Wendy J.
Yelp
Pier 51 is my favorite restaurant in Hannover. I have been to about 20 and I keep coming back to this place season after season. First of all it has the best location, located practically smack in the middle of the Marchsee. It has almost an exotic scenic feel in a town with literally no view whatsoever, A glass and wood box surrounded by water that is inviting even in a rainstorm, in fact I recommend it in the rain.
The restaurants in Hannover offer two basic atmospheres, charming/stuffy old world and nouveau, Pier 52 is the later, with contemporary décor, sexy lighting and, dramatic flower arrangements. If you visit in warmer weather the deck is a great spot to relax with friends outside in comfy booths and watch the crew teams and ducks.
The lively ambiance aside, Pier 51 has other merits, the drinks, the service and the food; in that order. We, my boyfriend and I, are really fond of Pier 51's giant Aperol spritzers. This is a drink that isn't difficult to make, having only two ingredients, but you'd be surprised on the variations we get, none that beg describing. Pier 51 does them justice. We also like their wine list, affordable and more than adequate.
Aside from our great affection for the bar staff, particularly Uli and Peter, the wait staff is friendly and efficient.
We tend to stick to appetizers, and have tried them all many times. My favorites are the carpaccio platter and the smoked fish on greens. The menu is as light, tasty and inventive as any modern cuisine in Hannover. And even after eating only a selection of appetizers we roll out of there, sated and happy. I've yet to have a salad properly dressed anywhere, in Germany, but Pier 51 gets and A for effort. Desserts and coffee never fail.
All in all perfect for an intimate evening or business dinner. Beautiful room for a party.