The story
In the quiet Odenwald village of Hetschbach, the Wölfelschneider family runs a place that feels both timeless and personal. The Gaststube, part of the larger Krone estate, offers an unpretentious setting for honest, seasonal cooking. Here, chef Karl-Ludwig Wölfelschneider works from a “creative kitchen workshop,” drawing on fresh regional produce and a clear preference for French and Mediterranean influences. The result is country cooking that earned the restaurant a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2026—a recognition of good quality, good value cooking that doesn’t compromise on craft.
The kitchen keeps things simple but deliberate. Menus change with the seasons, offering a “Menu of the Season” and a “Menu from Field and Garden.” The chef’s motto—“the chef still cooks himself”—speaks to the hands-on, personal attention that defines every plate. Iris Wölfelschneider-Daab, an accomplished sommelier, curates a wine list that features local Odenwälder Riesling, red Burgundy, and fruit brandies made from the family’s own harvest. It’s a small, thoughtful detail that ties the meal directly to the surrounding landscape.
The Gaststube itself is the relaxed side of the house, open for lunch and dinner several days a week. The atmosphere is that of a family-run business: warm, direct, and free of fuss. Whether you stop in for a midday meal or a quiet evening dinner, the focus stays on what’s on the plate and who is cooking it. For those looking to stay longer, the Krone also offers accommodation and can host private events, seminars, and family celebrations.
This is not a place for trends or theatrics. It’s a restaurant rooted in its region, run by a family that knows its craft, and recognized by Michelin for doing it well.
Recognition
Ambience
Details
Location
