Votum
Hanover, Germany
⭐2 Stars
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
Regional culinary star Benjamin Gallein wows diners with creative cuisine in the form of intricate and flavoursome dishes that pack a punch. This restaurant is on Platz der Göttinger Sieben, close to the Leine River. It is housed in the modern extension to the long-standing Leineschloss, which is also the seat of Lower Saxony's state parliament. The name Votum is a reference to the choices to be made within the set menu: diners decide on the order of the courses, on potential upgrades, as well as the wine pairings (normal or premium) or alcohol-free alternatives. The outstanding quality of the ingredients shines through, for example, in the fantastic hand-dived scallops from Norway or the souffléed saddle of venison with pistachios and autumn trumpets. The glass-walled dining area makes for an elegant setting, as does the beautiful terrace overlooking the river. Attentive and well-drilled service – the chefs come to your table to talk you through the dishes and their many components. Casino Royale also belongs to the hotel.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
1. Location inside the Parliament of Lower Saxony
Votum is uniquely situated within the modern extension of the historic Leineschloss, which serves as the seat of Lower Saxony's state parliament in Hanover. This unusual setting combines fine dining with a politically significant and architecturally modern environment, including a glass-walled dining area and a terrace overlooking the Leine River.
2. Interactive set menu with guest choices
The restaurant offers a distinctive dining concept where guests actively participate in customizing their meal. Diners decide the order of courses, select potential upgrades, and choose between different wine pairings or alcohol-free alternatives. This level of choice within a Michelin-starred set menu format is unconventional and enhances the personalized dining experience.
3. Creative use of regional and premium ingredients with innovative dishes
Chef Benjamin Gallein crafts intricate and flavorful dishes that highlight outstanding ingredients such as hand-dived Norwegian scallops and souffléed saddle of venison with pistachios and autumn trumpets. The menu includes creative takes on traditional elements like foie gras and leeks with oyster emulsion, blending regional German cuisine with modern European influences.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Votum in Hanover include:
Hand-dived scallops from Norway: These scallops are highlighted for their outstanding quality and are featured prominently in the menu, showcasing the restaurant's focus on premium seafood.
Souffléed saddle of venison: Venison is used in a refined way, combined with pistachios and autumn trumpets (a type of mushroom), emphasizing both regional game and creative preparation techniques.
Pistachios: Used as a complementary ingredient to the venison dish, adding texture and flavor contrast.
Autumn trumpets (Craterellus tubaeformis): A seasonal mushroom that adds earthiness and depth to the venison dish, reflecting the restaurant's use of seasonal and local produce.
These ingredients are significant because they represent a blend of regional and seasonal produce with creative, modern culinary techniques, which is a hallmark of Votum's cuisine. The scallops demonstrate the restaurant's commitment to high-quality seafood, while the venison dish highlights their skill in elevating traditional game with sophisticated accompaniments. The pistachios and autumn trumpets add complexity and texture, rounding out the signature dishes.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menus
- Votum Menu: 8 courses with wine pairing (normal) or premium wine pairing (€250), alcohol-free alternatives available (€220)
- Votum Menu with wine pairing (premium): €320, alcohol-free alternatives available (€290)
Signature Dishes
- Hand-dived scallops from Norway: €45
- Souffléed saddle of venison with pistachios and autumn trumpets: €55