Everyone I talked to about Apple Hill told me I had to visit The Forester, and now I know why. This family-run spot feels like stepping into another time—where old-world European recipes and heartfelt hospitality create an experience that’s as timeless as it is personal.
The story behind The Forester is as special as the food itself. Chef William Carey brought his family’s treasured German recipes to life here, refining them over years at their previous restaurant, St. Pauli Inn, before opening this cozy space in Camino together with his wife. The restaurant feels like a warm embrace, with its rustic interiors and welcoming energy that instantly makes you forget the chill of the mountain air. Every detail, from the decor to the dishes, is clearly a labor of love.
About The Forester Grill Haus
Location
Nestled in the scenic backroads of Camino’s Apple Hill region
Cuisine
Authentic German comfort food, made from cherished old-world recipes
Vibe
Cozy, nostalgic, and inviting, with a focus on community and warmth
Reservations
Recommended on busy weekends, but walk-ins are always welcome
My Visit to The Forester
After a long, rainy drive from San Francisco, I arrived on a chilly evening, ready for something to take the chill off my bones. Walking through the door felt like being wrapped in warmth. The hostess welcomed me with genuine enthusiasm and recommended the Hendl Schnitzel, which I paired with their homemade meatball soup and a glass of wine.
The meal began with the soup—a hearty, rich broth filled with perfectly tender meatballs. It was the kind of comfort food that immediately lifts your spirits, setting the tone for the rest of the meal. Then came the schnitzel: golden and crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. It was served with two sides— sweet, homemade applesauce and tangy sauerkraut that added just the right brightness. Paired with the wine, every bite felt like a little trip to Bavaria.
What truly stood out, though, was the hospitality. The co-owner was on-site, checking in with guests and making sure everyone felt at home. It’s rare to find service this warm and personal—it elevated the entire experience and made it one I won’t forget.
As someone who grew up visiting Frankenmuth, Michigan—a town famous for its German-inspired fare—I have to say The Forester might just rival those nostalgic childhood meals. From the authentic flavors to the ambiance, it’s the kind of place you’ll go out of your way to return to again and again.
The TLDR
The Forester isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Tucked away in Camino’s Apple Hill, it’s worth the trip for anyone craving authentic German comfort food, thoughtfully prepared and served with genuine hospitality. From the rich, homemade meatball soup to the golden perfection of the Hendl Schnitzel, every detail is crafted with care. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger, savoring not just the food but the atmosphere, already planning your next visit before you’ve even left.
