthaus  Sonne,  Hauptstraße  4, Waischenfeld  91344 

 

Web site http://www.sonne-waischenfeld.de/

 

Not too many places in Waischenfeld to eat and drink for its size. Had a nice Sunday lunch here with the beer from Schroll, which was 2 euros for a half litre. Outside drinking area around the back.

 

John 7/10 visit June 2014

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Brauerel Heckel, Vorstadt 3, Waischenfeld 91344

 

Small classic locals town pub which is not as plush as most German pubs. No TV, food-or anything else for that matter, just a place to sup good beer. Not sure if the brewery was on site, but the excellent beer was only 1.80 a half litre! When we revisited this pub the locals when sitting in exactly the same places, still not talking to each other. Take care coming out the pub- there is no pavement!

 

John 10/10 visit June 2014

 

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Hotel Zur Post, Marktplatz 8, Waischenfeld 91344

 

Web site- http://www.hotel-zur-post-waischenfeld.de/index.php

 

A big plush restaurant in the centre of town. As well as no customers, we had no waiter for the first 10 minutes! A chance to sample Krug beer from the nearby village of Breitenlesau. It was 2.40 euros (outrageous!). Food was good, they also have a good collection of schnapps.

 

John 6/10 visit June 2014

 

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HECKENHOF

Village 10km from Waiscchenfeld

 

Kathi Brau, Heckenhof 1, Aufseß 91347

 

Web site-  http://www.brauereiweg.de/brauereiweg/brauerei-kathi-braeu.html

 

Lovely village brewery tap with a nice display of flowers and creepers on the outside of the pub. The pub also has a nice beer garden for a sunny day which it is today. The excellent beer was 2.10 euros for a half litre. The pub is popular with motorcyclists.

 

John 9/10 visit June 2014.

 

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REGENSBURG

A town with a population of 134,000, between Nuremberg and Munich, with some impressive buildings.

 

Gasthof  Spitalgarten,  St.-Katharinen-Platz 1, Regensburg  93059

 

Web site-  http://www.spitalgarten.de/

 

Large beer garden in an excellent location on the River Danube, close to the old town bridge. The large beer garden can cater for large coach parties. The dunkel beer was good, but after paying 2 odd euros in small Franconian villages, 3.40 euros is a bit of a shock!

 

John 8.5/10 visit June 2014

 

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Kneitinger  Keller,  Galgenbergstraße 18, Regensburg  93053

 

Web site- http://www.kneitingerkeller.de/

 

Large beer garden/keller to the South of the station. Not so touristy as places in the centre. The place was busy, but there didn’t seem to be enough waiters on for the amount of people there. Lots of trees make this a nice place to be on a hot day. Dunkel beer was 3.20 euros.

 

John 7/10 visit June 2014

 

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Brandi  Brau,  Ostengasse 16, Regensburg  93047

 

Web site- http://www.brandl-braeu.de/

 

While this town centre pub has a small beer garden around the back, the traditional interior is well worth a visit. The Brandi brewery is no more; the beers now come from Lammsbrau and are 3.20 euros.

 

John 7.5/10 June 2014

 

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FRANCONIA 2015

My third trip with Mike Berger to Franconia, the land of great beer and amazingly cheap prices for an excellent product!

NEUHAUSE

 

One of five Zoigl villages/towns in this part of Bavaria. What is a Zoigl pub? It is a beer from a communal brewery, which is sold in turn at the village pubs; never at the same time in two pubs. The beer is of a high standard.

    

Zoigl Braukeller Schoilmichl, Markplatz 20, 92670 Windischeschenbach

Web site- http://schoilmichl.de/wb/index.php

My first visit to a Zoigl pub and it did not disappoint,  this is a lovely pub with a cellar bar atmosphere. Not too crowded to begin with, but it did get a little busy later on, creating a good atmosphere. The Zoigl beer was excellent and great value at 1.80 Euros a half litre. Love to live here!

John 9.5/10 visit June 2015

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NEUHAUS AN DER PEGNITZ

See entry in June 2013 ( above) for a previous visit to this pub.

 

Reindl, Unterer Markt 3, 91284 Neuhaus an der Pegnitz.

 

One of my first pubs in Franconia, still a classic pub. The beer is good, but drier than I remember. Good beer on a lazy Sunday afternoon! Nice! Beer was 2 Euros for a half litre the same as two years ago!

John 9/10 visit June 2015

 

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ALTENDORF

 

Backstahausla, Am Bahnhof 1, 96146 Altendorf.

While next to Butterheim railway station, this pub in is Altendorf. Stopped here for a quick drink while waiting for a bus (which never came!) Small pub with standard German pub décor, beers come from the local Lowenbrau brewery in Butterheim. Okay place.

John 7/10 visit June 2015

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GEISFELD

See entry in June 2013 and June 2014 (above) for a previous visit to this village, with 2 brewery taps and a keller.

 

Brauerei Krug, Alte Dorfstrabe 11, 96129 Strullendorf

 

Web site- http://www.brauerei-krug.de/

Multi-room pub with a stand up locals area at the front of the bar. Interesting old photos on the walls. The beer was served from a wooden barrel on the bar and was 2 euros for a half litre. Second brewery tap in the village.

John 8/10 visit June 2015

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Brauerel Griess, Magdalenenstraße 6, Strullendorf 96129.

 

Web site- Web site- http://www.brauerei-griess.de/

I have been to the keller of this brewery in 2013, drank outside this pub in 2014 ( hot day), this time I am inside the pub! A nice place with a friendly atmosphere serving an excellent keller beer at 2.10 Euros for a half litre. Seem to be part of a lock-in when we left the pub at 2100 hours!

John 8.5/10 visit June 2015

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LOHNDORF

See entry in June 2014 (above) for a previous visit to this pub

Brauerel Holzlein, Ellertalstraße 13, Litzendorf 96123

Web site- http://www.brauerei-hoelzlein.de/

Less crowded than my previous visit. Only 3 locals in on our visit in the afternoon. Friendly host. The Pils beer was 2.50 Euros for a half litre, one of the higher prices we paid, and was very average.

John 7/10 visit June 2015

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SEBLACH

Lovely village with cobbled streets and old buildings. This is one of the prettiest villages in Bavaria.

Gastwirtschaft Reinwand, Maximilliansplatz 99, 96145 Seblach

Web site- http://www.gasthof-reinwand.de/kontakt.htm

A lovely pub in a lovely village. Good atmosphere with the locals playing a lively game of cards. The good beer from this pub comes from the communal brewery, (but not a Zoigl pub) and was 2 Euros for a half litre. 

John 8/10 visit June 2015

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HEILGERSDORF

Brauerei Scharff, Heilgersdorfer Hauptstrabe 16, 96145 Seblach.   

Web site- http://www.scharpf-heilgersdorf.de/

Brewery tap in Heilgersdorf, a village within walking distance of Seblach. More modern than most German pubs, which go for a traditional feel. What made this pub was the old lady behind the bar, who is still going strong. Good beer at 2 Euros a half litre. Opens at 1000 hours!

John 8/10 visit June 2015

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RATTELSDORF

Brauerei Zum Golden Adler, Hofen 21, 96179 Rattelsdorf  

Not sure where the beer comes from, but it was 2 Euros and very nice! Standard German pub décor with a small drinking area outside. Main memory is Mike and I ordering two meals, with a 20 minute wait between the first and second meal!

John 7/10 visit June 2015

MERKENDORF

Another Franconia village with 2 brewery taps!

Brauerei  Wagner,  Pointstrabe 1, 96117 Memmelsdorf.

Web site- http://wagner-merkendorf.de/

Brewery tap where you can smell the hops from the brewery in the nice beer garden. A large range of beer for a Franconia brewery tap including Ungesp Pils, Jubilaumsbier ( anniversary beer) and a wheat beer. Had an excellent Ungesp Pils at 2 Euros a half-litre which was straight from the barrel. Nice place, nice beer.

John 9/10 visit June 2015

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 Brauerei Hummel,  Lindenstrabe 9, 96117 Memmelsdorf.

Web site- http://www.brauerei-hummel.de/

Don’t you  hate these Franconian villages that have two brewery taps serving excellent beer! I am jealous as hell!! Like the Wagner, this brewery tap has a good range of beer, but the beer is 10 cents more than the Wagner at 2.10 Euros ( outrageous!). Nice beer garden, nice beer.

John 8.5/10 visit June 2015

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ZUCKSHUT

Gasthof Rieneck, Hauptstrabe 36, 96149 Breitengubbach

Web site- http://www.gasthof-rieneck.de/

Another Franconia pub with a nice beer garden and nice beer! This pub was on our way back from Merkendorf. Lots of creepers on the outside of the  building. No local beer here, but had the Ungespundei beer from the Mahrs brewery in Bamberg; one of my favourites, it was  2.20 Euros for a half litre.

John 7/10 visit June 2015

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DORFLEINS

Schwartzer Alder ( Brauerei Eichhorn), Dorfleinser Straße 43, 96103 Hallstadt.

Web site- http://www.brauerei-eichhorn.de/ueberbrau.html

Easy to miss this pub, because while this is the brewery tap for the Eichhorn brewery, the name of the pub is Schwartzer Adler and not Brauerei Eichhorn! Standard German pub décor, the pub had a nice garden. Nice keller beer at 2.20 Euros for a half litre.

John 7.5/10 visit June 2015

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Diller Keller, Am Kreuzberg 1, 96103 Hallstadt

Nice keller by the side of the woods; today is a nice day to drink outside. Arrived at 1315 hours to find the keller opens at 1500 hours, but the owners arrived and let us have an early drink and some food(nice touch). Not sure where the beer came from but it was good and was 2 Euros for a half litre.

John 7/10 visit June 2015

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KEMMERN

Another Franconia village with a Wagner Brewery!

Wagner Brau, Haupstraße 15, 96164 Kemmern.

Web site- http://www.brauerei-wagner.de/

Another Wagner brewery! This time in the village of Kemmern. This is in the centre of the village and has a good ‘village local’ feel to it. The inside of the pub is nice, but so is the beer garden on a hot summer’s day. Beer is from a wooden barrel at 1.90 Euros for a half litre. A enjoyable beer in a nice pub.

John 9/10 visit June 2015

 

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DUSSELDORF

Dusseldorf is famous for its Altbier, which means old beer. It looks and tastes a little like an English real ale, fresh and served with no gas. As well as various breweries producing this style around Dusseldorf, there are also four home-brew pubs which are listed below, all of which have a wooden barrel on the bar. Quarter litre glasses ( half a pint ) are put on trays, and waiters go round looking for thirst drinkers! The price in October 2003 for a Altbier was between 1.35 to 1.50 Euros.

A two and half hour train ride from Amsterdam; meant I was able to visit this unique city (beer-wise) in November 2017. Managed to do the all the alt brew pubs in the city centre. There has been a new alt brew pub which has open, since my last visit. The prices in November 2017  for a alt beer was between 1.90 to 2.10 Euros.

 

Fuchschen, Ratinger Str 28, Dusseldorf 40213

Web site  http://www.fuechschen.de/

ALTBIER BREW PUB

Nice large pub with lots of different drinking areas, and a pleasant atmosphere. A little to the north of the city centre but it still attracts a crowd. Black beams, wood panelled walls and red slate floor. Pub has a nice sort of homely feel to it

John 8.5/10 visit Oct 2003

Slightly out of the centre so the beer prices fall to 1.35 Euro. Heaving at 7.00 on a Wednesday. Wide selection of food. The altbier is the one to go for. It must be really busy on a Friday or Saturday ! Dark wood interior and tiled floor which seems to be the norm.

Stuart 8/10 visit Oct 2003

Nice upmarket decor with white tiled walls. Drinking area is by the bar. Alt beer is 2.10 Euros.

John 9/10 visit Nov 2017

 


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Kurter, Kurzer Strasse 18/20, Dusseldorf 40213.

Web site- http://www.brauerei-kuerzer.de/

This is the newest alt brew pub in the old town; it was not here when I last visited Dusseldorf in 2003. The other alt brew pubs are traditional, with male waiters in aprons, traditional décor, no music  and food. This new outlet has tattooed female waiters, modern spartan décor, loud music and no food. So the alternative alt brew pub for young people! Opens 1500 hours daily. Alt beer was 1.90 Euros, but I was not sure if it was a different measure?

John 8/10 visit Nov 2017

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Paulaner Botschaft,Huttenstrabe 20, Dusseldorf 40215

Beers from Munich brewers Paulaner, makes this a welcome change for Dusseldorf drinkers. The front of the pub tries to look like a Bavarian beer garden. Inside the décor is pleasant, with lots of wood panelling. Traditional Bavarian food is served- there is also an English menu. Try the Paulaner Salvator-a excellent, if strong beer!

John 8.5/10 visit Oct 2003

At least this Munich brewer has an outlet in the city-a dwindling trend. The pub is a 10 minute walk from the main station. A wide selection of food; particularly Munich sausages and Sauerkraut. No beer menu so prepare the order in your mind first. The Salvator double hop was good. Inside is a central bar in pine set in a pine clad room . The food was good and service was prompt.

Stuart 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

NOW CLOSED

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Pilsner Urquell,Grabenstrabe 6, Dusseldorf 40213

If you want a change from German Pilsner, then this pub gives you the chance to try the Czech kind- albeit at a price. Prices for 30l are from 2.50 to 2.70 Euros. Smallish pub, with low lighting and a cosy atmosphere. Spiral staircase leads to a upstairs drinking area. The pub sells Czech food as well as Czech beer.

John 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

Do go to the florist next door! Run by Czech staff serving Czech beer. The dark stout like U'Fleku or the more familiar Pilsner Urquell or Budweiser Budvar are pretty good. The food is at the front of the bar. The drinks take a few minutes to pour. A spiral staircase splits the small front bar. The beer is served in 0.3 l measures and is 50% more expensive than the altbier elsewhere. Watch the short change; that's if you get any change!

Stuart 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

NOW CLOSED
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Schlussel, Bolker Str 43-47, Dusseldorf 40213

Web site  http://www.zum-schluessel.de/

ALTBIER BREW PUB

Huge pub in the centre of the old town, with lots of different areas. The back area is more for sitting down, while the front area to the right is more for standing up or sitting on high stools. Lots of nice paintings around the place. Very busy at the time we visited, which was 18-30 on a Wednesday evening. Pub seems very into food.

John 8/10 visit Oct 2003

A large spacious brew pub. Beer served from the wood. Very busy at 6.30. Getting a seat can be difficult. Arched ceilings and tiled floors. A wide mix of ages and people.

Stuart 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

There are a lot of people outside this pub;  inside is reasonably busy, as this large pub  goes back along way. Alt beer is 2.10 Euros.

John 8/10 visit Nov 2017


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Schumacher im Goldenen Kessel, Bolkerstrabe 44, Dusseldorf 40213

Web site  http://www.brauerei-schumacher.de/schank.html

Schumacher main outlet in the old town. The left side is a stand-up drinking area, the right is more into food. As always in Germany, it's okay to have a drink. Crowded, but lively atmosphere. Wooden panelled beams, old photos and pictures on the wall plus various bric-a-brac, all on a green background make this a interesting pub.

John 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

This is the town centre outlet for Schumacher. Again packed with people enjoying their selves. The food looked good. Family photos of the brewery owners adorn the walls.

Stuart 7.5/10 visit Oct 2003

Schumacher outlet in the old town; if you don’t fancy trying their beers at their pub near the station. Standard German pub décor with everything nice and clear. Alt beer is 2.10 Euros.

John 7.5/10 visit Nov 2017.


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Schumacher, Ost Str 129, Dusseldorf 40210

Web site  http://www.brauerei-schumacher.de/

ALTBIER BREW PUB

The other 3 home brew pubs are in the old town, whereas this one is in the new town. It's the nearest to the main railway station; might be easier to do this one last if on a day trip. Nice pub with lots of little alcoves. Try the right hand side as you walk in; it has the more impressive décor, including large paintings and portraits and etched-glass windows. There is a drinking area at the back where you can look into the brewery.

John 9/10 visit Oct 2003

The one Alt brewery out of the centre of town. As you enter there is one bar on the left with the stammistch. On the right a larger room with sanded wood tables. You have to try the Altbier, served from wooden barrels. Paintings adorn the walls with past conflicts and dignitaries depicted on a grand scale. Some tables can be reserved, so look for the notices on them.
Stuart 8.5/10 visit Oct 2003

Last time I was here it was a weekday afternoon and the pub was half empty. Today on a Friday evening it is very busy. Manage to find a seat after about 5 minutes as we are eating. Lots of waiters coping with the crowd. Alt beer was 2.10 Euros.

John 9/10 visit Nov 2017

 

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Zum Urerige, Berger Str 1, Dusseldorf 40213

Web site  http://www.uerige.de/

ALTBIER BREW PUB

The oldest and the most atmospheric of all the pubs. Have a good look round before you sit down - there are lots of different rooms and alcoves, which are nice and cosy. There is an outside drinking area to the side of the pub, which seemed popular for a cold October evening! You will see an old wooden barrel rolled out and put onto the bar, then about 10 beers are poured out, and the waiters go looking for customers! Can't get fresher than this! Classic pub.

John 10/10 visit Oct 2003

A stunning if slightly commercial Altbier brew pub. Many different rooms and dark panelling. Paintings and long wooden tables. Everyone was slowly getting pissed on the 0.25l Altbier. The waiters are brusque. If your glass is empty it will be replaced with a full one with typical German efficiency. A wide range of food is served. Note that the waiters are all male and they wear blue aprons.

Stuart 9/10 visit Oct 2003

My favourite alt brew pub in Dusseldorf is still as I  remember it. There are many rooms here; I am in the front part of the pub today., Even at 12 noon it is filling up slowly. World classic pub, with great beer. Alt beer is 2.05 Euros.

John 10/10 visit Nov 2017


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COLOGNE

Cologne must have one of the most impressive cathedrals in the world ( if a little dirty ), as well as a good Roman museum. Drinking wise, it's one of the best places in Germany to drink. Whilst not as well known as Munich for drinking, their pubs are every bit as good, especially in the old town.

Kolsch beer is the local beer speciality of Cologne. If you ask for a beer in Cologne, a kolsch beer is what you get. The best way to describe a kolsch beer is like a light lager. Sometimes it is a very fine line between brewing a great or a bland kolsch. As we know most global lagers are light and bland. Fortunately kolsch pubs pride themselves in the freshest of their product, served in most cases straight from the barrel without any pressure. Which makes for a great taste, especially on a hot summers day!. The beer is served in 0.2l glasses ( 1/3 of a pint ) which makes life easily for people like me who want to review a lot of pubs! The beer is also served in 0.4l glasses. A few pubs also do 3 or 5 litre tubes, with a tap at the bottom for groups of people to serve themselves at a table, like a pitcher of beer.

Most klosch pubs used to be home-brew pubs. In recent years there are 4 home-brew pubs left in the centre, all worth visiting. Beer prices range from 1.25 euros to 1.70 euros for a 0.2l kolsch in June 2004.

The tourist map from the tourist office does have all the pubs listed below on it, but it doesn't have a street index. There are detailed city maps on large boards with a street index, all over the city centre. There is one 50 yards to the right as you come out of the Fruh. The pubs in the old town are all close to each other.

Special thanks to Ron Pattinson and John White for guiding me to the best pubs.

OLD TOWN

Alt Koln am Dom, Trankgasse 7-9, Koln 50667

This pub is the nearest to the famous cathedral and main railway station. It does attract a lot of tourists, ( it has an English menu ) with prices to match. This said, it has a pleasant atmosphere for a city centre pub and the waiter service was good. Recently redecorated, with black beams, white walls and a red slate floor. Not too busy on my Monday afternoon visit. Revolving door entrance by Cruyff of Amsterdam- surely not the footballer!!

John 8.5/10 visit June 2004

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Alter Markt Treef, Unter Kastier 18, Koln 50667

This is a cosy drinkers' pub, small by Cologne standards. Upmarket décor, with high seating all along the side of the pub, with nice soft seats and bar stools. Looks like it's been redecorated recently. White walls, mirrors and white ceiling all make for a pleasant atmosphere. TV in the corner showing England V Cortica, England won 4-2 for the record. Only minus point to this place are the English pop songs, not sang very well in German!

John 7.5/10 visit June 2004

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Biermusum, Buttermarkt 39, Koln 50667

If you want a choice of beers on draught in Cologne, this is the place for you. Nineteen beers on draught, including a good range of German kolsch, alt, rauich and pilsner beers, two from the Czech Republic ( Budvar and Pilsner Urquell ) and two from Ireland ( Guinness and Beamish ). The bottled beer section is not so impressive, the UK is represented by Newcastle Brown Ale and Bass ( say no more! ). As you expect of the choice, you have to pay a little bit more. It is not expensive by English standards, a 0.4l Budvar was under £2. Standard pub décor with a few bits of beer memorabilia on the walls. Impressive collection of earthenware mugs and steins. I am not sure how I feel about this pub; Cologne is rightly proud of its kolsch tradition, but at the same time its nice to have choice.

John 8/10 visit June 2004

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Brauerei Zur Malzmuhle, Heumarkt 6, Koln 50667

Web site http://www.muehlenkoelsch.de/de/start.php

BREW PUB

Hard to find. This pub and Zum Pfaflen might have the same road address, but to get from one to the another you have to walk across a main road and a tram line! Genuine brew pub selling excellent beer straight from the barrel in an atmospheric pub. People are half drinking and half eating, but all are enjoying themselves. Good waiter service. Malzmuhlen kolsch is 1.25 euros, the cheapest on my travels in Cologne. Give the revolving doors a good push as you go in, it's a little stiff. ( maybe that’s how they spot the visitor? ). Great pub.

John 9.5/10 visit June 2004

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Brauhaus en, dr, Salzgass, Salzgasse 7, Koln 50667

Web site http://bierhaus.salzgass.de/mittag.php

A old town outlet for the excellent Paffgem kolsch, which is served from a wooden barrel, this alone makes this pub well worth a visit. The pub looks like it's been refurbished recently. One part of the pub is bar stools and tables creating a drinking atmosphere, the other half is seats and tables creating a eating atmosphere. There is an upstairs seating area as well. Good laid-back feel at the time of visit. Good find.

John 9/10 visit June 2004

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Brauhaus Sion, Unter Taschenmacher 5, Koln 50668

Web site http://www.brauhaus-sion.de/

Another large pub in the old town. The pub is roomy and has some pleasant décor, including a stained-glass window and some nice old photos of Cologne. The pub has a upmarket restaurant feel to it. More waiters than customers at the time of my visit. My upmarket feelings were right-there's a lady in the toilets wanting a tip!

John 7/10 visit June 2004

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Brauhaus "Zum Pfaffen", Heumarkt 62, Koln 50667

Web site http://www.max-paeffgen.de/

Good pub on the square. While this pub has the standard German pub décor, this place does have some very impressive wood cravings on the seats and all around the walls. It also has some nice stained-glass windows. Only a few people in at the moment, already creating a good atmosphere. No longer serving Paffgem sadly. Closed on Mondays.

John 8.5/10 visit June 2004

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Fruh,12-14 Am Hof, Koln 50667

Web site http://www.frueh.de/

A Cologne institution. Wander around the rooms of this massive pub, and choose where you want to sit; there are plenty of choices. Standard German pub décor, but the pub has a wonderful atmosphere. Only minus point was the waiter giving me a coke, instead of a beer! Must have been the way I said 'Kolsch! On a revisit on a Tuesday evening there was not a seat to be had. No longer a home brew-pub, but the beer was good.

John 9.5/10 visit June 2004

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Gaffel Haus, Alter Markt 20, Koln 50667

Web site http://www.gaffel-haus.de/koeln/index.htm

Different from most of the pubs I have been in today. Whilst traditional it has a nice eccentric feel to it. Lots of old black and white photos on the wall, mainly of people, and old art paintings on the ceiling! ( yes the ceiling! ). There are two dummies behind the bar ( not the barmen ) holding musical instruments. I didn't see if the ' what the butler saw' machines were working! Nice place, but the most expensive beer so far tonight at 1.70 euros.

John 9/10 visit June 2004

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Haxenhuas Zum Rheingarten, Frankenwerft 19, Koln 50667

Web site http://www.haxenhaus.de/home/index.php

Nice pub close to the River Rhine, but there is a grass footpath stopping you from having views of the river. Various old memorabilia all around the walls; including a few beer ones. Standard German pub décor, white walls, wooden tables and chairs.

John 7.5/10 visit June 2004

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Leder, Unter Fettenhennen 2, Koln 50667

Small pub close to the cathedral. Not exactly overflowing with tourists', just me and two locals at the bar when I visited! Food menu with English subtitles! Pleasant sort of place with plates on the wall, as well as old photos and paintings, There seem to be a few photos of Richard Harris in one corner! Pubs serves Paulaner beers, as well as Gaffel kolsch beer.

John 7/10 visit June 2004

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Lowenbrau, Frankenwerft 21, Koln 50667

Web site http://www.loewenbraeu-koeln.com/

Like the pub next door the Hagenhaus Zum Rhinegargen. This pub is close to the River Rhine, but with no views of the river despite the outside seating. Pub selling Munich brewers' Lowenbrau beers. Like the Paulaner pub in Cologne, this pub also sells a kolsch beer, in this case Sunner. Cosy décor with standard old photos and pictures on the wood panelled walls. Low lighting and candles on the tables all add to the laid-back feel to this pub. Upstairs seating area; there is also a hotel here as well. There's a mirror in this pub which says ' Coca-Cola is the most refreshing drink in the world '- who are they kidding?! Nice place.

John 8/10 visit June 2004

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Paulaner in Roten Ochsen, Thurnmarkt 7. Junction off Am Leystadel/ Heumarkt, Koln 50676

Web site http://www.paulaner-cologne.com/

Munich brewers Paulaner outlet in Cologne. The pub doesn't seem to have much of a Bavarian feel to it, apart from the Paulaner memorabilia. Or maybe be I am missing something? The River Rhine is across the dual-lane road. Pub serves Gaffel kolsch at 1.90 euros for 0.3l only 10 cents more than Paulaner beer.

John 8/10 visit June 2004

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Peters Brauhaus, Muhlengrasse 1, Koln 50667

Web site http://www.peters-brauhaus.de/

From the outside,this pub comes over as a massive place covering three buildings, but. inside it does have a nice homey sort of atmosphere. To the right as you go in there is a stand up drinking area, as well as other places to eat or drink in this well thought out pub. Nice old paintings and stained-glass windows in one area of the pub. Good to see three older ladies enjoying their kolsch beer, shame on the young lady with them drinking wine!

John 9/10 visit June 2004

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Sunner im Walfisch, Saltzgasse 13, Koln 50667

Web site http://www.walfisch.net/

Good lively pub. Small pub with a good intimate feel. Whilst there is a food menu, everyone here tonight seems to be drinking and enjoying themselves . Pub sells a 3 or 5 litre tube of beer with a tap at the bottom of it, so a group of people can just serve themselves. Kolsch beer comes from a wooden barrel at the bar. Good atmosphere.

John 8.5/10 visit June 2004

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Wirtshaw Schwejk, An Grob St Martin 2, Koln 50667

Web site http://www.wirtshaus-schwejk.de/front_content.php

This street is full of restaurants with outside eating areas. The Budvar and Pilsner Urquell signs made me think this place is worth a try. I was not disappointed. The Barman poured the Budvar very professionally, the beer was well worth the wait. The pub is small on the inside, with some seats at the back and a stand up drinking area at the front. A kolsch-free pub, which is usual for Cologne! Budvar was 2.30 euros for 0.25l.

John 8.5/10 visit June 2004

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EAST COLOGNE

Bieresel, Breite Strasse 114, Koln 50667)

Web site http://www.bier-esel.de/

Appelhofplatz U station

This pub is a 10 minute walk from the city centre, down a shopping street. From the outside the pub doesn't look too big, but once inside it does go back a fair way. Lots of wood panelling and various bits of bric-a-brac around the place. Stand up area by the bar for the locals, Small beer garden around the back and a outside drinking area at the front. Sunner beers.

John 8/10 visit June 2004

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Die Hausbrauerei Paffen, Friesenstrabe 64, Koln 50670.)

Web site http://www.paeffgen-koelsch.de/

Freisenplatz U station

BREW PUB

This pub is about 15 minutes walk from the main railway station and is well worth the walk. Excellent brew pub brewing excellent beer; you can see the wooden barrels as you walk in. The pub is long, with rows of tables and a wooden beamed ceiling. It's almost like a old dining hall. Nice stained-glass windows, mirrors, and old art paintings and photos on the wall all add to the feel of this pub. As we are away, from the centre the beer and food ( there is a English menu ) is reasonably priced. Good waiter service.

John 9.5/10 visit June 2004

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NORTH COLOGNE

Brauhaus Gaststatte Schreckenskammer, Ursulagartenstr 11-15, Koln 50668

Web site http://www.schreckenskammer.com/

OPENING TIMES

Mon to Fri 11-00 to 13-45-16-30 to 2230

SAT 11-00 to 14-00

Sun Closed

Back street local to the North of the main railway station. Not a back street local in size, it's a large pub with lots of different drinking areas. Done out in standard German pub décor. By the hours ( see above ) this seems very much a locals' pub. A quiet oasis, which makes a change from some of the busy tourist pubs in the old town. Good Schreckenskammer kolsch ( try saying that after a few! ).

John 8/10 June 2004

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SOUTH COLOGNE

Brauhaus Reissdorf,  Kleiner Greiechenmarkt 40, Koln 50676)

Web site http://www.brauhaus-reissdorf.de/

Poststr U station

A fair walk from the city centre, but with a more locals' type of atmosphere in this pub. Modern building along side a few shops. Reasonably sized pub with a low ceiling, which doesn't do much for the place. I don't know about the history of the Reissdorf klosch, but it comes in a wooden barrel ( covered by a black cooler ) and was a good beer. Opens from 16-00 hours onwards.

John 7.5/10 visit June 2004

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Weissbrau Zu Kolm, Am Weidenbach 24/ at Pantaleonswall, Koln 50676

Web site http://www.hb-ts.de/page-haus/weissbrau.html

BREW PUB

Barbarossaplatz U station

While most of the kolsch brew pubs have moved out the city centre, this is a new brew pub with a difference, as well as brewing kolsch beer, it also does Bavarian style beers. This is because the pub is owned by a Bavarian company who run a chain of brew pubs. Standard pub décor including staler floor, wooden tables and chairs and pictures on the wall. You can see the brewing vessels as you walk into the pub, on the left hand side. Seems to be a younger person's pub judging by the clientele.

John 7.5/10 visit June 2004

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Brauhaus Putz,  Engelbertstr 67, Koln 50674

Rudolfplatz U station

Traditional no-frills sort of pub. This said it is not basic, and has a nice homely feel to it. After visiting some of the large grand pubs in the centre, this makes a pleasant change. The big selling point of the pub is the Muhlem Kolsch straight from the barrel; there is no bar, the barrel is on a back stand.. The waiter doesn't ask you what you want; he comes round with a beer on his tray. Wooden floors, barebrick walls, and low lighting. A good mix of people here of all ages and everyone is enjoying the beer. Reasonably priced snack meal. I must admit this pub really grows on you. Opens from 17-30 to 23-30 hours.

John 9/10 visit June 2004

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Hellers Brauhaus, Roonstr 33, Koln 50674

Web site http://www.hellers-brauhaus.de/

BREW PUB

Zulpicherplatz U station

Like the Weissbrau, a new brew pub which does different brews, like wiess, euro bock ( saison beer ) and Number 33! ( looks like a dark beer ). When you first walk into this pub the décor is not too impressive, but turn right into the conservatory part with hanging plants it improves a great deal. Good beer menu showing the beers and the reasonable prices. Like the Weissbrau this pub seems to attract younger people. Service a little on the slow side. Open from 1800 hours. Interesting place.

John 8/10 visit June 2004

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BERLIN

Berlin is on a par with London and Paris as one of the great cities of Europe. The city centre is amazing green. Tiergerten must be one of great parks of the world. Since the wall come down in 1989 it's hard to see the divided in the city, a lot of building work has seen too that.

Pub wise there is a mixture of brew pubs, large eating pubs and traditional Kneipe pubs, which makes drinking interesting. If you know where to look!

The local specialist beer for Berlin is Berliner Weisse, which is a wheat beer with a sour taste, some people like to add syrup. While not the everyday beer in Berlin, it is worth a try. The beer is more expensive than regular beer. Berlin has three local breweries Berlin Kindi and Schultheiss whose beers are easy to find, and independent Burgerbrau whose beers are not. Now Berlin is part of the rest of Germany, Berlin breweries have competition from major German breweries like Bitburger, Jever and Radeberger.

CHARLOTTENBURG

Dicker Wirt, Danckelmannstrasse 43, Berlin 14059

Web site http://www.dicker-wirt.de/

Good Kneipe pub, not to big and not to small. Good atmosphere with low lightening, candles and jazz background music. While there is a food menu, drinking appears to be more important here. Friendly staff and locals. Nice to find a genuine local in a nice street with small shops.

John 8/10 visit April 2005

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Haus der 100 biere, Mommsentstrasse 45, junction of Wilmersdorferstrasee, Berlin 10629

Web site http://www.mommsen-eck.de/english/index.html

The house of 100 beers lives up to it's name and more. As well as 100 bottled beers from countries all around the world some good, some not so good. There are 15 beers on draught from all over Germany, as well as the Czech Republic and Ireland. The décor creates a cosy atmosphere with different drinking areas, the front conservatory is a good place to watch the world go by. Not much beer memorabilia around but there are various beer bottles around the world on display. Local weisse is served with a straw! Great pub Berlin premier pub for choice of beer.

John 9.5/10 visit April 2005

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Brauhaus Lemke, Luisenplatz 1 Junction of Spandauerdamm and Kaiser- Fredrichstrasse, Berlin 10585

Web site http://www.brauhaus-lemke.com/

Opposite Schlob Charlottenburg gardens, which are worth a trip out of the city centre for. A large narrow brew pub with some nice views outside the windows. Nice Sunday afternoon atmosphere with people reading their newspapers or with their families. Home brew beers are helles, dunkel and weizen which were well made. Opens at 09.00 hours. Good pub.

John 9/10 visit April 2005

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Wirthaus Wuppke, Schluterstrasse 21, Berlin 10625

Small cosy Kneipe, with lots of wood panelling and mirrors. Interesting old paintings, photos, and beer adverts around the walls. Friendly pub with a good atmosphere at the time of visit. Reasonable prices Berliner Kindi was 1.20 euros for 0.2L, 2.20 euros for 0.4L. Close to Savignyplatz S station. Take the Schluterstrasse exit, turn right. cross the road, and it's on your left.

John 7.5/10 visit April 2005

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MITTE

Alt Berliner Weibbierstaben, Rathausstrasse 21, Berlin 10178                 

Web site www.prostmahlzeit.de/altberlinerwbs/

Very upmarket sort of place. Mainly interest is eating rather than drinking. There are a few stools by the door and at the bar. Interesting old photos around the walls, including some of old Berlin. Plush décor.

John 7/10 visit April 2005

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Brauhaus Mitte in Berlin Carre, Karl Liebknecht 13, Berlin 10178

Web site http://www.brauhaus-mitte.de/

Directions

From Alexanderplatz S station take the Karl Liebknechtstr exit, turn left at the bottom of the stairs, turn right, from the traffic lights you can see the Brauhaus Mitte signs. If not go into the Berlin Corre shopping centre on the map aas 28A. as beer brunnen.

If only shopping centre in the UK had a brew pub in them, like this one. Maybe I would visit them a few more times! Easy to find on the first floor. Modern interior with a balcony for the summer. You can see the brewing vessels behind the bar. Dry hops above the bar. Nice pub in a unusual setting with good dunkel beer.

John 8.5/10 visit April 2005

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Georgbrau, Spreeufer 4, Berlin 10178

Web site  http://www.georgbraeu.de/

A brew pub by the river, well not quite you have to drink outside. Pleasant modern décor instead of wood panelling here, the owners have painted the walls black! The pub is large so have a look around the different drinking areas. Model ship above the bar. You can see the brewing vessels behind bar. It seems like most brew pubs in Berlin like to show off their brewing kettles. Good pub.

John 9/10 visit April 2005

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Lenkes Spezialitatenbrauerei, Dircken Strasse, Berlin 10178

Web site  http://www.brauhaus-lemke.com/

A brew pub under a railway arch, giving the pub a cellar atmosphere. Low lighting, candles and ceiling fans make it laid back in style. The back of the pub has a conservatory area which gives more light and wicker chairs, which leads on to a beer garden. The views of the tower block are great!

John 9/10 visit April 2005

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Nubbaum, Am Nubbaum 3, Berlin 10178

This place isn't on some tourist maps, but worth finding. The area around the pub reminds me of Cologne old town. It is being rebuilt in a traditional way. The pub is traditional with a cosy atmosphere with low lighting, dark wood panelling and a good food menu. Beers included Rex pils from a Berlin brew pub. Nice pub.

John 8/10 visit April 2005

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Olle Bolle, Gut Essem, under Freselturn, Berlin 10178

Modern pub below a giant TV tower. A good choice of beers here but is a little expensive, while the pub has windows all around to show the outside view. The view is nothing to write home about! A place which is a little overrun by tourists. If you want to use to toilet it's 50 cents or so the sign says!

John 7/10 visit April 2005

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Sophien, Grobe Hamburger Strabe 37, Berlin 10115

Web site http://www.sophieneck-berlin.de/

While this pub is in the city centre it's a little of the beaten track, giving it a good atmosphere. Not a back street local because it's half food, half drink but does have an intimate feel. A good beer range including an alt beer, kolsch beer and a Irish stout ( not Guinness ). Pub reminds a little of a Belgian brown café in decor.

John 9/10 visit April 2005

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TIERGARTEN

Ambrosius, Kurfurstenstrasse 60, junction of Einemstrasse, Berlin 10785

Very much the standard German pub décor here. Very clean with a white ceiling and pictures all around the walls, a nice pub to chill out in. Wood panelling around the place including wood chairs and tables. Good food menu, some of the food looks appetising. Has a beer garden for summer days.

John 7/10 visit April 2005

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Lindenbrau am Potsdamer Platz, Bellevuestrabe 3, Berlin 10785

Web Site http://linden-hopfinger-braeu.de/

Another brew pub in a shopping centre. By the looks of it there are not to many husbands here today, or they might be people coming in for a quick half. Brewing vessels in the middle of the pub, with a spiral staircase leading to kettles higher up. The pub specialises in wheat beers including a Berliner Weisse beer. Pub is on two floors. To get there follow the signs for Sony Center, from Potsdamer Platz station.

John 7.5/10 visit April 2005

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PRENZLAULER BERG

Braustubl, Kuglerstr, junction of Stahlheimerstrasse, Berlin 10117

Small pub with a back room with a pool table. Décor has wood panelling, carpet and plants in the window. Good back street local atmosphere, where everyone seems to know each other- accept me! Lausitzer porter Schwarzes on draught made a nice drinking change. Amazing electric dartboard, which counts the numbers down when your dart hits the board.

John 8/10 visit April 2005

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Mauerblumchen, Wisbyerstrasse 4, Berlin 10439

Web Site http://www.mauerblumchen.de/

Good eccentric sort of pub with dumbs with track suits hanging from the bar, old TV and radios, photos and posters from the communists era. Décor is light and airly with red and blue tables and chairs. Comfy seats and table football are in one corner. Good choice of beers including the hard to find Berlin independent Burgerbrau, as well as Radeberger, Kostritzer Schbarzbeir and Hefeurezen. A pub that dares to be difference. Good pub, friendly bar service.

John 9/10 visit April 2005

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Metzer Eck, Metzerstrasse 33, Berlin 10405

Web site http://www.metzer-eck.de/

In many ways the genuine kneipe pub, to the point it appears in a few tour guides. This might explain the reserved signs on the table, which are hopefully for the locals. Recently decorated, the front part has bar tools and locals, The back part has some interesting old photos and an English newspaper article in the European remember that Paper about the pub. The beer on offer includes two Czech beers Budvar ( Budweiser here ) and Krusoivce. Founded in 1913. Opens 16-00 hours Monday to Friday and 18-00 hours at the weekend. Good pub.

John 8.5/10 visit April 2005

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November, Husemannstrasse 15, Berlin 10435

Web site http://www.cafe-november.de/November.html

This area is a little outside the city centre. Even when it was East Berlin Prenzlauler Berg had a reputation as being bohemian and is a place of character. Now Husemannstrasse seems to be a yuppie area, with bars, café and restaurants with some places claiming to be all three! This pub reminds me of a London castro-pub with white ceilings, black walls and wood floorboards. A place to chill out and read the newspapers, as most of the customers are doing today.

John 7/10 visit April 2005

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Zum Schusterjungen, Danzigerstrasee 9, Berlin 10435

Good pub, but interesting enough a pub of two halves. As you walk in you have the traditional side, if you walk to the back you have the restaurant part. Food is served on both sides. A good solution to keep it going as a pub. Pleasant place with a good atmosphere. Schultheiss beer served at reasonable prices. Eberswalder Strasse U station is close by.

John 8/10 visit April 2005

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WILMERSDORF

Nussbaaum, Bundesplatz 6, Berlin 10715

Pub close to Bundesplatz U or S station. Claims to be a Kneipe, but it is to upmarket. It does have a drinking area by the bar. It has 18 beers on draught including some Irish and Czech but there are no real surprises here. Nice décor with some impressive paintings on the wood panelled walls, including some beer ones.

John7.5/10 visit April 2005

DORTMUND

I came to Dortmund to try the local export beer. Once there were seven export breweries now there are two. Export beer is a strong 5% beer with a malty taste. Let’s hope the style doesn’t disappear altogether. For the non-beer tourists there does not seem to be a lot to do. Even the local tourist office’s biggest selling point was that Dortmund was staging a semi-final of the 2006 World Cup! Visited October 2005.

 

Wenkers Brauhaus, Betenstrabe 1, Dortmund 44137.

 

Web site http://www.wenkers.de/

 

If you are English, there are no Wenkers here!! Brew pub, which is opposite Markt. While this pub has a modern design it has a good pubby atmosphere. There are dry hops around the bar, which are lighter up by fairy lights in the evening! Low lighting and candles on the table sort of place. Good bar service, which seen to be impressed that I knew it was a brewpub! I directed them to Ronnie Patterson web site! Brewery is downstairs. Raised seating area with views of the square. Old brewery photos around the walls.

 

John 9/10 visit Oct 2005

 

Hovels Hausbrauerei, Hoher Wall 5/7, Dortmund 44137

 

Web site  http://www.hoevels-hausbrauerei.de/

 

Brew pub on edge of the city centre on the ring road. Lots of tables and chairs outside giving it a Bavarian feel, but it is a cold October evening!  The home brew Hovel bitter is good; which is a shame as there is only a small area to drink it. Good beer needs more space!  Worth a visit for the beer . More expensive to drink Hovel beer here than in some other Dortmund pubs which sell it!!

 

John 8/10 visit Oct 2005 

 

Zum allten Markt, Markt 3, Dortmund 44137

 

Good traditional pub in the city centre. There is an upstairs drinking area with seats, while the downstairs area is bar stools and raised seats. Standard German pub décor with slated floor, wooden beams and white walls. There is a stag’s head in the upstairs bar for some reason!

 

John 8/10 visit Oct 2005

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Einkehr, Hansaster 9/11, Dortmund 44137

 

Small pub in the city centre. On a Monday afternoon the pub has the older locals around the bar, giving it a local street feel more than a city centre pub. Stained glass windows, lots of wood, beams and white walls. In other words standard German pub décor. Hovel bitter on draught was 1.60 euros for 0.2.

 

John 7/10 visit Oct 2005 

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Brinkhoff No 1, Markt 6, Dortmund 44137

 

Web site http://www.pfefferkorn-dortmund.de/brinkhoff/

 

It is often a beer is named after a pub! Or is it the another way round. I use the term pub loosely. This place has a small drinking area by the bar; the rest of the place is taken up by food. The décor is upmarket and pleasant, but not a place you would feel comfortable drinking in.

 

John 5/10 visit Oct 2005

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Boomerang, Kuckelke 20, Dortmund 44135

 

As you might expect, this is an Aussie pub. It is a nice pub, which does not go to over the top on the Australian theme. Some of the original aboriginal paintings are different, as well as the stuffed crocodile above the bar, different from your average Aussie theme pub.  International beers are the same prices as the domestic ones. The beer mirrors invite me to discover the legend of Newcastle Brown Ale- I think not! Reasonably priced food including Surfers paradise wrap!

 

John 7.5/10 visit Oct 2005

 

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