We spied this spot after a movie at Mystic Cinema but had a little too much popcorn at the luxe new theater to consider a dinner of bratwurst. On our next visit, we learned it’s more bar than restaurant, but a super fun and kid-friendly one. Biergarten is the correct term, owing to the 30+ beers on tap and over 100 bottles from around the world. There’s wine on tap, too, but this is a place to give in to the carbs. After my husband picked out a fresh Pilsner for me (sorry, I am NO aficionado), we noshed happily on fat and crispy Belgian frites, a ginormous pretzel (frankly, could have had two) with assorted dipping sauces, amazing Buffalo deviled eggs, a charcuterie plate (the weakest of the apps) and wings (just because). For dinner, the four of us shared the various house-made wursts: a chipotle polish sausage with fresh slaw and a bratwurst with pungent kraut. All quite good! We didn’t save room for dessert but had it anyway: S’mores served with their own teeny grill, tableside. We arrived with the early birds at 5:30 but the place filled up with young ‘uns and hipsters by the time we were waddling out. Best for the beer-obsessed, but for fun for all of us.

Good to know: grab a table, but order everything at the bar, service is fast and friendly. Outdoor tables with fire-pits are popular so snag one early. Sports enthusiasts will love the giant TV’s including one just for what’s fresh and on tap.

Olde Mistick Village     www.jealous-monk.com