Unearth The Voyage
Tucked among Stillwater’s pines, Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter feels like stumbling into a cozy Alpine hideaway without leaving Minnesota. The aroma of slow-braised beef and buttered spätzle grabs you before the door even closes behind you. Locals whisper about the sauerbraten, and once you taste it, you will too. If you are craving old-world comfort with spot-on execution, this place delivers in the most delicious way.
Authentic German Cuisine
You come for the classics, and Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter makes them sing. Think golden schnitzels, pillowy spätzle, tangy red cabbage, bratwurst, sauerkraut, and gravies that feel like a warm hug. Every plate leans tradition, with just enough chef finesse to keep flavors bright.
There is no need for gimmicks here. The kitchen respects time-honored techniques, working low and slow when it matters. Portions are generous, plating is rustic, and the focus stays squarely on flavor and comfort.
If you want a true taste of Bavaria in Minnesota, this menu is your passport. Bring friends and share everything.
Sauerbraten Specialty
The sauerbraten is the headliner for a reason. Marinated for days, the beef emerges impossibly tender, with balanced vinegar sweetness and spice. The gravy is glossy, deeply savory, and perfect for chasing every last bite with spätzle.
You will notice the texture first, then the layered flavor that only patience can build. No sharp edges, just round, comforting tang. A touch of raisin or clove warmth often peeks through.
Pair it with red cabbage to amplify the sweet-sour notes. If you order one thing, make it this. You will plan your next visit before dessert.
Live Accordion Music
When the accordion starts, the room shifts from dinner to gemütlichkeit. It is not just background sound, it is atmosphere you can feel. Lively waltzes and polkas float over clinking glasses and happy chatter.
You might catch yourself tapping a foot between bites of schnitzel. Families smile, toasts rise, and conversations loosen. The music rounds the edges of a long week and makes the place glow.
Check the schedule if live tunes are a must for your visit. It pairs beautifully with a dunkel and pretzel. You will leave humming something cheerful.
Cozy Ambiance In The Pines
Set back in the woods, the Gasthaus feels like a Bavarian lodge that accidentally landed in Minnesota. Pine scent in the air, warm wood inside, and a deck that invites lingering when the weather cooperates. It is equal parts escape and tradition.
Inside, you get sturdy tables, soft lighting, and the gentle din of contented diners. Nothing fussy, everything welcoming. It is ideal for birthdays, date nights, or a lazy Sunday feast.
You will want to order another round just to stay longer. Time slows here, and that is part of the charm. Come hungry, leave happy.
Imported German Beers
The beer list leans classic, with imported German staples poured properly and cold. Expect crisp pilsners, malty dunkels, maybe a hefe to carry you through pretzels and mustard. Each style complements the kitchen’s rich, savory flavors.
You can taste the harmony with sauerbraten, schnitzel, and bratwurst. Malty sweetness meets tangy gravies and salty edges. It is a pairing you will want to repeat.
Ask your server for a recommendation if you are torn. They know which pours match which plates. Raise a stein, take a sip, and settle in for something satisfying.
Customer Praise And Local Love
Regulars brag about the sauerbraten, rave over spätzle, and bring newcomers like it is a rite of passage. Reviews mention generous portions, friendly service, and flavors that transport. It is the kind of praise you earn plate by plate.
You hear things like best German food in Minnesota and worth the drive. That says plenty in a state with hearty eaters and strong opinions. First timers quickly become repeat guests.
If you rely on word of mouth, this place makes the case. Trust the crowds, then trust your fork. You will be the next person recommending it.
Easy Stillwater Location
Just a short hop from the Twin Cities, the Gasthaus sits at 8390 Lofton Ave N, Stillwater. It feels worlds away thanks to the trees, but the drive is easy and scenic. Parking is straightforward, and you will hear the woods when you step out.
Make a day of it by exploring Stillwater’s historic charm before dinner. Or slide in after work for a midweek treat. Either way, you are close enough for spontaneous plans.
Use the website or maps to navigate. You will spot the lodge vibe as you approach. Then the aromas do the rest.
Operating Hours You Can Plan Around
Plan on Wednesdays through Sundays, 11 AM to 7:30 PM. Mondays and Tuesdays are quiet here, so set your cravings accordingly. Early dinners work well, and you beat the rush if you come right at open.
Weekend evenings fill up fast for good reason. That sauerbraten sells itself. Lunch-to-early-dinner flexibility makes family outings simple and stress free.
Double-check hours on their site or a quick call if weather looks iffy. Minnesota seasons have personality. When the doors are open, the welcome is warm and timely.
Reservations Recommended
If you are eyeing a Friday or Saturday, do yourself a favor and reserve. It is popular, and that dining room buzz proves it. A quick call keeps your sauerbraten dreams on schedule.
Walk-ins can get lucky, especially midday. But peak times reward planners. You will appreciate skipping the wait when the accordion starts.
Groups and celebrations should book early to snag the coziest corners. Friendly staff handle details with ease. Lock it in, then relax knowing your table will be waiting.
Vegetarian Friendly Choices
While meats star, vegetarians still eat well here. Look for sides turned mains, like buttery spätzle, red cabbage, and veggie-forward salads. Daily tweaks often add surprises, so ask what is particularly tasty.
It is satisfying to share plates and build your own feast. Pretzels with mustard and cheese dip are easy crowd-pleasers. You will not feel like an afterthought at the table.
Pair lighter bites with a crisp pilsner or sparkling water with lemon. Comfort food can be inclusive and hearty. You will leave warm, full, and already planning the next visit.
Catering For Events
Bringing Gasthaus flavors to your celebration is a power move. Catering means sauerbraten, schnitzels, and sides showing up where you need them. It is comfort food with crowd-pleasing appeal and dependable execution.
From family gatherings to office parties, portions scale beautifully. The team helps build a balanced spread, including vegetarian-friendly plates. You handle the guest list, they handle the gravy.
Confirm availability early during busy seasons. Your guests will talk about the food for days. When the aroma fills the room, you will know you made the right call.
Community And Festivals
Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter shows up for local events, pouring heart and hospitality beyond its walls. Think seasonal gatherings, cultural nods, and neighborly celebration. It is a place that feeds the community and gets fed by it.
You will feel that spirit in the dining room. Laughter, toasts, and the sense everyone is in on something good. The pine setting turns into a backdrop for memories.
Watch their announcements for festival ties and special happenings. When the calendar warms, so does the patio. Join in, raise a glass, and become part of the story.
