Platzl 9, 80331 München, Germany
Germans, especially Bavarians (who are or are not Germans, depending on whom you talk to) love eating their meat and potatoes. While there, I went for a giant joint of pork with kartoffel (potato) salad. Nobody does fresh potato salad better. Sure, the famous Hofbrauhaus in Munich is a great place to sit with friends and try to avoid spraining your wrist as you suck down liter glasses of beer, but it’s also a great place to eat. Filling up helps you enjoy the beer even more and fights off the eventual intoxication as well.
Bergstraße 2, 82346 Andechs, Germany
Andechs Monastery is Bavaria’s oldest pilgrimage Church, attracting over 30,000 pilgrims each year. Fortunately, you don’t have to be a pilgrim to reach it. You can just hop on a train from Munich. Then either take a bus, or a walk up the hill for those who want to experience a little part of the pilgrimage. You can stop at the church to repent your sins, or to simply view the elaborate decor. Most people have a quick look, then head straight to the 3500 person beer garden to indulge in a Maß - that’s a 1-litre mug of beer! Brewed by the resident Benedictine monks it’s some of the finest beer in all of Bavaria. It should come as no surprise of how good the beer is. The monks had lots of practice, they’ve been doing it for over 900 years! This is beer you can actually feel good about drinking because the brewery supports the monastery financially. Amen for beer!
Residenzstraße 12, 80333 München, Germany
Located directly across from the opera house, Spatenhaus an der Oper has two options for guests. The first floor has a homey feel with recipes prepared from old Bavarian cook books honouring tradition. The real highlight though is the second floor, which is divided into several smaller rooms and offers finer dining - to match the views of the elegant opera house.
Platzl 1A, 80331 München, Germany
Ayingers Inn is a bustling tavern in a historic location. Be sure to try the “Weißwurst” (white sausage) served naturally with, what else, Ayinger draft beer. The Ayinger Brewery is family owned and is located approximately 25 minutes south of Munich. Outdoor seating is also available in summer, as is Wi-Fi.
Hochstraße 77, 81541 München, Germany
Paulaner Knockerberg is a local favorite. Guests can sip beer and nosh on Bavarian food in one of the comfortable dining rooms, make themselves cozy around the fireplace, or settle down in the basement. Paulaner Knockerberg is also known for its beer garden in summer. Of special interest is the Starkbierfest (Strong Beer Festival), which takes place for 17 days each year from early to mid March (check the website for exact dates). It’s called “Starkbier” for a reason; the alcohol content is higher than usual, so go easy.
