I was raised my an Austrian mother, and now live 3000 miles away from her. When Speisekammer first opened, the familiar menu was exciting to me. Although the quality never came close to the home-cooking I came to love, I was thrilled to have a runner-up in the area. My first experience in 2001 (although drunken) was much better than last weekend. Not only was the bratwurst BURNT (traditionally boiled, and lightly browned just to release the juices), but the portions were so NOT German -- really small. In Germany, it's a custom to be presented with a good size portion, to keep you satiated during your "stay". It didn't seem like they were hurting for customers, as the restaurant was pretty full -- so, not sure why they skimped on the meal. Also -- one other thing to note -- they had their Oktoberfest at the beginning of September to avoid other Alameda events, and the chance that the weather might not be great. September = Oktoberfest????
Our waitress was friendly, though -- and the beer was good.
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