Festhaus Stocksberg - Herberge 1881

This handsome inn steeped in history has been given a successful modern makeover. Inside, the pleasant decor is characterised by clear lines, warm wooden finishings and a palette of neutrals; outside, behind the building, the pretty, secluded terrace is extremely inviting. The menu features typical Swabian dishes, but also more sophisticated international dishes. You can opt for a set menu or select dishes from the à la carte menu.

Ulrike and Otto Bachmaier have been running their restaurant for many years. The modern decor is delightful and you can watch the river traffic on the Neckar through the floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as from the terrace. Friendly and adept service comes courtesy of the lady of the house while the chef-patron delivers seasonal dishes such as Obsiblue prawn soup with ginger, or braised shoulder of locally hunted venison, glazed in the pan, with Swede, palm tree kale and celeriac. A vegetarian set menu is available by prior arrangement. Good wine pairings. Tip: Book well in advance.

Umberto Scuccia is a well-known figure in Heilbronn. Here on the 12th floor of the WTZ Tower he runs an upmarket, minimalist-style restaurant offering both pleasantly pared-down Italian cuisine with the accent on top-quality produce and a wonderful view of the city.

A quaint historical half-timbered building provides the setting where Heiner Bohnet and Constanza Piccolo welcome diners into their inviting dining space, which has retained its traditional charm. The pair approach their work with tremendous dedication and enthusiasm – she provides friendly and attentive service, and he creates a new vegetable-forward set menu every week, always guided by what is in season. Ingredients are sourced almost entirely from the local area (except for the responsibly line-caught fish from the coast of Brittany). The chef-patron is a member of a farming collective and