2014, Jan-June | Bavarian Inn

Bavarian Inn’s Michigan on Main Bar and Grill
Hosting ‘Firkin Fridays’ for Michigan beer aficionados
It isn’t what you think it is
FRANKENMUTH, Mich. – June 20, 2014 – The growth and “outpouring” of interest in Michigan’s craft brewing industry makes its way to the Bavarian Inn Restaurant’s new Michigan on Main Bar and Grill for “Firkin Fridays,” a celebration of all that is Michigan beer, beginning Friday, June 27, at 7 p.m., and continuing each fourth Friday through November.

Michigan on Main Bar and Grill boasts 13 Michigan microbrews on tap to choose from. Featured brands for “Firkin Fridays” will be Battle Creek’s Arcadia Brewing Co. on June 27, New Holland Brewery of Holland on July 25, and Saugatuck Brewing Co. on August 22, with upcoming featured brewers to be announced. Special pricing will be in effect at $3.50 per pint serving. The “Guest Firkin Tapper” for the June 27 event will be Tom Taylor from the popular Frankenmuth Lager Mill.

In addition, each “Firkin Friday” offers Michigan on Main’s full menu of Michigan sourced and inspired appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and entrees, all served in a fun, casual atmosphere.

Now for the “firkin” truth: The term originates in Great Britain. A firkin is a fourth of a barrel of beer, or 10.79 U.S. gallons. So, each fourth Friday at Michigan on Main now through November offers Bavarian Inn Restaurant guests a great opportunity to sample the state’s bounty of craft beers with creative food pairings.
For more information, call the Bavarian Inn Restaurant at 1-800-BAVARIA or 989-652-9941.

About Bavarian Inn
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.

Avast, me hearties! Bavarian Inn Restaurant plans “Pirate Day” family fun and adventure

FRANKENMUTH, Mich. – June 2, 2014 – Travel, treats, and treasure await mateys young and old alike as the Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn Restaurant hoists the Jolly Roger for its first-ever Pirate Day on Saturday, June 28, beginning at 9:30 a.m.

The day begins with a Cass River cruise aboard the “Bavarian Belle.” While on the cruise, passengers will don their pirate gear and join in a treasure hunt for booty aboard the ship. Prizes will be awarded to the most successful scallywag searchers.

Once docked ashore, the “pirates for a day” will enjoy a private luncheon at the Bavarian Inn, featuring Famous Frankenmuth™ Chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables.

Following lunch, the Bavarian Inn will present a pirate-themed magic show, designed to amaze and delight this special audience. In addition, there will be plenty of photo opportunities throughout the day.

The Pirate Day package is priced at $30 per person, and includes the riverboat excursion, luncheon, pirate accessories, all activities, tax, and gratuity. Advance registration and payment for Pirate Day is required. To get on board, call the Bavarian Inn at 1-800-BAVARIA or (989)652-9941.

Double Down: Bavarian Inn Lodge, Restaurant
Win Two ‘Best Of’ Awards
Lodge Sales Chief Named ‘Supplier of the Year’

Supplier of the Year: Bethany Curtis of the Bavarian Inn Lodge.

FRANKENMUTH, Mich. – May 30, 2014 – Readers of Michigan Meetings + Events magazine have chosen the Bavarian Inn Lodge and the Bavarian Inn Restaurant their favorites in two major categories at the publication’s ninth annual “Readers Choice Best Of Awards” program, held yesterday in Detroit.

Magazine readers, consisting of convention and meeting planners, suppliers, and tourism industry leaders chose the Bavarian Inn Restaurant as “Best Restaurant with Private Dining Space.”

Michigan Meetings + Events also honored Bethany Curtis, Bavarian Inn Lodge Director of Sales, as its “Supplier of the Year” for her work in promoting meetings and conferences in the Great Lakes State.

“Receiving two major awards for the lodge and restaurant is a tribute to the dedication and hard work among our family members and our entire culinary and hospitality team to provide the finest service, food, and amenities to our guests,” said Judy Zehnder Keller, third generation owner, as well as founder and president of the Lodge. Finalists in this year’s award program represented top-rated restaurants and resorts from across Michigan.

The Bavarian Inn Lodge was among three finalists for the category of “Best Service,” as well as for “Best Hotel with Meeting/Event Space – More than 200 Rooms.”

About the Bavarian Inn Lodge:.About the Bavarian Inn Lodge: The Bavarian Inn Lodge, nestled along the Cass River in one of Michigan’s top tourist attractions – Frankenmuth – is the state’s largest Indoor Water Park Hotel! The Lodge has 360 European-themed guest rooms, including whirlpool and family suites, four indoor pools, three whirlpools, two waterslides, a miniature golf course, two gift shops, two lounges and two restaurants — all under one roof. The expansive 35,000 square feet Family Fun Center houses over 100 video and redemption games, a two-story children’s play village and Willy’s Kingdom indoor mini-golf course. Guests can also enjoy live, year-round, nightly entertainment and test their own musical skills during weekend family karaoke shows. In 28 years of business, the Bavarian Inn Lodge has been an important destination for travelers, evidenced by the 1.25 million room-nights that have been booked there since its opening, along with its top rating on TripAdvisor®.

About the Bavarian Inn Restaurant: 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

Celebrate New Season in Style with Food, Wine Pairings
At Bavarian Inn Restaurant’s Spring Wine Dinner

FRANKENMUTH, Mich. April 28, 2014 – The Bavarian Inn Restaurant will be joining with Petoskey’s Mackinaw Trail Winery to offer food and wine lovers an evening of exciting sips and tastes at the restaurant’s Spring Wine Dinner, Friday, May 16, at 6:30 p.m.

The event, featuring a guest speaker from Mackinaw Trail Winery, offers a four-course menu of food and select wine pairings. Bavarian Inn chefs and Mackinaw Trail wine experts will offer:

• Portobello ravioli and grilled asparagus, with a late harvest Riesling

• Grilled beef rib slider on a caramelized Asiago roll, pommes frites, and truffle horseradish aioli, paired with Mackinaw Trail’s Big Red

• Chicken schnitzel cordon bleu and quinoa vegetable pilaf, with Pinot Gris
• Pecan chocolate truffle cake and vanilla bean ice cream, with blackberry wine.

The Spring Wine Dinner is priced at $55/person, with reservations and prepayment necessary. To reserve, call 1-800-BAVARIA or (989) 652-9941.

About the Bavarian Inn
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.

Bavarian Inn Celebrates Earth Day Every Day with Shuttle Fueled by Used Cooking Oil

Bavarian Inn’s new bio-diesel shuttle runs on the recycled cooking oil used to cook its famous Frankenmuth chicken dinners.

Frankenmuth, Mich., April 21, 2014 – How will you celebrate Earth Day 2014? If you happen to be in Frankenmuth, you can ride the Bavarian Inn’s shuttle that transports guests between its Restaurant, Lodge and nearby River Place Shops. At the same time, you can indulge in a wide variety of locally produced food items.

The new environmentally-friendly shuttle is propelled by bio-diesel fuel derived from recycled cooking oil, much of which was used to cook the world famous chicken dinners the Bavarian Inn Restaurant has been serving guests for more than a century.

“For many years we safely discarded our used fryer oil through a local disposal company,” said Bill Zehnder, third generation owner and current restaurant president. “About four years ago we partnered with Clean Air Biofuels LLC, a Michigan company that began paying us for the used oil in order to convert it into bio-diesel fuel. Now that we have our very own bio-diesel shuttle, we’re able to recycle our own used oil to propel the shuttle, making it a renewable fuel source that originates in our kitchen and ends up in our fuel tank.”

Visitors who dine while visiting Frankenmuth can take comfort in the thought that the Bavarian Inn procures many of its food staples locally as the largest single consumer of Michigan agricultural products, a practice that benefits the environment by eliminating long-distance shipping while also supporting local farmers. During the course of a year, the Bavarian Inn will serve 1.5 tons of whitefish, 2,650 gallons of sauerkraut, more than 1,500 bushels of apples, 125 tons of potatoes and enough dark beer to float a battleship. Such notable levels are bound to increase with the recent addition of Bavarian Inn’s Michigan on Main Bar and Grill, a casual area that occupies the restaurant’s former Roof Garten space and focuses on “Michigan Fare” as well as Michigan craft beer, wine and spirits.

“Our business has been evolving for more than 125 years and we need to continue to evolve to keep the Bavarian Inn relevant as our guests’ tastes change,” said Zehnder. “That means not only listening to our guests, providing healthy options, exceptional value and great service, but also going green both within our Restaurant and by recycling a by-product from our kitchen to create a cleaner form of transportation.”

Another feature of the new shuttle that shows the Bavarian Inn’s continued adaptation to today’s world is its barrier-free adaptation that includes a lift to accommodate two wheelchairs or one mobility vehicle. This is a feature that guests have often inquired about and now are able to use on a regular basis.

The new shuttle began transporting the Inn’s guests last summer as the latest example of the Frankenmuth property’s commitment to “green” initiatives. Other well-established, environmentally-friendly initiatives include recycling paper, metal, cardboard and plastic cups. To conserve water Bavarian Inn changed its flower box irrigation system. It also cultivates a fresh herb garden that grows on the restaurant grounds. Changes have also been implemented to reduce electrical use.

About Bavarian Inn
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.

Bavarian Inn Award Winning Chefs Are Secret Weapons

(L. to R.) Bavarian Inn Executive Chef Phil Fahrenbruch, Bavarian Inn Lodge Purchasing Manager Mark Brooks and Bavarian Inn Sous Chef Tyler Stark show off their culinary awards.

Bavarian Inn Sous Chef Tyler Stark’s Boeuf Pota la Gasconne recently won a Silver Award from the Flint/Saginaw Valley Chapter of the American Culinary Federation (ACF).

Frankenmuth, Mich. April 14, 2013 –The Bavarian Inn Restaurant and the Bavarian Inn Lodge are known for serving the kind of good food and providing experiences that keep bringing guests back for more. It was recently revealed that behind the quality of their cuisine and service is a powerful dose of culinary talent.

Twenty-three-year-old Bavarian Inn Sous Chef Tyler Stark just received a Silver award from the Flint/Saginaw Valley Chapter of the American Culinary Federation (ACF) for his Boeuf Pota la Gasconne entry (see photo) in the Zehnder’s Snowfest Hot Food Competition. Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management at Northwood University, Stark already has an associate’s degree in Culinary Arts and Food Service Management from Mott Community College.

Bavarian Inn Lodge Purchasing Manager Mark Brooks was named 2013 Chef of the Year by the Flint/Saginaw Valley Chapter of the American Culinary Federation (ACF). A 22-year veteran of the Bavarian Inn Corporation, Brooks began as a Bavarian Inn dishwasher, working his way up through the ranks and earning a degree from the Culinary Institute of America. In addition to being singled out as Chef of the Year, Brooks also serves as 2013 vice president of the Flint/Saginaw ACF.

Joining Brooks in heading up the local ACF chapter is its president, Bavarian Inn Executive Chef Phil Fahrenbruch. Fahrenbruch has also been recognized as one of only nine operator executives selected to receive the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association’s (IFMA’s) 2012 Silver Plate Award, a top honor based on an individual’s outstanding industry achievements and commitment to innovation. He was also the 2009 ACF Chef of the Year and has been with the Bavarian Inn for more than 21 years.

“We are very lucky to have such talent in the ranks of our team members all helping to create memorable experiences for our guests,” said Bavarian Inn Restaurant president Bill Zehnder. “It is always nice to have our staff recognized by their peers in the culinary industry,” he continued. “It is the talent of our employees that is at the heart of the outstanding success of the Bavarian Inn Corporation through the years, fulfilling the overall mission to ‘let our family serve your family’.”

After 125 years of service (2013), the Bavarian Inn Restaurant is a Michigan landmark where generations of diners have discovered true Bavarian hospitality – 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.

With more than 25 years of experience, the 360-room Bavarian Inn Lodge boasts: an indoor waterpark with two extraordinary slides, four indoor pools and three whirlpools, family fun center, 18-hole indoor miniature golf course, two restaurants, two gift shops, free WiFi internet and a conference center that can accommodate up to 500 people.

Nestled within a backdrop of authentic German architecture, a trip to Frankenmuth would not be complete without a visit to the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and Castle Shops, Frankenmuth Cheese Haus, Covered Bridge & Leather Gift Shop, Frankenmuth River Place Shops, and the Bavarian Inn Lodge. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.

Bavarian Inn Cuts Ribbon for Michigan on Main Bar and Grill

New Venue Capitalizes on Michigan food products, to create a locally-inspired “second meal” for Frankenmuth visitors

The Zhender family celebrates the grand opening of its new Michigan on Main Bar and Grill, located at Frankenmuth’s Bavarian Inn Restaurant.

Frankenmuth, Mich., April 2, 2014 – Michigan’s quintessential destination for German-style cuisine just broadened its culinary offerings, capitalizing on its extensive use of Michigan food products, to create a locally-inspired “second meal” for Frankenmuth visitors. The Bavarian Inn Restaurant officially celebrates the re-opening of its former Roof Garten as the new Michigan on Main Bar and Grill with a VIP ribbon cutting at 11 a.m., April 8.

In its first major dining renovation since 1987, the world-famous Frankenmuth® style chicken dinner restaurant has transformed its former Roof Garten into a casual and contemporary dining space showcasing Michigan-sourced food along with Michigan craft-brewed beers, Michigan wines and specialty Michigan cocktails.

Hosted by the third-generation Zehnder family, the ribbon cutting will include representatives of the Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce, local business leaders and area residents. It will feature food samples, coupons for return visits and prizes. This official event unveils a completely renovated space including a new bar, tables, color scheme and flooring, with European undertones and Michigan-inspired overtones. The changes only affect one dining room within the Bavarian Inn Restaurant — the remainder of the building will continue its legacy of serving famous Frankenmuth style chicken dinners.

“We’ve created a unique place that emphasizes tasty Michigan-sourced food, while providing patrons with a different option for their ‘second meal’ in Frankenmuth,” explained Bill Zehnder, Bavarian Inn President. “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.”

Michigan on Main Bar and Grill builds on the increasing popularity of locally crafted beers, Michigan made wines and of course, popular Michigan-inspired cuisine. General Manager Amy Zehnder Grossi focused on creating a distinct menu, mixing Michigan-sourced foods and beverages to allow guests a tasty trip around the Great Lakes State in the convenience of one locale.

Start the trip with the Sparty Tailgate Party featuring breaded portabella mushrooms, grilled cheese sticks, potato cheese puffs and choice of brew wings; cross the bridge with the delectable Mighty Mac sandwich with hickory smoked ham, cheddar cheese, crisp apple and mixed greens drizzled with honey mustard ale sauce ensconced in a house-made pretzel bun; or go coastal with the Great Lakes, featuring what else but fresh catch from the lakes that make Michigan; or go for color with the Maize & Blue Salad that includes artisanal greens tossed with seasonal vinaigrette, dried Michigan cranberries, apples, house-made granola and blue cheese.

To wash it down, let the taste buds travel to Traverse City, Fennville and Old Mission Peninsula for inspiring Michigan wines; take a road trip to places such as Midland, Birmingham, Detroit and Cheboygan for Michigan-brewed beers; or set sail with specialty cocktails such as the Michiganrita featuring Hopquila produced in Holland.

“This culinary tour of our great state is the perfect venue for local residents and business people seeking a convenient luncheon meeting spot as well as families and visitors looking for a casual and affordable place to dine while visiting Frankenmuth,” said Zehnder Grossi.
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Michigan on Main Bar and Grill Hosts the Oberon Release From Bell’s Brewery!
New Bavarian Inn Space Toasts Seasonal Ale – March 24

Frankenmuth, Mich., March 17, 2014 – Marking its first formal introduction of a seasonal Michigan brew, the Bavarian Inn’s new Michigan on Main Bar and Grill will host a celebration to honor the official release of Bell’s Brewery’s Oberon, Monday, March 24 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

“Since the goal of Michigan on Main is to turn the spotlight on Michigan products, we felt it is very appropriate to join in the release of this summer ale by hosting a special celebration,” said Bavarian Inn President Bill Zehnder. “From the very beginning, we wanted to build on the increasing popularity of locally crafted beers and the Oberon release presents a perfect opportunity to focus on a popular Michigan-made brew,” he continued.

General Manager Amy Zehnder Grossi explained that the celebration will include trivia games, giveaways, prizes and opportunities to meet with representatives of Bell’s Brewery to discuss the brew’s “spicy hop character blended with mild fruity aromas” to create a “classic summer beer.” She feels that the Michigan-inspired food items that are the hallmarks of the new dining space like the Michigan Brew Wings or Michigan Ale Brat are perfect complements to the new Oberon release.

Opened earlier this month, Michigan on Main Bar and Grill is the first major renovation to the Bavarian Inn since 1987. The world famous Frankenmuth style chicken dinner restaurant decided to turn its former Roof Garten into a casual dining space within the traditional dining experience of the Bavarian Inn in order to showcase Michigan-sourced food along with Michigan craft-brewed beer, Michigan wines and special Michigan cocktails.

Marty Viers & the Music Doctors will provide live Irish music throughout the March 15 event at the Funky Skunk in Frankenmuth River Place Shops.

Erin Go Braugh! Celebrate at The Funky Skunk

Frankenmuth, Mich. – March 10, 2014 – Looking for authentic Irish goods and some funky Irish fun in preparation for St. Patrick’s Day? Then, head over to Michigan’s Little Bavaria! Seriously. Nestled within The River Place Shops sits The Funky Skunk — a purveyor of authentic Irish memorabilia. On Saturday, March 15 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., the store will kick-up its typical Irish vibe a few notches to offer a plethora of specials and samples, accompanied by live music.

This year’s festivities include:

• Specials! All day long the store will offer special discounts and offers.

• Samples galore! Guinness cupcakes from Sugar High Bakery; green lemonade and hot chocolate; cheddar ale soup; Cheese Haus Irish Cheddar and Irish Whiskey.

• Free stuff! Green beads to all who walk through the door; every purchase earns a spin on the wheel of prizes; drawings for official Guinness merchandise.

• Songs! Live Irish Music by Marty Viers & the Music Doctors.

The Funky Skunk buyers travel to Ireland to bring patrons quality Irish wares. Guests are treated to Michigan’s largest selection of Guinness merchandise as well as unique Emerald Isle selections such as Hanna Hats, Tara’s Diary jewelry, and Carringdon sweaters.

Can’t swing a trip to Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day? No problem. Just swing by the River Place Shops in Frankenmuth, Mich., to The Funky Skunk for pure Irish fun!

About Frankenmuth River Place Shops
Frankenmuth River Place Shops (www.frankenmuthriverplace.com) is an authentic re-creation of a Bavarian village located just minutes from the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and Lodge. The outdoor mall features more than 40 shops and attractions at one location. Visitors enjoy architecture, floral gardens, streams and waterfalls, and of course great shopping opportunities. http://frankenmuthriverplace.com/newsletter/

Construction at the new Michigan on Main Bar and Grill

Bavarian Inn to Offer Michigan Fare at New Bar and Grill
Roof Garten Becomes Michigan on Main for “Second Meal” in Frankenmuth

Frankenmuth, Mich., Feb. 26, 2014 – 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.

Every little girl can be a princess at “Princess Fantasy Day” at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant.

Events Galore for the Young and Old Coming Up
at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant

Feb. 7, 2014 – Frankenmuth, Mich. — From lunch with the Easter Bunny to a Martini Night, there will be plenty to do at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant as they offer multiple events throughout the coming months.

Kicking off the event lineup will be a Valentine weekend, February 14-16, that will include activities for couples and families. Participants can pre-order fun packages to complete their Valentine’s celebration that will be delivered directly to their table. Packages for kids include fun activities and Valentine gifts, and the packages for couples include chocolates, sweets and wine.

A night of Martinis & More will take place on Friday, March 28 and starts at 6:00 p.m. and includes dinner, make-up sessions, cocktail making, photo opportunities, entertainment and more! Participants can also enjoy after-hours shopping with special discounts at Let’s Talk Girl Talk, Amy’s Accessories, Calla Lilies and Emilie B’s located in Frankenmuth River Place Shops.

On Saturday, March 29, the restaurant will host a Bunny Lunch that starts at 11:00 a.m. The event will include lunch, visits with the Easter Bunny, a magic show, photo opportunities and learning about the German Easter tradition of Osterbrunnen.

For the little princess in your life, the Bavarian Inn is hosting a Princess Fantasy Day on Saturday, April 5. The event, which begins at 11:00 a.m., will include a carriage ride, a princess runway, crafts, dancing and a special enchanted luncheon.

Scrapbookers will love the weekend event that the Bavarian Inn has planned for April 11-13. The weekend will include lots of time for scrapbooking as well as Bavarian Inn food throughout the three days and some fun German themed activities. Hotel accommodations are also available at a discount for participants.

Do you have a Hello Kitty fan in your life? Have tea with Hello Kitty on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. The event includes a Bavarian Inn meal, tea, keepsake tea cup, Hello Kitty gift and more.

Reservations and prepayment are required for all events. Call 800-BAVARIA or (989) 652-9941 or visit www.bavarianinn.com to make a reservation or for more information.

Pictured (l. to r.) Justin Cain, Bavarian Inn Retail Supervisor/Corporate Giving Chair, Belinda Laughlin, Field Services Manager for Special Olympics Michigan, and Amy Zhender Grossi, General Manager of Bavarian Inn Restaurant.

Bavarian Inn Restaurant Shares Back Through Corporate Giving Program

Jan. 7, 2014 – Frankenmuth, MI – On January 6, 2014, Bavarian Inn Corporate Giving Chair Justin Cain, along with Bavarian Inn General Manager Amy Zehnder Grossi, presented the 2013 Corporate Giving check in the amount of $8,600 to Special Olympics Michigan. Belinda Laughlin, Field Service Manager for the Northern and Upper Peninsula Regions accepted the check on behalf of Special Olympics Michigan, saying, “Special Olympics Michigan is proud to accept this check and it comes at a perfect time. The donation amount will completely cover the cost of Area 22 participants attending the State Winter Games that will be held at Grand Traverse Resort in Traverse City from February 5-7, 2014.”

For over 15 years Bavarian Inn Restaurant team members have been giving back to community organizations through its Corporate Giving Program. This is a program that was established to help those organizations that help others. Each year an organization is chosen and then Bavarian Inn team members spend the year raising funds through various activities such as auctions, candy sales, donating for the privilege of wearing jeans on a designated day, etc. At the end of the year, funds are tallied and then matched by the Bavarian Inn’s Dorothy Zehnder family. The highlight is always the team appreciation party in early January when the Corporate Giving Check is presented.

The program has grown, contributing more than $77,000 over the past 15 years with some past recipients being American Cancer Society, Child Abuse and Neglect Council, and the Saginaw Veterans Center.

As Bavarian Inn Restaurant’s second year as the Corporate Giving Chair, Justin Cain, Retail Supervisor, is proud to have been a part of the program. “It was such a pleasure to see our team members really get into the donation fun. From the excitement of Chinese auctions to the simplicity of being able to wear jeans to work, they were having fun, but at the same time knew they were helping a worthy organization,” commented Cain. “I personally enjoyed the opportunity to present the check to Ms. Laughlin. It allowed me and all of our entire Bavarian Inn Team Members, to partially see the end result. We are pleased that our contribution will cover participants’ cost of the Winter Games.”