A Taste of Austria in Beverly Hills

Of the many as of late, BierBeisl is the only one that can boast a menu of Viennese schnitzel, traditional sausages, and Austrian desserts made with real cocoa beans and seasonal fruits. 

But if you want to eat at this Little Santa Monica Boulevard spot, be sure to make a reservation because the restaurant fills up quickly. Whether dining at a regular table, squeezing in at the Schnapps Bar or taking a seat at the "Stammtisch"—a communal table common in Austria—guests appear to be in no hurry to leave.

Opening in February, BierBeisl has already made an impact on the local culinary scene. Zagat has named it one of the 10 hottest new restaurants in Los Angeles.

Also making a mark is BierBeisl's executive chef Bernhard Mairinger. At 6'7" tall, he is not hard to spot in the restaurant's tiny open kitchen where he cooks the majority of food being served.

First-time visitors to BierBeisl should begin with an Austrian beer from the likes of Stiegl or Trumer Pils. Not a beer drinker? Then order one of the restaurant's authentic Austrian Schnapps or wines. Enjoy your drink over a starter dish of sausage. The Käsekrainer offers a truly traditional taste—a light, peppery blend infused with Swiss cheese that is flavorful without being overpowering. But be careful when you cut into a Käsekrainer as hot squirts of Swiss cheese are likely to pop out of the sausage.

For a main dish, the Vienna schnitzel is hands down the way to go. You can order it as veal, pork or turkey—though veal is the most traditional option. If you do choose veal, prepare yourself for tender meat flattened out, battered and fried to golden-brown perfection. The aroma is nearly as good as the flavor. The batter is rich yet delicate and perfectly crisp, offering a delicious outer layer to compliment the choice meat inside. Try it with the potato salad, another authentic dish that BierBeisl prepares just right.

If you do have room for an after-dinner treat (and even if you don't) there are dessert options for almost every sweet tooth. Order the Sachertorte, a famous Viennese spongy chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam in the middle and dark chocolate icing. If you prefer a more fruity dessert, the Apfelstrudel is a popular pastry that is sweet, flaky and the perfect finale to any traditional Austrian meal.

What is your favorite dish at BierBeisl? Tell us in the comments section below.

BierBeisl is located at 9669 Little Santa Monica Blvd. Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday noon to midnight, Saturday 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., Sunday 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. and closed Wednesday. To make a reservation call 310-271-7274.

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