As Posted in The Sacramento Press on October 12, 2012
by Cindy Baker, published on October 12, 2012
Sacramento’s Der Biergarten.
In a sea of sushi bars, coffee shops and pizza by the slice, Sacramento has its share of copycat eateries. But a new German-inspired venue that is on the corner of 24th and K streets could shake up the gastronomical monotony. Der Biergarten is being touted as the newest plan that’s derived from one of Europe’s oldest traditions – Oktoberfest.
Sean and Erika Derfield, who own the River City Saloon in Old Sacramento, visited the Midtown Neighborhood Association Wednesday evening to present their plans to unveil a new restaurant that will be located in an area that’s readily walkable, has biking access and is already buzzing with healthy local traffic.
“We’ve always wanted to open a German pub,” Sean Derfield said. “We’ve seen some in San Francisco and New York, in different places, so Sacramento needs to step it up a little and have something different.”
The lot itself has stood undeveloped for a number of years. According to the Derfields, they are looking to use oversized cargo containers that customers can walk up to and order homemade pretzels, schnitzel, fresh sausages, and a variety of Belgian and German beers. Local brew and wine will also be featured regularly.
Open seating, casual dining and foosball and pingpong tables are all part of the new proposal. The Derfields said they hope to create the kind of environment that attracts a variety of Sacramentans.
Der Biergarten isn’t the only German-style beer hall slated to come to Sacramento, as plans to open another location in the former Lounge on 20 space are in the works. The other, LowBrau, will be four blocks from Der Biergarten, at 20th and K streets.
Members of the MNA did express concern, as noise complaints have plagued the busy intersection within the last few years. Some critics have been quick to point out the seemingly high concentration of alcohol-centric eateries has caused trouble in the neighborhood.
“It’s important that all of these owners communicate with each other and to use their best practices, because (Der Biergarten) will be located with neighbors right next door,” said MNA President Matt Piner. “It all comes down to having a livable city.”
Kimio Bazett, owner of The Golden Bear, a bar next to the space that Der Biergarten will occupy, recently told The Sacramento Press that he is happy new businesses – including Der Biergarten and Anatolian Table – are choosing the area. He said that he expects that the additions will increase foot traffic and help his business as well.
The Derfields said they are excited to bring new flavors to Midtown. Der Biergarten is scheduled to open in February 2013, with plans to be open from 10 a.m. to midnight, and potentially as late as 2 a.m. on the weekends.
