München Haus celebrates 25 years of business

LEAVENWORTH — München Haus Bavarian Grill and Beer Garden celebrated its 25th anniversary with a community “Haus Party” on May 7.

“Twenty-five years ago, I had the privilege of watching München Haus open its doors, and it has been such a joy to watch it grow into one of the true gathering places in our community,” said Jessica Stoller, Marketing and Public Relations Director for the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce.

“What started as a small business with a big dream has become part of the fabric of Leavenworth, a place where locals and visitors alike come together, make memories, and experience the warmth and hospitality that make this town so special,” she added.

The story of München Haus starts with its founders, Pam and Oliver Brulotte, who met in 1991 at Washington State University and married several years later. The couple initially branched out from Oliver’s multigenerational hops farming family and established vineyards in Mattawa. However, feeling drawn to Leavenworth, they ultimately left the wine business behind to start a new venture in the Bavarian village.

“We took a big risk and kind of sold everything we owned to come here, but we just loved Leavenworth,” said Pam Brulotte.

The Brulottes started small, popping kettle corn and selling locally made snacks. Soon after they opened, they moved to Leavenworth full-time with their three kids, Gabrielle, Joshua and Elise. The couple slowly scaled their business over the years, eventually adding a sausage grill and a beer garden. In 2010, they opened Icicle Brewing Company down the street. 

Twenty-five years later, Brulotte says the business has remained grounded in the same mission that shaped it from the beginning: “improving lives together.”

“We're always trying to be innovative and change the things that still fit within our purpose, mission and values,” said Brulotte. “That's kind of key to all of our decisions — is will it be beneficial and additive to our team, the community, our guests?”

That focus has helped foster deep relationships at München Haus, from longstanding employees to strong community ties. Over time, Brulotte said she not only had the privilege of watching her kids grow up at München Haus, but also witnessing longtime employees grow professionally in their roles.

Giving back to the community has been a large part of the business’s identity, according to Brulotte, from Benevolent night fundraisers and sponsorships, to showing up for new business owners. The company is also a commercial composter through Winton MFG Compost Works.

“Beyond their incredible food and welcoming atmosphere, München Haus has given so much back to our community through their generosity and support of local causes,” said Stoller. “They’re not just a successful business; they’re family to this town, and their story is very much part of Leavenworth’s story.”

Today, the Brulottes sit on the München Haus Board of Directors, with former long-time manager Mia Abbett leading as CEO and co-owner.

“For us, the future is growing our team and continuing to develop them professionally,” said Brulotte. “And continuing to be integral in the community in what we can do to help Leavenworth be a great place for locals and guests.”

Brulotte expressed gratitude to the community for supporting München Haus over the past 25 years, adding that the business’s success would not have been possible without local support. 

“We're gracious every day, and never forget how important the community is to all the businesses in our town,” said Brulotte.

The Haus Party kicked off with a traditional Bavarian keg tapping of Haus Party Hef, a limited release, Bavarian style Hefeweizen brewed in collaboration with Icicle Brewing Company. Local musicians came together later in the evening to perform as the “The Sausage Party Orchestra.”

The anniversary celebration will carry on throughout the year, with promotions and giveaways planned every third Thursday of the month.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media