Last year I don’t think I even noticed the tiny tents interspersed amongst the big Oktoberfest tents, but there they are. Most of them have names which describe what kind of animal they most like to kill and cook up for your dining pleasure. We spent yesterday evening in the Heinz Wurst- und Hühnerbraterei, a tent that holds fewer than 400 guests. The largest tents, in comparison, hold around 10,000 people each.
When we first arrived at our tiny little tent, I was skeptical. It was about half empty (reserved tables which hadn’t been claimed yet) and the band hadn’t started playing. It felt like a sad little imitation of the real Oktoberfest. When the entertainment for the evening took their place, my skepticism grew: visually, the duo resembled a certain Will Ferrell SNL skit.
But as the tables filled up and the music got going, I grew fond of our little tent. Turns out it had a lot going for it. The seats were more comfortable than the backless benches typical of a big tent, and the open windows made it not as hot. There was more drink choice than in a large tent, with weißbier and wines on the menu in addition to Oktoberfest brew. Everyone in our party agreed the food was fabulous. Plus as someone who is mildly uncomfortable in large crowds, I appreciated the smaller scale.
The musicians were great and really got the crowd going. There was plenty of dancing on the tables and singing along to Oktoberfest classics. And I never had to wait in line at the bathrooms. All in all it was a very fun night at the Wiesn, and a nice change of pace from the big tents.
Thanks for writing about this. I've never been in a small tent before, and now I want to check it out. Did you need a reservation for this particular tent?
We had a reservation, made just a few months ago (the small tents seem to book up later than the big ones). It looked like there were a couple unreserved tables, available to whomever arrived early enough.
Thanks for posting this. I've always dreaded going to Oktoberfest because of the drunken crowds, but I think I could handle a small tent. I didn't know they existed!
I have gone twice to a small tent just before the parade ended (15min before noon or so) on the first day. We even got a full table this year, no problem. I guess during the day you can't stay in there all day and drink, though. They rotate out people eating. Didn't know that the party heats up in the evening — might try a small-tent-evening this year (ohne Reservierung)!
Sparrow – it's definitely a nice change from the massive crowds in the evenings at the big tents. They can get a little out of control.
Dave – I noticed they had a sign up insisting that patrons order food at the tables. Luckily the food was pretty good, at least at this tent. Ofest has been so empty this year I bet you'll have no problem going reservation-less.
Great photos! I am jealous 🙂 I have always wanted to go to an Oktoberfest… I thought I would make it this year, but unfortunately I didn't find a job early enough to have funds for it 🙁 Oh well, maybe next year!
Thanks, Angela. I hope you make it next year. 🙂