Manchester Life 2023 | Page 24

NEW IN TOWN

NEW IN TOWN

A Taste of the Good Life

BRONWYN on Battenkill brings flavorful , hearty , and authentic German cuisine to Southern Vermont .
STORY BY BENJAMIN LERNER PHOTOGRAPHY CRAIG LIGHT

From the moment one walks through the front doors of BRONWYN on Battenkill , the senses awaken in marvelous ways . The tantalizing aromas of Chef Tim Wiechmann ’ s hand-crafted sausages , pork schnitzel , Riesling sauerkraut , and freshbaked pretzels fill the air as the sounds of convivial merriment echo throughout the rooms . The décor seamlessly integrates elements of Bavarian nostalgia and European elegance with Vermont rustic sensibilities . Framed German beer posters and Bauhaus artworks line the walls , which are complemented by handmade wooden tables and a custom-wooden bar built by Wiechmann himself . Around the tables , one will find gorgeous wooden chairs sourced from Wiechmann ’ s travels to Europe with his wife and business partner , Bronwyn Wiechmann . Bronwyn plays a critical role in many aspects of the restaurant ’ s operation , including hospitality , décor , design , and their beverage program — and she is also the source of the restaurant ’ s namesake . Beyond the sensory carnival that awaits guests upon entry , the true attraction lies in the sensational taste of their German and European delicacies . The bold flavors of their house favorites , such as their Swabian-style spätzle noodles , vinegar-braised Sauerbraten brisket , and Wurst Trio are absolutely exquisite , as are their traditional European cakes and desserts .

BRONWYN on Battenkill has only been open since January 2023 , but their fantastic food , authentic hospitality , and inviting atmosphere has already
made a powerful impression on the Southern Vermont community . They have strengthened relationships with local farmers , and they are continuing to expand the locally-focused aspects of their culinary program . “ We had no idea what would happen when we opened our doors ,” says Tim Wiechmann . “ It took nine months of hard work to get everything ready , but it ’ s all been worth it . It ’ s been great to see the response — and we ’ re excited to keep growing and hold our first Oktoberfest this fall from September 21 – October 22 .”
To that end , the inaugural Oktoberfest celebration at BRONWYN on Battenkill will feature spirited live music performances , flavorful food , and amazing German beer . The celebration will also make use of the restaurant ’ s prime riverside location in a manner that further elevates the guest experience . In addition to BRONWYN ’ s two outdoor biergartens , a large stone patio will overlook the nearby mountains and river . Celebrated German beers , such as Weihenstephaner and Spaten , will be served in traditional steins , and the service staff will dress up in full Bavarian regalia . “ We make a point of dressing up for Oktoberfest ,” says Tim Wiechmann . “ You won ’ t see our staff in Lederhosen at any other time of year , but we celebrate accordingly during the fall season . It ’ s a real party .”
For bon vivants who opt to enjoy a different type of satisfying German beverage in any season , a wide assortment of German wines , digestifs , liqueurs , and seasonally-shifting cocktails round out BRONWYN on Battenkill ’ s drink menu . Highlights include high-end Schladerer Schnapps , Koehler- Ruprecht German Pinot Noir , and a Maple Bourbon Manhattan with Vermont Maple syrup . “ The beverage program and the culinary program at BRONWYN on Battenkill are both built around the same concept ,” notes Tim Wiechmann . “ We ’ re casual , we ’ re approachable — and that ’ s very important — but we have a distinctive culinary voice and we take real pride in what we do here .”
ALL THE DETAILS bronwynonbattenkill . com
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