I feel as if there are 2 different drinking scenes in South End. You have the brewery scene and then a bar scene. I feel as if Helles & Dunkel falls in between these two environments. The main area is one large bar with tvs (like you would see at All American, Oak Room, or Tavern on the tracks). They also have food, but very few booths so food, to me, doesn't seem to be their main priority. They feel somewhat like a brewery because the atmosphere is sort of low key. Meaning it isn't like a "party" scene. They have a huge selection of beers ranging from domestic to craft and local.
I understand my description of the environment is sort of confusing but if you go I feel as if you'll understand. If you don't feel like going to a brewery but don't feel like going somewhere hectic this place is perfect! It's definitely a go to for a beer in South End. I haven't tried it, but I also hear the sushi is good.