A Welcoming Atmosphere and Dining Experience
Walking into OMB is like stepping into a traditional German beer garden, right in the middle of the city. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for a casual meal with friends and family, a lively gathering, or even a solo beer and bite. The brewery’s design emphasizes open spaces, with plenty of seating available, both indoors and outdoors. The expansive beer garden, with its long wooden tables and picnic benches, is a central feature, providing a convivial setting where people can socialize, enjoy the sunshine, and soak in the vibrant energy.
The dining experience at OMB is designed to be straightforward and efficient. The ordering process is generally done at the counter, and you’re given a number to place on your table. Food is then brought to your table by friendly and efficient staff. This setup allows for a casual pace, making it ideal for lingering over a meal, enjoying a few beers, and immersing yourself in the relaxed ambiance. The focus is on providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience, rather than a stuffy or formal dining setting. It’s a place where you can truly unwind.
Overview of the Food Menu: German Inspirations and Local Flair
The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery food menu showcases a clear influence from traditional German cuisine, perfectly complementing the brewery’s beer offerings. The menu focuses on hearty, flavorful dishes that pair exceptionally well with the range of OMB’s German-style beers. Expect to find classic German staples alongside more contemporary dishes, all prepared with attention to quality and flavor.
While the menu’s core is rooted in German culinary traditions, there’s often a nod to local sourcing when possible. OMB places an emphasis on high-quality ingredients, ensuring that the flavors are fresh and authentic. The menu is generally categorized into sections like Appetizers, Entrees, Sides, and Desserts, making it easy to navigate and choose your meal. The price points are generally quite reasonable, offering excellent value for the quality and quantity of food served. Whether you are looking for a simple snack, a satisfying main course, or a sweet ending to your meal, the Olde Mecklenburg Brewery food menu caters to a variety of tastes and preferences.
Delicious Bites: Appetizers to Kick Things Off
No visit to OMB is complete without sampling some of their enticing appetizers. These are perfect for sharing with friends while you enjoy a few beers. A must-try is the pretzel with beer cheese. These pretzels are baked fresh and served warm, providing the ideal vessel for the creamy, savory beer cheese dip, a perfect pairing with almost any OMB beer. The German potato salad is also a popular choice, offering a traditional preparation that is both comforting and flavorful. You can also find a variety of sausage plates featuring different types of German sausages, served with sauerkraut and mustard. These appetizer choices are a great way to start your meal and give you a taste of the flavors that await you.
Entrees That Satisfy: The Heart of the Menu
The entrees at Olde Mecklenburg Brewery are designed to fill you up and provide a satisfying meal. The menu includes several German classics, such as schnitzel, offered as a crispy, breaded pork cutlet, cooked to golden perfection. You’ll also find a variety of sausages, a staple of German cuisine. Served in different styles, these sausages are usually accompanied by sauerkraut and other traditional sides.
For those looking for something beyond traditional German fare, there are burgers and sandwiches available. These options cater to a wider variety of tastes, while maintaining the quality and flavor focus. There are often seasonal entrees, which allows the menu to reflect the freshest ingredients and to introduce new and exciting flavors. The entree selection truly has something for everyone.
Delightful Sides: Complementing the Main Course
The side dishes at OMB are the perfect complement to the main courses. They add extra flavor and texture to your meal. Fries are a popular choice, often served with a dipping sauce, and offering a classic pairing to many of the entrees. Sauerkraut is a staple on the menu and is prepared in the traditional way, offering a tart and tangy flavor that is a perfect match for sausages and other German dishes. Spaetzle, a type of German egg noodle, is another delicious side, offering a satisfying and comforting texture. These sides provide additional layers of flavor and variety.
Sweet Endings: Desserts to Finish It Off
No meal is complete without a sweet treat, and the dessert options at Olde Mecklenburg Brewery provide a perfect ending. The menu typically features treats that complement the beers and the overall German-inspired theme. The strudel is a great choice, with its flaky pastry and sweet fruit filling. You may also find cakes and ice cream. These desserts are a perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth after a hearty meal. They provide a sweet conclusion to a dining experience.
Perfect Pairings: Beers and Bites
One of the joys of dining at Olde Mecklenburg Brewery is pairing the food with the brewery’s exceptional beers. Some suggested pairings include:
- Pretzels with Beer Cheese: Pair with a crisp, refreshing Copper, OMB’s flagship Kölsch. The light, clean flavors of the beer will cut through the richness of the cheese.
- Schnitzel: Pair with a Dunkel, a dark lager with roasted malt notes, to complement the savory flavors of the dish.
- Sausages: Match with the Mecktoberfest, a seasonal Märzen-style beer, which perfectly complements the hearty flavors of the sausages.
- Desserts: Match with a lighter beer, or even a glass of water.
The staff is also well-versed in the beers and can often provide excellent suggestions. Don’t hesitate to ask for their recommendations, as they can help you find the perfect beer to complement your meal.
Special Events and Considerations
The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery food menu sometimes features special events, or promotions. These are frequently centered on seasonal celebrations or to coincide with the release of a special beer. Dietary accommodations, like gluten-free options, are often available upon request. The team is always happy to work with customers to ensure they have an enjoyable dining experience. For large groups, it’s generally a good idea to contact the brewery in advance to make arrangements, especially if you’re planning a large gathering.
Customer Experiences: A Taste of What Others Say
The overall customer feedback on the food at Olde Mecklenburg Brewery is overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the food, the freshness of the ingredients, and the value for money. Many customers mention the pretzels with beer cheese as a must-try item, while others rave about the schnitzel and sausages. The friendly service and the overall atmosphere are also frequently highlighted in customer reviews.
Concluding Thoughts
The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery food menu offers a truly delicious and satisfying dining experience. From classic German dishes to delicious appetizers and sides, there is something to suit all tastes. The pairing of the excellent food with the brewery’s superb German-style beers makes for a perfect combination. Add in the welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, and you have a recipe for a truly memorable meal. So, next time you are looking for a great meal in Charlotte, don’t hesitate to visit OMB. You won’t be disappointed. Head on over and experience the food for yourself!