wurstkucherestaurant Archives

Brats, Bretzen & Biergartens: Oktoberfest is Here

Did you know the first Oktoberfest was celebrated in Munich on October 12, 1810 in honor of Prince Ludwig’s marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The party was such a success that the happy couple decided to make it an annual tradition. Since then, Oktoberfest-mania really took off, and today over 6 million people attend Munich Oktoberfest each year. So what’s on tap for everyone’s favorite sudsy holiday around LA? We’ve rounded up a list of the best Oktoberfest events, taverns, and biergartens where you’ll find all the brats, bretzen, and beer to get your gemütlich going. Prosit!

Wurstküche German restaurant Oktoberfest near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Wurstküche 800 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Soak up the Oktoberfest zeitgeist in the Wurstküche Beer Garden. Known as a purveyor of rare and exotic grilled sausages – from rabbit to rattleshake – this popular joint also offers more mainstream meats such as bratwurst, bockwurst, hot Italian sausage, Polish kielbasa, and Louisana hot links. Expect an extensive selection of draft and bottle beers from Belgium, Germany, US, and UK, along with a nice wine list. For special treat, try a palate-cleansing, digestion-promoting Eaux de Vie, such as the German favorite Underberg, or some fruitier fixes such as Blume Marillen Apricot or Kirschwasser (dry cherry brandy).

Berlin Currywurst German restaurant Oktoberfest near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Berlin Currywurst Grand Central Market, 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Ich bin ein Berliner! Having grown up in the home country of currywurst, the founders of Berlin Currywurst decided to share this German cultural treasure with the people of LA. Created 60 years ago in Berlin, currywurst has become the number one street food in Germany. Berlin Currywurst does authentic currywurst, the way you’ll find it on Berlin’s urban sidewalks. Their recipe is steeped in German tradition, where you’ll discover an unlimited variety of combinations by experiencing different sausages, heat levels, and flavors. The meat is all-natural, served with 100% organic sauce, fries handcut from organic potatoes, and fresh and crispy German farmer’s bread.

Craftoberfest in Pasadena Oktoberfest near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Craftoberfest Rose Bowl Stadium 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena, CA 91103

Oct 21 CraftoberFest Los Angeles is the premier Oktoberfest celebration of the season. With over 50 carefully-curated craft breweries from the Southern California area, this food and drink festival will provide each guest with a delicious experience influenced by the world’s largest “Volksfest” (beer festival) in Germany. The event will serve traditional and fan-favorite foods influenced by this internationally-loved holiday. You’ll find pretzels, bratwurst, and unlimited pours of local craft beers.

The Red Lion Tavern Oktoberfest near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Red Lion Tavern 2366 Glendale Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90039

Every day is Oktoberfest at The Red Lion Tavern! For over 60 years, The Red Lion Tavern has been one of Los Angeles’ most beloved neighborhood taverns. This L.A. landmark continues to serve up traditional German food and a wide selection of German beer in a cozy old world atmosphere. Specialty menu items include German pretzels, fried German pickles, bratwurst on a roll, potato pancakes, a robust selection of German sausages, and hearty favorites such as Schweinebraten and Schnitzel.

Old World Oktoberfest The Biergarten 7561 Center Ave. Huntington Beach, CA 92647

Old World Huntington Beach has been host to Orange County’s biggest Oktoberfest since 1977. Through November 5th, Old World Village will be buzzing with chicken dancing, amazing German food (voted “Best Bratwurst” in California), over 60 beers on tap, oom pah pah bands straight from Germany, an army of Beautiful Shot Girls, competitions, and craft cocktails. Guests can prosit in the 10,000 square foot open air Biergarten and ginormous indoor Fest Hall.

Dirndl Haus Oktoberfest clothing store in Huntington Beach, CA

CA Dirndl Haus 7561 Center Ave #51A, Huntington Beach, CA 92647

Get ready to level up your Oktoberfest game at CA Dirndl Haus. Founded in 2018 by two best friends, Cyndie and Arpeni, Dirndl Haus sells trendy and traditional dirndl dresses and blouses, lederhosen, mens shirts and vests, and accessories including hats, hat pins, wreaths and jewelry. Dirndl Haus is an extension of the greater Old World Market and Oktoberfest Facility. Co-founder Cyndie’s parents Josef and Dolores Bischof, originally from Germany, founded Orange County’s famous Old World Village in 1975, along with Huntington Beach Oktoberfest, enjoyed by thousands of attendees each year.

Oktoberfest at Fairplex 1101 W McKinley Ave. Pomona, CA 91768

Dust off your lederhosen and dirndls because it’s that time of year. Oktoberfest returns to Fairplex with all the bier and brez’n to make this the perfect fest. Now in its 10th year, Fairplex Presents Oktoberfest is celebrating Bavarian music, authentic German food, and Der Ententanz (the Chicken Dance). With the addition of games and prizes, tribute bands, and a live DJ, Oktoberfest is a month-long celebration that brings a taste of Germany to Los Angeles County.

Long Beach Oktoberfest near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Long Beach Oktoberfest 855 Elm Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813

Long Beach is bringing back the oom pah pah with the 3rd annual Oktoberfest celebration. Enjoy authentic German beer and eats. Local favorites, alongside authentic German beers will be served, such as Paulaner Festbier and Hofbrau Oktoberfestbier. The world famous Festmeister Hans und Die Sauerkrauts will command the stage with music, performances, and games. And don’t forget to don your lederhosen or dirndl, as dressing up for the event is highly encouraged. Official Long Beach Oktoberfest 2023 Steins are available at the event.

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest about an hour from Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest 42900 Big Bear Blvd. Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Fall is without a doubt the most distinctive season in Big Bear Lake. The air gets a little crisper, leaves begin to change color, and best of all, Oktoberfest takes center stage. The 53rd annual classic Oktoberfest celebration combines Big Bear’s mountain charm with authentic German traditions, charismatic characters dressed in full regalia, German bands rocking oompah-pah tunes, and of course the crowd favorite Chicken dance! Oktoberfest runs every weekend through November 5.

Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest about an hour from Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest Lake Arrowhead Village 28200 State Hwy.189 Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352

Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest has moved to an all-new venue, Waterfront Park, situated on the waterfront at the Lake Arrowhead Village, a replica waterfront Alpine Village with over 100 shops and restaurants. Since 1981, Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest has offered authentic German beer, food, music and fun. Admission to the event is free and parking is free at Lake Arrowhead Village.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Old World Huntington Beach

Photo #2: Wurstküche

Photo #3: Berlin Currywurst

Photo #4: Craftoberfest

Photo #5: The Red Lion Tavern

Photo #6: Old World Huntington Beach

Photo #7: CA Dirndl Haus

Photo #8: Oktoberfest at Fairplex

Photo #9: Long Beach Oktoberfest

Photo #10: Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest

Photo #11: Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is Here & DTLA Breweries are Open

Just in time for Oktoberfest, LA County is allowing breweries to reopen, albeit with some new rules. Your favorite DTLA establishments are celebrating Oktoberfest with some outdoor Gemütlichkeit (German for a comfortable, friendly feeling). Check websites for openings hours, reservations, and takeout/delivery options. If you’re looking for the full on oom-pah-pah experience, head out to Old World Village in Huntington Beach or motor up to Big Bear Lake for their 50th Anniversary Oktoberfest. You can also stock up on Oktoberfest goodies to enjoy at home from Alpine Village Market in Torrance, just a short distance from Circa. So don your dirndls, lace your lederhosen, and hoist your beer steins! Oktoberfest is here and DTLA breweries are back.

Wurstküche DTLA near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Wurstküche DTLA 800 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Soak up the Oktoberfest zeitgeist in the Wurstküche Beer Garden. Known as a purveyor of rare and exotic grilled sausages – from rabbit to rattleshake – this popular joint also offers more mainstream meats such as bratwurst, bockwurst, hot Italian sausage, Polish kielbasa, and Louisana hot links. Expect an extensive selection of draft and bottle beers from Belgium, Germany, US and UK, along with a nice wine list. For s apecial treat, try a palate-cleansing, digestion-promoting Eaux de Vie, such as the German favorite Underberg, or some fruitier fixes such as Blume Marillen Apricot, Kirschwasser (dry cherry bfandy) or Pear Williams Purkhart.

Highland Park Brewery Chinatown near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Highland Park Brewery Chinatown 1220 N Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Highland Park Brewery in Chinatown is open for patio dining. HPB, as the brewery is affectionately known, was founded with the goal of making excellent beer in LA, focusing on fresh hoppy beers, lagers, and mixed culture fermentation, using local ingredients. HPB offers a robust, beer-friendly food menu including queso and chips, fried cheese curds, and a sausage plate with chorizo, salsa verde and focaccia. The tasting room is currently closed, but the brewery has expanded their delivery zones.

Frogtown Brewery near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Frogtown Brewery 2931 Gilroy St. Los Angeles, CA 90039

Frogtown Brewery is getting ready to open their outdoor patio. Check their Instagram for details. An independent craft brewery and tap room along the L.A. River, Frogtown Brewery is owned by long time friends and home brewers Adam and Mike, who had the crazy dream to one day open their own brewery. After many years of hard work and planning, they finally made Frogtown Brewery a reality! They are offering some fun flavors, such as Painkiller Milkshake and Nebula Fog, for pick up at the brewery or delivery within a 10-mile radius.

Arts District Brewing Company near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Arts District Brewing Company 828 Traction Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Arts District Brewing Company just spruced up their outdoor dining area with a fresh carpet of grass. One of LA’s few craft brewpubs with an on-site, 15-barrel brewhouse capable of producing 3,300 barrels of beer each year, this sprawling establishment opened December 2015 in DTLA’s historic Arts District. Choose from their curated craft beer list, which is updated on a regular basis. The hearty food menu offers a beer-appropriate selection of wings, burgers, fries, salads, fried calamari, fish tacos, and nachos. Pictured is Nic, the newest team member. Stop by and say hi.

Berlin Currywurst near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Berlin Currywurst Grand Central Market 317 Broadway Stall C-1/12 Los Angeles, CA 90013

Ich bin ein Berliner. Having grown up in the home country of currywurst, the founders of Berlin Currywurst decided to share this German cultural treasure with the people of LA. Created 60 years ago in Berlin, currywurst has become the number one street food in Germany. Berlin Currywurst does authentic currywurst, the way you’ll find it on Berlin’s urban sidewalks. Their recipe is steeped in German tradition, where you’ll discover an unlimited variety of combinations by experiencing different sausages, heat levels, and flavors. The meat is all-natural, serve with 100% organic sauce, fries handcut from organic potatoes, and fresh and crispy German farmer’s bread.

Old World Village near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Old World Oktoberfest Old World Village 7561 Center Ave. Huntington Beach, CA 92647

Old World Huntington Beach has been host of Orange County’s Biggest Party since 1977. When you attend Old World’s Oktoberfest this year, you’ll be welcomed to a new concept – a casual drinking and dining experience in their spacious outdoor patio and biergarten. Enjoy the sounds of German music, great food, and of course, imported beer. Guests will order from the front counter and wait for their food at the table of their choice located outside. Table reservations are required and masks are mandatory upon entry and at all times when not seated at your designated area.

Dirndl Haus near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Dirndl Haus 7561 Center Ave. Ste #51A Huntington Beach, CA 92647

Get ready to level up your Oktoberfest game at the Dirndl Haus. Founded in September 2018 by two best friends, Cyndie and Arpeni, the Dirndl Haus sells trendy and traditional dirndl dresses and blouses, lederhosen, mens shirts and vests, and accessories including hats, hat pins, wreaths and jewelry. Dirndl Haus is an extension of the greater Old World Market and Oktoberfest Facility. Co-founder Cyndie’s parents Josef and Dolores Bischof, originally from Germany, founded Orange County’s famous Old World Village in 1975, along with Huntington Beach Oktoberfest, enjoyed by thousands of attendees each year.You can also shop online on their website.

Alpine Village Market near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Alpine Village Market 833 W Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90502

Ready to stock up on Oktoberfest goodies to enjoy at home? Just scoot down the 110 Freeway and faster than you can say oom-pah-pah, you’ll arrive at Alpine Village Market in Torrance. The market offers a huge selection of German food imports, and also houses an authentic European bakery, a butcher shop that produces award-winning sausages, and a great selection of beers, wines and liquors such as Goldschläger, a Swiss cinnamon schnapps with real gold flakes floating inside. While you’re there, take a stroll around Alpine Village, a little slice of Bavaria in sunny Southern California. This iconic shopping destination was recently designated a County historic landmark by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest Wyatt’s Grill & Saloon 42900 Big Bear Blvd. Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

If you’re looking for a real Alpine experience, head up to Big Bear for their 50th Anniversary Oktoberfest – Celebrating 50 Years of Love. This year Oktoberfest will take place outdoors under the majestic mountain pines. Seating and tables will be set-up restaurant-style in their expansive outdoor area, all socially distanced from one another. Expect some zany Oktoberfest fun including Log Sawing, Stein, Safe Slam contests, plenty of Chicken Dances and many a Prosits! Enjoy live music on the outdoor stage, along with DJ’s spinning everything from traditional Oktoberfest tunes to today’s favorites.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Old World Village

Photo #2: Wurstküche DTLA

Photo #3: Highland Park Brewery Chinatown

Photo #4: Frogtown Brewery

Photo #5: Arts District Brewing Company

Photo #6: Berlin Currywurst

Photo #7: Old World Village

Photo #8: Dirndl Haus

Photo #9: Alpine Village Market

Photo #10: Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest

Get Your Gemütlich Game On! Oktoberfest is Here!

We’re all hopped up for Oktoberfest! But did you know that Oktoberfest in Munich actually starts in September and ends in early October? Here’s a bit of history: The first Oktoberfest was celebrated in Munich on October 12, 1810 in honor of Prince Ludwig’s marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. After such a spectacular party, the happy couple decided that the same type of festival should be continued annually. Eventually the date was moved forward into September, primarily because of the chilly Bavarian weather. So don your dirndls, lace your lederhosen, and get ready to oom pah pah! Oktoberfest is here!

Alpine Village 833 W Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90502

A little slice of Bavaria in sunny Southern California, Alpine Village was established in 1968 as a destination for shopping, dining and entertainment, and has been the home of the oldest and biggest Oktoberfest celebration in Southern California for over 50 years. Traditional Bavarian fun is supplied by Oom Pah Pah party bands, your appetite will sated by traditional German fare, and your thirst quenched by frothy German beers brewed by Paulaner. While you’re there, be sure to visit the Alpine Village Imports Market, featuring a huge array of German foods and interesting alcoholic beverages like Goldschläger, a Swiss cinnamon schnapps with real gold flakes floating inside.

Wurstküche DTLA 800 E. 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Enjoy the Oktoberfest zeitgeist all year around at Wurstküche! Known as a purveyor of rare and exotic grilled sausages – from rabbit to rattlesnake – this popular joint also offers more mainstream meats such as Bratwurst, Bockwurst, Hot Italian sausage, Polish Kielbasa, and Louisiana Hot Links. Other indulgences include Belgian Fries (topped with White Truffle Glaze, if you dare to go there), Double Dipped Fries with your choice of sauce, and a very naughty Toasted Apple Pie Ice Cream Sandwich on oatmeal raisin cookies. Expect an extensive selection of draft and bottle beers from Belgium Germany, US and UK, along with a nice wine list. For a special treat, try a palate-cleansing, digestion-promoting Eau de Vie, such as the German favorite Underberg, or some fruitier fixes such as Blume Marillen Apricot, Kirschwasser (dry cherry brandy) or Pear Williams Purkhart.

LA Oktoberfest Millennium Biltmore Hotel 506 South Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Hoist your steins and hightail it to LA Oktoberfest. This fun festival features traditional food, an assortment of craft beers served by dirndl-donning beer maidens. lively tunes, and sing-alongs of old time drinking songs. LA Oktoberfest offers a vareity of ticket choices, so you can participate however you want. You can choose a 2 or 4 hour pass that includes a Glass Stein and unlimited refills for the whole event. If you like to do it in style then grab either a 2 or 4 hour pass, get your souvenir glass stein and unlimited refills! The location also offers Pretzels for sale. Valet Parking is available and Overnight Accommodations are offered at a special rate. Overnight accommodations include 2 complimentary VIP tickets to the LA Oktoberfest.

Uberfest! Oktoberfest at Brouwerij West 110 East 22nd Street Los Angeles, CA 90731

The most entertaining Oktoberfest in America comes to San Pedro! Oompah meets rock n’ roll as you fill up on mouth-watering sausages, pretzels, desserts and of course, beer. Festmeister Hans & Die Sauerkrauts Oompah will take the stage with Heino & Gretel, along with amazing song and dance leaders. Brouwerij West is brewing up a special Überfest beer for this occasion – BOOM BRAU – which will only be available this one time. Brouwerij West will also be pouring a limited selection of some of their favorite beers during the fest!

CraftoberFest Rose Bowl Stadium 1001 Rose Bowl Drive Pasadena, CA 91103

CraftoberFest Los Angeles is the premier Oktoberfest celebration of the season! With over 20 carefully curated craft breweries from the Southern California area, this food and drink festival will provide each guest with a delicious experience influenced by the world’s largest “Volksfest” (beer festival) in Germany. First-class restaurants will serve traditional and fan favorite foods influenced by this internationally loved holiday. Don’t miss out on your chance to spend the day on The Greens at the Rose Bowl Stadium, while delighting in some of the best beer and food Los Angeles has to offer.

Octubrefest Smorgasburg LA 777 South Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA, 90021

Move over Oktoberfest, Smorgasburg LA is bringing you Octubrefest on Sunday, October 14. Celebrate LA’s diverse craft beer scene, with a Mexican twist. Ditch the lederhosen and the brats because Octubrefest will feature a selection of Mexican inspired craft beer, Mexican food specials, a selection of different michelada flavors, live DJs, and popup shopping vendors. Popup food vendors will be serving chorizo, Oaxacan sausage and Mexican food specials from the weekly Smorgasburg LA vendors. DJs Metralleta De Oro and friends will be spinning cumbia, latin, funk, 90’s hip hop, r&b & more; a perfect pairing for the craft beer selection.

DTLA Breweries United Fest 101 Cider House 1700 Naud St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Now here’s a great deal for a good cause! On October 13th, DTLA Breweries United Fest brings together some of DTLA’s fave breweries including Mumford, Arts District, Boomtown, Indie, Dry River, Angel City, Karl Strauss, 101 Cider House, and Imperial Western. Your $45 ticket includes unlimited tastings and a commemorative glass. 100% of the proceeds will benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Food is provided by A’s BBQ. For their safety, no pets or children are allowed.