Oktoberfest na! Yes, it is Oktoberfest, and while you can always buy German beer and sausages at the supermarket or go to a restaurant, nothing beats experiencing it at its origins — Munich in Germany.
The world’s biggest festival started in Munchen (German for “Munich”) in 1910 as a celebration for the union of Germany’s Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. The five-day event ended with a horse race that has become so famous, the festival has become an annual tradition since then, evolving to include food and drink booths, agricultural shows and amusement rides.
In recent times, the beer festival has been held annually starting mid-September to the first Sunday of October. But in Munich, you can experience Oktoberfest all-year-round minus the crowds!
Although there is less fanfare in Munich when it is not Oktoberfest, at any time of the year, you can enjoy all the same authentic German beer and food served during the festival in the city. There are, however, some basic rules in courtesy that you have to observe because most servers are native Germans — and the Germans are all about order and they have their temper. They do not adhere to the American adage “The customer is always right.” If you do not follow their rules and customs, they would not hesitate to call you out — even if you are a paying customer.
So first, although it is okay to walk in, it is better to have a reservation in a restaurant or a biergarten (al fresco restaurant serving German beer) especially during Oktoberfest as seats are limited. But when it is not Oktoberfest, you and your companions can easily find a table especially if you come in after lunch. Remember, though, that al fresco restaurants in Munich typically close at 4 to 5 p.m. and they would really ask you to leave on the dot, so come earlier!
Second, if you spot an empty table at a biergarten, you cannot reserve it by just sitting there. You have to ask a server in uniform (biergarten servers are usually in Oktoberfest costumes all year) and ask if you can sit at the vacant table, or the server would also suggest other possible places for you. Wait patiently to be seated.
Once settled, again, you have to patiently wait for the server to come to you to give you a menu and to take your orders. Servers typically have assigned tables, so you could not just call any server at random. They consider it disrespectful to call them by any means — may it be hand gestures, a whistle or even by addressing them with “sir” or “ma’am.” If you call them most especially from afar, they would be mad at you and could even possibly publicly humiliate you. So, wait for your turn for the server to take your orders.
Once a server gets to you for your order, he or she sometimes do not have a paper and pen and would just memorize your orders. This is quite common. So, expect that sometimes, your order does not arrive quite right or there would be some things missing — but again, hold your horses and be patient. Just remind the server, when he or she comes near your table, about your missing or wrong orders. If the order is still not made right even after a reminder, just get over it because there is no point in getting into trouble for it.
Just enjoy your beer and authentic German pulutan (beer snacks)! The beer comes either as one liter or half a liter in a glass. Beer brands typically are not important among Munich restaurants as they usually serve their own homemade brews. One liter is enough for four average drinkers to enjoy. If you just want to try and not really a heavy drinker, half a liter would do.
The best part is — Munich is probably among the few drinking holes in the world where even kids are not only allowed — but are even encouraged, to drink beer! All in moderation, of course!
As for food you can eat that pairs well with the beer, every biergarten has a menu of schnitzels, pretzels and sausages in all kinds of meat and special sauces that include spicy ones and curry. But if you are not a carnivore, do not worry as there are also many vegetarian restaurants and stalls around. Likewise, even if you are not a beer drinker, there are other several beverage options like honey-based cocktails.
To cater to the city’s Muslim population, Halal and Mediterranean food restaurants are also good options for the health-conscious. Just remember to wear proper attire — covered shoulders, no shorts or skirts and sandals — and address the owners and servers as “brother” or “sister” for respect whether you are a Muslim or not. If you respect them and appreciate their food, they would even give you extra dishes or free drinks!
Truly, Oktoberfest in Munich is a unique experience that should be in every traveling foodie’s bucket list — even for children, vegetarians and non-drinkers. Prost!