Although it doesn’t currently feel like fall here in Washington, D.C. (it’s been in the high 80s the past few weeks), the calendar keeps reminding me that it is “beer season.” I hail from Beer Capital, U.S.A aka Wisconsin and while I do like a crisp Miller Lite, I also like to walk on the “wild side” of beer. If you’re looking for a good beer list and an authentic, German atmosphere, Café Berlin on Capitol Hill is the place for you. This restaurant has been serving up authentic, German fare since 1985 and has both amazing food and beer menus.
Beware: it might be crowded now since nobody in D.C. has anything to do. Wink.
First things first, where is this jewel of golden beer? Café Berlin is conveniently located next to my other favorite, Bistro Cacao, on Massachusetts Avenue N.E. So, if you feel like experiencing miniature Europe, this is the place to be.
But enough gab on Café Berlin’s location—let’s talk about beer!
I’ve been saving Café Berlin for the fall because of their great Oktoberfest menu. I would love to ramble it all off for you, but it would be 8 pages long. However, I’ll give you the inside scoop on some of my favorites (and don’t think I’m too girly—I like Guinness like the best of them!); Paulaner Hefe-Weißen (a fruity wheat beer that isn’t too heavy) and the White Birch Berliner Weisse (they serve with sweet syrup made from raspberries). Like bock beers? Try the Unertl Weiss Bock. Café Berlin describes it as “soft wheat with raisins, slight spiciness with a slightly sweet caramel finish.” I’m sure that made your mouth water. There are pilsners, lagers…if you can’t find something you like, I’ll give you five dollars. Also, the beer comes in big frosty steins. Yum…
While you are enjoying your beer on the patio, which makes Café Berlin ideal for celebrating Oktoberfest outside in the sunshine, I suggest you also order an appetizer and an entrée. Favorites: the beer cheese spread and the potato pancakes with homemade applesauce. They serve up amazing schnitzel, bratwurst, goulash, and sauerkraut. Really, you can’t go wrong when choosing something to eat or drink—so get on out there and drink and be merry!
As the Germans say, Prost!
Where is it?
Cafe Berlin
322 Massachusetts Ave N.E.
Washington, DC 20002
Who Should go?
All those in favor of good beer, sunshine, German food, and patios.
322 Massac322 Massachusetts Avenue NE
Washington, DC 20002-5702husetts Avenue NE
Washington, DC 20002-5702
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