Oktoberfest at Hofbrauhaus
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As Oktoberfest approaches, there's no better place in Melbourne to immerse yourself in the Bavarian spirit than Hofbrauhaus, nestled in the heart of Chinatown. This year marks the 56th anniversary of Hofbrauhaus' Oktoberfest celebration, promising an unforgettable experience filled with authentic German food, live music, and, of course, an abundance of beer!
This year’s celebration is bigger than ever, with more than 16 imported premium German beers, including three special Oktoberfest brews. Hofbrauhaus' incredible beer selection boasts the finest Bavarian brews, from crisp lagers to rich Dunkels, ensuring beer lovers have plenty to choose from. The festivities kick off every Thursday through Sunday from 6:30 PM with Hofbrauhaus' legendary Haus band and a special Oktoberfest band setting the perfect backdrop for the occasion. For those looking for a daytime celebration, Hofbrauhaus has added a Saturday day session from 12:30 PM—ideal for anyone wanting to experience a day sesh with a German twist.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. Oktoberfest at Hofbrauhaus offers the opportunity to win free beer for an entire year! If you’re up for the challenge, join the Stein Holding competition (for both men and women), where participants test their strength by holding a full Stein with a fully outstretched arm. The longest holder wins a coveted HB free beer card, and the competitions take place during every band session.
Beyond the beer, the food at Hofbrauhaus is just as memorable. For those craving a taste of Germany’s finest, the menu is packed with hearty, authentic dishes that would make any Bavarian proud.
Start your meal with the Brezel Schnitzel, a marinated chicken breast that’s crumbed with Brezel (traditional German pretzels), served alongside crispy Bratkartoffeln (pan-fried potatoes), fresh slaw, and a rich Dunkel-Bier sauce for a perfect balance of flavor and crunch.
If you're after a vegetarian option, the Schwammerl & Knödel Mushroom Dumplings won't disappoint. These pan-fried traditional bread dumplings are served with a creamy mushroom sauce, garnished with chives, providing a rich and satisfying bite.
For the ultimate Oktoberfest experience, dive into the Schweinshaxe (Pork Knuckle), a true Bavarian delicacy. This crispy, tender pork knuckle comes with mashed potatoes, Sauerkraut, mustard, and Dunkel-Bier sauce—a dish guaranteed to satisfy any appetite.
To finish your meal on a sweet note, indulge in Hofbrauhaus' famous Apfelstrudel. This warm apple strudel, spiced with rum, is served with vanilla bean ice cream and currant purée, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
