The Biergarten — Locally Sourced Dining on the Kennebec
A German biergarten on the Kennebec River, in downtown Skowhegan
Set inside the historic Spinning Mill at 7 Island Avenue, the Biergarten pairs traditional German cooking, think sausages, schnitzel, a proper Reuben, with ingredients from Maine farms and a bar pouring sixteen beers and ciders on tap. With 125 indoor seats, a performance stage, and a large open-air riverside patio, it's built for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a Friday night out.
Open Sunday–Thursday, 7am–8pm, and Friday–Saturday, 7am–9pm. Reservations welcome, walk-ins always fine. The riverside patio runs Friday–Sunday, 4–8pm.
"Took me back to my time in Germany. Met the owner and staff, authentic, down-to-earth folks."
— Lloyd, Guest Review
WHAT’S ON THE MENU
Hearty Plates, Maine Ingredients
Among restaurants in Skowhegan, the Biergarten's menu stands out for spanning breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert, built from a diverse collection of locally sourced dishes. Expect traditional German sausages, big soft pretzels, Reuben sandwiches, chicken schnitzel, pickled vegetables, salads, and fresh produce throughout the day. Breakfast brings a toast bar, individual quiches, fresh baked goods, yogurt, and plenty of coffee.
LOCALLY SOURCED
German Recipes, Maine-Grown
The Biergarten is owned and operated by the Miller's Table, sourcing ingredients from a network of Maine farms and producers, including Crooked Face Creamery, Balfour Farm, and Maine Grains. It's this pairing of traditional German cooking with Maine-grown food that sets it apart from other restaurants in Skowhegan.
CRAFT BEER, COCKTAILS & GERMAN WINES
A Bar Program Built on Maine
The bar pours sixteen beers and ciders on tap, a mix of Maine craft breweries and imported German beers, alongside a full wine list and a seasonally changing cocktail menu. Guests who aren't drinking have plenty of options too, including root beer on tap, non-alcoholic beers, seltzers, and sodas. Regulars can join the Mug Club for their own spot on the wall.
HOURS
Indoors and On the River
The Biergarten is open Sunday through Thursday from 7am to 8pm and Friday and Saturday from 7am to 9pm, with breakfast bites and coffee available before lunch service starts at noon. On the riverside, walk-up window service and outdoor patio seating run Friday through Sunday from 4pm to 8pm, weather permitting. Reservations aren't required, but they're welcome, and the space works well for birthday parties, family dinners, or a big group get-together.
What Guests Are Saying
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"Excellent food and good portions, with a great selection of local beers."
David
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"Took me back to my time in Germany. Authentic, down-to-earth folks."
Lloyd
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"Blown away by the food on a roadtrip stop. The reuben was delicious."
Benjamin
GOOD TO KNOW
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Biergarten is open to everyone, not just guests staying at The Skowhegan. Hotel guests simply have the added convenience of walking directly from their rooms.
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Reservations aren't required, but they're welcome. Walk-ins are always an option, and the space works well for birthday parties, family dinners, or a big group get-together.
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Yes. The open-air, landscaped patio on the Kennebec River is designed to welcome families as well as guests looking for a full bar experience indoors.
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Yes. Beyond the main dining room, the Spinning Mill building offers additional indoor event and conference spaces that can be arranged to fit your gathering's needs — see our Events page for details.