Opened by Rene Zimmerman in 2019, Siegfried’s Restaurant and Beergarden (1869 Fruitville Rd.) offers a taste of the Rhineland. Those who have visited the Rhineland know that Siegfried’s is the real McCoy. For those who haven’t, you can trust its 100 percent German authenticity. From the menu to the service, nothing has been Americanized.
“We really want everyone to have an experience, not just eat and leave,” says Zimmerman. The Beergarden outside invites guests to linger long after their meals, hoisting beer steins and mingling with new friends. The six outdoor tables can comfortably seat a community of eight to 10 people per table, while the Florida cottage offers more intimate seating options inside.
Legendary German food and beer
Siegfried’s offers legendary German cuisine—literally. The German legend of Siegfried, a dragon-slayer and princess-saver, inspired the restaurant’s namesake. Dishes like Siegfried’s Dragon’s Blood (tomato soup) pay homage to the ancient German tale.
But what’s dragon blood without dragon meat? The Dusseldorf Senfrostbraten has that covered. It’s a signature dish from the Rhineland: a New York strip steak cooked in a cheese, mustard, and breadcrumb crust, served with homemade fried onions and gravy. This hearty entrée pairs perfectly with any of Siegfried’s beer offerings, such as bitburger pilsner, hefeweizen, or the American Siegfried ale house brew.
During Oktoberfest season, Siegfried’s serves quintessential Oktoberfest beers ranging from 12-ounce pours to 2-liter steins. All guests who order a liter get a boot. If you have five boots, your sixth boot is free, earning you a place on the auspicious “boot wall.” While Siegfried’s rolls out special beers for Oktoberfest season, they don’t host a special event for the occasion. As Zimmerman puts it, “It’s Oktoberfest here every day.”
