Heidelberg Restaurant (German)
1648 Second Avenue (between 85th and 86th Street)
Manhattan
212-650-1385

The Heidelberg Restaurant, located in Yorkville, the traditionally German section of the Upper East Side of Manhattan has just the right ambiance for enjoying classic German cuisine. Wagner and oompah-pah-pah bands alternate as background music, German flags grace the walls, and wooden knick-knacks from Bavaria are scattered here and there. A trellis-like screen divides the restaurant into two sections: the bar and smoking area; and the more sedate dining room where local families gather for hearty portions of their favorite German dishes.

Starters
Naturally, beer is one of the key menu items. The Heidelberg carries the usual German brands like Dinckelacker and Becks. The more adventurous might want to try a (somewhat bitter) draught of Spaten amber or Warsteiner (a pilsner).

We have found that many of the items listed on the appetizer list, such as Suelze (head cheese), pickled herring, and limburger cheese are acquired tastes. You cannot go wrong, however, with the rich suppen (German for "soup") made with chunks of potato and a tasty base of bacon goulash.

Entrees
The Heidelberg does a great job with old German favorites like Viener Schnitzel (a delicious breaded veal cutlet) and Sauerbraten (tender slices of marinated beef served with a sweet/sour gravy). The sausage platters, which include Knockwurst, Weisswurst, or Bauenwurst with potato salad, sauerkraut, and red cabbage, are another good choice. The menu also features lower calorie options like broiled chicken and broiled filet of sole.

Desserts
We recommend that you save room for dessert. The apple strudel and apfelkuchen (apple fritters) are perennial favorites, although we like the Viennese ice cream coffee (vanilla ice cream and coffee topped with whipped cream) even better.

Wondering what is special about the German coffee listed on the menu? We did, too. As it turns out, it is regular coffee served in the German style, which means you get your own pot of coffee and a wonderful little sugar wafer.

You might also consider ordering a little schnaps after dinner. Our advise, though, is to stay away from the Jaegermeister -- it is pretty harsh stuff!

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