Mannheim is a city in southwest Germany, on the Rhine and Neckar rivers. The baroque 18th-century Mannheim Palace houses historical exhibits, plus the University of Mannheim. In the grid-like center, called the Quadrate, Marktplatz Square features a baroque fountain with statues. Planken shopping street leads southeast to the Romanesque Water Tower, in the art nouveau gardens of Friedrichsplatz. So let’s be honest, Mannheim is no one’s must-visit German city? But it has all the key ingredients of a "gemütlich" weekend break: with an expanding selection of boutique hotels, picturesque sights, a hipster neighbourhood, and a jaw-dropping new look for the Kunsthalle and of course some upcoming beer bars! Its century old gallery of modern and contemporary art occupies an entire block and last summer was given a major overhaul.
Getting there: Fly to Frankfurt am Main (FRA) – with Lufthansa (lufthansa.com), British Airways (ba.com) or Ryanair (ryanair.com) from London Stansted and Manchester – then take the train from the airport to Mannheim central station (30 minutes) simples. Updated July 2022
Privatbrauerei Eichbaum, Kafertaler Strasse 170
Open: Mon-Fri 10.00-18:00 Sat 10.00-17.00
If you like Eichbaum, this is your place in Mannheim. This large regional brewery that has been going since 1679 has a nice restaurant/biergarten gives you the opportunity to eat and drink in the shadow of the actual brewery! A renovated space that makes it feel cosy and small considering the size of the brewery, with dark wood and plenty of seating inside and out. Service is decent, some of the friendlier Germans seem to be in Mannheim! Probably not jaded by an over-abundance of tourists. Selection is all Eichbaum, but a nice smattering of styles of German biers, plus they have a "craft" range called Hop Monkeys. Decent spot to hit up for lunch. They also offer tours by appointment.
Taproom Jungbusch, Beilstr. 4
Open: Tues-Sun 18:00-00:00 or later! Closed: Mon
A revelation a little off the beaten path near the college on the edge of Baden-Württemberg as far as taprooms go, a "purist", untied craft tap house! Set in an interestingly mixed quarter of town, with a booming burger bar across the street and nightshops that stock a few surprises around the corner. A solid, well-curated selection on 12 taps, 3-4 of which house beers (Pils, APA, IPA, Weizen) brewed at Haardt and a good, US-leaning ale mix of up and coming German craft (Emma Kuckucksrot Freiburg, American All-Stars Bamberg, ÜberQuell). There is a large seating area, much like an American craft beer bar, full of fun locals, providing an all round relaxed atmosphere. Service is good, friendlier than normal, and knowledgeable about the beer. Can definitely recommend a visit if in the area.
Boland‘s, O4 1
Open: Tue-Sun 07.00-00.00 Closed: Mon
A city centre cafe serving coffee and cake, but with 24 craft beer taps! All self service, just get a card select a glass and pour as much or as little as you like, so great for beer "ticking" Some of the staff are nice some are typical old school German! Quite modern inside and street tables and chairs there is quite a cool ambience about this place though. It’s a small city there are not many options to go at so well worth a visit.
Cafe Vienna, S1 15
Open: Daily 10.00 - 02.00
Looking for a place where it doesn't matter who you are and where you're from, where everyone is just having a good time, Café Vienna is the place to be. A great alternative, young place to go for drinks or food. Cool decoration with posters and art on the walls. During the day it’s relaxed and in the evening it’s often full. They do a nice breakfast selection where you can choose the portion size and what meats, breads, spreads and cheeses you want. Dinner options including burgers and schnitzels. Only four taps serving good standard beer's and a few bottles but nothing out of the ordnary but they do a good cocktail selection. (I'm told)? The staff are very friendly and always happy to serve you. One of the best place to be in Mannheim for the younger crowd.
Alter Simpl, P4 8
Open: Mon - Sat 11.00 - 23.00 Sun 12.00 - 22.00
A bar restaurant where you do not have to eat, drinkers are most welcome! An excellent selection albeit of just Eichbaum brew's, all on tap. Outside on the pavement are tables and chairs under large umbrellas. Inside is like a traditional tavern, lots of dark wood with nooks and crannies. Good traditional German food including a Spargel menu during the asparragus season. Friendly and efficient staff. Well worth a look in.
Die Fette Wutz, N6 3
Open: Tues - Sat 12.00 - 22.00 Closed: Sun - Mon
A great American style BBQ Joint! So inside its just as you would expect, large tables and bench style seats designed for sharing "meat" and a place to wash your hands! The Holy Trinity (rib, brisket, pulled pork) is the house special, add beans and a salad and away you go! The beer selection is eclectic to say the least from UK standard blands to the German usual suspects, but hey your here for the "meat feast" so a Pils is all you need anyway. Price was fair considering quality and time-intensive prep involved. The staff are friendly and service fast. I would definitely recommend.
Bistro Binokel, O7 1
Open: Daily 09.00-01.00
A bistro/cafe/bar in the middle of town. It has a patio with large umbrellas outside on the street. Inside it is like a traditional German bar, lots of dark wood and traditional wall hangings and murils. A good place to try beers from Welde. A little upmarket perhaps, but you do not have to eat, drinkers are welcome, service is also good and it is relatively well priced. The menu has a varietie of coffee creations, plus Tapas, canapes, small finger foods. But also provide classic Germanfood like Bratwurst and Italian food like Spaghetti in pesto sauce.
Upper Glass - Craft Beer Shop & Warehouse, R6 6
Open: Mon - Sat 12:00 - 18:00 Closed: Sun
A craft beer shop located a little off the beaten track away from the main shopping streets in Mannheim. The Beers are arranged by region rather than style. They have an excellent selection of international craft beers and always some beers on tap to taste and take away. The service is very friendly and knowledgeable. Prices fairly typical. Definitely worth a visit if in the area, would be surprised if you find a better place anywhere in the region?
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