Cornelia Poletto

The story

Cornelia Poletto Restaurant Hamburg | Italian Mediterranean Michelin Recommended

A New Chapter in Eppendorf

In Hamburg’s Eppendorf district, Cornelia Poletto’s eponymous restaurant embodies a philosophy that has guided her since her Michelin-starred days: “Really good food can only come from really good products.” After holding a star for ten years, Poletto chose a new path in 2011, relocating and refreshing her concept. Today, the restaurant on Eppendorfer Landstraße is led by head chef Felix Neumann, who continues to cook at the highest level. The recognition from the Michelin guide as a Recommended restaurant speaks to the consistent quality and clear vision that defines this kitchen.

Italian Roots, Global Accents

The kitchen’s foundation is Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, but the team looks beyond the borders of Italy for inspiration. A seasonal menu might see a classic Italian dish touched with a hint of Shanghai or a pinch of northern German tradition. The result is a constantly evolving selection that feels both rooted and surprising. Antipasti might include a Sicilian eggplant caponata with burrata or a Sylter crostino topped with Hereford beef tartare, Parmesan cream, and truffle. Pasta like spaghetti alle vongole with datterini tomatoes sits alongside mains such as “Skrei” winter cod with lardo di colonnata or a Hereford onglet steak with celery and hazelnut gremolata.

The wine list is curated with equal care, offering pairings that complement each dish, from a Roero Arneis to a Schlossgut Diel Riesling. For those seeking a deeper experience, the restaurant also hosts Chef’s Table evenings where Cornelia Poletto herself cooks and shares her expertise with a small group of guests.

A Family of Flavours

The restaurant is part of a small constellation of Poletto ventures in the neighbourhood. Next door, Paola’s – named after her daughter – opened in 2022 as a stylish bar and deli. There is also a cookery school where Poletto personally teaches, and a quarterly magazine that shares her recipes and stories. At the restaurant itself, the atmosphere is welcoming and unpretentious. The recently renovated dining room, which celebrated its tenth birthday, offers a comfortable setting for a business lunch, a seasonal tasting menu, or a festive dinner. Whether you come for the silky vitello tonnato or the crisp chocolate cannoli, the constant is the dedication to genuine flavour and warm hospitality.