The story
Since 1696, the building that houses Zum Riesen has welcomed travellers. Today, the Wenz family continues that legacy in Kandel, running a restaurant that blends deep regional roots with a confident, modern approach. The kitchen doesn't just use local ingredients—it builds its entire identity around them. The team knows its suppliers personally and works closely with them, letting the quality of the Pfalz region's produce shine.
This commitment doesn't mean the cooking is simple. The kitchen describes its style as "innovative, but yet traditional," using regional products as a base for a cuisine that is "creative and cheeky" with current culinary trends. The result is a menu that respects its ingredients while incorporating international spices and unexpected combinations. The wine list mirrors this philosophy, pairing top regional wines from the Pfalz with carefully selected international finds.
The restaurant's atmosphere changes with the weather. Inside, the focus is on the food and the warm, unpretentious service of the Wenz family. When summer arrives, the garden restaurant opens, offering a lovely setting for an evening outdoors. It's a space that feels both historic and relaxed, perfect for enjoying a meal that is rooted in place but looks outward.
This thoughtful approach has earned Zum Riesen consistent recognition, including a recommendation in the Michelin Guide. The restaurant is also praised by Gault&Millau, the Schlemmer Atlas, and has held the Varta Tip Kitchen award since 2015. These accolades reflect a kitchen that delivers a genuinely personal and well-executed international dining experience, without ever losing sight of its Pfalz heritage.
Recognition
Ambience
Details
History
On the Wine Route in the Palatinate, a charming garden restaurant with over 300 years of hospitality tradition awaits its guests. The atmosphere and culinary offerings are modern, and there is also a dedicated menu for vegans.
Location
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