“Willkommen” to a piece of Detroit history: The Innkeeper. This isn’t just a place to stay. It’s a journey back to a time of German heritage and gemütlichkeit.
The Innkeeper has been a Detroit staple for over 90 years. It all began with Karl Kurz, a Ford factory worker with a dream. He envisioned a German-style rathskeller similar to those from his childhood.
In 1933, Karl transformed an old Chinese hand laundry into a tiny, three-stool bar. This marked the birth of what we now know as The Innkeeper. It has grown into a beloved Detroit landmark.
For three generations, the Kurz family has poured their heart and soul into The Innkeeper. Karl E. Kurz, the grandson of the founder, actively runs the restaurant today. The Innkeeper is more than just a business. It’s a family legacy.
Step inside and you’re transported to old-world Germany. The Innkeeper is filled with German beer steins. Look around and spot trophy animal heads. These trophies are from family hunting trips. Family pictures adorn the walls. The polished dark wood furniture adds to the authentic ambiance. Hand-painted German scenes evoke Grandfather Kurz’s childhood memories. Servers in traditional German clothing complete the experience.
The Innkeeper spans just over 2000 square feet. It can seat up to 145 guests. Despite its size, it exudes a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
The Innkeeper isn’t just about the visuals. It’s about the experience. A highlight is the nightly Schnitzelbank sing-along. A Schnitzelbank is a woodworker’s bench. It is also a classic German drinking song. Every night, someone leads the crowd in this lively tradition.
The Innkeeper embraces its German roots. Grandfather Karl Kurz came from Bavaria. The Innkeeper reflects the architecture he knew and loved.
Don’t miss The Innkeeper’s Oktoberfest celebration. Beginning mid-September and throughout October, the Inn celebrates Germany’s traditional fall festival.
The Innkeeper also has a downstairs banquet room. It’s called the Rathskeller. This space can host private parties of up to 50 people. During the holiday season, The Innkeeper comes alive with weekly Christmas carol sing-alongs.
Did you know The Innkeeper was listed in the State Register of Historic Sites? The Michigan Historical Commission recognized it on June 30, 1988. This designation acknowledges its cultural and historical significance.
The Innkeeper is more than a restaurant. It’s a living piece of Detroit’s history. It’s a testament to the Kurz family’s dedication. It is a celebration of German culture. As you leave The Innkeeper, remember the warmth, the laughter, and the Gemütlichkeit that define this Detroit treasure.