Great food, great beer, great fun in the Rathskeller. Hand painted murals adorn the walls of the restaurant in the oldest bar in Minnesota.
1 / 4

Turner Hall

4.5
·514 reviews·New Ulm, United States

Experience Minnesota's oldest bar and authentic German dining at Turner Hall's historic Rathskeller. A taste of Germany with hearty meals and a unique...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere, full menu

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Great food, great beer, great fun in the Rathskeller. Hand painted murals adorn the walls of the restaurant in the oldest bar in Minnesota.

Turner Hall

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere, full menu

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience Minnesota's oldest bar and authentic German dining at Turner Hall's historic Rathskeller. A taste of Germany with hearty meals and a unique ambiance.

4.5
(514 reviews)

"The authenticity was evident in every aspect. I was transported to another place, it was heartwarming and good for the soul!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🍔 Try the Rathskeller Burger

Don't miss the unique burger, a perfect blend of patty styles on quality bread. A true local gem!

✨ Ask for Grilled Walleye

Walleye is typically battered by default; specify 'grilled' if that's your preference.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic German Rathskeller

Authentic German Rathskeller

Rathskeller Dining Area

Experience Minnesota's oldest bar with decor transporting you to Germany. A must-visit for traditional German food.

The Famous Rathskeller Burger

The Famous Rathskeller Burger

Rathskeller Dining Area

A unique burger, perfectly balanced between classic and smash styles, served on quality bread. A local favorite.

Traditional German Entrees

Traditional German Entrees

Rathskeller Dining Area

Savor the best ribs and sauerkraut in town, or try the Walleye, a Minnesota state fish, available grilled or battered.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the German Heritage

Turner Hall, a historic Ratskeller dating back to 1854, offers an authentic German dining experience. Immerse yourself in the traditional decor and menu, reminiscent of Germany. While not much German is spoken, the friendly staff and hearty food transport you.

Rathskeller vs. Turner Hall

Understand that Turner Hall is the larger event space, while the Rathskeller is the historic bar and eatery. Previously exclusive to members, the Rathskeller is now open to the public, making it accessible for all to enjoy its unique atmosphere and menu.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, full menu
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
More relaxed dining
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Must see things in New Ulm?

🍔 Try the Rathskeller Burger

Don't miss the unique burger, a perfect blend of patty styles on quality bread. A true local gem! Reddit

✨ Ask for Grilled Walleye

Walleye is typically battered by default; specify 'grilled' if that's your preference. Reddit

reddit.com

I need an excuse to head out to New Ulm and the surrounding area

reddit.com

Planning a trip to Schell's. Anyone have any tips? Are there other things to do in New Ulm besides going to the brewery?

🚗 Convenient Parking

Street parking and a nearby lot make access easy. Reddit

🎶 Check Event Schedule

Turner Hall hosts various events and concerts. Check the schedule for live music and shows. TikTok

reddit.com

Short day trip ideas?

Tips

from all over the internet

🍔 Try the Rathskeller Burger

Don't miss the unique burger, a perfect blend of patty styles on quality bread. A true local gem! Reddit

✨ Ask for Grilled Walleye

Walleye is typically battered by default; specify 'grilled' if that's your preference. Reddit

🚗 Convenient Parking

Street parking and a nearby lot make access easy. Reddit

🎶 Check Event Schedule

Turner Hall hosts various events and concerts. Check the schedule for live music and shows. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(514 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Turner Hall's Rathskeller, praising its authentic German atmosphere and delicious food, especially the ribs and the unique burger. The historic ambiance and friendly service are consistently highlighted as major positives, making it a must-visit in New Ulm. Some meals have been described as underwhelming, but the overall experience and historical significance are highly valued.

"I lived in Germany as a young adult and Turner Hall reminded me of places we would go as a family for meals. The authenticity was evident in every aspect. I was transported to another place, it was heartwarming and good for the soul!"

Keri Erickson

"Turner Hall is a historical Ratskeller which gets the roots from German heritage of having a restaurant under the city hall. It dates back to 1854 and the decor reminds me of my time in Germany. Many traditional items on the menu to dine on. We chose the Rueben sandwich along with soup of the day and side salads. Ate most of my sandwich before taking a picture to ensure it was as good as it looked. Staff was super friendly and engaging, not much German spoken if you are looking for that aspect. Nice parking nearby on the street as well as parking lot. Nicely tucked into the neighborhood."

Chadwick

"Maybe it was an off day but the meal was underwhelming. Parts of my meal were overcooked, some undercooked but overall it wasn't hitting on any part. The building is very beautiful and service was outstanding but overall the meal itself fell short."

Casey Swenson

What People Like

Authentic German atmosphere
Delicious ribs and burger
Historic charm

What People Dislike

Inconsistent meal quality

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Turner Hall is located in New Ulm, Minnesota. If driving, street parking and a dedicated parking lot are available nearby. Reddit

Public transport options to New Ulm may be limited. Driving is the most common way to reach Turner Hall. Check local transit schedules for New Ulm if applicable.

Turner Hall is often described as 'nicely tucked into the neighborhood.' Using GPS with the address 'Turner Hall, New Ulm, MN' should guide you directly.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Rathskeller is now open to the general public without a membership fee. You can walk in and dine. Reddit

You can typically find the Turner Hall event schedule and concert listings on their official website or through ticketing platforms. TikTok

Yes, for concerts and special events held in the Turner Hall ballroom, tickets are usually required and can be purchased online or at the venue.

The Rathskeller hours can vary, especially on weekends or during events. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date opening times.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Turner Hall's Rathskeller serves authentic German cuisine, including traditional dishes like ribs, sauerkraut, and a highly-rated burger. Reddit

German Potato Salad is not on the regular menu but is often made for special occasions. It's best to inquire if you're hoping to try it. Reddit

The Rathskeller burger is a standout favorite, praised for its unique preparation and quality bun. The ribs and sauerkraut are also highly recommended. Reddit

While the menu leans heavily towards traditional German fare, it's advisable to check the current menu for vegetarian choices or inquire with the staff about modifications.

Reservations may be recommended, especially for larger groups or during peak hours. It's best to call ahead to confirm their reservation policy. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed for personal use in the Rathskeller to capture the historic ambiance. For events in the ballroom, specific rules may apply, so check with event organizers.

The authentic German decor of the Rathskeller, including the wooden accents and traditional seating, makes for great photos. The exterior architecture is also noteworthy.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Turner Hall's Rathskeller offers a unique dining experience that can be enjoyable for families. The authentic German atmosphere and hearty food, like the popular burger, are generally well-received. While the menu is traditional, the friendly service can accommodate family needs. Reddit

Consider visiting during less crowded times to ensure a more relaxed meal. The historical aspect of Minnesota's oldest bar might also spark curiosity in older children. For families visiting New Ulm, it's a good stop for a memorable meal that offers a taste of local history and culture.

🎶 Music & Event Enthusiasts

For those seeking live entertainment, Turner Hall is a key venue. The ballroom hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year. Checking the Turner Hall schedule is crucial to catch performances by touring artists or local acts. TikTok

Fans of Turner Hall ballroom concerts will find a range of genres represented. Whether you're looking for a specific Turner Hall concert schedule or just want to see what shows are coming up, keeping an eye on their listings is recommended for a vibrant evening out.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Taste of Germany in Minnesota

Turner Hall's Rathskeller is more than just a restaurant; it's a portal to German heritage. Established in 1854, it embodies the tradition of a Ratskeller, a restaurant located beneath a city hall, common in Germany. The interior decor is meticulously designed to evoke the feeling of being in Germany, with rich wood paneling and traditional furnishings. This authenticity is a major draw for visitors, transporting them to another time and place. Reddit

While the staff may not speak much German, their friendly and engaging service adds to the welcoming atmosphere. The menu features classic German dishes, with the ribs and sauerkraut consistently praised as the best in town. For those seeking a truly unique culinary experience, the Rathskeller offers a genuine taste of German culture right in New Ulm. Reddit

The Iconic Rathskeller Burger

Among the traditional German offerings, the Rathskeller burger has garnered a cult following. It's described as a perfect hybrid, sitting between a standard patty and a smash burger. This unique preparation allows for a satisfying sear while maintaining a good thickness. Reddit

What elevates this burger is the attention to the bun, which is as crucial as the meat itself. Paired with quality bread, it creates a harmonious bite. Be mindful of regional burger terminology; in Minnesota, a 'California burger' might include lettuce and tomato, so specify your preferences if needed. Reddit

Turner Hall: More Than Just Dining

Beyond its renowned Rathskeller, Turner Hall itself is a significant venue for events and entertainment. It has a history of hosting concerts, dances, and community gatherings. The ballroom space offers a different experience from the intimate dining of the Rathskeller, often featuring live music and a lively atmosphere. TikTok

Checking the Turner Hall calendar is essential for visitors interested in catching a show or experiencing a larger event. From concerts by various artists to community celebrations, the hall provides a versatile space for entertainment. This dual nature—historic eatery and vibrant event venue—makes Turner Hall a multifaceted destination. TikTok

You may also like