Hamburg's Wandrahm restaurant derives its name from the historic 'wandrahmen' or wooden frames upon which cloth manufacturers dried their products on the waterfront, between the 14th and 17th centuries. While the name has no bearing on the restaurant fare, it could make a good icebreaker, and adds to the interest of diners who flock there for the delicious food.

Wandrahm looks out over the water and is located near the Kaiserkai. Two levels with delightful views serve to fuel your enthusiasm even further. Fragrant coffee and a hearty breakfast are the way to begin your day on a special note or you can drop by for a tasty lunch later. The atmosphere is rich and opulent in an understated manner, with twinkling crystal chandeliers and dim lights exuding the effect of subtle luxury.

The menu is largely international and brings a host of starters that could include favourites such as grilled calamari with melon salad and yoghurt dressing or veal and lobster carpaccio with artichokes and Noilly Prat vinaigrette. If soups are your mainstay, you might be tempted to try the bouillabaisse, clear game and fish broth with saffron and vegetable pearls.

Main meals might encompass a lobster ravioli with green asparagus and sepia espuma or a marinated and fried spring chicken on a sugar pea and baby tomato risotto. Fish lovers will rejoice in the barb fish poached in Riesling stock with stuffed zucchini flowers and crushed lime, but for meatier dishes opt for the fillet of beef with spinach leaves and shallots. The more adventurous will enjoy the ostrich medallions with sautéed potatoes, leeks and rosemary sauce whilst the veal ossobuco is a trusted choice for many.

Finally, coming to the desserts, the list is befitting of any grand pâtisserie with delectable selections such as crème brûlée with orange salad and Grand Marnier, ravioli filled with cacao-pomegranate cream in a passion fruit sauce or the apple tart with tonka beans and port wine sabayon. If you find delights of more savoury nature appealing, explore the cheese board, which is accompanied by fig mustard and aged balsamico.

The comprehensive wine list is excellent and features some well known choices that span the entire gamut of wine producing countries.