Here Are the Top 10 German Restaurants for Celebrating Oktoberfest in the U.S.

October 10, 2023

Oktoberfest is a celebration centered around authentic German cuisine, drawing people to gather at traditional Bavarian-style restaurants to enjoy foods like bratwurst, schnitzel, pretzels, and more. Aside from German cuisine, Oktoberfest celebrations are abundant with traditional music, parades, and beer. To learn more about how Americans may be celebrating Oktoberfest this year, we recently ranked the top U.S. cities perfect for experiencing Oktoberfest with some of the best bars, breweries, and events in the country. But we wanted to dig deeper and learn more about where consumers can find some of the most popular, authentic German cuisine for the most genuine Oktoberfest celebrations.

A group of friends enjoys a round of beers

To find out, we looked at which German restaurants across the U.S. draw in the most diners and see the highest foot traffic. Here are the top 10 most popular German restaurants in the country, according to our data.

The Top 10 German Restaurants in the U.S.

1. The Heidelberg – Helen, GA

The Heidelberg boasts a wide-ranging menu of traditional German dishes, such as bratwurst and schnitzel. This charming restaurant is located in Helen, GA, a town known for its Bavarian-style architecture, culture, and ambiance, making it the perfect setting for Oktoberfest celebrations.

2. Max Bratwurst und Bier – Queens, NY

Max Bratwurst und Bier in Queens, NY, attracts Oktoberfest enthusiasts with its diverse selection of bratwursts and extensive beer options, offering a taste of Germany in the bustling city of New York.

3. Edelweiss German American Cuisine – Norridge, IL

Edelweiss German American Cuisine is a favored spot for Oktoberfest celebrations in Norridge, IL. The restaurant features a blend of traditional German flavors and American hospitality, making it a top destination in the Chicago area.

4. New Bohemia – Golden Valley, MN

In the suburbs of Minneapolis, New Bohemia combines a lively and modern atmosphere with a diverse menu of bratwursts and other German-inspired pub fare, appealing to a contemporary audience.

5. The Bavarian Inn Restaurant – Frankenmuth, MI

The Bavarian Inn Restaurant stands out for its longstanding reputation as a premier destination for Oktoberfest. Set in the charming, Bavarian-themed town of Frankenmuth, MI, this restaurant offers patrons an authentic German experience.

6. Gerst Haus – Evansville, IN

Gerst Haus in Evansville, IN, is a hit during Oktoberfest. Known for its generous selection of German beers and mouthwatering specials, this restaurant attracts locals and tourists alike who are looking to celebrate.

7. Bavarian Bierhaus – Nashville, TN

Bavarian Bierhaus captures the essence of Oktoberfest with its lively ambiance, traditional German dishes, and a variety of beers, providing a taste of German culture in Nashville, TN.

8. The Rathskeller – Indianapolis, IN

The Rathskeller is a popular spot for Oktoberfest celebrations in Indianapolis, IN. Set in a historic building reminiscent of old-world charm, this restaurant offers a unique experience that pairs well with the festive spirit of Oktoberfest.

9. The Alpine Inn Restaurant – Hill City, SD

The Alpine Inn Restaurant in Hill City, SD, draws in Oktoberfest enthusiasts with its cozy alpine-inspired setting amidst the picturesque Black Hills, providing a quaint and charming backdrop for celebrating the festivities.

10. München Haus – Leavenworth, WA

Located in Leavenworth, WA, a Bavarian-themed village in the Pacific Northwest, München Haus provides an authentic and festive experience close to Mount Rainier.

Oktoberfest in the U.S.

It’s clear that each of these top-ranked German restaurants has mastered the art of transporting patrons to Bavaria through traditional German cuisine, capturing the spirit of Oktoberfest, and inviting all to partake in this cherished annual tradition. These restaurants will likely attract more foot traffic as this year’s Oktoberfest season progresses and more consumers look for ways to celebrate. Plus, in-person events and festivities have gained popularity among consumers post-pandemic, making for the perfect storm for these authentic eateries to take advantage of Oktoberfest season and attract more customers.

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