Brew City Stories: 1840 Brewing Co.
Whether it is the endless fruit additions they incorporate or the army of barrels they cycle through their brewery, it doesn’t really matter—1840's beer is undeniably delicious.
Brew City Stories: Bavarian Bierhaus
"You’ll be hard pressed to find German beer brewed in Milwaukee that is as traditional as what is being brewed at Bavarian Bierhaus."
With such a rich German history in Milwaukee, it is necessary to pay homage to the culture that is so prevalent in our city. While having multiple establishments in our city that do just that, it’s no surprise that one is home to one of the oldest Oktoberfest celebrations in Wisconsin. Bavarian Bierhaus, located on land that was purchased in the 1920’s by the German Clubs of Milwaukee, is doused with Milwaukee’s German history. The history of Bavarian Bierhaus dates back to 1934 when the United Bavarian Societies of Milwaukee leased a building on the current grounds of Heidelberg Park. In 1967, the property was sold to a hotel chain who then opened the Bavarian Inn, which was based entirely on authentic Bavarian architecture. Throughout this time, the building was used as a meeting place for the German population of Milwaukee to meet for dance clubs, social clubs, soccer clubs and of course, to drink beer. Once the 2000’s came along, the Inn began to struggle financially, and it closed in 2011. The Inn was boarded up and lay vacant for five years until it was reopened in 2016 and rebranded as the Bavarian Bierhaus, complete with a 15 barrel brewing system, a fully functioning bar and restaurant and a large beer hall replete with long, Bavarian-style tables. Since opening, the Bavarian Bierhaus has established itself as a fun, family-friendly destination where you can find traditional German food and beer. It is the perfect place to enjoy an uncomplicated night out or a large celebration, as their long tables are perfect for the entire family. While the adults are enjoying authentic German beer, the kids can dance to live polka music on Fridays and Saturdays, or play a game of foosball. German tradition is crucial at Bavarian Bierhaus, which is why multiple ingredients on the menu are imported from Germany. Not only is the food impeccable, you’ll be hard pressed to find German beer brewed in Milwaukee that is as traditional as what is being brewed at Bavarian Bierhaus. All ingredients used for their beer are imported from Europe, aside from water and yeast. You’ll find all your German staples such as a Helles Lager, Dunkel, Hefeweizen, Pilsner and even an India Pale Lager flowing from their taps. One beer to look forward to is their Oktoberfest. Loaded with German hops and malts, this beer comes in at 5.8% ABV, 26 IBUs, and is less of a Marzen style, but more along the lines of a traditional fest beer that is typically served during the Munich Oktoberfest. This beer is brewed once a year for Bavarian Bierhaus’ Oktoberfest celebration and can be enjoyed starting the first Friday in September, the start of their signature event! The Bavarian Bierhaus Oktoberfest celebration consists of live music, traditional German fare, delicious beer and fun for the whole family. Kids can enjoy carnival rides and kid-friendly food and beverages, while adults experience the oldest Oktoberfest in Milwaukee, which has been happening for over 60 years. In fact, Heidelberg Park was designed to mimic Oktoberfest in Germany. So prepare your steins, this year’s celebration is sure to impress. Prost!
700 W Lexington Blvd
Glendale, WI 53217
Related Stories & Recipes