We have always LOVED the Biergarten. However, on our trip this past April, it was less than acceptable. When we go back in November, for the first time ever, the Biergarten will not be on our list of places to eat.
We had my dad in a
ECV because his balance is quite poor and walking any distance tires him out quite quickly. We were asked if he was able to do a step or two. Since he can, we said yes. So where do they seat us? On the first level (more than a step or two), and all the way at the end of the row! The furthest possible seats from the door! Of course, by the time you realize where they are seating you, there's not much to do about it (don't want to make the disabled guy walk all the way back at that time).
Then they wanted us to move in all the way, leaving the seats on the end available for another party. The man has mobility issues!! Those tables and chairs are too close together for someone who has an issue standing, let alone walking, to be in the middle and have to climb over others to get to out and then back in. Of course, they did put another party at the table with us, even after letting the host know that this would be an issue. Just to be clear, dad did not get up to get his own food. My mom and I did that for him. However, he did need to get up and use the restroom. What made me angry was that the restaurant was nowhere near full; in fact, I'd say it was less than 1/2 full.
On top of that, our waiter was less than attentive. We were a party of 6, so he knew he was getting his 18% gratuity regardless of whether or not he gave us good service. Additionally, the food was not as good as our past visits, and there seemed to be less of a selection. I don't know if it was the time of the day or if there have been some other changes behind the scenes. Normally, we would have enjoyed the show, but dad was so miserable that this wasn't possible.
We did learn our lesson though. Never again will we say he can walk on his own power down a step or two, especially at the Biergarten.