Yesss, I’ve tried lots of German and Swiss cheese and it’s not for me. Blandness (or perhaps better described as a lack of “umami”) was inferred from the rubbery-looking texture. And walnut in the bread would not have saved it for me!
What pickles do you usually have? Not found any in Germany so far, and make my own with a range of veg, brown sugar and apple or red wine vinegar.
Important thing is that you enjoyed it - and continue to enjoy it tomorrow - just thought I’d provide a counterpoint in case others (maybe Brits, as I’ve found precious few who like rye! :-) ) felt the same.
It actually gets easier as the week goes on, as the number of US-centric questions goes down…