#Newsflash | The Best Wurst In NYC – QEDC

#Newsflash | The Best Wurst In NYC

BY QEDC It's In Queens

Without a doubt, it’s the only place in Queens that serves Kassler Rippchen, hosts stein-holding contests, celebrates German Beer Day and National Pretzel Day, organizes concerts by Die Spitzbuam, serves a decadent Schwarzwälder, and won recognition for its old-style jukebox.

Gottscheer Hall has operated at 657 Fairview Ave. since the early 1900s, when members of the German-speaking Gottscheer ethnic group were fleeing a region that was once part of the Austrian empire (modern day Slovenia) and settling in Ridgewood, Glendale, and Williamsburg.

The menu features Schnitzels, Wursts, Goulash, Sauerbraten, Pierogi, Spaetzle, Bavarian style Sauerkraut with Bacon, Chicken Cutlets, Roast Pork, and some absolutely delicious, onion-speckled Potato Pancakes sided with Applesauce and Sour Cream.

The solid wood bar pours such beverages as grapefruit Schöfferhofer, Radeberger Pilsner, Weihenstephaner Dunkel, Weinstefaner Dunckle, Franziskaner Hefe-Weissbier, and Spaten. During the cold weather months, the Glühwein (a mulled wine drink) is recommended.

Also an event space, the facility boasts a ballroom with crystal chandeliers (hanging and wall), plush carpeting, and plenty of mirrors. The walls are adorned with past Miss Gottschee beauty pageant winners, framed sharpshooting awards won by members of the Gottschee Rod & Gun Club, and maps of the homeland.

History

The Gottscheer Central Holding Corporation established Gottscheer Hall in 1924. It operated for about five years before a fire destroyed it. The community united to rebuild it, and it thrived in the 1930s when more Gottscheers lived in Queens than any other part of the world.

With the original immigrants dying and their children moving to different parts of the United States, Gottscheer Hall has experienced some changes over the generations. Currently, hipsters are moving into Ridgewood and falling in love with the place. Must be the Krainerwurst!

Editor’s note: Click here to see some mouth-watering photos of menu items taken by Dave Cook.