The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, affectionately known as OMB, is a beloved institution in Charlotte, North Carolina, renowned for its authentic German beer and cuisine. Among its multiple locations, the Ballantyne outpost stands out as a unique destination that seamlessly blends the rich traditions of German gastronomy with the vibrant flavors of American fare.
Stepping into OMB Ballantyne, you’re immediately transported to a world where Old World charm meets modern culinary sophistication. The warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with rustic decor and the aroma of freshly brewed beer, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor exploring the city’s culinary gems, OMB Ballantyne promises to delight your senses with its diverse and meticulously crafted menu.
Starters
The starters menu at OMB Ballantyne is a delightful blend of classic German and American favorites, perfect for whetting your appetite before diving into the main course. One of the standout items is the Jumbo Pretzel, a massive and fluffy pretzel baked to perfection, served with a side of OMB’s signature beer mustard and beer cheese dip. For a more traditional take, try the Bavarian-Style Pretzel, a twisted pretzel knot that’s soft on the inside and perfectly salted on the outside, accompanied by the same delectable dipping sauces.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more indulgent, the Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders are sure to hit the spot. These tender, juicy morsels are coated in a crispy, golden breading and served with your choice of dipping sauce, making them a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike. For those seeking a bit of a kick, the Hornets Nest Wings are a must-try. These wings are tossed in a fiery blend of spices and served with a cooling ranch dressing, providing a perfect balance of heat and flavor.
The Cheese Pizza is a classic option that never disappoints, featuring a crispy crust topped with a blend of melted cheeses and OMB’s own tomato sauce. Pair it with the OMB Pub Fries, which are hand-cut and fried to golden perfection, for a satisfying combination. Finally, the Swedish Meatballs are a nod to OMB’s German heritage, featuring tender meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy gravy and served with lingonberry preserves for a burst of tangy sweetness.
Many of these starters incorporate OMB’s award-winning biers, adding an authentic touch and depth of flavor that sets them apart from ordinary pub fare. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, spicy, or comforting, the starters menu at OMB Ballantyne has something to tantalize every palate.
Soups & Salads
At OMB Ballantyne, salads are not just a side dish; they are a celebration of fresh, flavorful ingredients. The Brauhaus Salad is a standout, featuring crisp mixed greens, diced tomatoes, shredded carrots, and sliced cucumbers, all tossed in a tangy house-made German vinaigrette. This salad is a perfect accompaniment to any of the brewery’s hearty main dishes.
For those seeking a more substantial salad option, the OMB Cobb Salad is a must-try. This classic American salad is elevated with the addition of OMB’s signature smoked chicken, crispy bacon, avocado, hard-boiled egg, and crumbled blue cheese, all atop a bed of fresh greens. The house-made ranch dressing ties all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
If you’re looking for a simple yet refreshing side, the Side Salad is the way to go. This straightforward offering features a blend of crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers, served with your choice of dressing. Whether you opt for the tangy German vinaigrette or the creamy ranch, each bite is a burst of freshness.
Main Dishes
At the heart of the OMB Ballantyne menu lies a tempting array of main dishes that showcase the restaurant’s commitment to authentic German and American flavors. Here, diners can savor the essence of traditional German cuisine while also indulging in familiar American favorites.
The Pork Schnitzel is a true standout, a testament to OMB’s dedication to preserving the art of German culinary traditions. Tender pork cutlets are expertly breaded and fried to golden perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior that gives way to a juicy, flavorful interior. Served with a tangy lemon wedge and your choice of sides, this dish transports you straight to the heart of a Bavarian biergarten.
For those seeking a taste of classic American comfort food with a German twist, the Pan Roasted Chicken Breast (available at the LoSo location) is a must-try. Perfectly seared and infused with a blend of herbs and spices, this dish is a harmonious fusion of flavors that will delight even the most discerning palates.
The Swedish Meatballs, a beloved dish in both German and American culinary traditions, are a crowd-pleaser at OMB Ballantyne. Tender, savory meatballs are simmered in a rich, creamy gravy, making every bite a delightful indulgence. Served alongside mashed potatoes and lingonberry preserves, this dish is a comforting and satisfying choice.
Exclusive to the Ballantyne location, the Rotisserie Half Chicken is a testament to OMB’s commitment to offering unique and flavorful options. Slowly roasted to perfection, this dish boasts a crispy, golden-brown skin that gives way to succulent, juicy meat infused with a blend of herbs and spices. Served with your choice of sides, it’s a meal that will leave you craving for more.
Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional German feast or a taste of American comfort food, the main dishes at OMB Ballantyne are sure to delight. Each plate is a celebration of flavors, expertly prepared with care and attention to detail, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience.
Sandwiches
The sandwich selection at OMB Ballantyne is a perfect blend of classic favorites and unique creations, showcasing the brewery’s commitment to quality ingredients and innovative flavor combinations.
For those seeking a traditional deli classic, The Reuben is a must-try. Featuring thick-cut corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and a zesty Thousand Island dressing, all nestled between two slices of grilled rye bread, this sandwich is a true crowd-pleaser.
The Chicken Avocado Club is a fresh and flavorful option that combines juicy grilled chicken breast, crisp bacon, creamy avocado, lettuce, tomato, and a tangy mayonnaise on toasted sourdough bread. This sandwich is a perfect choice for those seeking a satisfying yet lighter fare.
Fried chicken enthusiasts will delight in the Fried Chicken Sandwich, featuring a crispy, hand-breaded chicken breast, tangy pickles, and a creamy sauce, all sandwiched between a soft, buttery bun. This indulgent creation is sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.
For a classic turkey sandwich with a twist, the Roasted Turkey Club is a standout. Featuring slices of roasted turkey breast, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and a zesty mayonnaise, all layered between three slices of toasted sourdough bread, this sandwich is a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Exclusive to the LoSo location, Zack’s Special is a must-try for those seeking a truly unique sandwich experience. This creation features a juicy grilled chicken breast, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a tangy barbecue sauce, all nestled between two slices of toasted sourdough bread.
For burger enthusiasts, the OMB Smash Burger, available exclusively at the Ballantyne location, is a standout choice. This burger features two smashed and seared beef patties, melted American cheese, tangy pickles, and a special OMB sauce, all nestled between a soft, buttery bun. The combination of flavors and textures in this burger is simply unbeatable.
Sausages: A Taste of Authentic German Tradition
At the heart of OMB Ballantyne’s menu lies a tantalizing array of sausages, each one a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Germany. These savory delights are crafted with the utmost care, using time-honored recipes and the finest ingredients.
The Bratwurst, a beloved classic, is a must-try for any sausage enthusiast. Grilled to perfection, this pork-based sausage boasts a delightful blend of spices and a satisfying snap with every bite. Pair it with the traditional accompaniments of sauerkraut and a soft, freshly baked brötchen roll for an authentic German experience.
For those seeking a touch of heat, the Jalapeño Cheddar sausage is a delightful surprise. Infused with the fiery kick of jalapeños and the creamy richness of cheddar cheese, this sausage is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
The Gyulai sausage, a Hungarian-inspired creation, is a true standout. Crafted with a harmonious blend of pork and beef, it offers a robust flavor profile that will leave you craving for more.
Embrace the flavors of Poland with the Kraków sausage, a delectable combination of pork and spices that pays homage to the culinary traditions of the region.
For a taste of classic German fare, the Frankfurter is a timeless choice. Perfectly grilled and served with all the traditional trimmings, it’s a comforting and satisfying option.
The Knockwurst, a thick and juicy garlic-infused sausage, is a crowd-pleaser that will have you savoring every bite.
Last but not least, the Weisswurst, a classic Bavarian white sausage, is a delicate and flavorful treat best enjoyed with a side of sweet mustard.
Whether you’re a sausage connoisseur or simply seeking a delicious and authentic German dining experience, OMB Ballantyne’s sausage selection is sure to leave you thoroughly satisfied.
Desserts
Indulge in the authentic German flavors and presentation of OMB Ballantyne’s dessert menu. The Apple Strudel is a true delight, with its flaky pastry layers encasing a delicious filling of tart apples, cinnamon, and raisins. This classic German treat is served warm and topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors.
For chocolate lovers, the German Chocolate Brownie Sundae is a must-try. A rich, fudgy brownie made with premium German chocolate is topped with a decadent chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and chopped pecans. This indulgent dessert is a delightful fusion of German and American flavors, sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.
Whether you opt for the Apple Strudel or the German Chocolate Brownie Sundae, you’ll be treated to an authentic German dessert experience that showcases the attention to detail and commitment to quality that OMB Ballantyne is known for.
Conclusion
The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery’s Ballantyne location offers a truly unique dining experience that seamlessly blends traditional German cuisine with American favorites. From the iconic Jumbo Pretzel and hand-breaded Chicken Tenders to the mouthwatering Pork Schnitzel and flavorful sausage selections, the menu caters to a diverse range of palates.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty Reuben sandwich or a refreshing OMB Cobb Salad, the menu promises a delightful culinary journey. Don’t forget to indulge in the decadent Apple Strudel or German Chocolate Brownie Sundae for a sweet finish.
Immerse yourself in the warm and inviting atmosphere of OMB Ballantyne, where every dish is a celebration of flavor and tradition. Make your reservations today and experience the best of German and American cuisine under one roof. Alternatively, explore the full menu online and plan your visit to savor the delectable offerings.