Beer Garden in Astoria, how is it? (New York, York: company, price)

[NooYowkur81]

Has anyone been to the Beer Garden in Astoria. How is it? Is it worth the trip?

[pureistheword]

I only went many years ago, some friends band was playing in the outdoor part. seemed like a nice place, outdoor yard area is spacious with picnic tables. you might be able to google some photos

[Moth]

I lived in New York for years including a stint in Astoria. And for some insane reason, I never went there. However, I have heard good things about it.

I resided in Germany for a time and the beer gardens in Bavaria are a slice of heaven. Sitting outside under chestnut trees with a Mass of great stuff and some cheap grub. How this has not taken off in America, I cannot understand.

[amy_cate]

yes, i used to live in astoria - i love the beer garden! it is definitely worth the trip. i also like gowanus yacht club in carroll gardens, bklyn. enjoy!

[mead]

They take up a lot of room/land which would probably cost a fortune to purchase in this area of the country. I really like that huge beer hall they have in Munich, the Hofbrauhaus.

Aren't these places usually owned or sponsored by a beer company? I dont' think Budweiser or Coors has any interest in doing anything here.

Originally Posted by Moth

I lived in New York for years including a stint in Astoria. And for some insane reason, I never went there. However, I have heard good things about it.

I resided in Germany for a time and the beer gardens in Bavaria are a slice of heaven. Sitting outside under chestnut trees with a Mass of great stuff and some cheap grub. How this has not taken off in America, I cannot understand.

[Moth]

They take up a lot of room/land which would probably cost a fortune to purchase in this area of the country. I really like that huge beer hall they have in Munich, the Hofbrauhaus.

True enough in New York. But there is plenty of room in other places.

Aren't these places usually owned or sponsored by a beer company? I dont' think Budweiser or Coors has any interest in doing anything here.

In Munich, the big six breweries all have their own beer hall with the Hofbrauhaus that you mentioned being one of them. I am unsure if they own any beer gardens, but as there are a lot more than six in Munich alone, I would tend to think it would not matter. You probably need a special license, (hey its Germany) akin to a cafe permit or something.

I would say that we Americans are less responsible with booze than the Germans and that might make such places a no go for the most part or at least ones of a large size. Munich has a fantastic beer garden right in the middle of the English Garden which is their version of Central Park. I doubt that would fly in New York, let alone the nude sunbathing that is also prevalent in Munich.

[straightshooter]

Originally Posted by NooYowkur81

Has anyone been to the Beer Garden in Astoria. How is it? Is it worth the trip?

why did this thread turn into a deutschland tourist advertisement? the OP doesn't care about beer gardens in the fraterland. to answer his question...yes; i've been to the beer garden in astoria. it's is fun and worth the trip. but, go when it's warm out; go with friends; and i don't think it's open until 5.

[Jrock247]

If your idea of a good time involves hanging out with your friends and drinking some of the finest imported european beer (hoegarden anyone?) for the very reasonable price of $14 a pitcher (after all this is quality beer) then come on down. You can play beer pong if you bring your own ball. I've only been once, and it did take about 20 minutes to get in, but the place wasn't overly crowded and everyone had a good time

[TheSeventhBrady]

I haven't been there since I was a kid. My dad's local (his union was IBEW) used to have their yearly picnic there. We had a great time. No one paid much attention to a bunch of 12-year-olds drinking, lol!

[UpstaterInBklyn]

I was there about a year ago. Yes, there are some good quality imported beers.

It's very laid back and unpretentious; A good place to take a group and share a few pitchers and some conversation.

The indoor portion is rather small, so most people go out to the large outdoor courtyard, which is set up with picnic tables and an outdoor grill that serves up sausages.

Make sure the weather is nice, however. I don't think there is any rain protection in the courtyard, except a few trees.