Von Bismarck

Von Bismarck in Reno serves Eastern and Northern German fare in a beautiful, industrial-chic space

When I planned a trip to Reno, my friend Sonni, who moved there 8 years ago from Los Angeles, started rapid fire recommending spots for me to try. A fellow food focused person, we share similar tastes and desired experience. So, when she enthusiastically recommended that I try a local German spot, Von Bismarck, I scheduled it on my to do list.

After a wonderful day of waking up at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe and enjoying the views at Palisades Tahoe, I was – in short – starving.

Arriving at Von Bismarck, I was at once shocked and pleased. The restaurant was absolutely gorgeous. I did not expect something so trendy and beautiful in Reno, Nevada.

Settling at the bar, I browsed the menu before ordering a flight of beer:

First up was the OCCIDENTAL BREWING CO’S  EXPORT LAGER (ABV – 6.2%). Surprisingly smooth and refreshingly light, especially for a German-style beer.

Then, the KÖNIG-BRAUEREI’S  TH. KONIG ZWICKL (ABV –  5.3%). This was an easy-drinking, light-bodied beer with a bit more depth and flavor than expected. It tasted smooth, approachable, and pleasantly balanced.

Next up, was BRAUHAUS SION’S KÖLSCH (ABV –  5%). This delivered a noticeably bolder flavor profile. It was rich, well-balanced, and full of character. Overall, it was a standout and satisfying brew.

Finally, I tried the SCHÖFFERHOFER GRAPEFRUIT HEFEWEIZEN (ABV 2.5%). Ever since I had my first radler in Berlin—specifically the Berliner Kindl Natur Radler Zitrone during the Evening Food Tour with Fork & Walk Tours Berlin – I’ve known that fruit-forward beers are my thing.

When the bartender – Daniel – mentioned they didn’t have a lemon-infused beer but did have one with grapefruit, I was all in. And I’m so glad I was – this ended up being my favorite of the day. Light, refreshing, and bursting with citrusy brightness, it instantly brought me back to sipping radlers in Germany. I saved it for last so I could truly savor every sip.

I also enjoyed the HOUSE PICKLES (seasonal selection) The peppers, asparagus, green beans and pickles were refreshing. I could taste that they were house made.

The well recommended SCHNITZEL SANDO (Persian cucumber, pickled onion, arugula, buttermilk dressing, country loaf) was absolutely outstanding.

Overall, my time at Von Bismarck was well spent. I left satisfied and happy.

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