It has been a few years since we have eaten at the Bier Garden. I should have realized what we were in for when, on a Friday night, there was no crowd and no one ahead of us in line to be seated. We almost left when we entered as my wife cannot stand the smell of Fabuloso cleaner and that smell was overwhelming as soon as we entered. We were immediately seated just inside the entry-way dining room. Unfortunately the door closer does not work and every time the staff passed thru the door it slammed with a loud noise that was more than annoying. It is difficult to believe that folks who work there have not learned how to ease the door shut or found some way to cushion the blow.
With some dietary needs, we asked about gluten-free options and the hostess offered an allergy information sheet. This was immediately forgotten and only arrived after we had ordered. However, that was just as well because the print was too small to read. Service was slow. As such it gave more than enough time to study all the decorative items and surroundings. Thankfully the A/C made for a pleasant temperature. However, it was less than appetizing to see the black stains surrounding the vent. Had there been a wood stove, I would assume that it was soot from smoke but around an A/C duct, it only brought black mildew to mind.
As far as the meal, my schnitzel was about 1/4 in thick and so tough it had to be cut with a knife. My wife's brussel sprout salad was just that. None of the other ingredients were there except for one sliver of a radish. The dressing was almost absent. 90% of it was left. "Need a box to go?" "No thanks."
Wish we had read the reviews before we went.
The gluten free corned beef reuben sandwich was amazing. The atmosphere is cozy and the staff is friendly, funny, and patient. Even the patrons seemed really happy to be there.
The coffee is clearly high quality, the food is absolutely delicious and the atmosphere is relaxing. They have great customer service and plenty of options for those who are vegan or with gluten allergies/intolerances.
We will definitely be coming here for our coffee fix everytime we are in town. Highly recommend!
The food is terrific, the staff soooo friendly, and they accommodated our very late request with grace. They even have gluten free beer even if it isn't Red Bridge.