Red Lion Tavern

Red Lion Tavern in Silver Lake, is a longstanding German beer garden offering authentic cuisine and an extensive beer selection

Some places in Los Angeles feel more like memories than mere establishments: iconic, unchanging, and ever-welcoming. The Red Lion Tavern is one such local classic. Nestled in the heart of a neighborhood known for its cool, indie spirit, this German-style biergarten has been pouring pints and serving schnitzel since before I was born.

It had been years since I last visited, back when Sara and I would settle into the cozy interior for long conversations after work. So when Corretta and I penciled in a relaxed weekend lunch, I didn’t hesitate in suggesting the Red Lion. It had everything I wanted: beer, snacks, and that effortlessly chill energy that makes conversation flow as easily as the drinks.

I began with a pour of the HACKER-PSCHORR DUNKEL (5% – roasty and toasty malt flavor mixed with some brown sugar caramel, and toffee sweetness). This was a great sipping beer to go with the conversation.

As our small bites arrived, I transitioned to something lighter: the WARSTEINER VERUM (4.8% – A refreshing, pale golden pilsner with a clean taste that is balanced with mild hoppy bittern and barley malt). Clean and refreshing, it paired beautifully with the salty, savory flavors of our shared plates.

We shared the POTATO PANCAKES (Made to order, served with sour cream, applesauce, and cranberry sauce) and the FRIED GERMAN PICKLES (Battered and deep fried slices of German pickles, served with ranch dressing).

Overall, my visit to the Red Lion Tavern was a flavorful escape – a delightful taste of Germany tucked right into the heart of Los Angeles.

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