Wednesday, February 9, 2011

A Little German

Perhaps it’s my German roots, my propensity to indulge in a few fine beers, or the excellent Bavarian fare on the menu, either way, I think Die Bierstube on Roosevelt and 61st is a great place for an informal date, especially if you know your date isn’t squeamish about sausage (although there is a cucumber salad on the menu, which sounds excellent).

Honestly, this bar and restaurant serves very authentic German beer and food, and at what I would call a very good price (every item of food on the menu is below $10.00). The beers are about a dollar or two more than you would expect to pay at U District bars a few blocks away, but the atmosphere is much more conducive to conversation (it’s quieter) and if the focus of your date is to get sloshed for cheap, it’s probably time to move on anyway. I know that when I am out with someone new (or even if we’ve gone out a few times before) I much prefer to sip my drinks slowly and pay attention to my date, and Die Bierstube serves up the perfect beers to savor.

Pick any of the 15 draughts on tap, or 22 by the bottle, and you’ll be happy you didn’t settle for any average American macro brew you could have had elsewhere. When I am looking for a dry and crisp finish, with a light body, I grab a half of a liter of the Bitburger Pilsner. For more flavor, and a smoother sweeter pull, reach for the Franziskaner WeissBier. After a few visits to this gem, when you become better acquainted with the staff, ask about “the vessel”, but don’t tell them I told you, and bring friends along!

Die Bierstube also serves a full selection of premium spirits for those not interested in beer. Recently, friends have recommended the Gurken Martini, created using a unique cucumber infused vodka. I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed a few Saturday morning Blutig Marias (or Bloody Mary), but beware, this drink is mixed with a special pepper and chili infused vodka, and really does a number on the sinuses.

Die Bierstube - Seattle

Written by: Samuel Fisher - SpeedSeattle Dating Resident Blogger