Otto's German Bistro

The best food in Fredericksburg, full stop. Otto's is doing something original in a town full of safe, tourist-facing menus. The duck schnitzel is masterfully prepared - crisp, perfectly seasoned, and clearly the product of a kitchen that knows what it's doing. The pierogis are outstanding. Everything on the plate feels intentional. The soft pretzel with house mustard is not run of the meal. You will remember this one. This is the kind of restaurant that would hold its own in any city. If you're only choosing one dinner in Fredericksburg, make it Otto's.

Visiting Fredericksburg we decided to try something different for us. We lucked into seats at this very popular restaurant. We were seated without a wait. They had a very good wine selection and an ample supply of German beers. My husband ordered the Paulaner, I ordered a glass of wine. Both were delicious. We also decided to try their pretzel with mustard and cheese for an appetizer. The mustard was so good with a delicious German pretzel. For our main course we ordered the bratt for my husband and I had the schnitzel. We finished with black forest chocolate cake. All perfectly prepared and delicious. We will be back.

Good overall experience. Good German food. Good wine choices. Very small place. Reservations required, but not hard to get a few days in advance. Hostess didn't know anything about wine, fireplace was disabled even though it was in the low 40s outside and a strong chill inside. Too cold for me. Ambiance was okay. Maybe could use some appropriate music at a low volume. I'd consider coming back, but wouldn't rule out other German food places nearby. I'd say it was as-good, but not better than others. They need to do something to stand out.