Veröffentlicht von An inn in Bavaria – called a Wirtshaus – is roughly comparable to what other regions of Germany would describe as a restaurant. However, there is an important difference: in a Bavarian inn, you do not have to order food. Many guests simply come for a drink – and in Munich, that usually means beer.
Most traditional inns in Munich are closely connected to one of the major local breweries. In many cases, a pub serves exclusively the beer of “its” brewery. The six large Munich breweries – Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Paulaner, Spaten, Löwenbräu and Hofbräu – each cooperate with or operate hundreds of inns, beer halls and restaurants across the city. Quite a few locals are loyal to a specific brand and prefer to visit only establishments serving their favourite beer.
Like in many cities, the number of classic inns in Munich has slowly decreased. Younger generations often prefer cocktail bars, clubs or international cuisine. Still, compared to most other German cities, Munich has preserved an unusually high number of traditional Wirtshäuser – largely thanks to tourism and strong local identity, especially in the historic city centre.
In some of the larger beer halls, live Bavarian music is still played every evening, sometimes even during the day. At the famous Hofbräuhaus, music is performed daily, even during the week.
Beer Tour Munich: A highly popular evening tour introduces visitors to Munich’s beer culture, breweries and historic beer halls. The 3.5-hour tour includes two beers and professional guidance.
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The Regulars’ Table (Stammtisch)
Almost every traditional Bavarian inn has – or once had – a Stammtisch, a regulars’ table. It is often round and clearly marked. The regular guests meet there frequently and usually know each other well. As a visitor, you should not simply sit down at a Stammtisch without asking. However, if the inn is completely full, it is acceptable to politely ask whether you may join. Refusals are rare.
Drinks in a Munich Inn
Beer is by far the most popular drink in Munich’s pubs. Traditionally, it is served in two standard sizes: 0.5 litre (a “Halbe”) or 1 litre (a “Maß”). The most common type is pale lager (Helles). If you order a half litre, you simply ask for “a Helles”; for a litre, you ask for “a Maß”.
The second most popular beer is Weißbier (wheat beer). It is usually served in 0.5 litre glasses, but a one-litre version is also possible. Dark beer and dark wheat beer are commonly available as well. While Bavarian pub culture is associated with generous drinking, being excessively drunk is not considered appropriate. A cheerful, sociable atmosphere with singing and laughter, however, is typical.
Non-alcoholic drinks commonly ordered include coffee, Spezi (a cola-orange mix) and apple juice spritzer.
Food in the Inn
Traditional Bavarian dishes are a central part of the menu. Roast pork with dumplings is almost always available. Weißwürste (white sausages) are traditionally eaten before noon, although tourists can order them later in the day without problems.
Cold snacks, called Brotzeit, are also very common. A typical Brotzeit may include sausage such as Leberkäse or cold cuts, cheese, bread and pickles.
Typical Bavarian Brotzeit
10 Good Traditional Inns in Munich
The following list presents ten well-known and traditional inns in Munich. Most are centrally located or easily accessible by public transport. Some are large beer halls with several thousand seats.
Hofbräuhaus: Probably the most famous beer hall in the world, located close to Marienplatz. Very large, lively and surprisingly affordable despite its fame.
Löwenbräukeller: Large historic building at Stiglmaierplatz with beer garden and live music. Excellent venue for events and celebrations.
Paulanerkeller am Nockerberg: Known for the annual strong beer festival (Starkbierfest). Traditional atmosphere and good Bavarian cuisine.
Weißes Bräuhaus: Close to Marienplatz, famous for Schneider Weiße wheat beer. Generous portions and fair prices for the city centre.
Paulaner Bräuhaus: Located near Goetheplatz. Less touristy, known for meat and game dishes.
Augustiner Bräuhaus: Large traditional restaurant with one of Munich’s most beautiful beer gardens. Near Hackerbrücke.
Augustiner in the Centre: Very popular inn in the pedestrian zone at Neuhauser Straße. Excellent Bavarian cuisine and several large dining rooms.
Donisl am Marienplatz: Centrally located with traditional food and live music in the evenings.
Hofbräukeller: In the Haidhausen district near the Bavarian Parliament. Beautiful beer garden and authentic atmosphere with fewer tourists.
Andechser am Dom: Near Marienplatz. Serves the famous Andechs monastery beer and traditional Bavarian dishes.