5 Best German-Style Breweries in the Midwest, According to Reviews

Waldmann, Küsterer Brauhaus, Stubborn German, Kingslahger, and August Schell are the top picks.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Midwest is home to a rich German brewing tradition, and these five breweries are standouts according to online reviews. From historic establishments like Waldmann and August Schell to modern takes like Stubborn German, these breweries are keeping the German beer spirit alive through classic styles and innovative experiments.

Why it matters

The Midwest's German-American heritage has long influenced its beer culture, with many breweries in the region tracing their roots back to German immigrants. These five breweries are carrying on that tradition, providing locals and visitors alike with an authentic taste of Germany in the heart of America.

The details

Waldmann Brewery in St. Paul, Minnesota, is housed in the oldest surviving saloon building in the Twin Cities and uses traditional German brewing methods. Küsterer Brauhaus in Grand Rapids, Michigan, brews according to the Reinheitsgebot, or German Purity Law. Stubborn German in Waterloo, Illinois, offers both German-style beers and a massive whiskey selection. Kinslahger Brewing in Oak Park, Illinois, focuses on quality lagers. And August Schell Brewing Company in New Ulm, Minnesota, is the second-oldest family-owned brewery in the U.S.

  • Waldmann Brewery opened in 2017, but the building dates back to 1857.
  • Küsterer Brauhaus has been brewing since 2013.
  • Stubborn German opened its doors in the historic Waterloo building in 1885.
  • Kinslahger Brewing is a more recent addition, but carries on the German brewing tradition.
  • August Schell Brewing Company was established in 1860 and is the second-oldest family-owned brewery in the U.S.

The players

Waldmann Brewery

A Minnesota brewery that uses traditional German brewing methods in a historic 1857 saloon building.

Küsterer Brauhaus

A Bavarian-style brewery in Grand Rapids, Michigan, that brews according to the German Purity Law.

Stubborn German

A brewery and pub in Waterloo, Illinois, that offers both German-style beers and a large whiskey selection.

Kinslahger Brewing

A brewery in Oak Park, Illinois, that focuses on quality lagers and a minimalist, conversation-friendly taproom.

August Schell Brewing Company

The second-oldest family-owned brewery in the U.S., located in New Ulm, Minnesota, and known for its historic grounds and German-style lagers.

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The takeaway

The Midwest's German brewing heritage lives on through these five standout breweries, which are keeping the tradition alive by blending classic styles with modern innovation. Whether it's the historic ambiance of Waldmann, the strict adherence to German purity laws at Küsterer, or the wide range of offerings at August Schell, these breweries offer an authentic taste of Germany in the heart of America.