Bavarian Haus closing Jan. 3

The Bavarian Haus, 36 Main St. N., will serve its last spaetzle, rouladen, wiener schnitzel, sauerkraut, Black Forest cake, lager, wine and other German favorites on Saturday, Jan. 3.

Owners Doris and Durwood “Woody” Lamprecht said the last three or four weeks have sealed the restaurant’s fate, causing them “to make the tough decision to close for good.” Changing dining habits over the years, perhaps accelerated by the current economic recession, were among the factors they cited.

The Bavarian Haus opened in April 1992 as a German coffee and gift shop. At the time, both Lamprechts were working full time at 3M. Doris, a native of German, originally offered prepackaged German and other European foods, as well as pastries to go with the coffee. It evolved into a restaurant with Doris cooking her German specialties.

“We did have many good years,” Woody said Monday. “We met many good customers who have become friends of ours’. We have truly appreciated all of you who have patronized us during our years of operations. We will miss you.”

The Bavarian Haus is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5 to 8 p.m., and Thursday to Saturdays from 5 to 9 p.m. Reservations are recommended by calling (320) 587-4560.

(Terry Davis is a Hutchinson Leader staff writer. E-mail him at davis@hutchinsonleader.com.)