A city's character is shaped by its residents – and Munich is home to some truly exceptional individuals. We have enlisted a few remarkable talents as Munich ambassadors and would like to introduce them through this questionnaire. This time featuring: Wolfgang Hingerl, restaurant owner.
Born a Munich resident or became a Munich resident?
I moved to Munich straight after graduating from school. Before that, however, I lived only thirty minutes away.
The taste of Munich:
Diverse, hot, crispy, crunchy, savoury, full of soul and over and over again: simply good.
The sounds of Munich:
I love being woken up by birdsong. Of course, you will also hear that after you have been out late and maybe still have had some Techno sounds in your ears.
The smell of Munich:
Sweet, nutty, savoury. At times, it's reminiscent of woods and meadows, and then again, it's floral. It smells of cookshops, pubs, home kitchens, biscuits, bakeries, fresh markets, flowers and blossoms.
Munich is the only city where you should ...
... – without exception – spend more time than you actually can.
My favourite word in Bavarian dialect:
“Gschaftler”*, because you (luckily) find them all over here.
The city's most beautiful building:
I like the old bare-brick building on Landsberger Strasse, which houses the Augustiner brewery. And I really appreciate the architecture of Leo von Klenze, which undeniably defines Munich, from the area around Odeonsplatz (square) and the Englischer Garten (park) all the way to Theresienwiese (Oktoberfest fairground).
The catchiest Munich song:
“Munich Girls” by Falco.
Isar river or the Eisbach?
Always the Isar, because it offers the perfect spot for any situation. Whether you are alone or with friends. Whether you seek tranquillity or a livelier atmosphere. In the city or further afield.
Beer garden or bar?
In summer, my favourite place on Sundays is the Goldene Bar in front of the Haus der Kunst (art gallery), right by the Eisbachwelle (river wave).
Philharmonic or brass band?
Brass music sets the beat. Whether modern or traditional doesn't matter.
Lederhosen/Dirndl (traditional Bavarian clothes): yes or no?
I think original traditional dress is very important.
To the mountains or the lakes at the weekend?
Both. What makes Munich so liveable is that you have both options in abundance on your doorstep. So, you can choose to suit your mood or physical condition.
What is the top location in Munich to impress visitors?
A short tour through the city with lots of tastings. Start the day at the Grossmarkthalle (wholesale market hall) in the morning for Weißwurst (veal sausage). Afterwards, make your way to the Alte Utting (disused pleasure boat) for a coffee break and then proceed to Viktualienmarkt (market) to try the potato of the week and a delicious juice. Next, continue to the MUCA museum for a glass of wine and to the Mural Deli, to relax in the heart of the city. Finally, in the early evening, make your way to Theresienwiese (Oktoberfest fairground). Pick up a bottle of champagne at Champagne Characters and sit down next door at the Xiang and indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine.
The best place for a romantic date?
The elevator at Café Glockenspiel. Afterwards, there is a great view.
The most beautiful walk?
Any path that winds its way through the enchanting Haidhausen district.
When I seek tranquillity, my sanctuary is ...
... the countryside. Whether in the north-east or south, it doesn't matter. Discovering beautiful places in peace and quiet is always revitalising for me.
