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MAKING MICHIGAN: The Dakota Inn Rathskeller
The Dakota Inn, where friends and strangers have come to enjoy themselves since 1933.
Submitted by Natalie Marion of Ferndale
It’s my birthday! And where am I sending all of my friends to celebrate? We’re going to the Dakota Inn, of course. Haven’t heard of it? Well, it’s a true Detroit gem. There’s schnitzel and beer and sausage and, best of all, there’s a live piano player leading everyone in song. Yes, it’s a sing-a-long German bar, and it’s been making people jolly since 1933 right here in Detroit.
Certainly one of Michigan's better German dining experiences and organ music to enhance the experience!
When I mentioned the idea to my pals, it was a quick decision. I was greeted with intrigue and anticipation in my friends’ replies. They’re either eager to return or experience it for the first time. And word is traveling. When an unknowing friend inquired about the Dakota, my girlfriend quickly piped in, “It’s the coolest place ever!” And yes, it really is awesome. It emanates an energy you can’t achieve at a chain restaurant. The service, the food, the fun, the history, and the familiar atmosphere – they all lead to the great feeling you get when you’re belting out the Schnitzelbank, swaying a stein to and fro. That alone is why I’m passing the experience along to my friends and fellow Detroiters. You just have to go.
Decorated to resemble the Bavaria that Karl Kurz left in order to find better opportunities in Detroit.
If you are interested in visiting the Dakota Inn for beer, sing-alongs and good times then visit their site. It's great place to stay warm during the winter months or to celebrate Oktoberfest.
The highlight of any trip to the Dakota Inn is of course joining along with the crowd in a rendition of the schnitzelbank song.
In our continuing segment called Making Michigan, each week we highlight the businesses, public places and orginizations that make our cities unique, more livable and in their own small way make Michigan a better place. We want to hear from you about the places and institutions, big and small, famous and not so famous, that you love and make your Michigan city special. Submit to us your suggestions for our Making Michigan feature.
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