rune S.
Google
Michelin star in St Pauli is obviously an interesting proposition, not least when visiting an old neighborhood later in life. Hæbel is a small, intimate restaurant close to the street and featuring an open kitchen with New Nordic, German, French and Japanese inspirations.
Menu consists in a choice between Fauna or Flora. As habit commands when visiting Michelin level places we chose Fauna. It appeared that a wine pairing option didnt exist but the wine card was quite decent for a place of this small size. However, problems began when we asked for recommendations since we did not know the menu. "Some like white, some like red, there will be fish in the beginning but if you like red you should go with red". Fair statement but it s not guidance expected at this supposed level of restaurant.
Food concept is smallish servings that provide the chef a range to show off a bit while still giving a bit to both taste and chew.
For us at least the food fare somewhat derailed. While the were moments of deliciousness especially in the seafood servings there were also the uninspired and a stumbling into the abyss. The absolute trough being sweetened lettuce on top of filled pasta !? Maybe there was a German reference we didnt get, and maybe some people with a certain childhood would experience a "Ratatouille moment" but we didnt get it.
At 500eur for 2 incl drinks Hæbel was not a great sell, despite in the situational and inserted nostalgias