Sadly, many cool establishments like Kafe Berlin, The People’s Pub, Heidelberg Haus and The Wurst Place are now permanently closed thanks to the gentrification of modern architecture overtaking the many one-story, side street buildings. So, if you see those places listed on other travel articles, note that these establishments are now closed.
This European beer hall is one of my favorites and features a German, Czech flare, a place where it feels like Oktoberfest year round. Decorated in HB banners, the interior boasts Bavarian-style seating where it's first come, first serve at the many extra-long picnic tables. Order anything and everything from a pint to a mass of over 60 beers including European favorites and gluten-free beer. If you're looking for a snack, try the XXL brezel or savor your sweet tooth with their bread pudding (ask for the cinnamon ice cream). Guests order off the menu or try a platter from the walk up kitchen ($15 cash only), which offers vegetarian meat options. Expect to pay higher prices here.
Altstadt means, "Old Town," and ironically, this bar resides in Seattle's oldest neighborhood, Pioneer Square. The interior contains various sized picnic tables and plenty of bar space. The prices are expensive, but the brezel with cheese sauce is worth it! Check for seasonal soups as the asparagus and pumpkin soup is some of the best in the city. Seitanwursts are available, and be sure to try to apple strudel. Prices are moderate.
If you're in the mood for bier, bocce ball and brats, you've come to the right place. The Oktoberfest festivities are well worth it as well as any other event like a beer run 5k. Several German "stammtisch" groups meet here throughout the year. Beer lovers find a variety of local and import beers from Germany and Austria. Prices are moderate to expensive.
Part grocery store, part deli, eat some fresh food onsite or take some German goodies home. Located near the original Starbucks, this market has been serving Seattle since 1961. Even to this day, they use recipes that Grandpa Max brought over from Munich in 1933. So if you miss your favorite marzipan, bouillon cubes or gummy bears, you can find a variety of German food items here. I love their fresh pan-fried potatoes, it's a perfect semi-greasy snack while meandering the market.
Prost! - West Seattle
This local watering hole brings back many memories of my first few years in Seattle. This is a spot to meet locals as not many tourists travel to the West Seattle "suburb." Outside sits a couple of small tables nestled next to potted plants, triggering a European-feel to the atmosphere.
Vegetarian options are available and prices are moderate.
Prost - Phinney Ridge
This location of Prost claims naming rights to "Seattle's original German pub. Owner Chris Navarra has several locations throughout the city, all of which have different names. The prices are moderate and expect nothing but German beer, brats, pretzels and other traditional German "essen."
Die Bierstube - Roosevelt / U District
Located near UW, this is another Chris Navarra establishment. With 15 beers on tap, students congregate here for a game or to socialize after school. If you enjoy the taste of coffee, try the Kostritzer Schwarzbier.
The Berliner Doner Kebab
Inspired by the German-turkish doner, this establishment serves salads, wraps and sandwiches. This is street food at its finest with falafel available for vegetarians and vegans. The interior is nothing to rave about as most people order for take away.
If you understand German, then you know this is a place where you can enjoy your free time. Expect nothing but the best of Germany, but I highly recommend the apple pineapple cider, espyially on a hot summer day.
What's your favorite German pub in Seattle?
This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Best German Pubs & Restaurants in Seattle.