by senior contirbutor Brendan Kownacki
Photo credit: Brendan Kownacki
Beer, bratwurst and fun as far as the eye can see–that was the agenda for the opening of the new Sauf Haus Bier Hall near Dupont Circle. To kick things off, a lively gathering of VIPs broke the seal on the upstairs space above Shake Shack, formerly occupied by a guitar store, but it’s a different music in the air these days. The German themed beer garden atmosphere is casual and boisterous, a definite shift from the more formal bar settings of The Palm and Capitol Grille which are both just a block away.
“It’s fabulous. It’s a welcome relief in Dupont Circle where most things are inside. It’s a beer garden, it’s fresh and cool” cooed Makin’ Whoopee founder Kimberly Robinson as she sipped on one of the many imported beer selections. “WATER, BARLEY, HOPS AND YEAST” – this is what the focus is at Sauf Haus. Gone are the frilly cocktails and in is a cold simple pint.” boasts the website for the new venue.
“As soon as we made it to the roof, I immediately liked it” said Lisa Amore of the décor. Bright orange picnic tables line the open air space, creating a lively and casual space for mirth and merriment.
It’s hard to say just how authentic the setting is compared to Oktoberfest and the German homeland, but the spirit is there. Christina Sevilla travels the world in her role as Deputy Assistant United States Trade Representative and has spent some time in Munich at Oktoberfest and says it’s passable. “It’s a small slice of the German beer house.”
Feed your thirst from the many beers on tap or if you’re itching for bites to eat, you can find sausage and even giant pretzels (measuring 1 and 2 pound varieties) to keep you in the mood.
So what are you waiting for, drink up.
