my husband decided at the last minute that he wanted to return to "zur elli". we had gone one time previously--during the oktoberfest celebration--and didn't feel we got to experience it fully. we had lived in germany for several years (2003-2006)and were longing for a good germany meal. we called to see if we could get in that night and they had an opening w/in the hour. we took it and loaded our 2 year old in the car and off we went.
frau steiner was very pleasant as we entered, as was the wait staff. we were seated in the corner and was told what was being served that evening. that should've been my first clue. the choices that evening were schweinbraten, fried tilapia, or bratwurst. all would be served w/ soup, german style salad, & dessert. my husband & i both chose the pork and we ordered the brat for our child. i ordered a glass of wine (reisling) and DH ordered a glass of hefe. first up was the soup. it was pretty good. next up was the salad. whenever i had "salat" in germany, it was tossed w/ a very yummy yogurt dressing. frau steiner had made a vinaigrette of sorts that seemed heavily seasoned w/ knorr liquid seasoning. but it was good overall. finally, we received our entrees. we all liked what we were served.
as it would happen, it was getting late and my child was getting quite fussy. we asked for the check. when the waitress brought it over, needless to say, i was floored. our bill was $81!! i'm not opposed to paying top dollar for a good meal, however, that seemed a bit much (that's almost $30/person!!!). without a "physical" menu, i didn't feel inclined to argue and we paid the bill. it has been a couple of days since our meal, and my butt is still a bit chapped from this experience. my DH & i really liked the food, but if we every do return, it'll be a "once a year" thing. i'm still trying to figure out the justification for the meal price. in germany, i never paid more than €10 for a meal--same set up. frau steiner may want to rethink her pricing strategy.
more