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AADL Talks To: John Metzger

John Metzger, Heidi Metzger, Ryan Dunkelberger
John Metzger, Heidi Metzger, and Ryan Dunkelberger, December 2023

In this episode, AADL Talks To John Metzger, third-generation owner of Metzger's Restaurant at 305 N Zeeb Rd. John walks us through the history of his family's restaurant, from its origin 90 years ago on Washington Street in Ann Arbor, and discusses what's changed - and what's remained the same - over the years as the business passed from his grandfather to his father to John. He also shares his memories of growing up in the restaurant; his efforts, along with his sister Heidi, to reopen at a new location on the west side of town after closing the downtown location; and he talks about the employees and customers that have kept the business a thriving enterprise for nearly a century.

Read historical articles about Metzger's.

Browse our Metzger Family Collection featuring many of the historical photos that line the walls of Metzger's Restaurant.

Young Boy Loses Hand In Hamburger Grinder

Young Boy Loses Hand In Hamburger Grinder image
Parent Issue
Day
24
Month
November
Year
1960
Copyright
Copyright Protected

Walter and John Metzger, January 1991 Photographer: Larry E. Wright

Walter and John Metzger, January 1991 image
Year:
1991
Published In:
Ann Arbor News, January 30, 1991
Caption:
John Metzger, left, and his father, Walter, at their namesake downtown eatery.

Walter Metzger, son John, and restaurant manager Douglas Kalis, July 1978 Photographer: Larry E. Wright

Walter Metzger, son John, and restaurant manager Douglas Kalis, July 1978 image
Year:
1978
Published In:
Ann Arbor News, July 30, 1978
Caption:
METZGER'S German Restaurant has been a part of Ann Arbor's varied restaurant scene for longer then any other family-operated restaurant -- 50 years. Here Walter Metzger, center, talks over business with his son John, left, and restaurant manager Douglas Kalis, right. John will be carrying on the Metzger tradition Jan. 1 when he and Kalis become part owners of the business. (News photo by Larry Wright)

Metzger's completes expansion

Metzger's completes expansion image
Parent Issue
Day
30
Month
January
Year
1991
Copyright
Copyright Protected