Roundup - Munich Eateries & SoulFood Haunts
Once again more than a month has passed since the last post…Work and life have got in the way yet again.
I began writing this post in a hotel in Berlin - Mitte, where I spent the week for work. I am finishing this post from a hotel in Oberstaufen, a quaint town tucked in the countryside of the 'Allgäu'. The Mr. has a seminar here over the long weekend, and since the hotel room was already booked, I more than gladly tagged along.
While I appreciate the perks of a hotel room every now and then, after over a week of hotel-rooming, I am looking forward to my own bed again. Furthermore, the familiar faces and spaces of my beloved Munich.
Until then, I hope to catch up on a couple of posts and shall reminisce about the Winter passed, filled with culinary highlights in Munich. Apart from skiing in the weekends, plenty of time throughout the Winter was spent testing new eateries. Here's the roundup…
1. 'Schwabinger Wassermann' - Schwabing, Munich
What is it…
Cafe/restaurant/bar in the middle of Schwabing. Schwabinger Wassermann sits in a sidestreet away from the hustle and bustle, waiting quietly for your visit. But don't be fooled, the place is packed several times throughout the day and you'll have enough hustle and bustle to keep you entertained inside.
Ideal for…
Brunch! I don't generally enjoying going out for breakfast, because usually the options on offer don't quite satisfy all my morning cravings. They are either savory, or sweet or an uninspired mish-mash of both. For the amount I'd pay, my homemade breakkies can easily compete.
At Schwabinger Wassermann the breakfast options are named after the signs of the zodiac ('Wassermann' being Aquarius) and vary from the usual Munich breakfast-fare, in addition to being fairly priced. We shared the 'Wassermann' and at 28.00 Euros for two, including eggs the way you like them and a bread-basket it was a winner.
*Insider tip
The place get packed in the weekends, you'll want to book.
2. 'La Fabbrica' - Maxvorstadt, Munich
What is it…
Tucked away inside the internal courtyard of what is now known as the 'MMA' aka the Munich Mixed Arts centre. This was previously a power generating plant and has now been converted into a mash-up of club, restaurant, and party location in a raw, industrial style.
La Fabbrica however manages to retain a cosy charm with chairs as colourful as its customers: a mix of Hipsters, Suits and…"Normals"?
Ideal for…
A fun night as a larger group, afterwork drinks followed by dinner, and more drinks - 'nuf said!
*Insider tip
The meter long pizza is perfect for sharing, but make sure you tally everyone's share prior to that third round of drinks!
3. 'Goldloch' - Haidhausen, Munich
What is it…
It was the quaintest wine bar and restaurant in Haidhausen. As I just discovered, the restaurant part of the place has been stopped, since the owner has become a Papa and understandably wants to focus on his latest addition to the family. The wine bar is still business as usual.
Ideal for…
A special occasion. Though the place isn't too fancy, but cozy and intimate, it is the ideal location for a special evening for two. I took the Mr. there as part of his birthday present, and we were very pleased with our meals and the wide selection of wines by the glass.
*Insider tip
I suppose there is no longer any point in recommending the food, but if you're in the 'hood (Haidhausen), definitely pop in for a glass of something special.
4. 'Kismet' - Munich central
What is it…
Modern, Turkish/Moroccan restaurant tucked in a sidestreet in the central city. The clientele here is a mix unlike any I have experienced anywhere in Munich. A few Hipsters, mixed with plenty of "creative" looking types and a sprinkling of glamorous housewives.
Ideal for…
Due to Kismet's central location, it is also ideal for a classy pre-party outing, since the main cluster of Munich's clubs are just a 10 minute walk away. Smaller groups can share a selection of the tasty tagines, which ensure the proper sustenance for a night of dancing.
*Insider tip
If you are lucky enough to nab a spot against the wall, be wary of the floating candles above you. The candles are the only source of illumination within the restaurant, and although beautiful, during the time that we were there, we witnessed three coats getting ruined by the dripping wax. No matter how great the food and friendly the service, this is something which can ruin your night in a flash.
Also, in case you wonder where everyone suddenly disappears to - upstairs! - which houses a classy bar. Unfortunately Luefchen and I had ran out of cash, so weren't able to try the drinks, but judging from how packed the place was and the swinging beats, this place should guarantee the perfect start to your night out on the town.
5. 'Il Barcaiolo' in the Seehotel Überfahrt - Rottach-Egern, Tegernsee
What is it…
Il Barcaiolo is one of the restaurants of the luxury hotel Seehotel Überfahrt - the 'Überfahrt' as it is known by the locals is one of several luxury hotels around the Tegernsee. A popular destination for tourists and the Munich 'Schikeria', due to the picturesque landscapes around the lake, and "typical" Bavarian culture of the area.
The Mr. happens to be one of the locals, so while like most locals, he often gets frustrated with the "out-of-towners", he knows to appreciate the establishments which have cropped up over the years to accommodate these "out-of-towners", like the Überfahrt.
Ideal for…
Since it is part of a luxury hotel, the head chef of which currently has 3 Michelin stars under his belt, the prices are set accordingly and too pricey for just a casual meal. On Tuesdays however between 18:30 and 22:30, there is "all-you-can-eat-scampi" for 37,50 Euros a head. What you get aren't just scampi, but giant prawns grilled in herb-butter, served with lemon, aioli and crusty bread and a half liter of house-white - can't go wrong with that!
*Insider tip
Take a day-trip to Tegernsee on a Tuesday, to avoid the tourists and finish your day at Il Barcaiolo. Be sure to take some hungry lads with you, who won't be embarrassed to order platter after platter of prawns to get the most out of this deal. I had three with me, and between the four of us, we managed to devour six platters. Not a bad effort…One that can surely be improved on next time.
6. 'Vorhoelzer Cafe/Cafe Vorhoelzer/TU Dach' - Maxvorstadt, Munich
What is it…
Munich's best rooftop bar. The place is packed with a predominantly young crowd, and those who have remained young at heart. Since it sits atop a part of the Technical University of Munich, one can generally count on the place being packed with students, which also makes for a lively and buzzing atmosphere.
Ideal for…
Savouring a glorious sunset over the city. On good days - one can see all the way to the Bavarian Alps! Not many cities can claim that kind of view from their rooftop bars. Apart from the view, the drinks are more than acceptable also. There is something for every cocktail/aperitif taste, a good selection of gins, including my favourite to date - 'Gin Sul' (best enjoyed with the Fever Tree tonic water). I have still to get my hands on this very citrusy goody, but when I do, I'll be sure to report about it.
*Insider tip
Munich locals know, but should you be visiting this beautiful city, I suppose I better let you know how to get up to the actual rooftop, to save you from aimlessly running about the university campus.
Once you have reached the address as in the above link, you are already at the right building. You must cross the small, internal courtyard and enter the building. Turn immediately to your left and follow the long corridor until the space expands back to a kind of forum. Here you will find the elevator which takes you to the very top. If there is a queue, don't be afraid to take the stairs instead - it'll make the view all the more worthwhile!
This last location is a bit of a recent addition, and wasn't discovered in Winter (the place is only open in Summer), but I thought I'd sneak it in there, since it is one of my favourites.
I hope you get the chance to give my recommendations a go! I'd be curious to find out how went.
Yours truly,
Fräulein SoulFood x
I began writing this post in a hotel in Berlin - Mitte, where I spent the week for work. I am finishing this post from a hotel in Oberstaufen, a quaint town tucked in the countryside of the 'Allgäu'. The Mr. has a seminar here over the long weekend, and since the hotel room was already booked, I more than gladly tagged along.
While I appreciate the perks of a hotel room every now and then, after over a week of hotel-rooming, I am looking forward to my own bed again. Furthermore, the familiar faces and spaces of my beloved Munich.
Until then, I hope to catch up on a couple of posts and shall reminisce about the Winter passed, filled with culinary highlights in Munich. Apart from skiing in the weekends, plenty of time throughout the Winter was spent testing new eateries. Here's the roundup…
1. 'Schwabinger Wassermann' - Schwabing, Munich
What is it…
Cafe/restaurant/bar in the middle of Schwabing. Schwabinger Wassermann sits in a sidestreet away from the hustle and bustle, waiting quietly for your visit. But don't be fooled, the place is packed several times throughout the day and you'll have enough hustle and bustle to keep you entertained inside.
Ideal for…
Brunch! I don't generally enjoying going out for breakfast, because usually the options on offer don't quite satisfy all my morning cravings. They are either savory, or sweet or an uninspired mish-mash of both. For the amount I'd pay, my homemade breakkies can easily compete.
At Schwabinger Wassermann the breakfast options are named after the signs of the zodiac ('Wassermann' being Aquarius) and vary from the usual Munich breakfast-fare, in addition to being fairly priced. We shared the 'Wassermann' and at 28.00 Euros for two, including eggs the way you like them and a bread-basket it was a winner.
*Insider tip
The place get packed in the weekends, you'll want to book.
2. 'La Fabbrica' - Maxvorstadt, Munich
What is it…
Tucked away inside the internal courtyard of what is now known as the 'MMA' aka the Munich Mixed Arts centre. This was previously a power generating plant and has now been converted into a mash-up of club, restaurant, and party location in a raw, industrial style.
La Fabbrica however manages to retain a cosy charm with chairs as colourful as its customers: a mix of Hipsters, Suits and…"Normals"?
Ideal for…
A fun night as a larger group, afterwork drinks followed by dinner, and more drinks - 'nuf said!
*Insider tip
The meter long pizza is perfect for sharing, but make sure you tally everyone's share prior to that third round of drinks!
3. 'Goldloch' - Haidhausen, Munich
What is it…
It was the quaintest wine bar and restaurant in Haidhausen. As I just discovered, the restaurant part of the place has been stopped, since the owner has become a Papa and understandably wants to focus on his latest addition to the family. The wine bar is still business as usual.
Ideal for…
A special occasion. Though the place isn't too fancy, but cozy and intimate, it is the ideal location for a special evening for two. I took the Mr. there as part of his birthday present, and we were very pleased with our meals and the wide selection of wines by the glass.
*Insider tip
I suppose there is no longer any point in recommending the food, but if you're in the 'hood (Haidhausen), definitely pop in for a glass of something special.
4. 'Kismet' - Munich central
What is it…
Modern, Turkish/Moroccan restaurant tucked in a sidestreet in the central city. The clientele here is a mix unlike any I have experienced anywhere in Munich. A few Hipsters, mixed with plenty of "creative" looking types and a sprinkling of glamorous housewives.
Ideal for…
Due to Kismet's central location, it is also ideal for a classy pre-party outing, since the main cluster of Munich's clubs are just a 10 minute walk away. Smaller groups can share a selection of the tasty tagines, which ensure the proper sustenance for a night of dancing.
*Insider tip
If you are lucky enough to nab a spot against the wall, be wary of the floating candles above you. The candles are the only source of illumination within the restaurant, and although beautiful, during the time that we were there, we witnessed three coats getting ruined by the dripping wax. No matter how great the food and friendly the service, this is something which can ruin your night in a flash.
Also, in case you wonder where everyone suddenly disappears to - upstairs! - which houses a classy bar. Unfortunately Luefchen and I had ran out of cash, so weren't able to try the drinks, but judging from how packed the place was and the swinging beats, this place should guarantee the perfect start to your night out on the town.
5. 'Il Barcaiolo' in the Seehotel Überfahrt - Rottach-Egern, Tegernsee
 |
| 'Peace within me, peace within you, peace between all nations and religions.' |
What is it…
Il Barcaiolo is one of the restaurants of the luxury hotel Seehotel Überfahrt - the 'Überfahrt' as it is known by the locals is one of several luxury hotels around the Tegernsee. A popular destination for tourists and the Munich 'Schikeria', due to the picturesque landscapes around the lake, and "typical" Bavarian culture of the area.
The Mr. happens to be one of the locals, so while like most locals, he often gets frustrated with the "out-of-towners", he knows to appreciate the establishments which have cropped up over the years to accommodate these "out-of-towners", like the Überfahrt.
Ideal for…
Since it is part of a luxury hotel, the head chef of which currently has 3 Michelin stars under his belt, the prices are set accordingly and too pricey for just a casual meal. On Tuesdays however between 18:30 and 22:30, there is "all-you-can-eat-scampi" for 37,50 Euros a head. What you get aren't just scampi, but giant prawns grilled in herb-butter, served with lemon, aioli and crusty bread and a half liter of house-white - can't go wrong with that!
*Insider tip
Take a day-trip to Tegernsee on a Tuesday, to avoid the tourists and finish your day at Il Barcaiolo. Be sure to take some hungry lads with you, who won't be embarrassed to order platter after platter of prawns to get the most out of this deal. I had three with me, and between the four of us, we managed to devour six platters. Not a bad effort…One that can surely be improved on next time.
6. 'Vorhoelzer Cafe/Cafe Vorhoelzer/TU Dach' - Maxvorstadt, Munich
What is it…
Munich's best rooftop bar. The place is packed with a predominantly young crowd, and those who have remained young at heart. Since it sits atop a part of the Technical University of Munich, one can generally count on the place being packed with students, which also makes for a lively and buzzing atmosphere.
Ideal for…
Savouring a glorious sunset over the city. On good days - one can see all the way to the Bavarian Alps! Not many cities can claim that kind of view from their rooftop bars. Apart from the view, the drinks are more than acceptable also. There is something for every cocktail/aperitif taste, a good selection of gins, including my favourite to date - 'Gin Sul' (best enjoyed with the Fever Tree tonic water). I have still to get my hands on this very citrusy goody, but when I do, I'll be sure to report about it.
*Insider tip
Munich locals know, but should you be visiting this beautiful city, I suppose I better let you know how to get up to the actual rooftop, to save you from aimlessly running about the university campus.
Once you have reached the address as in the above link, you are already at the right building. You must cross the small, internal courtyard and enter the building. Turn immediately to your left and follow the long corridor until the space expands back to a kind of forum. Here you will find the elevator which takes you to the very top. If there is a queue, don't be afraid to take the stairs instead - it'll make the view all the more worthwhile!
This last location is a bit of a recent addition, and wasn't discovered in Winter (the place is only open in Summer), but I thought I'd sneak it in there, since it is one of my favourites.
I hope you get the chance to give my recommendations a go! I'd be curious to find out how went.
Yours truly,
Fräulein SoulFood x
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