Top 5 Places to Eat in Heidelberg

Written by Celine Fournier, Elsa Holm, Felix Schmidt, Finn Weber, Sandrine Simon
16/09/2025
Scenic view of Heidelberg Castle and city from across the Neckar River in Germany.
Kirandeep Singh Walia, Pexels

Heidelberg's dining scene presents a rich tapestry of flavors, from time-honored German establishments and elegant fine dining venues to vibrant international eateries and budget-friendly student favorites.

1. Scharff's Schlossweinstube

Cuisine: Fine Dining, Regional German

Nestled within the historic Heidelberg Castle, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience. Guests can expect seasonally tailored à la carte menus or multi-course meals crafted with exquisite skill, focusing on flavorful, refined creations. The ambiance is elegant, perfect for a special occasion, with the unique backdrop of the castle. Vegan options are available upon request.

Price: €80-€150+ per person (for multi-course menus)

Getting There: Located within Heidelberg Castle. Take the Bergbahn (funicular) up to the castle from Kornmarkt. The restaurant is a short walk from the castle station. Public transport costs vary, a HeidelbergCard includes public transport and castle entry.

2. Wirtshaus zum Nepomuk

Cuisine: Traditional German

Situated near the Old Bridge, this elegant tavern provides an authentic taste of Heidelberg with rustic charm. The menu features hearty German classics such as schnitzel, onion roast beef, cheesy Käsespätzle, and fresh trout sourced regionally. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, offering both cozy indoor seating and an outdoor terrace with views of the Neckar River. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

Price: €20-€40 per person

Getting There: Located on Neckarstraße 2, in Heidelberg's Old Town, it is easily reachable by walking from most central areas and attractions like the Old Bridge.

3. Restaurant zur Herrenmühle

Cuisine: Modern French with International Influences

Housed in a charming 17th-century building, this dining destination offers a modern approach to classic French cuisine, incorporating diverse cultural influences. The restaurant provides an elegant and romantic atmosphere, known for its excellent food and friendly service. It is ideal for those seeking a refined culinary journey in a beautiful setting.

Price: €50-€90+ per person

Getting There: Found in the Old Town on Hauptstraße 237, it is within easy walking distance from the central pedestrian zone. Public parking garages are available nearby if arriving by car.

4. Mahmoud's

Cuisine: Middle Eastern (Falafel & Hummus)

A highly popular and affordable Middle Eastern gem, Mahmoud's is celebrated for its freshly made falafel, creamy hummus, and delicious shawarma wraps. This small restaurant, often bustling with locals and students, offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. It is an excellent choice for a quick, flavorful, and budget-friendly meal in a lively atmosphere. Please note that they primarily accept cash payments.

Price: €5-€15 per person

Getting There: Mahmoud's has two locations; one off Bismarckplatz and a smaller one in the Altstadt on Heugasse. Both are centrally located and easily accessible by foot or public transport (trams/buses to Bismarckplatz or Marktplatz).

5. Joe Molese

Cuisine: Gourmet Burgers

This acclaimed burger shop is praised for its high-quality, varied burger offerings, often featuring special weekly creations. They cater to diverse dietary preferences with vegetarian and vegan versions available for most burgers. The atmosphere is casual and vibrant, making it a great spot for a satisfying and reasonably priced meal. Look out for special menus and prices on certain days.

Price: €10-€25 per person

Getting There: Located in the heart of Heidelberg, it's easily accessible on foot. Specific address can be found via local search for precise directions if not in the immediate Altstadt area.

Check out our other pages on Heidelberg

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