My mom used to make a pretty good Reuben sandwich but until recently, that was about the extent of my exposure to German food. Somehow, sauerkraut and sausage just never appealed, and I had never met a beer that I liked. To me, German food was synonymous with heavy, greasy, bland food. I must have been thinking of Polish sausage & kraut at Worlds of Fun when I was 12. That was before the perfect October evening we traveled to the historic Freight House district to sample German Food. There has been a positive buzz surrounding this restaurant, but I entered with trepidation.

The outdoor patio was about half full at 6:30, and the patrons sounded like they were having such a great time that I really wanted to join them. Instead, I crossed the threshold into Grunauer and was impressed with the almost cavernous space. Dark wood, dim light--but beautiful and comfortable. Our server seemed a little cold at first, but soon showed his familiarity with the menu and seemed to always appear just as he was needed.

The Schweinebraten (roast pork) is shown above--the photo a victim of the dim lighting. I learned that the spices used in German food are slightly sweet and perfectly nuanced at Grunauer. Paprika and nutmeg were apparent, the flavors more complex than I suspected. Red cabbage is a favorite of mine and prepared perfectly at Grunauer. If I hadn't known better, I would have mistaken it for spiced apples. In keeping with the Oktoberfest spirit, I tasted a Weisenhoff beer and found it hearty with a fruity undertone--who knew beer could be so tasty? I also tried a martini type cocktail that tasted like Apple Streudel. What could be more perfect?

Grunauer may serve comfort food if you're a German national; but for me, it was a revelation!

Rating 5

October's Outing: Grunauer

After a dinner at Grunauer, you'll want to climb the Austrian Alps singing, just like Fraulein Maria in The Sound of Music.

We gathered at the Austrian/German restaurant for our October outing, and I'm so glad we did. The food, service and setting were all terrific.

I enjoyed the Schwammerl (mushrooms in a creamy paprika sauce with Austrian potato dumplings). It was unlike anything I've ever had and very tasty. And since our dinner club shares everything we order, I got to try everyone elses' entrees: the sauerkraut was the best I've ever tasted (and I've been eating it since birth); the red cabbage was incredible (slightly cinnamon apply but still savory); the rye bread to start was delicious, as were the sausages. I would like to comment on the German beer but sadly I couldn't try any.

The restaurant is in an old rail/freight building with lots of dark wood and mirrors. It's classier than a German beer hall, with low light and 40s-style music that makes it a perfect setting for a romantic dinner (hint, hint, husband).

My only regret (aside from a beer-free meal) was not trying the dessert, which was impossible after such a large meal. A trip back for a cup of coffee and a strudel or two is a must.

My ranking for this restaurant: 4.9 out of 5 stars. Pretty darn impressive. So Danke schön, Grunauer. Just like Austrian Arnold Schwarzenegger would say, "I'll be back."

November's pick

Ah, November: hearty food. Apple cider. Turkey and stuffing. Curry--wait, curry?

Yes the club will have our go at a local Indian restaurant in November. Stay tuned for our reviews. Some of the dinner club members have never had Indian food before, so this should be a real treat.