花园城酒店

The journey here is an experience in itself: At 6.30pm, diners are picked up from the main car park by golf cart and chauffeured to this restaurant located on the expansive grounds of the Kokerei Hansa industrial heritage site. In keeping with the name, which refers to coal – known as "black gold", the decor here in the basement of an old gas storage features an elegant black and gold colour scheme. Led by Pierre Beckerling, the kitchen team serves up a modern and very creative take on Ruhr Valley cuisine that, while clearly labour-intensive, adheres to a distinct flavour identity. Setting the

This place has it all: a stylish, upscale decor, enthusiastic, professional and friendly service, and creative international cuisine incorporating both Asian and Mediterranean influences. Diners are offered a choice between the "VIDA" set menu – with meat or vegetarian – and a range of à la carte dishes. The attentive and well-drilled service team is also on hand to offer expert wine recommendations – there is an attractive selection to choose from. Wine pairings to complement the set menu are also available. Tip: Enjoy an aperitif or digestif at the VIDA bar.

Sandra and Jörn Haumann have turned the family-owned estate, which dates back to 1899, into a charming restaurant. While he takes care of the service, she prepares an ambitious set menu that takes its cue from the seasons; some of the ingredients are home-grown. Food is served in a lovely high-ceilinged room, whose modern interior design incorporates decorative features such as a wine rack, a workbench and large pictures. This space also makes an ideal venue for events and weddings. Tip: the farm shop (open on Wed and Thu afternoons).