Where to get the best German food on the Treasure Coast
German food is known for its geographic diversity and use of seasonal ingredients. Its traditions have developed over many centuries, from the Roman Empire's early days to the effects of war, religion and immigration and the influences of France, Poland, Italy, Hungary, Turkey, Denmark, Greece and the Czech Republic.
The division of East and West Germany in WWII led to severe food shortages and rationing. Germans adapted to what was available, using differing cooking styles and making more economical dishes. East Germany took on a more Russian style of cooking while West Germany continued more traditional practices. The reunification of Germany in 1990 led to the rediscovery of regional specialties and the revival of traditional cuisine.
There are very few German restaurants on the Treasure Coast, but here's where you can try the cuisine.
Click on the links for more TCPalm reviews, articles and photo galleries about these restaurants.
The Hoffmann
The Hoffmann has Indian River Lagoon waterfront dining with indoor and outdoor seating on a large patio. The menu includes wurst (sausage), spaetzle (egg noodles), schnitzel (fried cutlet), Bavarian goulash (stew), German potato salad and apfelstrudel (apple strudel). But it's not all German food. You'll also find typical Florida appetizers, burgers and inspired seafood dishes.
3825 N.E. Indian River Drive, Jensen Beach; 772-444-3697; website
Schnitzel Haus
Schnitzel Haus offers German fare and American fusion cuisine. It has a full liquor bar and a pet-friendly biergarten with umbrellas to enjoy food and drinks. There's even a menu designed for pets. Chef Lenh makes authentic German food, including a wide variety of appetizers, entrees, wurst, schnitzel, sides and pretzels. American fare includes salads, burgers, pasta and dishes with an array of meat options: veal, lamb, duck, steak and seafood.
5687 S.E. Crooked Oak Ave., Hobe Sound; 772-210-2350; website
Sebastian's Roadside Restaurant
Sebastian's Roadside Restaurant offers home-cooked meals in a retro dining area. It is owned by Tom Wright and located in a 75-year-old Florida house with reclaimed barnboard floors. While it normally serves Southern comfort food, it does have German Day on Mondays. The menu includes sauerbraten (roast), wienerschnitzel (fried veal cutlet), jagerschnitzel (fried cutlet with mushroom gravy), pale ale bier brat (sausage boiled in beer), roasted pork loin with stuffing and the German beer Warsteiner.
10795 U.S. 1, Sebastian; 772-581-2623; website
Eve Pierpont is a freelancer for TCPalm who looks out for the best things to do across the Treasure Coast. Do you have an upcoming event you want to be potentially included in this weekly roundup? Email it to her at [email protected]. You can also upload your event to TCPalm's event page at events.tcpalm.com.
This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Best German food in Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties