[3] During this time, Cincinnati was receiving massive numbers of German immigrants; with as much as 25% of the city's population being German-born, cultural institutions such as beer gardens were extremely popular.

Patrons historically made heavy use of the walled outdoor eating area, which was shaded by awnings and featured trellises covered by grapevines.

Under Prohibition, the leading element of its income was outlawed, but it continued to operate covertly as a speakeasy as well as a legal restaurant: patrons knew whether they could safely purchase alcohol based on the position of a ship model on a counter.

[3] During the 1970s, the building underwent a structural restoration,[2] around the time that it was owned by an ashram that, according to legend, made a failed attempt to convert the restaurant's kitchen staff.

Besides the historic outdoor garden, the interior features several small dining rooms and a central pub area to accommodate patrons.