“Little Bavaria” is one of the most popular destinations in Michigan. While this area might be best known for its family-style chicken dinners, there are so many great restaurants in Frankenmuth to choose from. Whether you are looking for fine dining, pub grub, traditional German favorites, or a great pizza, you will find it in Frankenmuth. Using locally sourced ingredients and providing excellent service make restaurants in Frankenmuth special places people return to again and again.
Settled by German immigrants in 1845, Frankenmuth’s 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 known for its strong traditions. It makes sense that they are home to the world’s largest Christmas store.
Once you have dined in one of the best restaurants in Frankenmuth, head about 30 minutes north to Bay City for a calmer and more laid-back stay. Just two hours 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.
The Best Restaurants in Frankenmuth
Frankenmuth is for foodies! While many people visit specifically for the family-style chicken dinners, there are so many more restaurants in Frankenmuth for you to explore.
Best Restaurants in Frankenmuth for Chicken Dinners
Two restaurants in Frankenmuth are the nation’s largest independently owned: 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 smaller restaurant in Frankenmuth to try the 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 our favorite 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 board.
- Tiffany’s, home of the pasta pizza, 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 in Frankenmuth, 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.
- 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 meats and cheeses, gourmet chocolates, and more. Their motto is “Our Wurst Is the Best.”
- Open Table’s best restaurant in Michigan is The Station 100. This is one of the best restaurants in Frankenmuth for a romantic dinner. It is a fine dining establishment with a warm, cozy, yet sophisticated vibe. The sommelier can help you select the perfect wine pairing from their extensive collection of over 450 wines to complement your meal.
- Riverplace is home to Crepe du Jour, which is an excellent restaurant in Frankenmuth 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.
More Fun Things to Do in Frankenmuth
Frankenmuth offers something for everyone. Little Bavaria is small and walkable, and its architecture is charming. Whether you want to shop for the perfect Christmas ornament, explore the Farmer’s Market, or take a trolley ride, we know you’ll find the best things to do in Frankenmuth.
- The top thing to do in Frankenmuth is to visit Bronner’s Christmas Store. Since 1945, Bronner’s has been Frankenmuth’s Christmas Wonderland. The world’s largest Christmas store, spanning over 1.7 football fields in size, features 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 Frankenmuth’s history.
- 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 fun things to do. A small adults-only inn is the ideal relaxing getaway compared to staying at a large, family-friendly resort, which Frankenmuth is known for. Our staff provides warm and friendly hospitality, luxurious accommodations, and a second-to-none ambiance. Add a romance package, and let us handle the little details that will make your getaway truly special. Book your room today.
