Fall colors and crisp mountain air are descending around Colorado. Breckenridge’s famed Oktoberfest kicked off last weekend and communities around the state will follow-up by celebrating the fall holiday.

During this festive season you may throw back some delicious Marzen-Lagers, Oktoberfest Ales and maybe a Dunkel or two. But don’t forget to enjoy some delicious German cuisine that will pair well with that beer in your stein.

German cuisine can be somewhat intimidating with names like Schnitzel, Schweinshaxe and Spätzle. Here is some help with the terminology so you can order your meal confidently this Oktoberfest season.

Schweinshaxe – This popular bavarian meal typically includes a crispy braised pork shank served alongside Sauerkraut (fermented cabbage) and fried potatoes.

Schnitzel - A thin, breaded and pan-fried cutlet made from veal.

Spätzle - A soft egg noodle dish, often smothered in gravy, cheese or accompanied by meat.

Torte - A rich multilayered cake that is often filled with whipped cream, buttercreams, mousses, jams or fruits.

Wurst – The German word for Sausage. Often accompanied with a distinguisher, you may see Grillwurst (grilled sausage) or Brätwurst.

If you find yourself in Denver this Oktoberfest season and are craving some of the above items, check out these three Denver Favorites.

Rheinhaus Denver -

A downtown favorite for enjoying a game of bocce while indulging in authentic Bavarian fare. Rheinhaus Denver has some special events this time of year on Saturdays until Oct. 1

-Stein holding and pretzel throwing contests
-15% off food and drink for dirndl or lederhosen wearing patrons
- Draft menus featuring a minimum of six Oktoberfest beers, rotating every week
- Traditional Music with Bavarian Band The Rhinelanders on Saturday, Sept. 24 from 4:30 pm. - 7:30 p.m.

http://rheinhausdenver.com/

Prosit Denver -

Enjoy some of the best sausage in town, with an outdoor biergarten, Hofbrauhaus decor and live music. This Highlands establishment is a perfect place to spend your afternoon.

http://www.prostfinebeers.com/www,prostfinebeers_com/Welcome.html

Rheinlander Bakery -

This Arvada favorite since 1963 is THE place to get your sweets craving out of the way. Tortes, Strudels, cupcakes, you name it, they’ve got it. Also most of their items come in gluten and sugar free options.

http://www.rheinlanderbakery.com/