The Rathskeller dates back to 1851 when the original building was rebuilt from a stagecoach stop and a brothel to what the building is today. It was a simple cellar then, but over 25 years ago it became a cellar pub and was renamed “The Rathskeller,” which is German for “cellar under City Hall.” It quickly grew to become one of Frenchtown’s favorite watering holes, and is nicknamed “The Rat.” The stained glass windows behind the bar pay homage to the literal interpretation of “The Rat.”