10 Great Restaurants in Dresden

Lila Soße is a chic restaurant known for its small dishes served in jars that guests are encouraged to share with their party. Located north of the Elbe River, this restaurant is in a busy neighbourhood just 2 blocks south of Alaunpark in Outer Neustadt.

While the menu has great options for full meals, the best way to enjoy Lila Soße's inventive menu is to order several small plates for the table. Menu highlights include käsespätzel (cheesy pasta dish), pork cheeks, poached egg with spinach, and bratwurst. Tables tend to book quickly, so reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

Restaurant Genuss-Atelier is an upscale restaurant that is known for its cozy atmosphere and award-winning cuisine. Located east of the city centre near the Waldschlösschenbrücke bridge, it’s easiest to get to the restaurant by automobile or by taking a bus to one of the 6 bus stops each 1 block away.

This exquisite restaurant is best known for offering a one-of-a-kind experience with every meal as their dishes are delicately plated and packed with incredible flavor. You can either choose your desired meal from their seasonal menu or select a 4-8 course meat/fish or vegetarian surprise meal for a real treat. Don’t miss their wine menu, which exclusively serves wines produced in East Germany.

Alte Meister Café & Restaurant is a beautiful restaurant with a bright indoor dining area and spacious outdoor courtyard. Located next to the Semperopera on the Theaterplatz just south of the Elbe River, its central location makes it easy to get to, especially from the city’s most famous landmarks.

This popular restaurant is known for its elegant dishes, romantic atmosphere, and affordable price tags. In addition to a rotating seasonal menu that highlights fresh local ingredients, their specials change daily, giving a unique option with each visit. If you’re planning to bring a large group or dine before a show at the Opera House, make sure to book in advance online.

Kastenmeiers is a seafood restaurant located in the Innere Altstadt neighbourhood of Dresden, just south of the Elbe River. Known for its extensive seafood menu and craft cocktails, this restaurant is a popular destination for those who are looking for a great meal that highlights fresh regional ingredients.

Whether you’re interested in gourmet seafood cuisine, or simply want to enjoy an appetiser and craft cocktail in the courtyard, this restaurant accepts reservations beginning every day at 5 pm. Menu highlights include everything from sushi and oysters to rainbow trout, whole broiled lobster, and North Sea crabs with burrata, confit tomatoes, and spinach salad. If you’re feeling adventurous, order the daily 4-course surprise menu for a real treat.

Sophienkeller is a beautiful restaurant just steps away from some of the most popular landmarks in the city including the Semperoper, Zwinger, and the Residenzschloss. This delightful restaurant is best known for its medieval atmosphere, which includes different vaults and private rooms, stone archways, and even a merry-go-round table with swings for chairs.

Since Sophienkeller specializes in traditional Saxon food, some of their most popular dishes include crispy suckling pig, sour roast, and potato soup with Bockwurst slices. In addition to tasty meals, you’ll also find live music, a large drink list and a unique green herbal elixir served in a traditional Dresdner funnel.

Stresa is an upscale restaurant known for its unique spin on traditional Saxon dishes and eye-catching plating techniques. Located in eastern Dresden in the modern Blasewitz neighbourhood, Stresa is easily accessible by automobile, bus, or streetcar.

Some menu highlights from their modern and inventive menu include homemade porcini dumplings, herb-crusted roast beef with potato cakes, and pot roast with brussels sprouts and a hearty jus. In addition to a full menu with classic dishes, chefs at Stresa also prepare weekly vegetarian and vegan menus so guests of all dining preferences can enjoy a delicious dinner here.

Schmidt’s is a charming restaurant known for its regional dishes with a creative flair. Located north of downtown Dresden, about halfway between the airport and the city centre, the best way to get to Schmidt’s is by automobile or taxi cab, and the food and ambiance make the drive worth it.

While the evening menus change frequently due to seasonal and regional availability, some menu highlights include the pink roast leg of lamb with pointed cabbage and potato cakes, the Saxon ox cheek with plum chutney and white beans, and the fried filet of Baltic pike. Pair your meal with a wine selection from their regional list and enjoy a modern and delicious taste of Saxony.

Ristorante “Mamma Mia” is a popular Italian restaurant with an extensive menu featuring fresh homemade pasta dishes made right in their pasta corner. Located in the popular old town neighbourhood just south of the Elbe River, its central location is within a short walk of some of the most famous landmarks in the city.

Some of the most popular dishes here include pappardelle with broiled beef, arugula, and freshly grated Grana-Padano cheese, ravioli stuffed with ricotta and truffle served with a truffle cream sauce, and the classic tiramisu. Arrive early on busy nights to ensure you get a table, or book in advance online to reserve a table.

Lloyd’s Café and Bar is a chic restaurant with a modern atmosphere and a large selection of classic café foods including sandwiches, soups, and salads. Located 1 block north of Bautzner Strasse and a 10-minute walk from the rose gardens, its location is ideal for those spending their day exploring the city.

Afternoon tea at Lloyd’s is served daily from 2 pm to 6 pm with a fresh pot of tea accompanied by a selection of finger sandwiches, scones, biscuits, and pralines. It's consistently one of the busiest times of day here. In addition to their tea service, they also have a large breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, and café menu.

Restaurant Daniel is a posh restaurant known for its unique menu – which blends traditional German dishes with Mediterranean recipes – and its minimalist design. Located in east Dresden in the Johannstadt neighbourhood, this restaurant is a hidden gem and is only 2 blocks away from the nearest streetcar stop, making it easy to get to by public transit from the city centre.

The restaurant's inviting ambience makes it the ideal place to enjoy a romantic dinner for 2 or an intimate meal with family and friends. While the menu rotates based on seasonality, you can always find unique spins on classic recipes and flavour-packed dishes. Reserve your table online in advance and make sure to request the charming terrace on warmer days.