5 minute read
Restaurant Special Feature Fall 2024 - BAVARIAN BIERHAUS Where it's Oktoberfest Every Day!
Bob Krumm was stationed in various towns across Bavaria, the southern state of Germany. For a total of six years, he lived off post, learned German, built friendships with his neighbors, and experienced Germany as a local. His friend, Brian Kehl, was also assigned to temporary duty in Bavaria on numerous occasions. United by their love for Bavarian culture, food, and especially beer, Krumm and Kehl wanted to tell the story of Bavaria in Krumm’s hometown of Nashville, Tennessee. In 2017, with the support of eight like-minded friends, they opened Bavarian Bierhaus, Nashville’s only authentic German bierhall.
On the west side of Opry Mills Mall, stands a facade that emulates the grand bierhalls of the world-famous Oktoberfest in Munich. The meticulously chosen decor, uniforms, and music will transport you across continents to experience Munich right here in Music City. You will be greeted by friendly staff dressed in trachten (traditional clothing) such as lederhosen and dirndls. Bavarian flags, wreaths of dried hops, and wrought iron chandeliers hang from the vaulted ceilings. With room for 600, the expansive bierhall is flanked by wood paneling, an outdoor Biergarten, and a private dining space. Long wooden tables and communal seating encourage guests to gather, meet new friends, and have fun. No detail was overlooked when creating this bierhall inspired by dozens across Bavaria.
As its name implies, Bavarian Bierhaus offers Nashville’s largest selection of German beer, with 12 seasonally changing taps, and over 20 bottled options. The majority of beers are imported directly from Germany or brewed under the German Purity Law, Reinheitsgebot, which dates back to 1516. This law dictates that beer may only be brewed using four ingredients: water, barley, hops, and yeast. This dedication to purity and tradition ensures every sip of beer at the Bierhaus is as authentic as it gets.
Besides its extensive beer selection, Bavarian Bierhaus also celebrates the rich tradition of German winemaking. From crisp Rieslings to full-bodied reds, the wine list showcases the diversity and quality of German vineyards. The full bar features elaborate haus-cocktails and a variety of schnapps in a glass or off a ski, the choice is yours.
The Speisekarte (menu) at Bavarian Bierhaus is a journey through Germany, featuring recipes that have been passed down from friends and family. Start your Bavarian tour with the iconic Giant Pretzel great for sharing, or crispy Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes) made in-haus daily. Enjoy classic entrees such as Pork or Chicken Schnitzel a thinly pounded and breaded cutlet, fried to golden perfection and topped with savory mushroom gravy. Choose from a wide selection of juicy grilled sausages to pair with haus-made sauerkraut and spaetzle. The Schweinshaxe is a feat for those willing to brave it. This massive bone-in Pork Shank is brined for three days, then slow-roasted for six plus hours before frying to create a crispy flavorful skin. After a good meal indulge in a slice of Black Forest cake, a warm apple tart, or an after-dinner drink to help digest.
No Bavarian or Nashville dining experience is complete without live music. The centrally located stage hosts a variety of live performances every weekend, from traditional Polka bands to award winning Nashville musicians. Throughout the week you’ll hear the song of the Alpine Horn and upbeat Oktoberfest Pop.
The overall atmosphere of Bavarian Bierhaus is lively yet inviting, a testament to the Bierhaus' dedication to fostering Gemütlichkeit, a state of well-being, warmth, and friendliness a term we might call Southern Hospitality. In no time, you’ll be up on your seat doing the Chicken Dance and raising a stein to sing, “Ein Prosit, ein Prosit Der Gemütlichkeit.”
Bavarian Bierhaus is located at Opry Mills Mall, 121 Opry Mills Drive in Nashville. Take a trip to the bierhall and experience Oktoberfest every day. For additional information or to reserve a table visit bavarianbierhaus.com. Follow them on social media at @bierhausnash.
KARTOFFELPUFFER - Potato Pancakes
3 lbs. potato hash brown or fresh starchy potatoes peeled and grated
1 large yellow onion finely grated
2 teaspoons white pepper
2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
2 teaspoons salt
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 cup applesauce
2 large eggs
neutral oil for frying
applesauce and sour cream for serving
INSTRUCTIONS
If using frozen hash browns, ensure they are fully thawed. For freshly peeled and grated potatoes, place in a tea towel and thoroughly wring out the liquid.
Combine above ingredients in a bowl, using hands to thoroughly mix together.
In a large frying pan, fully coat the bottom with neutral oil such as vegetable oil. Bring to medium-high heat.
Portion the mixture with 1/3 cup scoop, place in oil and flatten. Cook for a few minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve warm with applesauce and sour cream.
