There’s nothing like the smell of hops and schnitzel on a chilly fall afternoon. Prost! — an authentic German beer hall east of the Capitol — is the perfect spot to sip a stein with friends.
I remember falling in love with the concept of German beer halls back in fall of 2022. I was visiting a friend in Düsseldorf, and it was game day in the capital city. I watched the waiters in awe as they weaved across the rowdy floor, performing a balancing act of five pitchers with ease. The hall was crowded and Fortuna Düsseldorf fans were tangled in red scarves, hollering their team chants with pride. The experience was hectic, homely and beautiful.
After trying multiple German style restaurants in the area, Prost! is about as close as it gets to an authentic German beer hall in Madison.
Entering the grand doorway was like stepping into a time machine. The beer hall opened its doors in 2022, but is located in a historic 19th century church with a stunning interior. On the ceiling is a bright fresco that surrounds a central chandelier, and lining the walls are intricate gothic style lanterns that help build a warm and inviting ambience. Colorful stained glass windows also set the mood for an afternoon of gulping down a few godlike beers.
Some of their best drinks are listed under their Oktoberfest specials. The Weihenstephaner Festbier is a banger to drink and a mouthful to order — golden and full-bodied. If you’re lucky, it might be served in a glass mug the shape of liederhosened buns. The “Spaten Oktoberfest” is also a highlight. This smooth Märzen-style lager is malty with a crisp finish and perfect for fall.
If you’re feeling hungry, order the pretzel in either the full or half size. The pretzel is easily their most exciting menu item, and the full size is enormous — more than enough for five people. This platter comes with their signature warm beer cheese and an option of three different mustards that gave me a craving only satiated by a second round at Prost! a week later.
Of course, no German restaurant is complete without wursts. I took the Käsekrainer Wurst that combines a flavorful mix of pork, veal and beef. This wurst was an excellent option and rivals some of the best in Madison, which is a high bar.
Prost! offers a more elevated experience when compared to its local counterparts like Essen Haus. The atmosphere tends to be less boisterous, but the hall is loud and full of energy. Whether you’re watching Arsenal matches or UW-Madison football games, Prost! provides a great opportunity for sports viewing with tv-screens all around the bar.
Prost! is a must try if you’re near the Capital. This gothic church turned beer hall in the heart of Madison captures the spirit of Munich like no other.
