Benders

The story

Benders Restaurant Pforzheim – Modern Cuisine in Birkenfeld | Michelin Recommended

At the Heart of Birkenfeld

Benders occupies the ground floor of the historic “Birkenfelder Hof,” a half-timbered inn that has long been a fixture of the town. Inside, the design is chic and modern – a deliberate contrast to the old walls – and the atmosphere is relaxed. The team calls it “casual dining,” and the service is as warm as it is professional. On warm evenings, the leafy terrace is a favourite spot.

Modern Seasonal Cuisine

The kitchen draws on French technique, Mediterranean brightness, and regional German traditions, with the occasional Asian accent. Michelin, which awarded the restaurant a Recommended distinction in 2026, notes the “successful mix of culinary styles.” A signature example: Breton monkfish with a dashi-beurre-blanc, pak choi, Sardinian pasta, and tomato-pine-nut vinaigrette – a dish that balances sea, earth, and a hint of umami.

Seasonality is central. The menu changes with the calendar: an Easter menu featured poached egg with Parmesan and pea risotto, lamb rump with wild garlic crust and green asparagus, and a rhubarb-strawberry dessert with almond sabayon. In autumn, a four-course duck dinner and a winemaker’s evening with Demeter wines from the Pfalz highlight the kitchen’s respect for provenance.

A Menu of Contrasts

The regular carte offers both refined plates and approachable classics. Starters include hand-cut beef tartare with chive mayo and melon radish, grilled octopus with Caesar dip, and yellowfin tuna with miso and jalapeño. Mains range from strozzapreti with an Asian-style Bolognese and gochujang to Skrei from the Lofoten Islands with bisque and kohlrabi. On Thursdays only, a Viennese schnitzel – souffléed in butter, served with lingonberries, cucumber schmand, and potato salad – is a nod to tradition executed with precision. Tuesday and Wednesday bring a burger.

Desserts keep the same energy: chocolate from Original Beans with banana and passion fruit, a rhubarb number with almond zabayone, and a pandan crème brûlée with pineapple and miso caramel.

An Invitation to Dine

Benders is open Tuesday through Saturday from 6 pm. It is a place where a quick dinner can stretch into a long evening – and where the kitchen’s confidence never feels forced. Whether you come