Leopold’s: The Bierhaus has arrived
Considering SF hosts an International Beer Festival to a sell-out crowd every year in Fort Mason, it is a surprise that it took this long for restauranteurs to open a legitimate bierhaus in the Marina/Cow Hollow/ Russian Hill area. Polk Street welcomes new bierhaus Leopold’s to the spot formerly housing Antica Trattoria. The menu boasts influences from Austria and Northern Italy, and as expected, is decidedly meat-centric.
A few items that catch my attention? Crispy pig trotters, wiener schnitzel with lingonberry sauce and the choucroute garni platter – a hearty selection of pork belly, smoked pork loin and bratwurst. Yet the item I am most excited about is the signature dish of the day, Hungarian Paprika Beef Goulash with spatzle and a side salad. I have yet to find a restaurant in SF with authentic goulash but something tells me Leopold’s might just be it.
Throw in a large stein of Franziskaner for $6 or the more fruity raspberry infused beer, St. Louis Framboise at $12 and I’ll be ready to put on a dirndl. Gutentag to chef-owner Albert Rainer.
Leopold’s: 2400 Polk St. (corner of Union St)
Anne Pao is a contributing food writer for SF Station.com. When she is not satisfying carnivorous tendencies, you can find her adventuring in the Bay area outdoors. For more Pao reads check out her blog at http://sftaoofpao.com
Just hit up Leopold’s last night for dinner. Greeted immediately with warmth and a hug by the Austrian owner, Albert. Had a Franziskaner at the wooden bar of a packed house before settling into a monster booth. The duck crepinettes were fantastic as was the wienerschnitzel. Goulash could have used more juice as was a bit dry but dirndls and das boots were in full effect. Highly recommend