Estabrook Beer Garden

When my sister first told me that an awesome new beer garden opened in Milwaukee, I didn't fully understand how special this place is until I visited.  

This is the real deal.  A traditional German beer garden in a public park.  And a beautiful park at that.

They serve four drafts from the German brewery, Hofbräu, including Original, Hefe Weizen, Dunkel, and a rotating specialty draft.  They also serve some Wisconsin favorites like Lake Front.  The beer is cold, fresh, and served in two sizes:  1/2 Liter and Liter.  Cash only.

The scenery is beautiful. There is a large river that runs right next to the beer garden and you can walk down a path to get closer.  Many people fish nearby and I saw a guy catch a small fish while watching.

The beer is only served in glass steins.  They charge you a $5 deposit per stein and refund you the money when you leave.  There are signs posted warning you not to take the glassware home with you, that they are NOT for sale.  If you do take the stein home,your photo could appear on their website as the person who stole a stein.  Don't be that person.

My fellow Chicago Yelpers:  how do we get a beer garden like this in Chicago?  A scenic spot in Lincoln Park near Lake Michigan would be a huge hit.

It is also BYOF, or bring your own food.  They serve delicious pretzels and brats, but you are allowed to bring in your own picnic or take out food.  I recommend bringing burgers from Kopps, since there is no seating there anyway.

I can't wait to go back.

Beer gardening at it's best.

I frequently run/ride along the Oak Leaf trail and never really noticed this oasis until a friend mentioned there was a beer garden in the area. After my first stop of sitting outside, people watching, listening to polka, and having a liter of Hofbräu dunkel, I have fallen in love. There is nothing that I associate more with summer than being able to enjoy the outdoors while having a cold one. There is plenty of seating here. But depending on the night, lines can be long!

It's a little pricey, but you're paying for quality beer. I guess they've had issues with people stealing the glassware - expect to pay a $5 deposit on top of your beverage. You'll get it back at the end of the night. Food is also a little on the high end. Mustard with your pretzel is a little extra but worth it if you're looking for a small kick.

I definitely recommend this place if you're looking to rehydrate after a long bike ride or if you're looking to meet up with friends. Bring your dogs too! This place is dog friendly and seeing as I don't have one for myself, I would like to meet yours!

This is like the melting pot of the city.

No one cares if there are kids screaming and running around playing soccer.   For that matter no cares how many stiens you have thrown back.  It kind of reminds me of the good 'ole days, when you had neighborhood block parties.  Everyone is just in a good mood and loving life.  

The beer is outstanding.  The pretzles are from Germany.  They do have wine.  Let me suggest for those that are true beer drinkers, myself being one....  DO NOT ask for no foam.  You will be scorned and nearly booted from the park.  I know must of you would never dream of such a faux pas, but for those who may be a little off their rocker, like I am, you have been warned.  Had I not had pretty tough skin, I may have left with my tail behind my legs in tears.  Lesson learned.

The live music is insanely enjoyable.  I will be back again and again and again.