Hofbräuhaus Munich

Posted on 22. April 2013 by André Meier

“There is a royal brewery in Munich– one, two, drink!”

The origin story of the Hofbräuhaus

The world-famous Hofbräuhaus brewery, which is right next to the Platzl Hotel Munich, was founded by Duke Wilhelm V of Bavaria, as was the famous Jesuit church, St Michael’s. The ducal brewery was completed in 1592 and began operation at the Alter Hof (the “Old Court”). The “Braunbier” (“brown beer”) brewed here became the new drink at the royal table, where beer from Einbeck in Lower Saxony had previously been served. In 1610, the beer began being sold to landlords and private customers as well.

In order to make the quality more like that of the bock beer from Einbeck, the master brewer Elias Pichler was poached from Einbeck in 1612. In 1614, he brewed the famous “maibock”, the first beer brewed in Munich using the “Ainphock” method. This method of brewing remained the exclusive prerogative of the Hofbräuhaus royal brewery until 1818.
In order to offer “a healthier and cheaper drink to the military and the working class” as well, King Ludwig I of Bavaria allowed the selling price in the Hofbräuhaus to be dropped well below the usual price in pubs in the area.

Since 1852, the Hofbräuhaus in Munich has been owned by the State of Bavaria.

picture source: flickr (Moon Soleil)

The Hofbräuhaus as a top attraction in Munich

The current building dates back to 1897. Even today, the Hofbräuhaus is still one of the most world-famous and popular tourist attractions in Munich, as well as a favourite among locals, attracting up to 35,000 visitors every day. So it’s not for nothing that the Hofbräuhaus am Platzl is the most famous place in the world where Munich beer is served, and has been for 400 years. Nowhere else in the world can you experience “Gemütlichkeit”, the famous Bavarian “cosiness”, like you can in the Hofbräuhaus am Platzl – a real piece of Munich.

The style of the Hofbräuhaus

There’s always something going on in the unique “Schwemme”, as the biggest room in a public house is usually known here. It offers space for about 1,000 people. Both locals and visitors from all over the world come here every day to sit side by side at the long tables and sway together to the live music of the impressive brass band, with a fresh draught beer in hand. Stylish women in dirndl dresses and strapping men in lederhosen breeches also serve traditional Bavarian treats in the Hofbräuhaus’s own style: Bavarian tradition with a modern twist. But even guests who prefer a somewhat quieter atmosphere will find what they’re looking for at the Hofbräuhaus. The upper floor is divided into several rooms, which offer space for another 2,500 guests. Here, guests can make themselves comfortable in the small parlours, the taproom, or the hall of arms. Festive occasions are usually celebrated in the large celebration hall, which has nine metre-high vaults.

picture source: flickr (Christopher Macsurak)

For anyone who wants to experience the beer garden atmosphere in the city of Munich, the place to be in the summer is under the old chestnut trees, surrounded by historical walls in the inner courtyard of the Hofbräuhaus am Platzl. The beer garden has room for ca. 500 guests and the gentle splashing of a fountain can be heard through the impressive archway. The fountain was built in 1897 and features Bavarian Lions on its columns.

For regulars of the beautiful tavern, the Munich beer palace offers a locker on one of the shelves where they can keep their own beer mugs.

So it’s not for nothing that Lenin himself treasured the hospitality of the Hofbräuhaus and the quality of its beer, as an entry in the diary of his wife, Nadeschda Krupskaja, reveals:

“We look back especially fondly on the Hofbräuhaus, where the good beer blurs all class differences.”

The Hofbräuhaus is located right by the Platzl Hotel Munich – it only takes about two minutes to get there. Just go along Münzstraße and turn left after the Hard Rock Cafe. The impressive architecture of the Hofbräuhaus makes it impossible to miss.

picture source: flickr (rubenvike)

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The Bavarian National Museum

Posted on 22. April 2013 by André Meier

Every year, the Bavarian National Museum in Munich attracts huge number of tourists, as well as locals from Munich. The exhibits in show here range from the early Middle Ages to the beginning of the 20th Century, making this a prestigious collection even on an international level. Although the museum suffered substantial destruction in the Second World War, it’s still possible to take a tour through the various ages there today.

The history of the Bavarian National Museum

The old building on Maximilianstraße

It was a major concern of King Maximilian II that all the treasures, memories, and monuments of German history should not fade into oblivion. Therefore, in 1855, he decided to set up a museum for this purpose. Even back then, the king gave the museum the name it still bears today, the “Bavarian National Museum”. According to the plans, the first building to be constructed was the Taubstummen Institute opposite the government building. But shortly after it was completed, the king had it torn down again, because he wanted to build a monumental building in its place. So it came to be that, contrary to the king’s original plans, the Bavarian National History Museum was built on Maximilianstraße. The museum took nine years to build and was finally opened on the 12th October 1867.

picture source: flickr (digital cat)

The new building on Prinzregentenstraße

Since the building on Maximilianstraße already showed serious construction defects after a few years and the space for the collection was too small, the state parliament decided to construct a new building for the museum in 1892. The chosen site was the “Royal Wood Garden” by the English Garden on Prinzregentenstraße. The architect in charge, Seidl, came up with a design that was intended to combine a wide variety of architectural styles and adapt the style of the halls to the respective exhibits. The result had great appeal. The new Bavarian National Museum on Prinzregentenstraße was finally opened by Prince Regent Luitpold on the 29th September 1900.

The works on display

As well as the permanent exhibition, which mainly comes from the Bavarian House of Wittelsbach, there is also the Bollert Collection, which shows sculptures from the Gothic and Renaissance periods. Walking round the museum, visitors can admire artistic periods from Late Antiquity to Art Nouveau. As well as paintings and sculptures, you’ll also find works of art made from gold and ivory, tapestries, pieces of furniture, weapons, and porcelain. On top of that, the famous manger collection encompasses more than 60 Christmas scenes with a remarkable number of figures that were made in Naples, Sicily, and the Alpine region between 1700 and 1850. Last but not least, the way that the rooms are designed to fit the exhibitions makes the Bavarian National Museum one of the most significant and original museum buildings of its time, as well as home to one of the largest art and cultural history collections in Europe.

picture source: flickr (project 1080)

Branch museums of the Bavarian National Museum

As well as the building on Prinzregentenstraße, the Bavarian National Museum also has a series of branch museums throughout Bavaria. Most of these are special collections that showcase an area that’s important to the respective region. For example, there is the Alpine Gallery in Kempten, the Franconian Gallery in Kronach, and the Ceramics Museum in Obernzell. The Trausnitz Castle Chamber of Art and Curiosities and the Thurn and Taxis Royal Treasure Chamber in Regensburg are also well worth a visit.

Current exhibitions, guided tours, and prices

As well as the permanent exhibition and the Bollert Collection, you can also admire another exhibition until the 25th August 2013: “Chiné – a studio exhibition: chain-patterned fabric from the 18th and 19th centuries”. In addition, a special exhibition on bags is also being held until the 25th August 2013, which will show a cultural history of Europe from the 16th to the 21st century.

picture source: flickr (Scott M)

In addition to the audio guides provided, you can also book guided yours of various areas or on different topics. The museum offers free guided tours of the collections and the special exhibition on Sundays at 11am and Thursdays at 6pm. However, it is better for larger groups of visitors to book a separate appointment. The entry price without a booked tour is between €3 and €7, depending on the different areas. Admission is free for children up to 18 years old. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am-5pm and on Thursday until 8pm, while the Bollert collection is open from Thursday to Sunday from 10am-5pm.

You can get to the Bavarian National Museum from the Platzl Hotel Munich in just 5 minutes by car on 20 minutes on foot. You can also get directly to the Bavarian National Museum in about 20 minutes by public transport by taking city bus 100 from Odeonsplatz towards Ostbahnhof.

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Bavarian Suite at Platzl Hotel Munich

Posted on 22. April 2013 by André Meier

Countless guests have already enjoyed the most exceptional room in the Platzl hotel, the Bavarian suite. This suite allows guests to experience the unique Bavarian atmosphere at first hand, offering a perfect blend of Bavarian tradition and modern comfort.

The features of the Bavarian Suite

Entering the foyer, guests cannot fail to notice the pleasant smell of oak and spruce. The 45m ² suite consisting of a parlour and a bedroom, is panelled with 150 year old wood and decorated with traditional carvings, endowing the suite with typical Bavarian splendour which, at the same time, reflects the history of the unique Bavarian culture.

The focus in the room is the Teissendorfer dresser. This was also made from 150-year-old spruce, a true copy of the historic original, which can be seen in the Bavarian National Museum in Munich.

The exquisite Bavarian style has also not been excluded in the bathroom where the pink portogallo marble bestows a special atmosphere on the room. Here your comfort has been catered to with a make-up mirror, hair dryer, heated towel rail, bath robes and a bathroom scale.

In order to enjoy Bavarian tradition yet not compromise on the modern, the Bavarian Suite also has a variety of technical facilities guaranteeing our guests the best comfort. In addition to the air conditioning and the two flat-screen TV’s with integrated radio and over 50 international channels, there is also a modern entertainment system with stereo, DVD player and HD blockbusters are available against payment. Guests can also enjoy a phone and a free internet connection via LAN and Wi-Fi as well as a laptop-size safe in every room of the Platzl Hotel in Munich.

At night, you sleep peacefully in 210 x 200, hand-carved bed in the bedroom which is on the quiet courtyard side, thanks to the electric blinds.

The Platzl Hotel Munich welcomes its guests in the Bavarian suite with a unique blend of authentic Bavarian tradition and modern living comfort and leaves no wishes unfulfilled. After an eventful day in the state capital here you can enjoy your stay to the fullest and relax.

The extras included

When booking the Bavarian suite the rich and varied breakfast buffet and the use of the internet terminal in the lobby are naturally included. You can also relax in the Moorish kiosk of the Platzl Hotel with sauna, aroma steam bath, foot bath and massage showers at no extra charge. A fitness room with treadmills and bikes is also available as well as a relaxation area with heated bench, light therapy and music for relaxation after exercising.

Prices and booking the Bavarian Suite

Be a guest at the Platz Hotel Munich and experience the Bavarian tradition in the Bavarian suite. Simply book online at the Platz Hotel Munich website or telephone 089/23 703 – 0. You can also find a 360 ° view of the suite on our website and let yourselves be convinced of the special ambience once again.

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The Platzl Hotel in Munich offers “Excellent Training” for trainees

Posted on 22. April 2013 by André Meier

On the 18th April 2013, the Platzl Hotel in Munich received an award for “Excellent Training” from the Association of Hotel Managers Germany (HDV). This makes the Platzl Hotel one of a small group of eight hotels in Germany that have received this award for the first time. This seal of approval endorses the highest quality of training in the hotel industry. The rating is initially valid for two years, after which the award must be reviewed at regular intervals. The accolade is audited and checked by the independent testing organisation DEKRA Certification GmbH, which is based in Stuttgart.

picture source: www.exzellente-ausbildung.de

Various attributes are tested for the certification:

  • 17 “must-have criteria”, which are mandatory to fulfil
  • 24 additional criteria with a total score of 240, of which at least 50% must be achieved to pass the audit
  • Submission of a letter written by the hotel itself, describing what distinguishes the hotel as an “excellent training company”

If you would like to receive further details about the properties that a hotel must have in order to be awarded the “Excellent Training” seal, please look here for a detailed overview.

The award was announced during the HDV Spring Conference at the beginning of April in Cologne. At this time, however, all ten trainees of the Platzl Hotel were with the hotel director, Folker Müller, on a training trip in Prague, so the director was unable to accept the certificate himself. Instead, the award was presented later by an HDV representative on the 18th April in Munich. The whole Platzl Hotel team is proud to be one of the few hotels in Germany to be honoured for their “Excellent Training”.

 

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The Munich Olympic Park

Posted on 15. March 2013 by André Meier

The Olympic Park in Munich is best known as the site of the Olympic Summer Games 1972. It remains the site of many sporting and cultural events. In addition, the park and its attractions are one of the most popular recreation areas both for locals and for tourists. Numerous sports like running, tennis, miniature golf, roller skating, swimming, soccer and boat rental make the Olympic Park primarily a place to meet and relax.

Picture source: flickr (calestyo)

The history of the park

Before being awarded the 1972 Olympic Games, the Oberwiesenfeld where the park now stands was home only to the ice rink and the TV tower. This is why it was considered the ideal place to construct the Olympic Park as part of the “The Green Olympics”. With this motto, this was the first time that an event of this size took an ecological perspective into consideration. More than forty years later, a green landscape dominated by the venues sets this park apart from others. Of particular interest is the design of the Olympic Stadium. Its roof is reminiscent of a spider web and has a very different feel from the other, more monumental Olympic venues.

Current design of the Olympic Park

Today, the Olympic Park is divided in two: on the one hand there is the Olympic site with venues such as the Olympic Stadium, the Olympiahalle and the Olympic Tower. The former venues still host various sporting events, and not just for club members. Since the building of the Allianz Arena, the Olympic Stadium is now almost exclusively used for cultural events. The 291.28 m high Olympic Tower later became the symbol of the Olympic Park and offers one of the best views of Munich. The second part of the park is the actual park area which at 160 ha is one of the largest in Munich. Here one can admire the Olympic mountain and Olympic lake. The 60 metre high Olympic mountain was once a pile of rubble from the Second World War, but from its peak one can enjoy a phenomenal view of Munich. The floating stage at the Olympic lake, the Theatron and the carillon are good places to relax or take a stroll. The park is also home to the Munich Olympic Walk of Stars where legends of sports, music and entertainment have been immortalized with their hands in concrete. Outside these two areas, the Olympic Village built in 1972 to house the athletes now serves an increasingly popular residential complex in Munich.

Picture source: flickr (kent wang)

Events in the Olympic Park

Numerous entertainment and music events, concerts, sporting events, exhibitions and fairs take place at the Olympic Park. For example, a large Easter party is planned for 31 March 2013 and Joe Cocker will be holding a concert on 12 April in the Olympic Stadium. More information about the events can be found at www.olympiapark.de.

Picture source: flickr (emdees)


Guided tours and sightseeing

The Olympic Park offers various guided tours that explore the facility. For example, you can take the tent roof tour of the Olympic Stadium and admire one of the most extraordinary pieces of architecture from above. You can also take the “Flying Fox” and sail 35 metres off the ground at the Olympic Stadium while enjoying a remarkable view of Munich. If you prefer to go on your own expedition, the audio tour provides informative support for your tour. For details on all tours, opening times and prices, please visit www.olympiapark.de.

From the Platzl Hotel you can reach the Olympic Park by car in about 15 minutes. Or you can take U3 towards Moosach from the Marienplatz station to Olympiazentrum and then walk 12 minutes to your destination.

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A Bavarian classic: Obatzda

Posted on 15. March 2013 by André Meier

Known by other names around Germany, the original Bavarian name for this cream cheese is Obatzda, a real speciality of the region and usually served as part of a light supper. Bavarians prefer eating it sprinkled with fresh chives while sipping a cold beer in a beer garden. Rye bread, pretzels and radishes are served as accompaniments.

The history of Obatzda

This regional delicacy was originally born out of necessity. Not wanting to throw away leftover cheese during times of food shortage, it was mixed with butter and spices and served again. There are many different recipe variants, depending on taste and availability of ingredients. Mostly, Camembert or another soft cheese used and the main spice is paprika. Obatzda was first offered at the Weihenstephan pub in Freising in the 1920s and this Freising invention has since become popular far beyond the borders of Bavaria. Obatzda has since become an essential part of Bavarian cuisine and is becoming more and more popular around the world.

Preparation

Als besondere Empfehlung des Hauses haben wir hier für Sie das Originalrezept:

Ingredients:
200 g cream cheese
200 g Brie or mature Camembert
200 g butter
ground or coarse caraway
salt, pepper and lots of paprika
onion rings and/or chives for garnish
Serve with fresh pretzels

Preparation:
Mash cheese with a fork, mix with the butter until a coarse, soft mass is formed.
Then mix in the caraway, salt, pepper and paprika.
Allow to stand for 30 minutes and season again if necessary.
Decorate the Obatzda with onion or chives and serve with pretzels on a wooden cheese board.

 

If don’t have the time to make it yourself, you can always come to the Wirtshaus Ayingers and let the staff bring the Obatzda to your table. Why not try the speciality on the sunny terrace?

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Springtime in the Platzl Hotel and its restaurants

Posted on 15. March 2013 by André Meier

The Pfistermühle Restaurant

The Pfistermühle restaurant offers a truly special Bavarian gourmet experience. We spoil you with up-scale Bavarian cuisine made with fresh local ingredients, paired with new creations and seasonal variety. Your journey through Bavarian cuisine will be accompanied with your choice of exquisite wines from Franconia and other top wine regions.

 

 

Enjoying the Bavarian ambience

The Pfistermühle restaurant is located next to the Platzl Hotel in the heart of Munich’s old town within the walls of a former mill. Particularly noteworthy is the history of the mill, as this was once the home of the Munich’s famous Hofpfisterei (royal bakery). When the Hofpfisterei moved to another building, the mill was turned into a restaurant when the Platzl Hotel was being constructed. The completed hotel and new Pfistermühle restaurant celebrated their joint opening in September 1988. At first, the restaurant was operated from the Platzl Hotel’s kitchens, but a year later it opened its own kitchen. With all the other 27 mills in the city long out of service, the Pfistermühle is the only one left in Munich with some of its building still preserved. Particularly noteworthy is the restored vaulted ceiling from the Renaissance period. Today, the 160 m² restaurant has four dining rooms, providing the right atmosphere for every taste.

Outdoor seating opening

As beautiful Munich is gradually freed from the many snows of winter and the first flowers stretch their petals, the Platzl Hotel and restaurants are getting ready for spring. You can enjoy the first warm rays of springtime sun in the Pfistermühle’s outdoor seating which will be open on nice days starting in mid-April. Thirty seats are available in the beer garden in front of the house. Also try the special seasonal offers. Inspiration from the current menu can be found at: www.pfistermuehle.de

Picture source: flickr (franksw80)

Wirtshaus Ayingers

The second restaurant, the Wirtshaus Ayingers, awaits your visit this spring with its traditional regional cuisine. Munich weisswurst, roast pork, fish from regional streams and six different types of beer – you’ll find everything your heart desires. The large outdoor area with 80 seats is already open whenever the weather’s nice. There you can enjoy the awakening spring and seasonal delicacies to their fullest. For the menu, please visit: www.ayingers.de

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Event Highlights: Spring 2013

Posted on 15. March 2013 by André Meier

The first rays of sunshine are bringing people young and old into the open air. The days are getting brighter, longer and warmer. As spring begins its return, people are drawn outside to stroll the streets and soak up the sun. And so it’s appropriate that the city of Munich is once again offering many opportunities this spring so that there will be no chance of being bored in your free time. Whether festivals, the arts, culture, sports or music events, everybody will have something special to experience this spring. Located in the centre of the old town, the Platzl Hotel München offers the ideal starting point for your day or evening out. We’ve put together a list of the activities and events you don’t want to miss this spring. If you have any other interesting tips or highlights, we’ll be glad to hear them in the blog comments!

Art Highlights: Re-opening of the Lenbachhaus and a new location for the Museum of Egyptian Art
Sports Highlights: BMW Open München
Events and Cultural Highlights: Eros Ramazzotti, Chris de Burgh, Joe Cocker, Meat Loaf, Bruce Springsteen, Auer “Mai” Dult, and the City Founders Festival

Events- & Cultural Highlights

Numerous world-famous music stars, the popular Auer “Mai” Dult and Munich’s dazzling birthday celebration are the event highlights in spring 2013:

  • Eros Ramazzotti – NOI World Tour 2013 (5 Apr 2013, Olympiahalle)

The Italian pop star is starting his big tour of Germany in Munich. The passionate Italian who has sold over 50 million records is finally returning after three years with his “NOI World Tour 2013″ and is presenting his new masterpiece “NOI”.

Picture source: flickr (Tamas Horvath)

 

  • Chris de Burgh (9 Apr 2013, Olympiahalle)

Finally, Chris de Burgh and his band are returning to their homeland. The live show will feature the spectacular cover versions of many classics from the two successful CDs “Footsteps 1 & 2″. Hits like “Let it Be” and “The long and winding road” by the Beatles, as interpreted by Chris de Burgh and his band will leave nothing to be desired and create a breath-taking atmosphere. In addition to the many current covers, the audience will also be treated to many classic hits by this unique artist who has sold over 45 million records worldwide.

  • Joe Cocker (12 Apr 2013, Olympiahalle)

Even after more than 40 years, Joe Cocker is still one of the world’s most successful vocal artists. After the success of his album “Hard Knocks”, released two years ago, Joe Cocker’s back on a world tour and is making a stop at Munich’s Olympiahalle on 12 April to present his incomparable follow-up album “Fire it up”. This album combines soul songs in the best Joe Cocker tradition paired with great powerful ballads and lively hits to make what is an all-round excellent work. Of course, die-hard Joe Cocker fans won’t have to go without classics such as “Up where we belong” and “Unchain my heart”.

  • Meat Loaf (30 Apr 2013, Olympiahalle)

Another great, unique voice says goodbye to the music business – Meat Loaf, is on his “Last at Bat Farewell” tour.
That will probably be your last chance to experience the unmistakable voice of Meat Loaf first hand where he’ll play his classic hits such as “Bat Out of Hell”. Meat Loaf is giving six German cities the honour of hosting his big farewell tour and presenting his many German fans a powerful parting gift.

  • Bruce Springsteen (26 May 2013, Olympic Stadium)

Bruce Springsteen’s live concerts have long been seen as the pinnacle of the rock concert experience. His passion and authenticity paired with the brilliance of his E Street Band make each of his shows an unforgettable event. In the roughly three-hour concert, your emotions will be moved beyond all ecstasy and you’ll see why each show ends with loud shouts of devotion from his fans. This concert from a unique artist with a band that’s playing better than ever is an absolute must for any fan of rock!

Picture source: flickr (Farm3)

  • Auer „Mai“ Dult (27 Apr – 5 May 2013)

Meandering through the flea market, enjoying the panoramic view of Munich all the way to the Alps from the top of the Ferris wheel, eating cotton candy: From 27 April to 5 May 2013, once again there’ll be a lot going on at the Mariahilfplatz in Munich’s Au district.
This year’s Maidult, the first Auer Dult of the year, the lively volksfest is joined with a traditional antiques market.
Picture source: flickr (Farm1)

The wares will be offered at this year’s Dult all around the Mariahilfkirche. Antiquers and lovers of car boot sales will love checking out the antiques, hand-made pottery and modern kitchen tools at the Auer Dult. Also, many traditional artisans will be demonstrating their unique crafts and skills. There will also be plenty of dining and snack options to help you make a day out of the Dult. A wide range of delicacies will be on offer as usual, from the classic Dampfnudel (steamed dumplings) and hearty bratwurst. Fun can be had on the many classic rides including bumper cars, the swinging boats, the Ferris wheel, the chain plane and “Big Bertha”.

  • City Founders Festival (15–16 Jun 2013)

Munich’s celebrating its 855th birthday! Once again, the popular Stadtgründungsfest (City Founders’ Festival) will take place in and around the Marienplatz. Many culinary delicacies and a wide range of entertainment with music, dancing and sports will fill the city centre streets with people. This year will also include a market for traditional Bavarian costumes, a crafts village and, of course, a wide range of games to guarantee two days of fun for all ages.
Like every year, the Marienplatz will once again be turned into a large beer garden with a special open-air program and the Odeonsplatz will host the crafts village where various artisans will demonstrate their unique skills.

Arts & Culture

Culture and tradition are the cornerstones of everyday life in Munich. Also this spring, interesting exhibitions and new openings await your visit:

  • Reopening of the Lenbachhaus (8 May 2013)

After three years of renovation, the world-famous Lenbachhaus will reopen on Königsplatz. Enjoy a unique exhibition of numerous galleries, including the return of its collection of early 20th century Blauer Reiter artists works which have been on tour in Japan and Vienna during the renovations. Large, wide windows provide plenty of natural light and the new barrier-free rooms allow art lovers a carefree stroll through the many galleries.

Picture source: flickr (Farm9)

  • The new Museum of Egyptian Art (10 Jun 2013)

The Museum of Egyptian Art has relocated and will open its doors on 10 June in the space under the School for Film and Television (HFF) at Gabelsbergerstraße 35 at Königsplatz. Covering an area of 1800 m², some 2,000 objects will be on display for lovers of ancient history. Another 400 m² have been reserved for various special exhibitions. Go on your own archaeological expedition and immerse yourself in the mysterious world of Egyptian temples and pharaohs’ tombs.

Sports

Humans have loved sport for centuries. The BMW Open will be a sporting highlight in Munich this spring.

  • BMW Open (27 Apr – 4 May 2013 – Tennis Club MTTC Iphitos, Aumeisterweg 10)


At the same time as the Belgrade Open 2013 and the Estoril Open in Portugal, this year’s BMW Open will kick off Munich’s sports calendar for May. German pro tennis players are the primary guests, including Tommy Haas, who won the ATP World Tour 250 on sand for a prize of almost €400,000.
With 32 athletes slugging it out for the title, the BMW Open offers audience members to watch notable qualifying games of many up-and-coming German talents. As the first of the five ATP tournaments in Germany in the beautiful grounds of the Tennis Club MTTC Iphitos (Aumeisterweg 10, 80805 München), all tennis fans will have a great time and will certainly be able to get their favourite player’s autograph.

Picture source: flickr (6footplus)

 

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Munich’s most famous speciality: Weisswurst

Posted on 18. February 2013 by André Meier

The weisswurst (white sausage) is one of the best known and most traditional dishes of Munich. It is traditionally prepared early in the morning and as is served later that same morning with the first morning pint with sweet mustard, pretzels and weissbier (wheat beer). The recipe for weisswurst is kept strictly under wraps by the city’s butchers. The only detail that is known is that it must consist of at least 51% veal.

picture source: flickr (thomas pix)

The History of the Munich Weisswurst

According to a legend, the weisswurst was created out of necessity in the tavern “Zum Ewigen Licht” on Munich’s Marienplatz on 22 February 1857. The landlord at the time, Josef (Sepp) Moser, wanted to prepare his popular veal sausages for that morning’s late breakfast trade, but found to his horror that he had run out of the tender sheep intestines needed for the recipe.

Because he did not want to keep his hungry guests waiting, he decided that instead of the usual sheep casings, he would have to make do with stuffing firmer pigs’ intestines with the sausage meat. He feared that these sausages would burst if fried, so he first steeped them in hot water and then served them in a tureen. The guests were so excited by the new creation that Moser began making the sausages this way every morning thereafter.

This may well be only a legend, as it’s not quite certain if this is how the sausage’s history really happened. Other sources report that there was already a French recipe in the fourteenth century for pre-boiled sausages.

Eating Weisswurst

There are many ways of removing the meat from the casing — which way is the right way has been argued for centuries. One option is to “doodle” on the weisswurst by taking the sausage in one’s hand and sucking the meat from the casing. Another option would be to eat the sausage with fork and knife where you slice along the length of the sausage and delicately peel away the casing.

By tradition, the weisswurst is offered in most pubs only until noon because it was prepared fresh every morning and there were no refrigeration facilities in the past. This tradition is not so strictly followed nowadays and so you can enjoy weisswurst forbreakfast at the Platzl Hotel and then have them again later in the day at Ayingers Inn  until 5:30 pm.

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The Platzl Gassen in Munich’s Old Town

Posted on 18. February 2013 by André Meier

Right in the heart of Munich, in the immediate vicinity of the Platzl Hotel are the medieval Platzl Gassen, which together with numerous idyllic courtyards characterise the old part of Bavaria’s capital.

The 1980s saw not only the construction of the Platzl Hotel on the Platzl, but also the renovation of one of the oldest architectural ensembles in Munich at the corner of the Platzl and Pfisterstrasse. The Platzl Gassen which were part of this development celebrated their grand opening on 25 October 1988. Particularly noteworthy are the houses at Platzl nos. 2 and 3 with their famous “Ohrwascheln”, asymmetrical roof extensions for attaching cranes. The properties show the close construction of buildings typical of Munich both past and present, with deep, narrow plots with several parts to each building.

This area has been vibrant for many centuries. Countless artists, craftsmen and civil servants all once lived and worked in the Platzl Gassen; even the powerful Degenberger family had its residence here for a while. Today throngs of tourists flock through these streets daily on their way to the most famous beer hall in the world, the Hofbräuhaus. In addition to the Hofbräuhaus, select stores, original souvenir shops as well as local and international restaurants have all found homes in the Platzl Gassen. For example, you can enjoy excellent dining at the Schuhbecks Restaurant and then learn how to prepare these delicious recipes at its cooking school.

 

A special tip: As you take a leisurely stroll through the narrow lanes, make sure to turn from the Platzl into Pfisterstraße, where you can take a look at the Alter Münzhof (Old Mint Courtyard), one of the most beautiful Renaissance arcaded courtyards in Germany.

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