This place is right down the street from my apartment and I'm so grateful it is! It's on the higher…read moreend for the city, but still maintains the feel of a neighborhood restaurant. The friendly staff has been more or less the same for years. You're as likely to see a business dinner taking place as a parents with a baby and toddler (very well behaved, of course) who need a quick solution to get everyone fed. This feeling is reflected in the menu as well, which should keep most diners happy.
The menu offers a handful of German classics, but is otherwise...contemporary continental? I dunno, that's what I'm calling it. One thing I really appreciate is the existence of vegetarian and *i think, but never specifically confirmed* vegan options (as in, more than 1) on the menu. And said options manage to go beyond just existing to...actually being interesting and tasty. Something that cannot be taken for granted. I've had the Austernpilzschnitzel w/ Kartoffelsalat a few times, as well as some of the other rotating options, all decent. A vegan friend of mine also had a relatively uncomplicated conversation with the chef in order to modify an existing dish to meet his requirements, and he was very happy with the outcome. I'm not actually vegan or vegetarian though, so...
There are plenty of other choices at different price points. Many of my fellow diners have raved about their chestnut (maronen) soup. Their scallops (jakobsmuscheln) are always spot on, as are all of the fish dishes I've tried. There is almost always something interesting worth checking out from among their daily/weekly specials. In addition, they have seasonal menus that rotate every 2 months which you can check out online ahead of time if you're a planner or want to pace yourself according to what's to come. I believe they offer a special beef tartare (tatar) once a week, which I've never had, but I did have a mini sampler with tuna, avocado, tobiko, quail's egg (wachtelei), and beef (which I can only assume is from the same or a similar source as the oh-so-exclusive-once-a-week version). I've learned that ordering steak in Germany is quite risky, but I put my trust in their impeccable track record and ordered the Entrecote from the specials menu that was probably one of the best I've ever had. Ever. Anywhere.
In thinking back over the standout dishes my friends and family and I have enjoyed here, it's clear that his place prioritizes quality ingredients above all. They always find a way to showcase whatever is in season, with restraint. That's probably part of why the place feels so comfortable. You're unlikely to find dishes that really push boundaries (and run the risk of alienating some diners). You'll find good food, that ranges from traditional to slightly more innovative, which you can always trust will be prepared with ingredients of a very high quality.
To be safe, you're better off with a reservation. During the week, you might be alright without one, but on the weekend, it's a must. Staff is great and will try to accommodate you, but there is only so much they can do with limited space. It's a little more expensive than your average Dresden restaurant, but the price is appropriate for what you get and, as I mentioned before, many price points are represented.
