Kleine Brunnenstraße 1 The Pearl of Ottensen

During the day, Ottensen is a quirky creative neighbourhood. But when the sun sets the district between Altona and Othmarschen turns into the city’s romantic nook. The small restaurant on the corner of Brunnenstraße appeals so very dreamy and inviting. It’s a typical turn-of-the-century-building, with a red marquee and a few seats outside. And as you enter, the bar welcomes you with open arms and a beautiful wooden counter adorned with tiny mosaic stones in black and gold.

The restaurant takes about 20 tables, looking very French with only a few centimetres between each other. We got a table by the window, Spanish olive oil from La Rioja and Ibizan sea salt were already waiting for us. The interior is super simple yet tasteful, the orange lamps throw a very cozy light. We decided to go with the 4 course-surprise menu and the recommended one pairings.

We begin with a sea bass carpaccio with Japanese Yuzur-lemon and cucumber, wonderfully fresh especially when paired with Telmo Rodriguez/ soft, fruity Basa. The following pumpkin ravioli filed with goat cheese and Italian mustard fruits were so good, we stopped talking immediately. Sardinian Villa Solais Vermentino has just the right flavors and is still soft enough for it to stage nicely along with the food.

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After thoe first two courses our expectations rose and guess what, they got exceeded! Venison haunch with two kinds of pumpkin and a chestnut-potato-mash up - fantastic! Our plates were almost completely clean afterwards. And along came a rich, full South African Pinotage.

The following chocolate malheur and the cassis sorbet finally convinced us to book another table for the following weekend. With a staff that friendly, a menu that good, wine selected so carefully and all that in an atmosphere so at ease - you have no choice but to return!

German text Christine Ahlsdorff