The world’s most famous beer hall is not just a destination for beer aficionados. Visitors can also sample traditional Bavarian music, dancing and cuisine.
The Hofbräuhaus was founded all the way back in 1589. When the royal court in Munich became dissatisfied with the local beer, Bavarian Duke Wilhelm V agreed to establish a brewery that would produce beer especially for the court.
It wasn’t until 1828 that the Hofbräuhaus was opened up to the general public. Today, the Hofbräuhaus is still located at the Platzl (square) where the public first tasted the brew.
The Hofbräuhaus has an interesting and sometimes infamous political history. Its celebrity patrons include Vladimir Ilyich Lenin, who frequented the beer hall along with members of the Bavarian Communist Party. Adolf Hitler painted a watercolor of the Hofbräuhaus during his days as an art student, and the Nazi party would go on to hold meetings at the beer hall. Later on in the 20th century, American Presidents John F. Kennedy and George H.W. Bush have also been patrons of the Hofbräuhaus.
The Hofbräuhaus is comprised of four main areas. The huge Schwemme (taproom) is no longer used for beer production but instead provides an authentic beer hall experience. This grand chamber seats up to 1,300 guests and offers live local music each day. The Bräustüberl offers a somewhat calmer atmosphere and looks out over the square. The Festival Hall, a great room with vaulted ceilings and chandeliers, holds dance and folklore exhibitions every evening. When the weather is fine, sit outside under the chestnut trees and enjoy the distinctive charms of a Bavarian beer garden.
Each year, around 4 million people visit the Hofbräuhaus, but the crowds can actually be good for the atmosphere, and tables are often shared between locals and visitors. The friendly staff will be happy to take a photo with you, sporting their best traditional Dirndl and Lederhosen. Daring guests will try the Weisswurst, a type of white sausage that is traditionally eaten in the morning.
The Hofbräuhaus is open daily from the morning until quite late. It is only a quick walk from Marienplatz, which is well connected via streetcars, buses and the U-Bahn (subway).
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