Stuttgart

Speisemeisterei is a fine dining restaurant tucked inside Hohenheim Castle, about 10 km outside the centre. It's been recognised in the Michelin Guide more than once, but you don’t need a special occasion to go—locals often drop in for the weekday business lunch. The food’s thoughtful, more international than traditional, and the setting’s something else. If you’ve got a bit of time and feel like splurging on a slower meal in a quieter part of town, it’s worth the detour.

If you’re after traditional Swabian food done right, Stuttgarter Stäffele is a perfect choice. It’s got that old-school charm—wood panelling, checked tablecloths, the whole cosy setup. The menu sticks to the classics: Maultaschen (Swabian ravioli), roast beef with sauerkraut and spätzle, and the local favourite, meatballs with potato salad. Portions are generous, and there's a decent regional wine list if you feel like trying a glass with your meal.

Weinstube Fröhlich is one of those places that feels like it’s been around forever—in the best way. The menu changes with the seasons, but you’ll always find good, homemade food and proper Swabian staples like Maultaschen and spätzle. It doubles as a wine bar, so you can also try a few regional wines.

Carl’s Brauhaus is a big, lively spot right on Schlossplatz—hard to miss and easy to walk into after some sightseeing. They specialise in Swabian comfort food: schnitzels, sausages, roast pork, that kind of thing. The beer list leans local, and the portions are generous. It’s popular, so expect a bit of buzz, especially in the evenings or when the sun’s out and the terrace fills up. Great if you’re after a hearty meal with a view of the square.

Cube sits on the top floor of the Stuttgart Museum of Art, serving a unique mix of Asian and Mediterranean flavours. The food is modern and inventive, and with floor-to-ceiling windows, you get a fantastic view of the city as you dine.

Joe Peña’s is where you go in Stuttgart when you’re craving Tex-Mex—sizzling fajitas, tacos, nachos, and strong margaritas. It’s lively, a bit loud, and always busy in the evenings, especially on weekends. The portions are generous, the vibe is casual, and if you’re into frozen drinks and loaded plates, this place has you covered.