The wurst 

Three years ago, Beda Schmidthues set out with a humble goal: To create a German-style pub where everyone could feel relaxed, even kids and dogs. Well, some might say he did the damn thing! If you're a regular of this restaurant and beer joint, you're probably more than familiar with Schmidthues himself (he's known to chat with his customers, making his rounds with a glass of König Pilsener in hand). From juicy bratwurst to golden schnitzel, the Broad Street eatery has become known for stick-to-your-ribs comfort food paired with classic German beers and local craft beer and wine, too. But Schmidthues isn't just a jolly guy with a love for sauerkraut: He's somewhat of a German flavor ambassador. He may have taught you that a wiener schnitzel is not a hot dog; German Chocolate cake, although yummy, is not German at all; and that Germany is diverse, and so is its food. At Beda's, that diversity is served hot on your plate: a mixture of flavors from all regions of Germany. You may not have tasted it before, but Schmidthues will quickly remind you that it's still authentic German, born from his own clan's family recipes tied to the Rhine Ruhr Valley near Holland.

On May 19, you can raise a brew to Schmidthues' unique addition to SLO's food culture. From 1 to 10 p.m., savor happy hour all day and slurp a complimentary glass of bubbly at 3, 5, and 7 p.m. What do I personally love about Beda's? Well, a lot of things. I love the goulash and the pretzel bun burger with fried egg. I dig the warm hospitality. I also really, really love that it's not a sports bar (although World Cup soccer games are shown religiously on three televisions; call for viewing times). I just appreciate that you can chat with the guy or gal next to you and have a real conversation over a "boot" or a pint.

If you can't make the anniversary, no worries. Head in all May for two "thank you specials." They include: two-for-one Tuesdays (buy one entree; get the second free) and Wurst Wednesdays, where you can snag a free bratwurst with any purchase. How many restaurants throw in a free brat with your brew? This is why some might say Beda's is the best. Of course, Beda would say he's "the absolute wurst!" I can't argue with that.

Beda's Bierdarten is located at 3230 Broad St., No. #130, in San Luis Obispo and available for catering. For more information and hours, go to bedasbiergarten.com. Δ

Hayley Thomas Cain is the absolute wurst. Send your loving sentiments via boot or email [email protected].