Hotel Sonne - Haus 2

Taking its cue from the seasons and made with select ingredients, the food here is meticulously prepared, flavoursome and fresh – it is clear that chef Steve Eulenstein has worked at some top-flight establishments in his time. He proposes two set menus as well as classics such as rump steak. The dining space is attractive and minimalist in style, and the service is friendly and professional. The location in a residential area just a few minutes' drive from the BAB 3 motorway is also convenient.

It's quite unexpected to come across such a chic restaurant in a remote wooded area like this. But the journey is absolutely worth making. Set in the former rifle club house about 5km from the city centre, this establishment boasts a tastefully sleek and upscale interior. It serves freshly prepared, predominantly Austrian cuisine, but the menu also features international dishes, some with Asian influences. The walk-in wine cellar and extensive wine list are a draw in themselves.

Located in a park, this smart bankers' villa dating from 1894 is home to a stylish boutique hotel as well as this chic, modern and elegant restaurant. Patrick Bittner, who previously made a name for himself at Frankfurt's Français, where he was head chef for many years, is now at the helm here. The classic cuisine has international influences, and the dishes are served à la carte. Good news for oyster enthusiasts: There are always three varieties to choose from. The modern and elegant interior is tastefully decorated, with a striking open fireplace in the centre of the room serving as the foca

This pleasant, well-run little restaurant in the town centre has a friendly atmosphere and trendy vibe. Led by chef Martino Stirn, after whom the restaurant is named, the team sends out tasty Mediterranean/Italian dishes made in the open kitchen using seasonal ingredients. In addition to the à la carte selection, in the evening there is the option of ordering a surprise menu. Lunch options are more limited. The lady of the house provides charming service. In summer, from the terrace you can hear the carillon of the majestic church, the nearby Marktkirche, ringing at given times.

In a narrow village lane in the Altenhain district, chef-owner Isabelle Pering welcomes you to her restaurant done out in a tasteful, clean-lined style. With her set menu, which also comes in a vegetarian version, she demonstrates a knack for creating harmonious flavour combinations – this is where her experience gained at top-flight establishments shines through. Pleasingly minimalist dishes such as "Beef - Carrot - Hay" or "Asparagus - Tomato - Pimentos" also whet the appetite. The majority of the ingredients come from the region and most are certified organic. There is a well-curated wine l

Once known as the Hammelsche Scheune, this 17C barn converted into a pretty half-timbered building has bags of charm. This family business a stone's throw from the market square is run with great dedication, and attracts many regulars. In summer, there is a lovely terrace out front. The interior makes for a cosy setting in which to savour delicious food such as locally hunted game. The restaurant endeavours to source ingredients locally and knows its suppliers personally.