VIDEO: Friday Night in Renton: Opening of Berliner Pub Draws Beer and Brat Loving Crowd

The Berliner Pub's soft opening on Friday night brought the beer and brat-loving crowd out of the woodwork, along with a handful of local business owners eager to see what the new German restaurant has to offer.

Both Rod Stewart of and Jeffrey Lawrence, owner of the bellied up to the bar, as did Patch Editor .

The establishment is still somewhat a work in progress, but that didn't stop the owners from sticking to their soft opening date.

Berliner staff unpacked and stocked the liquor supply in between beer pours. Ten taps — with a variety of German brews — were on Friday night. Waitresses made the rounds with trays of brats and mustard, slow cooked pork, and baskets of fries. 

Everything — including the beer — came free of charge.

The Berliner Pub offers pockets of unique bar-like microclimates: There's the front area with a pool table; bar area; a square, bar-like table set around an indoor fireplace set in the center of the restaurant; and smaller tables for parties of four or less. Move toward the back of the restaurant for a recessed area with a stage and community-style seating. A set of glass doors open out to the patio, where diners may enjoy beer and food at picnic tables.

Want to know more? Read 's recent column detailing all the new and upcoming happenings in Renton.