Beer is a staple of American life, and Oktoberfest spans continents to bring beer lovers together in an epic celebration of food, fun, and festivities! If you’re not headed to Munich this year, don’t worry! New York City Oktoberfest brings the annual autumn celebration to you without missing a beat. The best beer gardens across the city each offer a unique experience that will make your celebration worthwhile. Here are the top picks for a memorable Oktoberfest.
Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden, Astoria
This authentic, Czech-inspired establishment is the oldest in New York City. Boasting a gargantuan tap list and a diverse array of European-style cuisine, this beer garden is entirely outside, making it one of the city’s largest outside drinking spots. The annual Oktoberfest here features live polka music and cheap draft specials you won’t want to miss.
Radegast Hall & Biergarten, Williamsburg
One of Brooklyn’s most popular beer halls can be found on the north side of Williamsburg. Oktoberfest celebrations here are lively and typically include mug-holding contests, ceremonial keg tapping, and more. The full bar with over a dozen specialty taps is complimented by a top-notch wine list and a full dinner menu with the juiciest sausage meals. Communal seating is offered to accommodate large groups.
Loreley, Lower East Side
Loreley boasts a heated outdoor setup with a varied and generous assortment of alcohol- including twelve German-influenced imported taps. A delicious array of seasonally rotated cocktails is also available for patrons to peruse, alongside a German-heavy menu including wurst, schnitzels, kase, and pretzels. Loreley's Oktoberfest runs the entire month of October so be sure to schedule your visit between mid-September and October 31st.
Black Forest Brooklyn, Boreum Hill
The Boreum Hill location of this renowned Oktoberfest destination mixes a casual vibe with authentic decorations and a live Oompah band. Both of Black Forest Brooklyn’s locations will be hosting Oktoberfest activities, like mug-holding competitions and costume contests, through October 21st. Indoor seating and covered outdoor seating are available at both locations and tickets start at $15.
Bricks & Hops, Mott Haven
This black-owned, outdoor beer garden sports a spacious outdoor patio with shade that’s open to customers six days a week. Bricks & Hops carries thirty craft beers on draft, and twenty in cans while providing a full kitchen open for lunch and dinner. Happy hour starts at 4 p.m. and includes fan favorites like the Coconut Margarita or Hennesy Colada.
Bierhaus, Midtown East
Bierhaus specializes in a Bavarian-themed beer hall right near Grand Central Station. This Midtown beer garden provides 24 taps and is open for lunch and dinner. Bierhaus’ communal seating, 50-foot balcony, and glass ceiling lend it a luxurious and charming feeling unlike anything else you’ll tend to find in the city. Authentic German cuisine paired with live music and seven different variations of crisp Hofbräu beer makes for a must-see celebration.
The Bronx Brewery, Port Morris
Local, high-quality ales and German fare are ubiquitous at this South Bronx location. Over twelve years of business have allowed The Bronx Brewery to become a community hub through good food, superb drinks, and hosting group activities in their large backyard. Live DJ performances during Oktoberfest and a Taproom complete the vibes here.
