Marvellous views of the river Elbe stretching out languorously in all its splendour are not the only reason why people choose to dine at the Au Quai, one of Hamburg's classiest gourmet destinations. Apart from that however, it is the entire package that appeals, with its stunning décor, the lush ambience and most importantly the delicious French-Italian inspired food that their chef turns out.

The interior of Au Quai is fresh and contemporary and has warm diffused lighting that serves to accentuate the stylish dining space, and you might be surprised to learn that this was formerly a cold storage depot that has been renovated with amazing success. Whether you choose to dine inside, or outside on the terrace which provides breathtaking views, the entire experience will keep you coming back for more.

Their menus are seasonal and focussed on fresh fish, seafood and bear an inclination towards Mediterranean cuisine, although the French and Italian influences are also strongly present. Cold starters there include raw marinated sea bass on melon granita with green horseradish crystallized watermelon and a herb potpourri, or a tureen of foie gras in a chocolate coat with fresh meadows herbs, elder flower foam and 'Kubeben pepper' jus.

If warm entrees are more your style, you could choose from risotto of braised artichoke and soft shell crabs with crunchy artichokes or passed fish soup with sauce rouille, cheese and garlic chips. For the main course, there are a number of appetizing options such as fillet of cod in lettuce foam with sweet potatoes puree and a gelée of soy aperitif or olive braised Iberico cheeks in a lemon thyme pastry case with Moroccan salt lemons and Seychuan pepper. Vegetarians can enjoy delicacies such as homemade ravioli filled with blue cheese and nuts and sautéed figs; rocket lettuce with parmesan, pine nuts and balsamic vinaigrette or frozen peas and mint soup with baked, young garlic and curry salt.

Desserts are famed and you would not be disappointed when you sample confections such as raspberry tartlet with vanilla Mascarpone crème sesame biscuit and a Riesling Verveine sorbet, jellied elder flowers soup with Vodka caviar and strawberry sorbet or the chocolat mishap with seasonal fruits and an ice of cherry and St. Maure.

The compact wine list offers the usual whites, reds and rosés, most of them affiliated to Europe while some others from the New World and the helpful staff are present to aid you in your choice. Au Quai is an ideal spot for a celebration with friends and family and the cosy terrace or the restaurant itself can be booked for such intimate occasions, although the modern ambience can also be most convivial for a business lunch with associates too. What's more, after that most satisfying dinner you can unwind at their trendy club right next door.