Say “Prost!”: Oktoberfest at Brotzeit
This is the time of the year when most people realize that one of the best things that happened to Germany is, Bier.
Oktoberfest is a celebration that the Germans first shared to neighbor European countries and has already reached Asia. We have limited information as to when the Philippines started merry-making every October, but I guess that’s the whole point of Oktoberfest – never mind, just enjoy. It’s Wies’n!
To experience Wies’n the German way, we decided to visit the Philippine franchise of German Bier Bar and Restaurant, Brotzeit. The franchise at the EDSA Shangri-La Promenade is the first branch in the Philippines and the 10th in the world.
Last September 27, we arrived at Brotzeit and were welcomed by loud singing from a live band, packed outdoor dining and patrons waiting to be seated. I didn’t mind waiting because I was definitely up for some Paulaner that night. Not long enough a lady in dirndl (a traditional dress worn in Germany especially in Bavaria where Oktoberfest was born) greeted us and ushered us to the available seats near the band. Now, kindly get me some bier, lady!
Willkommen to Booze Land!
The place was packed and the entire Brotzeit crew were busy that night. I saw a sea of men and women sporting a stein of beer in their hands. Traditional banderitas strung up the bar’s ceiling and murals on the wall which is a Brotzeit bar trademark, encourages a very festive vibe. The crowd was well represented by different nationalities. They had fun Oktoberfest-inspired games lined up that night.
Last, last Saturday’s veranstaltungen.
Pre-beer drinking game photo
Endurance Game, the last man holding. Photo of the Beer Stein Race
“Here in Brotzeit, we are Pro-Gender Equality! Let the ladies do the challenge too!” said one of the Brotzeit bar crews.
The OktoberFEAST
What is Oktoberfest without all the traditional food to match the booze?
In Munich, Bavaria, Germany, they usually have Hendl (roast chicken), Schweinebraten (roast pork), Schweinshaxe (grilled ham), of course Wurstl and Schnitzels. My personal commitment to Oktoberfest the German way won’t be complete without a little bit of food and bier tasting
Sharing with you a few of my orders from Brotzeit’s menu.
This is the Brotzeit Platter Plate for Php 2,500. Good for 4-5 persons.
Pork knuckle, best of their sausages, pork schnitzels and two side dishes of your choice. It comes with two orders of 0.3 liter beers or beer mixes.
Brotzeit’s stein of dark bier
Brotzeit Preiselbier, Dunkel Hefe-Weissbier with cranberry juice (my instant favourite among the flavoured beers) Php 175 for 0.3 liter and Php 265 for 0.5 liter (If you are that thirsty, then this is for you.).
An ice cold of original Munchen lager bier for Php 540 for 1 liter (BTW, it’s only Php 445 if you order before 6 PM.).
Overall Experience
My attempt to experience Oktoberfest the German way was a success! Brotzeit is definitely a good choice for good weekend booze this October and the Bier-months to come. That Oktoberfest kick-off was a blast with all those friendly “beer” competition held. Now aside from “pong”, I can do beer drinking and beer stein race for indoor anti-boredom activities.
I ate that pork knuckles with guilt but I don’t care! I hope you try it in your first visit.
We felt that we got our money’s worth.
The party aftermath says it all.
Never waste the Bier.
PROST, everyone!
More info about Brotzeit, please click here.
Photos and Text by: Beth Javines, contributor
