Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/16/19

Move over hot sauce, there’s a new elevated condiment in town, Sauerkraut! We made our way downtown to visit Der Biergarten to taste their German-centric fare and sip on their holiday cocktails. From affordable and delicious meat and cheese plates (Gemischte Wurst Und Käseplatte) to a perfectly cooked pork shank (Schweinshaxe) to something we never knew we loved, Sauerkraut, as well as a hot holiday drink tradition Glühwein, Der Biergarten is an immersive German experience in the heart of Atlanta. Ready for an adventure?

Starting with the sips, being during the holidays, they had everything form a spicy cocoa, red beer in a take-home boot, and our favorite find of the night: Glühwein. This traditional winter and holiday drink from Germany that drinks like a hot Sangria, a mix of red wine and spices. It was warm on the cold night and totally different than anything we’ve had before, with the savory, sweet of the red wine and earthiness of the clove spice on the back end. It doesn’t sound like something we’d ever like but surprised us! Along with a great selection of German bier, wine, and fun cocktails, try something new!

Who doesn’t like a good meat and cheese plate? This one was chocked full of jaeger, which is a German dry-aged traditional sausage, hard cheeses, plus a lot of bread to pair it with. We felt this was a REALLY good deal for the price and John decided this was one of the best meat and cheese plates in the city. He knows; he’s a charcuterie fanatic. Also enjoyed the pretzel (Risenbretzel) which was buttery, salty, warm, and hearty. Make sure to use the mustards they bring, as well. Go sweet the with the Bavarian Mustard or spicy with the spicy Mustard. Either way, a good tasty bite.

Then there’s the pork shank. The way it was cooked, rotisserie style with skin on, locks in the flavor and tenderness of the meat, while interesting mix of spices like clove and an herb that taste of licorice, give the crust a rich, unique flavor. Mix it with the savory au jus and the side of sauerkraut. That hits the spot. Speaking of the sauerkraut, not typically a favorite, this was the best we’ve ever found with that typical sour vinegar flavor on the back but hidden for most of the bite by the utilization of bacon. Yes, bacon! It’s savory and sour and a good accoutrement to the savory of the pork. Insert mind blown emoji here.

Are you hungry yet? We are! Meet us down at Der Biergarten!