OKTOBERFEST EVERY WEEK IN DETROIT

Guest Post by: Mike Hoepfner

The older lady at the end of a long table was celebrating her birthday with her friends. I was told by Cheryl and Tim, two acquaintances I just met, that she has been coming here often since the late 30’s. Many rounds of happy birthday were sung that day, from friends and strangers alike. The piano is the center of entertainment. The pianist plays many standards of the old days such as: “The Good Old Summertime,” “Roll Out the Barrel” and my personal favorite, “In Heaven There is No Beer.” The crowed sings along, knowing every word.

Such is the festive atmosphere of the Dakota-Inn Rathskeller. Located on John R. St north of McNichols, it looks like a German castle in the middle of a neighborhood that has seen better days.

I was fortunate to participate in the annual 1933 beer price event. Blatz was the featured beverage, 10 cents for a 12 ounce frozen mini mug. Many other beers were available including Warsteiner, Spaten lager and Hofbrau House’s Mai-Bock.

The food was simple and tasty from Knockwurst and Bratwurst to home made soups, strudels and cakes.

While sitting at a table next to the piano, I was able to take in the expanse of German decor. Beer steins and murals of Bavarian life on the walls give the interior a great festive feel. Even the waitress and bartender are dressed in German attire, adding to the celebration.

In a sense this is a German beer hall, one of the last in Detroit. Come on in and hoist a round. You will be glad you did.

Check out the Rathskeller website for times and events at www.Dakota-inn.com

Mike Hoepfner is hoisting a round as you read this.

You can e-mail him at rmhoepfner@hotmail.com