Hofbräuhaus

Words by Simon Difford

Address: 9 Platzl, Munich, 80331, Germany
Tel: +49 (0)89 2901 3610
Website: view Hofbräuhaus’ website
Door: Open door
Style: Bier hall
Food: Set menu
Established: 1589

Review

This is one the oldest and the most famous beer hall in Munich. Founded in 1589 by the Duke of Bavaria, Wilhelm V, today this is a vast complex with a cathedral-like beer hall, a large beer garden and room upon room of long trestle tables weighted down by litre steins of beer.

Originally the brewery to the Royal Residence which used to stand close by, Hofbrauhaus (literally 'yard brewing house' in German') remains owned by the state but is leased to Bavarian family operators. In 1919, the Munich Communist government set up headquarters here and the following year Adolf Hitler and the National Socialists held their first meeting in the Festsaal (Festival) Room on the third floor.

You'll find yourself with a choice of two beers, Hofbrau Dark Beer or Original, both served in one or half litre steins. Or you could opt for the local shandy - 'Radler' is beer with lemonade and is available in dark or light. Food ranges from fresh salads to Bavarian beef tartare and a huge range of speciality sausages from the house butchery. Vegetarians who don't like beer are best advised to avoid Hofbrauhaus or wake up