The story
In the heart of Weimar, within the historic Hotel Elephant, the restaurant AnnA offers a dining experience that is both stylish and unpretentious. The space is light-flooded, with glass walls that open onto an inner courtyard, creating a calm refuge after a walk through the city. The Michelin Recommended award for 2026 reflects the quiet confidence of a kitchen that lets regional ingredients speak for themselves.
Küchenchef Johannes Wallner leads the kitchen with a philosophy of authenticity. His team works with fresh produce from Thuringian producers: trout from Sättelstädt, goat cheese from Creuzburg, saffron from Altenburg. These local products are combined with international influences, resulting in a contemporary cuisine that proves Thuringia can offer much more than bratwurst and dumplings. The menu changes monthly, and the cooking is precise, unfussy, and deeply connected to the seasons.
The restaurant is managed by Katrin Kühn, who ensures a welcoming atmosphere for hotel guests and Weimar locals alike. The interior draws on the elegance of the 1920s and 30s, while the garden offers a second setting for warm evenings. Wine pairings are curated by Anna-Maria Beckert, who selects bottles from the Saale-Unstrut region alongside wines from further afield. Whether you come for breakfast or dinner, AnnA delivers a calm, refined take on contemporary dining in Weimar.
Recognition
Ambience
Details
History
Located in the heart of the old town is the modern, upscale restaurant, which entices its guests with game dishes, foie gras, and fine cheese selections. The head chef is Johannes Wallner.
Concept The ambitious restaurant serves à la carte dishes as well as two menus, each featuring five or six courses, one of which is vegetarian. Culinary Style Johannes Wallner’s signature style may appear straightforward at first glance, yet his dishes are full of refinement. Thuringian classics such as Weimar onion soup or celery salad with apple and blood sausage receive a unique twist here. A richly aromatic sauce ties together butter-soft braised ox cheek, herb greens, and bread crumb cutlets. Robust truffle aromas accompany homemade pasta. Wine For an aperitif, we recommend a Sparkling from Von der Henne by the Naumburg Wine & Sparkling Wine Manufactory. The wine list offers a carefully curated selection from leading international winemakers and champagne houses. Ambiance The spacious, highly elegant interior with large windows overlooking the garden exudes style, complemented by relaxed service. The elegance and refined character of the Grandhotel Elephant also define the atmosphere of its restaurant. Verdict A highly recommended destination for special evenings.
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