Frankenmuth, Michigan, known as “Little Bavaria,” might be best known for its family-style chicken dinners. There’s a wide variety of dining options, and we know all the best restaurants in Frankenmuth. You will find it in Frankenmuth, whether you are looking for a great pub, a romantic dinner for two, or a casual bite to eat while exploring the shops.
Frankenmuth was settled by German immigrants in 1845. Its Bavarian architecture and quaint riverfront shops make it a picturesque destination. Horse-drawn carriage rides and an authentic paddlewheel boat add to this sense of nostalgia. Frankenmuth hosts festivals throughout the year and is big on traditions. It makes sense that they are home to the world’s largest Christmas store.
Once you have explored the town, head to Bay City for a calmer and more laid-back stay. A two-hour drive from Detroit, Bay City is the ideal base for your mid-Michigan getaway. Our historic six-room boutique inn, built in 1886, has been lovingly restored and now offers modern amenities such as jacuzzis and saunas. As an adults-only bed and breakfast, you can count on peace and quiet to help set the stage for relaxation. We offer add-ons: flowers, massages, chocolates, and other romance packages to make your getaway unforgettable. Reserve your room today.
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The Best Restaurants in Frankenmuth
Frankenmuth is anchored by two of the nation’s largest independently owned restaurants: Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth and Bavarian Inn Restaurant. Both offer world-famous family-style chicken dinners that put Frankenmuth on the map. Both family-style dinners serve platters of golden fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, coleslaw, buttered noodles, and more. Zehnder’s decor is American colonial and offers American-style dishes. The Bavarian Inn Restaurant leans into the German theme and offers more traditional German fare. If you want a less crowded option to try a Frankenmuth chicken dinner, check out Oma’s in the Bavarian Inn. While you are there, try the Reuben egg rolls!
Check out some of the other top restaurants in Frankenmuth:
- The contemporary wine bar Prost! is one of the best restaurants in Frankenmuth. Known for its charcuterie boards, this casual chic spot offers great appetizers and sandwiches. You can build your own charcuterie or try one of the themed boards. We are partial to the German Heritage.
- The home of the pasta pizza, Tiffany’s, offers delicious pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches in a beautiful turn-of-the-century restaurant and bar. Named for the sixteen Tiffany Chandeliers adorning the restaurant, they have provided excellent service since 1988.
- The oldest microbrewery in Michigan, Frankenmuth Brewery, has at least 15 beers on tap, including some limited-edition experimental brews. We suggest a Christmas Pretzel with cheese sauce, a Brewben, or one of their delicious burgers.
- Lazy Dog Pizza serves delicious pizza, stroumboli, and wings made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The loaded baked potato pizza gets rave reviews!
- No trip to Little Bavaria is complete without a bratwurst. Try Willi’s Sausage for a hot brat with their famous brat sauce and their traditional homemade sauerkraut. The deli offers a wide selection of meat and cheese, gourmet chocolate, and more. Their motto is “Our Wurst is the Best”.
- For casual dining, you can’t go wrong with Flavor Caribbean Cuisine. Offering versatile menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Try the oxtails!
- Open Table’s best restaurant in Michigan is Frankenmuth’s The Station 100. This is one of the best restaurants for a romantic dinner. It is a fine dining establishment with a warm and cozy yet sophisticated vibe. The sommelier can help you pick the perfect wine pairing from over 450 wines for your meal.
- Located in the Riverplace, Crepe du Jour is a great place to stop for a sweet or savoury crepe.
- Enjoy live music in Fischer Platz’s inviting beer garden. Capturing the essence of Bavarian culture and hospitality, enjoy a pretzel with one of the many craft beers on tap.
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Frankenmuth offers something for everyone. Little Bavaria is small and walkable.
- The top thing to do in Frankenmuth is to visit Bronners Christmas Store. Since 1945, Bronner’s has been Frankenmuth’s Christmas Wonderland. The world’s largest Christmas store, the size of over 1.7 football fields and has over 50,000 ornaments and gifts to browse. Grab a personalized ornament and then take a break at the Seasons Eating’s cafeteria to refuel with a Christmas cookie before you visit the Silent Night Chapel on the grounds. Christmas Lane on the grounds is illuminated from dusk every night.
- Ride along with Riverfront on the mile-long loop around Heritage Park and the waterfront. The Gunzenhausen Street pathway is closed to motor vehicles, and the platforms provide great views of the Cass River.
- Take a narrated tour on the Bavarian Belle, an authentic paddlewheel boat. Relax as you enjoy the beautiful scenery along the Cass River and learn more about the history of Frankenmuth.
- Take in a festival. There’s always something being celebrated in Frankenmuth! Annual May events include the Funtown Chowdown Food Truck Festival, World Expo of Beer, and the Frankenmuth Dog Bowl.
- Go to the Frankenmuth Farmers Market on Saturday or Wednesday evenings for the freshest produce and locally made artisan goods.
- Visit the Holz Bruce Wooden Covered Bridge by trolley or carriage ride. The iconic bridge stretches 239 feet over the Cass River and was built in the style of 19th-century German bridges.
- Shop at the River Place Shops, a charming German-style outdoor mall with charming specialty shops and local boutiques.
Our historic bed and breakfast is just 20 minutes from Frankenmuth’s top things to do. Rather than staying at a large, family-friendly resort, a small adults-only inn is the ideal relaxing getaway. The inn’s staff provides warm hospitality, luxurious accommodations, and ambiance that are second to none. Add a romance package, and let us take care of the little details. Book your room today.