Simplicissimus

Simplicissimus at Ingrimstraße 16 is a long-standing fine-dining restaurant in a quiet side street of Heidelberg's Altstadt, Baden-Württemberg. It is known for its candle-lit dining room and for a modern European kitchen with French influences, which sets it apart from the tavern cooking found on the Hauptstraße. The menu is built around seasonal ingredients, and the seasonal tasting menu is the format most often chosen by visitors who want to see the full range of the kitchen. Duck breast is among the signature main courses, served in the French-influenced style with a sauce and seasonal accompaniments, and crème brûlée is the classic dessert associated with the restaurant. Dishes change with the season, so the exact composition varies through the year. The dining room is calm and romantic. Low light, candles and a measured pace make it a common choice for anniversaries and special dinners, and the noise level stays low compared with the lively old-town taverns. Smart-casual dress is the sensible approach for an evening of this kind, although no strict code is published. The wine list is expected to draw on German, particularly Palatinate and Baden, and French bottles, and the staff can advise on pairings with the tasting menu. Reservations are strongly recommended. Visitors should book several days ahead for weekdays and a week or more for Friday and Saturday evenings, and earlier still around holidays and the Christmas market season. Hours change by season, so confirm on the venue website or by phone before travelling. Prices fall in the upper tier for Heidelberg, with the tasting menu costing more than choosing dishes à la carte.