• Betsy Schneider
• On August 9, 2012

Munich Dunkel Lager – Hofbräuhaus Newport, Newport, NY

ABV: 5.5%

Staying in touch with my German roots, the Hofbräuhaus of Newport, Kentucky is one of my favorite places in my hometown—nothing makes me happy like a frosty stein of Dunkel. The Newport location is the first authentically German Hofbräuhaus in the USA and shines in comparison to its Munich counterpart. I haven’t really been to Germany, but I can imagine that this one is just as good. It’s always a party. One time the accordion player even made everyone stand on the tables and do the chicken dance. I hated and loved it at the same time.

But in all seriousness—the best part of going to the Hofbräuhaus is drinking liters of beer at a time. The huge, heavy glass mug, called a stein, makes the experience what it is. It never fails that by the time my arm gets tired from holding it, the beer kicks into action and relieves the pain. Perfect timing, every time.

And, as might not be expected, the authentic Bavarian brew is delightfully drinkable. My favorite is the Dunkel. It was first type of beer to be brewed at the Hofbräuhaus when it was founded so it’s obviously the best. It’s dark and the flavor is full-bodied with a hint of sweet caramel at the finish. It’s not heavy like a beer of it’s color usually is. You can just keep drinking it and drinking it! Not to mention, you get a lot of bang for your buck. Each stein costs around $8 and if you’re anything like me, two steins and you are one happy camper. Next time you find yourself in the Cincinnati area, the Hofbrauhaus of Newport is a pit stop you have to make.