Alte Baiz

The story

Alte Baiz – Michelin-Starred Modern Cuisine in Pforzheim's Historic Grüner Wald

Alte Baiz: Modern Cuisine in a Historic Setting

Within the lovingly restored 18th-century Landgasthof Grüner Wald in Hamberg, Alte Baiz has established itself as a destination for sophisticated dining. The restaurant, which earned a Michelin star for its high-quality cooking, is the fine-dining arm of a larger estate that also includes a traditional Braustüble with a beer garden and a recently opened ecological hotel.

Gastgeber Claudio Urru and his team welcome guests into an unpretentious atmosphere, serving what they describe as "gehoben-bürgerliche" dishes alongside elegant gourmet menus. The cuisine is rooted in modern European techniques, with a focus on precise execution and first-class beverage pairings. Photographs from the kitchen show dishes like Duroc pork belly, house-made tartare, local venison, and seared yellowtail jack – evidence of a kitchen that respects both tradition and innovation.

The restaurant occupies a space within the historic inn, where exposed beams and a warm, contemporary design create a setting that is both refined and comfortable. A separate bar and lounge area offers creative cocktails, fine spirits, and an expertly curated humidor for cigar enthusiasts. For private events, two rooms accommodate up to 8 or 15 guests respectively, making Alte Baiz suitable for business dinners or celebrations.

The Grüner Wald estate itself has been in the same family since 1893, when Josef Holzhauer, the great-great-grandfather of the current owner, ran the inn with its own livestock and butchering. After a comprehensive renovation from 2013 to 2018, the property reopened with a clear vision: to offer authentic hospitality across different price points, from the rustic Braustüble to the Michelin-starred Alte Baiz. This commitment to passionate craftsmanship and regional roots is evident in every detail.

Alte Baiz’s modern cuisine is not about flashy trends but about clarity of flavor and respect for ingredients. Whether you come for a multi-course tasting menu or a single dish from the à la carte selection, the experience is one of genuine warmth and culinary precision.