Sydney harbours a plethora of amazing experiences.
Some are well-known, others are truly hidden away and known only by the initiated, and there are those in plain sight yet missed by most.
The Munich Brauhaus now operated by Neil Perry’s Rockpool Dining Group, in the heart of historical Sydney for over 40 years, is still often overlooked, with many people surprised to learn about this little piece of Bavaria planted at The Rocks.
Previously known as the Löwenbräu Keller, a name I admittedly prefer over their new branding, this little gem brings the traditional Bavarian beer hall down under in authentic style.
The original Löwenbräu Keller opened in 1976, while Löwenbräu has made beer for the legendary Oktoberfest since the 15th century.
The building itself dates back to 1817, originally built as a cottage for Captain John Piper.
Now, after that little history lesson, let’s talk food and beer.
I am moving right past the ‘Build your own salad‘ offering introduced at the time of the rebranding. But don’t let the salad put you off though, because Munich Brauhaus offers a fabulous selection of Bavarian delights.
The first rule of Munich Brauhaus is ‘no breakfast,’ or ‘no lunch,’ before eating at the Munich Brauhaus!
Bavarian food is deliciously rich and the servings are generous, so if you are coming for lunch, or dinner, it is advisable to eat as little during the day as possible … or nothing.
Beer & schnapps
There is nothing wrong with starting your Bavarian meal with a beer (or schnapps)!
Remember, you are in Bavarian beer hall, so it stands to reason that you should order only, or at least one, 1 litre jug of beer! When in Rome, I mean in Bavaria …
I always considered it culturally insensitive to order any smaller serving of beer, but then I do have a proud Bavarian heritage through my paternal grandfather. That may also explain my affinity with the food here.
There is a delightful selection of German draught and craft beers, or biers, on offer, and during Oktoberfest Munich Brauhaus offers the official beers of the festival on tap as well!
I am partial to the Löwenbräu Original, but the dark Hofbrau Dunkel is also delicious. Fortunately, there is really only one way to work out which beer on offer is your favourite – trying them all over time!
And then there are the schnapps. Just over twenty of them. While responsible drinking is always key, make sure you try some of these over time and you won’t be disappointed.
They make for a great little stop over between your beers.
Food
The only thing better than the beer and schnapps at Munich Brauhaus is the food.
As far as I’m concerned the only way to start a Bavarian meal is with a pretzel. They come warm, with butter, and it is really difficult to stop at just one, but try because you will need the room.
It can be practically impossible to choose between the schnitzels, the sausages, and the incomparable crispy pork knuckle.
One technique is to come with a big group of friends and go crazy ordering.
The other is to go for a platter for two or more, which will have a little bit of everything to share and taste.
There are a few things you can’t miss though. The first is the above mentioned heavenly, crispy pork knuckle – succulent pork covered in the crunchiest crackling you ever had!
If heaven has a signature dish, I can only presume it would be the Munich Brauhaus’ Crispy Pork Knuckle. And, because it’s heaven, you wouldn’t be putting on any weight eating it! One can dream …
When it comes to schnitzels I am a traditionalist and love the Original Wiener Schnitzel. Having said that, if you have a few ‘partners in crime’ treat yourself to the fun of The SchnitzelMeister. It is an impressive 1kg version of the Original Wiener Schnitzel, and serves up to four people. Plus it looks amazing on Facebook and Instagram!
When it comes to the sausages there is really only one possible solution: the sausage platter.
As for sides, a braised red cabbage will go with everything, so does the potato salad, and you can never have too much bier jus – it’s practically beverage …
Munich Brauhaus
Corner of Playfair and Argyle Streets
The Rocks Sydney NSW
Australia
Open:
Monday to Friday: 10am till late
Saturday and Sunday: 9am till late
Phone: +61 (0)2 9247 7785
Email: reservations@munichbrauhaus.com
Open Table: Munich Brauhaus
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