Jamie McDine's Englishman's guide to what makes Germany different
Part B: Kneipen and Bierkeller
Pubs
Every city has plenty of pubs (Kneipen) to choose from, so what should you look out for when choosing the right one?
Most pubs in Germany do not have a license that requires them to close at 11pm, so you can often relax and drink in comfort into the wee small hours. The general atmosphere in pubs is fairly laid-back, that of people enjoying themselves, sitting down and chatting with friends. If you are looking for something a bit more lively then a nightclub or live music would be a better place to go. There is always plenty going on.
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| Don't upset the regulars by sitting here! |
The Stammtisch
Almost all German pubs have a special table set aside for the regulars, and it is the done thing not to sit there - even if there is absolutely nobody sitting at the table!
The regulars' table is usually marked by a sign saying 'Stammtisch' either on or hanging above it.
Waitress service
In most pubs you are not required to pay for your drinks or meal until you leave, as there are waiters or waitresses that come to your table to take drink orders, which avoids any lengthy queuing at the bar, trying to get your order in! In a busy pub however, the English method of paying for drinks up front and standing at the bar may come into play.
There are specialist sports bars if you want to watch some of the other games in comfort, but these are usually more expensive than other pubs.
In Munich, in particular, you will also find cavernous Bierkeller, such as the world-famous Hofbräuhaus.
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