Hofbrauhaus

Roast chicken and cigarettes.

I've been to Hofbrauhaus on many occasions. I've even been to their tent at Oktoberfest in Germany. The place is consistently wunderbar. I like their seasonal beers, particularly their Oktoberfest. The Germans have a no nonsense attitude regarding their beer. The very first time I walked into the Hofbrau in Pittsburgh I took note of the large beers everyone was drinking and casually ordered a flagon of ale.  The bartender was visibly upset as he righteously explained that they did not sell ale and he did not know what a flagon was. (A flagon is a large metal or glass drinking vessel, very similar to the ones at Hofbrau. I still maintain that I was not off base.)

The food offerings are rather mediocre. I've never cared for their schnitzel, the mashed potatoes aren't great either and the brats pass as acceptable. I have to say though, I loved the roast chicken they served me at happy hour (pictured above with cigarettes.) It was well seasoned, succulent and comparable to the chicken I had while I was in Germany. Something about the German style of roast chicken is a little bit different. I think it is just a slightly less salty and more flavorful version of American chicken with some type of alternate seasoning blend. If you happen to know, please leave a comment.

Finally, some tips: Hofbrau doesn't offer a happy hour. They have tons of promotional bands and competitions, usually on weekends. If you go on a weekend, prepare to wait in line. The outdoor seating is some of the best in the city, don't jump the fence though - you will be asked to leave.