Scharff's Schlossweinstube

Scharff's Schlossweinstube at Schlosshof 1 is a restaurant inside the grounds of Heidelberg Castle, above the Altstadt in Baden-Württemberg. Its main attraction is the setting: the castle terrace position gives views over the old town, the Neckar and the Alte Brücke, and the restaurant belongs to one of the most visited landmarks in Germany. The cuisine is regional and seasonal. The kitchen works with Kurpfalz and Baden ingredients, and the seasonal regional menu is the format that best represents it. Kurpfälzer lamb is a dish associated with the restaurant, reflecting the regional produce of the area around Heidelberg. Menus change with the season, so visitors should expect variation in the exact dishes. As the name Weinstube suggests, wine plays a part, and the beverage programme is expected to feature Palatinate and Baden producers alongside other German wines. The dining room has an elegant, historic character that fits its castle surroundings, with a calmer and more formal tone than the old-town taverns. The noise level is moderate, and tourists, couples and special-occasion diners make up much of the clientele. Smart-casual dress is appropriate, although no strict code is published. Reservations are recommended and should be confirmed with the restaurant, since castle visitor numbers and private events can limit availability. Booking several days ahead is sensible, and a week or more for weekends and summer evenings. A table with a view is worth requesting when booking. Hours change by season, so confirm on the venue website or by phone before travelling. Prices are in the upper tier for Heidelberg, reflecting the location. Diners reach the castle by the funicular from the Kornmarkt or on foot via the Burgweg.