Chinesischer Turm

Description:

• Our favorite beer garden is in the Englischer Garten, the park lying between the Isar River and Schwabing. The biggest city-owned park in Europe, it has several beer gardens, of which the Biergarten Chinesischer Turm is the best. The largest and most popular of its kind in Europe, it takes its name from its location at the foot of a pagoda-like tower, a landmark that's easy to find. Beer and Bavarian food, and plenty of it, are what you get here. For a large glass or mug of beer, ask for ein mass Bier, which is enough to bathe in. It will likely be slammed down, still foaming, by a server carrying 12 other tall steins. Homemade dumplings are a specialty, as are all kinds of tasty sausage. You can get a first-rate Schweinebraten (braised loin of pork served with potato dumpling and rich brown gravy), which is Bavaria's answer to the better-known sauerbraten of the north. Huge baskets of pretzels are passed around, and they're eaten with Radi, the large, tasty white radishes famous from these parts. Oompah bands often play, adding to the festive atmosphere. It's open March to November until 1am, but from December to February, its closing depends on the weather and the number of patrons.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010