Waldhotel Sonnora
Dreis, Germany
⭐3 Stars
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
This legendary fine dining establishment has an exemplary pair of hosts in husband-and-wife team Magdalena and Clemens Rambichler. In the kitchen, the chef cultivates the house specialities, such as Kleine Torte of beef tenderloin tartare with N25 caviar, but also showcases his own style. Top-notch ingredients are precisely prepared, down to the last detail, without the importance of flavour ever being lost from sight. This starts with the amuse-bouches (a veritable explosion of flavours!), followed, for example, by the excellent firm-fleshed, charcoal-grilled turbot from the Vendeé – which has a wonderful smoky aroma – harmoniously combined with terrific fresh black morels, fine white asparagus and a very elegant PX sherry note in the classic beurre noisette. The set menu features two intriguing wine pairings. You can also dine à la carte. Magdalena Rambichler is always on hand, cordial and extremely competent as she heads up the service team. The decor is stylish, elegant and discreetly modern. The inviting individually designed guestrooms are equally fabulous.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
1. Remote Location and Family-Run Heritage
Waldhotel Sonnora is notably one of Germany's most remote three-Michelin-starred restaurants, located near the tiny village of Dreis, making it a destination that requires a deliberate journey rather than casual discovery. Unlike many other three-star establishments in Germany that are part of large luxury hotel chains, Waldhotel Sonnora is a family-run business with a long history dating back to 1978. It was originally opened by the Thieltges family and has maintained its three-star status since 2000, a rare feat for a family operation in such a remote setting.
2. Classic French Cuisine with Mediterranean Influences and Luxurious Ingredients
The restaurant specializes in classical French cuisine elevated by Mediterranean influences, delivering dishes bursting with flavor and rich sauces. Signature dishes include a "Kleine Torte" of beef tenderloin tartare topped with N25 caviar and foie gras doused in Muscat vinegar. The kitchen uses abundant luxury ingredients but offers a price point that is notably lower than many other three-star Michelin restaurants, especially those in Paris.
3. Unique Bread Service and Elegant Dining Experience
Instead of the typical bread basket, Waldhotel Sonnora serves an entire trolley loaded with a variety of breads such as sourdough, pretzel, and brioche tableside, emphasizing the importance of bread in the dining experience. After the meal, guests are encouraged to take a gentle stroll around the hotel’s parkland, adding a genteel and thoughtful conclusion to the fine dining experience.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
- Gillardeau Oyster No. 2
Served with frozen oyster water, little tomatoes, pieces of green snow peas, gin, and lavender. This ingredient is highlighted for its freshness and is used in a signature starter, where its briny flavor is balanced with aromatic and herbal notes. - Beef Tenderloin Tartare with N25 Caviar
Featured in the "Kleine Torte," this dish combines premium beef tartare with luxurious N25 caviar, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to top-tier ingredients and classic French technique. - Charcoal-Grilled Turbot from the Vendeé
Used in a main course, the turbot is grilled over charcoal for a smoky aroma, paired with fresh black morels, fine white asparagus, and a classic beurre noisette with a PX sherry note. - Foie Gras
Served silky smooth, often accompanied by walnuts and a vinegar cream, highlighting the restaurant’s expertise in classic French preparations. - Black Morels and White Asparagus
Used as accompaniments to the turbot, these seasonal ingredients add earthy and delicate flavors, respectively, and are emblematic of the restaurant’s focus on quality and harmony in its dishes.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menu
- 6 excellent courses (no price specified)
A La Carte
- Carpaccio: €20
- Pizza Especial: €25
- Sushi: €30
- Sashimi: €35
Special Mentions
- Gänseleber mit Nüssen und Brioche: €18
- Hummer auf Chicorée: €40
- Kalbsbries mit Eierschwammerln: €45
- Wolfsbarsch mediterraner Gemüse: €42
- Rehrücken: €50
Desserts
- Geeistem Kaffee: €10