Bacchus

‘It’s not true that all of Germany [is filled with] beer drinkers – it is split down the middle and concentrated in areas,’ Bacchus’ director Alena Shaposhnikova explains. Which is why this former Dempsey restaurant – now enjoying a spot by the river – specialises in pairing food with wines from southern Germany, as well as beers. In keeping with the authentic flavour, the decoration – from agricultural machinery to an old radio – was also imported from Germany. Prior to their move, Shaposhnikova travelled to vineyards around Stuttgart with owner Hans-Gunter Vosseler to source bottles, although when it comes to beer, both she and supervisor Fasal Khan Bin Abdul Rashid happily obtain it from local suppliers. ‘We tie up with our suppliers to select beers suitable for our menu – like Warsteiner and König Ludwig,’ Abdul Rashid says. This selection will remain for Oktoberfest 2010, as will Bacchus’ policy of educating diners in wine by encouraging them to taste as many as possible, for free. The venue will however be transformed, and Shaposhnikova will dress up in traditional garb in honour of this 200-year-old party.

Beers $10-$14.