The Hotel Esplanade Resort & Spa in Bad Saarow transforms into a world of indulgence, seduction, and joie de vivre for the New Year. Under this year's theme, "7 Sins," guests can expect an unforgettable New Year's Eve where culinary delights and experiences merge into a unique symbiosis.

The focus is on an extraordinary food concept that deliberately goes far beyond classic gala buffets: Instead of long, warming stations where each guest helps themselves, numerous live cooking stations become the center of the evening. Here, chefs prepare freshly presented plate creations in small portions—perfect for sampling the variety. From refined classics to modern, creative interpretations, guests experience a culinary stroll that invites discovery and lingering. This is accompanied by flying appetizers served throughout the evening.4

The drinks concept also follows the idea of ​​experience: several bars and cocktail stations offer a range from fine classics to trendy signature drinks that are as surprising as they are tempting.

At Kin, it's about more than just filling your stomach – here, dishes are created that are fun, surprising, and spark conversations at the table. Sometimes colorful, sometimes sophisticated, sometimes playful – but always in a way that leaves you with a smile. Carlo Sannino regularly surprises with new creations. One of the new highlights is the "evening bread," which is shared with all guests at the table – a simple, convivial experience. The legendary burger is also back – reimagined, freshly interpreted, and ready to win new fans.

Whether it's a company party, Christmas dinner, or a get-together with friends and family, the Kin offers the perfect setting. Cozy, lively, and unique – that's how the Kin best describes itself. Anyone who's been here remembers not only the good food and great drinks, but also the atmosphere: relaxed, welcoming, and just the right place to have a great time.

At Freilich am See, we cook what makes you happy. Whether it's hearty classics like pretzels with Obazda (traditional Austrian cheese), golden-baked schnitzel, or sweet Kaiserschmarrn (sweet pancakes), fresh ingredients, attention to detail, and a touch of tradition are the focus here. Of course, fresh fish is also a must at the lake.

A place to feel good 
The ambiance is modern, cozy, with a charming Bavarian touch. Families find a place for relaxed evenings, friends meet in convivial company, and those seeking a break can enjoy the view over the lake. Freilich sees itself not just as a restaurant, but as a way of life – a place where hospitality, conviviality, and enjoyment go hand in hand. 

Seasonal highlights
Even in autumn and winter, there's never a dull moment in terms of culinary and cultural offerings. The Oktoberfest weeks tempt with a special seasonal menu, while during Advent, fairytale lunches, fondue evenings, and murder mystery dinners provide atmospheric variety. A 5-course menu with a big party awaits at the end of the year.

The thatched-roof Wendisch Rietz Fish House is idyllically situated on a peninsula and is accessible via a wooden bridge. Guests enjoy fish specialties with a lake view – either on the terrace or by the fireplace. 16 apartments and rooms invite you to stay longer. The quiet location on the Glubig Lake chain is ideal for relaxation, birdwatching, and recreational activities.

Highlights
Sale of Christmas, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day carp.
Experience the Glubig lake chain in the golden autumn on a culinary Spree boat cruise. 
Enjoy venison goulash and mulled wine and sail across the water.

The name is a small homage to Theodor Fontane, who once referred to Lake Scharmützelsee as the "Märkisches Meer" (March Sea) – a quite poetic description, which, although recently questioned by the Fontane Society, the restaurant and hotel at the entrance to Diensdorf likes it so much that they honor the title. At Theo's, you can expect a creative blend of regional cuisine and internationally inspired specialties – fresh, seasonal, and lovingly prepared. Sometimes classic, sometimes surprisingly reinterpreted, but always with a special focus on quality and enjoyment.

A highlight for all those with a sweet tooth is the coffee menu: a constantly changing three-course dessert and cake menu that transforms coffee time into an experience full of small, indulgent moments.

Anyone visiting the Köllnitz Nature Estate in the Storkow district of Groß Schauen will notice the excellent food. Between the lakes, the fishery, and the market garden, a culinary interplay emerges that is unparalleled in Brandenburg. Fishermen, gardeners, and chefs work hand in hand – and you can taste it in the Köllnitz farm kitchen.

Chef Stefan Ziegenhagen brings the diversity of nature to the plate: freshly caught fish, crisp garden vegetables, and high-quality meat from partner farms. His credo: honest, seasonal, and flavorful. 
The farm kitchen has transformed over the past three years – what was once a purely fish restaurant has become a modern kitchen that offers variety and where fish lovers still get their money's worth.

In a cozy atmosphere, modern interpretations of regional cuisine are combined with select wines, local beers, and distillery specialties. Fresh fruit and vegetables are grown on the estate, depending on the season, and mint, sage, and other herbs fill the air in the herb garden. Homemade juices await you at the extensive breakfast buffet, providing a perfect start to the day. Starting November 11th, the aroma of crispy roast goose will entice you into the distillery. Those seeking a more elegant experience can indulge in English Teatime, where scones, sandwiches, and exquisite teas are served in the elegant atmosphere of the castle on four Sundays in November and December.

A highlight for all ages is the Neuhardenberg artificial ice rink, which opens its doors from November 29 to January 4. Ice skating in the castle complex—a wintery outing couldn't be more enjoyable. 

In the elegant Restaurant Royal, a refined ambiance meets modern culinary art. Whether for a candlelit dinner or a cozy meal with friends in a stylish setting, the kitchen focuses on fresh produce, creative compositions, and culinary diversity, offering a wide selection for vegetarian palates.

But the Royal is far more than "just" a hotel restaurant – here, both the palate and the senses are equally pampered. Live events and dinner shows combine excitement and enjoyment: At the Jazz Brunch, guests can expect American swing music from the 30s, authentically performed by the "Swingin' Hermlins." The theatrical spectacle for the funny bone, "Männerschnupfen 2," and the political cabaret of Berlin's DISTEL are accompanied by a three-course menu. Unforgettable moments can also be expected at the Christmas Brunch on December 25th and 26th.

The history of the house dates back to the 16th century. Back then, the monks sought peace and quiet by the pond, away from the travelers staying at the monastery. A small guesthouse was built opposite, which was rebuilt in the 90s based on a historical model. And even though Prince Albrecht never stayed here, today's country-house-style hotel owes its name to the soldiers of his regiment who often stayed in Neuzelle and who greatly admired him. Manja Reschke took over the house 18 years ago. The exceptional location, the ambiance, and the history of the house immediately appealed to the businesswoman, who, with her experience from the family business organizing catering and events, was supported by a permanent staff that has been with the company from the beginning and continues to shape the special spirit of the hotel today. Ten employees grew to 32, and 15 rooms have become 34 – all individually designed.

Every year in November, the gala evening marking the anniversary is both a culinary highlight and a tradition: a five-course menu with wine recommendations, regional products presented in a modern way, charmingly hosted by the hostess herself, and accompanied by live music from the band "Passat" featuring hits and oldies. Reimagined each year, this special evening also serves as a rehearsal for the popular New Year's Eve gala. 
During the fall and winter months, four brunch dates are also an integral part of the offerings: in October, the focus is on game dishes and seasonal vegetables, goose and duck specialties during Advent, and a festive Christmas brunch. For 18 years, this establishment has been more than just a hotel: it's a place where history, hospitality, and the team create a unique atmosphere, a place to linger in one of the most beautiful spots in the Schlaube Valley and an ideal starting point for a cultural or active excursion.

Alwine wasn't a brand, but a woman. The hosts' grandmother lived, like Brandenburg herself: close to nature, passionate about gardening and cooking. Apples ripened in her orchard, she gathered berries and mushrooms in the forests, made jams, and stored food for the winter. A life in tune with the seasons – simple and honest.
Today, the Landhaus Alwine on the Spree meadows carries on this spirit. Those who stop by here will experience the tranquility of nature—and taste its full bounty on their plates. Chef Artur transforms organic lambs from humanely raised farms into tender goulash or stuffed pierogi, combines home-grown vegetables with regional produce, and rounds everything off with fine Portuguese wines. Homemade cakes tempt you to enjoy them. And those who wish to stay will find a haven of peace in one of the eleven rooms and two suites. 

Quiet paths, clear air. Surrounded by nature, where the mill has stood watch over the river for centuries, you'll find a place to breathe deeply. In winter, the Schlaubetal valley reveals its own beauty: clear air, quiet paths, and forests glowing in muted colors. Hikes lead through a landscape that offers tranquility and broadens the view. Regional cuisine reinterpreted. The Kaisermühle combines seasonal regional recipes with fine, modern cooking. Down-to-earth tradition meets fresh ideas on the plates – an experience that warms body and soul.
Dancing through winter nights
 Winter has its own music here: concerts like Christmas on the Rocks fill the house with rhythm and lightness. 
Dreaming like a fairy tale 
While the winter air still lingers outside, the warmth of the Kaisermühle awaits you inside. The rooms, with their fairytale charm, offer a peaceful and beautiful end to the day.

Nestled between the Wirchensee and Stubbensee lakes, the WaldSeeHotel is located in the heart of the Schlaubetal valley – a place of tranquility, especially during the quiet season. When the forest turns colorful or frost covers the landscape, nature invites you to pause and reflect.
Hiking trails, mushroom picking, and the crisp air will clear your head—afterward, relax in the wellness area with a lake view. People have been coming here to recharge their batteries since 1920.
Host Mr. Hölzer sums it up: “Here you can do everything the doctor recommends – exercise, nature, slowing down.
The hotel and restaurant are open all year round. 

Where ferries once crossed the Kalksee and film sets shaped the landscape, today a house full of history, hospitality, and enjoyment invites you to linger. It all begins with a ferry. As early as the 1920s, the "Gaststätte zur Fähre" (Ferry Inn) opened on the shores of the Kalksee – a house that offered day-trippers a place to rest and meet people. The area had previously been the backdrop for the May Film Company, which staged its "German Hollywood" here in the Rüdersdorf limestone quarries. Where exotic temples and distant landscapes once posed for the camera, a place of retreat was suddenly to emerge – with restaurants, bathing establishments, and weekend homes. From the very beginning, the ferry house was a magnet. The ferry service across the Kalksee brought people together, and soon even the "White Fleet" docked there, connecting Berlin with Brandenburg's waterways. 
Today, the Fährhaus is more than a relic of the past. The hosts run it with passion and ambition, and the cuisine is high-quality, regionally rooted, and seasonally inspired. Whether at a celebratory dinner or a glass of wine on the terrace overlooking the lake, the long history of the house and the joy of enjoyment combine to create an atmosphere that keeps guests returning again and again.

A house with heartPerhaps that's what makes the Fährhaus so special: its permanence and, at the same time, its openness. It's a part of Woltersdorf that has brought people together for decades – and that today, more than ever, stands for hospitality, quality, and living tradition.

Jens Böttcher, owner and head chef of auf den Punkt – Catering- und Eventservice UG, is passionate about his profession. As a true Rüdersdorf native, he is deeply rooted in the region, and regionality is his credo. This is reflected in the seasonally adjusted menu at Heinitz 11, which features freshly caught trout and wild boar from the restaurant's immediate vicinity. The company recently started operating a local company canteen, providing regional delicacies five days a week, including to Cemex employees and to other Rüdersdorf companies via delivery service.

At Heinitz 11, guests are invited on a culinary journey through the region—whether it's a wedding, a corporate event, or a cozy meal with friends or family. The historic Bergschreiberamt (Mining Clerk's Office), with its idyllic view of the Mühlenfließ stream, is guaranteed to offer a delicious meal. And for a digestive break, you can take a stroll through the Rüdersdorf Museum Park (see page 46), located right next door.

Anyone seeking genuine hospitality and a stunning view of the lake will find the Heidereuter Inn on Lake Peetz just right. Owner Mandy Weiß and head chef Martin Mildt have relocated the traditional establishment from the market square to a new location – just 400 meters away, directly on the shores of Lake Peetz. With a large beer garden, an idyllic shipping company pier, and a cozy hall for parties and events, the Heidereuter has truly arrived. For nine years, the couple ran the café on the market square, and now they've ventured to new shores. What remains for regulars is the familiar mix of good German cuisine, a family atmosphere, and heartfelt service. The inn is not only highly recommended for day-trippers, but also a meeting place for clubs and locals. Whether hearty classics with a regional focus, cozy family celebrations, or events in the large hall – the Heidereuter is firmly rooted in Grünheide. Even during the colder months, a visit is worthwhile: At Christmas time, crispy roast duck and goose await, and at the end of the year, there's a New Year's Eve party with a buffet and dancing. And those looking to start the year off right can enjoy the first bit of conviviality at the New Year's brunch from 10 a.m. to 14 p.m.

Anyone who walks around Lake Pinnow deserves a break – and finds one at the Karpfenschänke Pinnow. Located directly on the shore, this traditional inn, now in its third generation of the family, welcomes guests with a warm atmosphere and the prospect of freshly fried fish. For over 60 years, it has been a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, and connoisseurs. On the menu: crispy carp, hearty home-cooked meals, and seasonal specialties that capture the flavors of the region. From Beelitz asparagus to roast goose, the menu also offers a variety for vegetarian and vegan preferences. Especially in winter, the Karpfenschänke unfolds its special charm. After a winter hike or perhaps even a round of ice skating on the frozen lake, the cozy ambiance beckons you to sit down at the table. For a different kind of New Year's Eve celebration, discover a special New Year's Eve program on the website – and if you just can't leave, you can stay overnight in one of the cozy rooms.

With passion and pioneering spirit, the Patke Winery produces fine wines from the Brandenburg soil – true rarities that have already attracted attention far beyond the region. These primarily dry, but also semi-dry and sweet wines are now available not only directly at the winery, but also in regional shops and on the wine lists of some restaurants. We spoke with one of the two managing directors about his philosophy, the special features of the cultivation methods, and the joy of inspiring people with regional wine.

From the field to the stable, from the pasture directly to the plate – the Ranzig country butcher shop has always relied on short routes and its own production.
Whether it's fresh, artisanal meat, hearty lunch dishes in all branches, or the legendary food from the field kitchen every Friday in Ranzig: lovers of regional specialties get their money's worth here. Customers flock to the "Gulasch kanone" in droves with pots and bowls, ordering beef and pork goulash, pea soup, or spare ribs, as well as homemade salads and fresh sausage – so popular that there are sometimes traffic jams on the main road. Numerous restaurants in the region have long relied on meat and sausage from Ranzig. Once you've tried it, you'll quickly understand why. The Ranzig country butcher's shop lives regionality with heart and principle. The calves are born according to organic standards and grow up together with their mother cows on the expansive Spree meadows. The animals are fed species-appropriate, non-GMO food, and the fodder comes from our own production on the surrounding fields. The animals live in herds, and slaughter takes place several times a week, just five minutes away. This guarantees short transport routes, fresh processing and the highest quality standards.
In addition to the main branch in Ranzig itself, you will find further locations in Fürstenwalde, Frankfurt (Oder), and Brieskow-Finkenheerd. Mobile locations are located in Lindenberg and Beeskow.

From Berlin to Beeskow – and right into the heart of a small town. Natascha Volodihin saw potential here: for a café that is more than just a place for coffee and cake. She wanted to create a space where people can come together, feel welcome, and have their wishes fulfilled. For as long as she can remember, Natascha has been at home in the catering industry – and it is precisely this experience, combined with passion and warmth, that shapes the city café. Together with her team, she ensures that every plate, every cake, and every cup of coffee conveys a little bit of warmth. Whether coffee specialties, homemade cakes and tarts, ice cream, or a seasonally changing lunch menu: everything bears her personal signature – and the enthusiasm of the entire team. And so a café was created in Beeskow that tells Natascha's story – and that has long since become a story in itself: of encounters, enjoyment, and a sense of home in the heart of the city.

When the days get shorter and a fresh breeze blows around your nose as you stroll through the spa town, the longing for a warm, cozy place is especially strong. In the charming café, not far from the train station and in the heart of Bad Saarow, just such moments await you and your favorite companion: fine patisserie, a lovingly prepared breakfast, or hearty lunch options invite you to simply sit back and leave everyday life at the door. In the cooler seasons, the café, with its atmospheric atmosphere and fragrant cake display, becomes the perfect retreat. The sweet stars come directly from the in-house cake factory in Fürstenwalde. Here, handcrafted masterpieces are created with great attention to detail – from classic cakes and artistic tarts to modern cake pops and cupcakes. Whether for private parties, business occasions, or simply as a little treat in between: each creation is unique. If you like, you can even personally design your own dream cake using the cake configurator on the website. And because indulgence is doubly good in autumn and winter, the Fürstenwalde shop always has a changing selection of small delicacies to take away for coffee mornings at home.

In the heart of a scenic corner of the Berlin countryside, between the Kalksee and Flakensee lakes, the forest, and the Kranichsberg mountains, lies a restaurant worth every indulgence: Café Knappe at the Woltersdorf Lock. Located right at this historic site, Café Knappe has been welcoming guests since 1888—now in its fifth generation. From the founder, master baker Albert Knappe, through his son Carl Knappe's continuation in 1919, to the current management of Julia and Tino Knappe, tradition has been kept alive here. The history of the establishment is closely linked to Woltersdorf's development into a popular destination for Berliners.
Inside, guests will find a cozy atmosphere, while outside, views of the water and the lock system beckon. The menu features classic pastry delicacies, homemade cakes and gateaux, savory snacks, and seasonal specialties. Those with a sweet tooth will find just as much to enjoy here as those who appreciate savory treats – from breakfast to afternoon coffee. Whether for Sunday strollers, families, or an after-work stroll, Café Knappe combines history, nature, and enjoyment in a unique way, always remaining one thing: a place where the clocks tick a little bit slower. 

The cozy café opened this summer on Saarlouiser Straße in Eisenhüttenstadt. Here, you can enjoy not only delicious coffee specialties and homemade cakes in the morning, but also other delicacies such as wine, aperitifs, cheese platters, and salads until the evening. Marlena Izdebska runs the new shop with a lot of heart and passion and hopes that this place will develop into a small "neighborhood café."

Delizia is a café that stands for conscious enjoyment, creative cuisine, and a family atmosphere. It was founded by passionate cook, recipe developer, and food photographer Marlena Izdebska, who pours all her experience and love of cooking into this passion project.

Inspired by international travel, modern cuisine, and high standards of quality, the dishes here are not only delicious but also visually appealing. The menu changes regularly and offers both creative original creations and popular classics – many of which are vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly.

After years in Berlin, the founder and her family found a new home in Fünfeichen near Eisenhüttenstadt – and quickly saw that a place like Delizia was still missing here.

Today, the café is a meeting place for everyone who appreciates good food, lovingly prepared dishes, and a special ambience.