Schnitzelbank occupies a former carpenter's workshop in Heidelberg's Altstadt, its name referencing the woodworking bench the trade once used, and has become one of the old town's cosiest wine taverns. The menu blends Palatinate and Swabian regional dishes, with Heidelberger Zwiebelrostbraten, handgeschabte (hand-scraped) Spätzle, and Saumagen among the standouts, offering a heartier and slightly more Palatinate-leaning menu than a typical Swabian tavern. The dining room is small and intimate, retaining exposed wood beams and tool-inspired decor that nod to the building's former use, creating a warm, close-quarters atmosphere suited to a relaxed dinner rather than a large group event. It is open evenings only, Tuesday to Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., and closed Sunday and Monday, so lunch visits are not possible. The wine list favours regional Baden and Palatinate bottles served by the glass, matching the tavern's rustic food. Reservations by phone are recommended given the compact size of the dining room, particularly on weekend evenings when the old town is busiest with visitors. Its Altstadt location puts it within easy walking distance of Heidelberg Castle and the main pedestrian streets.
| Price | €€ (mains €15–27 / $16–29) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Tue–Sat 5:00 PM–11:00 PM; closed Sun–Mon |
| Reservations | Recommended, book by phone |
| Address | Bauamtsgasse 7, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany |
Signature dishes
- Heidelberger Zwiebelrostbraten
- Handgeschabte Spätzle
- Saumagen
Good to know
- Known for
- Cosy former carpenter's workshop turned wine tavern in Heidelberg's old town
Weather through the year in Germany
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Germany.
Location
Bauamtsgasse 7, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
49.4098, 8.6969 View on map
Highlights
- Set inside a former carpenter's workshop with tool-inspired decor
- Heidelberger Zwiebelrostbraten and hand-scraped Spätzle
- Intimate, wood-beamed dining room in Heidelberg's Altstadt
- Strong regional Baden and Palatinate wine list by the glass
- Easy walk from Heidelberg Castle and the pedestrian old town
Tips for visiting
- Book by phone ahead for weekend evenings, since the dining room is small
- Visit Tuesday through Saturday evenings only, as it does not serve lunch and is closed Sunday and Monday
- Try the Saumagen for a more Palatinate-leaning dish alongside the Swabian classics
- Choose a regional wine by the glass to match the rustic menu
- Combine with a walk up to Heidelberg Castle, a short distance away
Accessibility
The historic building has a compact, step-accessed interior typical of old town Heidelberg; guests with mobility needs should inquire ahead about entry.
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Frequently asked questions
Does Schnitzelbank serve lunch?
No, it is open evenings only, Tuesday to Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
What does the restaurant's name reference?
It takes its name from the carpenter's workbench used in the building's former life as a woodworking workshop.
Is it close to Heidelberg Castle?
Yes, it sits in the Altstadt within easy walking distance of the castle and main pedestrian streets.