Brookings? European Connection

Rose Aristeo

Rose AristeoReporter

A recent addition to Brookings dining, Taste of Europe, opened April 30, introducing the community to a variety of cultural experiences.

The manager of the new restaurant is Susanne Nuemann, originally from Munich, Germany and is a former recipient of the “5-Star-Diamond Award” from the Donald Trump Academy of Hospitality. She works with SDSU students and offers authentic cuisine created by chefs Matthew Reif, Mitch Miller and Adam Wehrkamp.

Sophomore global studies major, Daniel Howard, said he thoroughly enjoyed the dining experience at Taste of Europe.

“It’s probably one of the best meals I’ve had in South Dakota for sure. It’s very authentic and just good,” Howard said. “These people obviously know what they’re doing.”

Chef and senior hospitality management major, Matthew Reif prepares and creates dishes from scratch to satisfy personal cravings.

Taste of Europe offers a variety of meat and vegetarian dishes, as well as gluten-free options. Imported beer and fine wine are available as well. The restaurant has a fine-dining atmosphere inspired by creative artwork, though Nueman emphasizes that “[We] welcome everyone … no suit or tie is required.”

Taste of Europe creates an environment to take time and enjoy conversation over several hours, without feeling overwhelmed by expensive prices.

Reif said, “[People] have the perception that it’s expensive, but it’s not.”

Dinner menu prices range from $5 for a bowl of Oma’s Huehnertopf, which is a white chicken vegetable medley noodle soup, to a more expensive option of Filet Mignon, $24. Appetizers, specialty platters, sides, desserts and drinks are also features on the menu.

Not only is it a place to eat, but Taste of Europe incorporates entertainment into the dining experience by hosting live music every Friday and Saturday night; typically Jazz. Nuemann encourages and welcomes all styles of musicians to come entertain. Any level of musical talent is welcome.

Nuemann hopes to incorporate an SDSU open-mic night once a month to all students. A grand piano is furnished in the restaurant and is available to use, though Nuemann encourages musicians to bring personal instruments.

Taste of Europe provides free birthday desserts and reservation rooms for special occasions.

SDSU students receive 10 percent off of all menu items with their student ID.

The restaurant is located at the entrance of Indian Hills Galleria Plaza, south on Main Avenue. It prepares European-style food from Italy, France, Germany and England. The restaurant is open daily except for Mondays, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information or to make a reservation, call (605) 691-0866 or email at [email protected]. The restaurant is also on Facebook.

#1.1655422:2187411948.jpg:The new restaurant in town, Taste of Europe, brings the culture of Europe to the Brookings community:The new restaurant in town, Taste of Europe, brings the culture of Europe to the Brookings community with the atmosphere of fine dining and European music, all without having to wear formalwear.:Collegian Photo by Brittany Canales