Wulfrunians in Bavaria: How to enjoy it beyond the beer

Bordering the Czech Republic to the east, Austria to the south, and Switzerland indirectly to the southwest via Lake Constance, several European culinary cultures converge in this popular tourist destination.

However, most tourists who travel to the region’s biggest city, Munich, for Germany’s famous Oktoberfest and beer-drinking culture are unaware that they are just around the corner from eye-popping mountain vistas and some of the best-homecooked food the country has to offer.

This is all about to change. Stick with us as we guide you through a taste of Bavaria this summer and recommend some of the best local spots to have dinner with a view as you discover Germany beyond its magnificent pint. 

The first stop on our Bavarian culinary tour of Munich is Gasthaus Isarthor, otherwise known as a tiny and traditional German inn situated in the heart of the city.

If you’re enjoying a fly-by stay in Germany’s drinking capital, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Bavarian culture without venturing out to the region’s vast mountain range for a hike.

Gasthaus Isarthor offers a traditional Bavarian dining experience for its guests, offering some of Germany’s most popular authentic dishes. 

Sink your teeth into buttery pork, served with warm and chewy bread dumplings and an ice-cold Augustiner beer, perfect hearty food for any occasion.

Better still, Gasthaus Isarthor also promises tourists a whole Bavarian experience, regularly hosting lively music, folk dancing, and yodelling shows, while waitresses wear traditional dirndls that make you feel as if you’re up having dinner in a local mountain village.

Did you know that many Europeans refer to Munich as “Italy’s northernmost city”? In fact, you’ll frequently see locals here speaking Italian almost as often as you’ll see them speaking German.

For those looking to enjoy a variety of cuisines during their trip to Germany, consider trying Bar Centrale for a taste of Milan right in the heart of Munich.

Serving a fusion of Italian/German cuisine, you can tuck into an authentic Pomodoro with a German-inspired schnitzel on the side.

If you’re planning to explore the city during the day on Munich’s walking tour with GuruWalk, Bar Central is our top pick for a mid-day lunch spot in the centre of the old town. If you love coffee as much as the Italians do, why not swap out your beer stein for an authentic espresso for a lunchtime pick-me-up?

We can’t finish this review without mentioning Bar Centrale’s quaint interior. Transporting you straight to the streets of Milan, enjoy the steaming sound of a La Marzocco and take a perch on one of the outdoor street-view tables to enjoy an Italian lunch with the buzz of Munich old-town in the background.

Let’s be honest: you’ve come to Munich for the best pint of beer you can find. Fear not, we also have some great suggestions for the best place for a forty stein and a side of authentic Bavarian cuisine.

Hofbräuhaus is one of the oldest restaurants still running in the heart of Munich. First, opening its doors in 1589, it has been serving up the best frothy steins of beer in its three-story bierhaus for nearly five hundred years.

However, this bierhaus also offers guests the chance to sample some of the best bits of hearty German cuisine. From schnitzels to pot roasts, sour gravy and bread dumplings, you’ll certainly find food here that will pair perfectly with beer from the Hofbräuhaus brewery.

Better still, this three-story bierhaus is a fantastic insta-worthy moment. At the centre of the establishment, you’ll find the Schwemme, a 100-year-old beer hall packed full of life, traditional wood seating, and warm colours adding to a hearty atmosphere. 

For those of you visiting in summer, you’ll also want to check out Hofbräuhaus’ beer garden, a perfect place to settle for the night if you plan to turn your Bavarian dinner reservation into drinks, ready for a night out in the centre of the city.

Last but not least, it’s time to finish off your trip to Bavaria by booking a dinner reservation with a view.

Just over an hour away from Munich’s city centre is the small town of Freilassing, bordering Austria and, more importantly, the Alps.

While the town itself is worth a visit if you’re a fan of traditional Baroque, Rococo, and the unique Bavarian farmhouse style architecture and stunning forest walks, we can’t help but mention our favourite spot for an Austrian take on Bavarian cuisine with a view of the mountains just over the border.

Moosleitner is a brilliant traditional eatery situated in Hotel Gasthof Moosleitner, a luxury venue that dates back more than a hundred years.

With a unique focus on regionality and sustainability, Mooselitner sources all ingredients organically, promising an authentic, home-grown cuisine all year round. Serving their famous wiener schnitzel and succulent veal, you’ll experience the best fusion of German and Austrian cuisine at Moosleitner.

There’s no doubt that the Bavarian region of Germany has much more to offer its tourists than a frothy stein.

From cuisine inspired by neighbouring countries to dinner and drinks with an unmissable view, be sure to add one of these eateries to your list on your next trip to Munich for a welcomed taste of German culture between the booze.