The Rathskeller

This place has more atmosphere than any five Reuben establishments I've previously visited. Even though it's in a basement, there's plenty of natural lighting through beautiful windows. You can feel the age of the place just walking across the floorboards. Classical music played as we dined. I felt transported to another place and time. We were seated at a big table for eight, with strangely low chairs. Fresh bread and soft pretzels were set upon a turntable in the center. The pretzels came with a tasty horseradish mustard that opened sinuses I didn't know were closed. Table service was glass, stainless steel, china, and linen napkins. At Aimee's suggestion I had the potato pancake accompaniment, and it was crispy and delicious. The sandwich was just the right size: I still felt full late in the afternoon, but I didn't overstuff myself. The bread was marbled and of perfect crispness, though the bottom slice couldn't stand up long to all the juice. I considered flipping the sandwich onto the peculiarly smaller upper bread slice--and that probably would have worked, since a generous portion of tasty cheese lined it--but I found I didn't really want to set it down! The kraut was good, though I suspect it was the source of much of the juice, and so it might have been better drained. The beef was tender, sliced thin, and unprocessed, providing a wonderful texture. The flavor of the sandwich was utterly distinctive: I'm not sure that it was the best Reuben I've ever had, because I'm not sure I can compare it to the others. Overall it was a delightful experience. Highly recommended.