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This restaurant offers a taste of Germany in Detroit

Dakota Inn Rathskeller opened in 1933

You don’t have to leave Detroit to experience German cuisine and culture, and that’s been the case for nearly a century.

Dakota Inn Rathskeller is an authentic German restaurant that has been on John R. Road off McNichols on Detroit’s westside since 1933.

A common saying there is, when Prohibition went out, that was the start of Dakota Inn, and the brews have been pouring ever since.

The dining room may be large, but it gives off cozy vibes. The experience continues downstairs in the Rathskeller, which is the German term for a beer hall or restaurant in a basement. Guests can enjoy a German-inspired drink, and German wine from a wide range cellar.

To go along with the Bavarian charm, are the dishes, which are described as authentic German -- with a twist.

The Bavarian smoked pork chop is served with apple and carrot slaw and brown butter. Another option is the Swiss schnitzel sandwich, which is topped with mushrooms, red kraut and honey mustard on a Bavarian bun. A popular appetizer is the big soft pretzel, which is served with Fat Tire beer cheese.

Watch the video above to learn more about the Dakota Inn Rathskeller.


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