Best in the world: Beer gardens

What makes a great beer garden?

Beer gardens have been a popular cultural institution in many countries for centuries. What makes a great beer garden? A great beer garden is a place where people can gather to enjoy good beer, good food, and good company in a relaxed outdoor setting. It should have plenty of seating, both in the sun and in the shade, and should be large enough to accommodate a crowd without feeling cramped. The atmosphere should be casual and friendly, with a mix of locals and tourists mingling together. A great beer garden should also have a good selection of beers on tap, including local craft brews as well as popular imports.

Germany: The birthplace of the beer garden

Germany is often considered the birthplace of the modern beer garden. The tradition dates back to the 19th century, when beer gardens were first established in Munich as a way for breweries to serve beer to the public. Today, Germany is home to some of the most famous beer gardens in the world, including the Hofbräuhaus in Munich and the Augustiner Keller in Berlin. These beer gardens are known for their festive atmosphere, traditional German food, and of course, excellent beer. Visitors to Germany can experience the unique charm of a beer garden by spending an afternoon or evening enjoying a cold beer under the shade of a chestnut tree.

United States: The rise of the craft beer garden

In recent years, the United States has seen a rise in the popularity of craft beer gardens. These beer gardens focus on serving locally brewed craft beers, often in a hip and trendy outdoor setting. Cities like Portland, Oregon and Asheville, North Carolina are known for their vibrant craft beer scenes, with beer gardens popping up in parks, on rooftops, and even in old warehouses. These beer gardens offer a wide selection of unique and flavorful beers, often accompanied by food trucks, live music, and other entertainment. The craft beer garden trend has brought a new level of sophistication and variety to the traditional beer garden experience.

International destinations: Beer gardens around the world

Beer gardens can be found in many countries around the world, each with its own unique twist on the concept. In Australia, beer gardens are a popular spot for enjoying a cold beer in the sunshine, often overlooking the beach or a scenic waterfront. In Japan, beer gardens are a summertime tradition, with temporary outdoor beer gardens set up on rooftops and in parks. In the Czech Republic, beer gardens are known for their large wooden tables, hearty pub food, and of course, world-renowned Czech beers like Pilsner Urquell. Whether you’re in Europe, Asia, Australia, or the Americas, chances are you can find a great beer garden nearby to enjoy a cold pint and soak up the atmosphere.