EXPERIENCE BAVARIAN FOOD IN THE HEART OF WASHINGTON

Nestled in the north-central Cascade Mountains of Washington State, Leavenworth is a perfectly crafted Bavarian mountain town that offers authentic German charm. From the architecture and events to traditional beer and food, visitors have a unique opportunity to explore the culture and flavors of the historic downtown. And if you’re craving brats, beers, pretzels, and of course schnitzel, Leavenworth has it all. Here’s a list of some of our favorite places to satisfy that craving:

ANDREAS KELLER RESTAURANT

Opened in 1989, the Andreas Keller Restaurant was founded by David Forchemer, a local resident and restaurateur who was eager to bring his passion for Bavarian cuisine to life. The restaurant ownership was passed down to Heidi Forchemer in 1995 and today the local family hub celebrates more than three decades of serving the Leavenworth community. The restaurant’s German head chef, Anita, creates traditional homemade Bavarian recipes served with imported craft beer. If you’re looking for a hearty and filling meal, order the Andreas Keller Sampler, a large platter with smoked “Kassler” pork, Polish sausage, German Wiener, fried potatoes, Weinkraut, and red cabbage. Andreas Keller is the hot spot for nightly live music and a hearty helping of Gemütlichkeit (friendliness).

THE GINGERBREAD FACTORY

For visitors with a sweet tooth, The Gingerbread Factory is the place to be. Opened in 1988, the small store is instantly recognizable by its charming exterior, which was designed to resemble a real-life gingerbread house. The freshly baked gourmet cookies, cinnamon rolls, scones, and famous gingerbread houses are delicious for any holiday, or the perfect spot for an afternoon treat. Look out for this memorable house on Front Street, and order the traditional Lebkrucken Herz’l Gingerbread Cookie Heart Necklace.

MÜNCHEN HAUS

With the vision of an outdoor German eatery, München Haus was conceived as a gathering place to enjoy the company of all your friends and family. People visit this beer garden to indulge in a charbroiled Bavarian sausage with a side of famous apple cider sauerkraut and their haus-made specialty German Curry and Jalapeño Hornet Sauces. Staying focused on sustainability efforts, München Haus’ decisions and actions are all centered around the growth and change of the Leavenworth community.

COLCHUCK’S

A place that welcomes all, Colchuck’s is the perfect stop before, during, or after checking out all the must-see sites of Leavenworth. Owned by a father and son duo that is committed to focusing on German cuisine, Colchuck’s boasts a broad menu of classic German options, the best burger in the valley, tasty cocktails, and a large selection of beers and ciders from the Pacific Northwest as well as European imports.

RHEIN HAUS

Looking for a good time in an authentic Bavarian atmosphere? Rhein Haus has the largest Biergarten in Leavenworth, with a fantastic view and the perfect spot to hoist a pint of beer with your friends. This multi-level building features three bars and is decorated with items from around the world. Check this spot out for brats, beer and giant pretzels.

LEAVENWORTH SAUSAGE GARTEN

Opened in 2011, the Leavenworth Sausage Garten was transformed from a simple parking lot into an all-season outdoor sausage and beer garden. The outdoor patio makes for a memorable experience while you indulge in artisanal housemade sausages and local European beers, all while enjoying live music and a festiva atmosphere. Depending on the season, visitors get a chance to taste unique old-world German recipes using locally sourced ingredients.

LUDWIGS GASTHAUS

A place that extends a warm welcome to all who come through their front doors, Ludwigs Gasthaus is an authentic German biergarten with an upbeat atmosphere making for a memorable Bavarian experience. Famous for its Schweinshax’n and for preparing more German dishes than any restaurant on the West Coast, Ludwigs is also known for its Saturday Polka Nights, complete with live accordion music to enjoy with your meal.

No visit to Leavenworth is complete without a traditional German meal, drink, or treat – or all of the above – and this list will make sure your taste buds don’t miss out on the authenticity.