Löwenbräu Köln

For Americans in Europe, most things seem "expensive" when thinking about the money conversion-rate. Der Löwenbräu Köln's menu actually wasn't even a shock, regardless of price.

We'd passed by this establishment for a month, fearing that it was simply a mass-beer Löwenbräu establishment. Surprise-- very very wrong! And it's not the same Löwenbräu that is shipped en-masse to the USA.

The atmosphere is charming-- a not overly large first floor, a nice open staircase going up to a balcony seating area. The entire place is very vintage-decor, with old photos and artifacts.

Service was instant. Surprisingly, or maybe due to others' same fears which we first had, the place was almost empty, and this was during a high-volume holiday period when everyone eats out. The place slowly began to half-fill over our stay, but the service continued to be top-notch.

Food selection was so varied that it took us longer than usual to decide. They had items which we'd wanted and had not found easily in other Köln establishments.

Food quality-- great. Highly recommended, and brought quickly as soon as it was finished-- not left sitting for 5-10 minutes on a shelf.

Beer selection was modest for the on-tap varieties, although there was no Löwenbräu monopoly on the taps. Their bottled selections were rather great, as well, and also a beer-cellar downstairs where they went to get a few of my own requests.

Overall, this may be one of the first, rather than one of the last, places we choose on our next stay in Köln.