Roof Garten Becomes Michigan on Main for “Second Meal” in Frankenmuth
Capitalizing on extensive use of Michigan food products along with patron needs for a somewhat different “second meal” while visiting Frankenmuth, the Bavarian Inn announces a major renovation that is converting its Roof Garten into the Michigan on Main Bar and Grill.
In its first major dining renovation since 1987, the world-famous Frankenmuth style chicken dinner restaurant is turning the former Roof Garten into a casual and contemporary dining space in order to showcase Michigan-sourced food along with Michigan craft-brewed beer, Michigan wines and special Michigan cocktails, according to Bavarian Inn President and owner Bill Zehnder. “We wanted to create a unique place that emphasizes the tasty Michigan-sourced food that our guests have come to enjoy in our traditional dining rooms and, at the same time, provide them with a different option for their ‘second meal’ in Frankenmuth,” Zehnder said. “We also see it as a way to build on the increasing popularity of locally crafted beers and Michigan made wines,” he continued.
With construction currently underway, General Manager Amy Zehnder Grossi is focusing on fine- tuning menu items like the Michigan Ale Brat, a foot-long homemade bratwurst on a pretzel bun served with mustard ale dipping sauce; grilled pork Michigan Medallions made with Michigan apples and caramelized onions and lightly glazed with a beer-infused mustard sauce; and the Maize & Blue Salad that includes artisanal greens tossed with seasonal vinaigrette, dried Michigan cranberries, apples, house-made granola and blue cheese. With entrée items reasonably priced from $6 to $20, Zehnder Grossi explained that there will also be plenty of sharable appetizers for those who want to congregate with friends while enjoying a favorite beverage.
“We are hoping this new dining option will have broad appeal to local residents, business people seeking a convenient luncheon meeting spot as well as families and tourist groups looking for a casual and affordable place to dine while visiting Frankenmuth,” said Zehnder Grossi.
Scheduled to re-open under its new banner in early March, Bill Zehnder explained that the space will be totally renovated with a new bar, tables, color scheme and flooring, incorporating a look that is still European but includes Michigan-inspired contemporary décor. He also emphasized that the changes will only affect the current Roof Garten portion of the Bavarian Inn and that the remainder of the building will continue to serve its famous Frankenmuth style chicken dinners.
“We are hoping that the casual atmosphere, affordability and convenience of Michigan on Main Bar and Grill right on Frankenmuth’s Main Street will encourage everyday use for lunch or dinner, as well as make it a natural place to congregate with friends,” said Zehnder.
The Bavarian Inn, which began life as the Union House, has been owned by just two families and is now in its seventh generation of management. Today the restaurant seats 1,200 guests in 12 dining rooms and serves over 600,000 meals annually.
Celebrating 125 years of service in 2013, the Bavarian Inn Restaurant has become a Michigan landmark. Generations of diners, lodgers and tourists from around the globe have discovered true Bavarian hospitality thanks to Dorothy and her late husband William “Tiny” Zehnder. Guests experience the old-world European charm of the Bavarian Inn – whether it’s the famous chicken dinners, fresh baked goods or Michigan’s greatest selection of German beer. Bavarian Inn also prides itself on being one of the top consumers of Pure Michigan agricultural products. Nestled within a backdrop of authentic German architecture, a variety of shops and other fun activities, a trip to Frankenmuth would not be complete without a visit to the Bavarian Inn. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.