Jimmy, Johnny and Eckhard Polka Their Way Into 2021 at Hollerbach's Willow Tree Cafe

   "Direct from Stuttgart, Germany, it's Eckhard Wachsmuth!" shouts accordionist Jimmy Horzen. His musical partner blasts away on the Alphorn and its trumpeting sound echoes through Hollerbach's Willow Tree Cafe and out onto the streets of downtown Sanford. The two are joined by Jimmy's son John seasonally. A student at Yale and musical prodigy, John plays the saxophone and violin as well. The trio performs a wide range of tunes from Polka to Jazz and even Rock.

   From Friday through Sunday, diners can hear the group perform live at Hollerbach's as they feast upon traditional German dishes passed down through the generations. From Eisbein to Bratwurst, Weiner-schnitzel to Sauerkraut, Hollerbach's has it all! While dining, you'll get to make special requests for your favorite songs, most of which the trio can play with ease. Among the top musical requests: Edelweiss, the Beer Barrel Polka (known as Rosamunde in German), the Pennsylvania Polka, and the Liechtensteiner Polka. Young and old alike congregate to join in the fun, as dancers fill the floor, including 86 year old Marge Freeman from Cleveland, Ohio, one of the birthplaces of American Polka.

   Sitting in front of Marge's table: a 21st birthday party and a 99 year old visitor toasting the establishment's signature anthem: "Ein Prosit, Der Gemütlichkeit!" On December 31st, the restaurant held a German New Years countdown and rang in 2021 with style, literally, as Eckhard played his trademark cowbells and Jimmy the accordion. In addition to playing the Alphorn and cowbells, Eckhard also sings in German and English. There is no doubt that the musical experience at Hollerbach's will leave you pining for more as Gemütlichkeit fills your heart. For those choosing to visit during the week, the Greg Parnell Trio performs Thursdays 6-9 PM as well through March 2021. The restaurant has also expanded to three levels, including a rooftop bar, and contains a deli and shop right next door to the main building. For a great time, with good friends, visit Hollerbach's in Sanford-- where Gemütlichkeit happens!