To us, Michigan has always been more than just a location; it’s a point of pride. In fact, Bavarian Inn Restaurant is home to one of the largest selections of Michigan-sourced ingredients and products of any restaurant in the state. That commitment feels especially meaningful when you consider that Michigan is the second most agriculturally diverse state in the country, producing everything from sugar beets and cherries to hops, grains, and dairy. That deep connection to Michigan agriculture is exactly what inspired the creation of Michigan on Main Bar & Grill, a space designed to honor the state’s farmers and traditions, while offering Bavarian Inn guests something new!

Pictured above: the Roof Garden in 2010

A Demand for Something New

Before Michigan on Main existed, the space inside Bavarian Inn Restaurant was known as the Roof Garden. While cherished in its time, the culinary and beverage landscape in Michigan was changing. Breweries serving unique craft beers were opening across the state, offering a new and inventive selection for beer lovers. During that time, Bavarian Inn Restaurant’s beer selection was simple: light, dark, and Hofbräu. Recognizing the growing interest in craft beer, the team leaned on the expertise of Bill Chapman, who served as Bar Manager at the time. His knowledge and passion helped guide the development of a craft beer list, featuring brews that reflected Michigan’s evolving beverage scene.

Another key influence was Bill Zehnder, current Chairman of the Board of Bavarian Inn, whose involvement in Michigan’s agricultural industry ran deep. He served on several agricultural boards, including Star of the West, Michigan Sugar, and the Nature Conservancy, giving him firsthand insight into Michigan’s farming community. That understanding helped shape the transition from the Roof Garden into a concept that would spotlight Michigan ingredients, producers, and craftsmanship, ultimately becoming Michigan on Main.

Once the concept for Michigan on Main was finalized, plans quickly moved into action. Renovations began in February of 2014, transforming the former Roof Garden into a new dining experience inside Bavarian Inn Restaurant. The project moved swiftly and was followed by a ribbon-cutting celebration in April of 2014, officially welcoming guests into Michigan on Main for the first time.

Bringing Michigan to Life Through Design

The design of Michigan on Main reflects both Michigan agriculture and Bavarian Inn’s heritage. A focal point in the restaurant is the Map of Michigan mural, which highlights where specific ingredients are sourced from throughout the state, offering guests a tangible connection to Michigan farmers and producers. The bar top is another intentional nod to the state, featuring Petoskey stone, Michigan’s state stone, copper, and several other stones. Throughout the space, guests will also notice large, authentic German steins. These steins were imported from Germany by Erma Nuechterlein, who played a leadership role in Bavarian Inn’s gift shops for many years.

Michigan on Main Today

What truly sets Michigan on Main apart today is its menu, one that celebrates the best of Michigan agriculture and craft. The restaurant has been recognized for having a unique menu focused on seasonality and local sourcing, featuring products like beef from Michigan Craft Beef in Zeeland and pork from Frankentrost. Guests can enjoy a wide range of tasty appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and entrées, each inspired by Michigan. With 17 Michigan craft beers on tap, plus a wide selection of German brews, local wines, and specialty cocktails, the drink offerings are as noteworthy as the food.

Michigan on Main stands as a celebration of the state it calls home. The team remains proud to serve guests using fresh ingredients sourced from around Michigan, supporting local agriculture while offering a dining experience rooted in history and community.