The story
Balthasar is a French restaurant at Warburger Straße 28 in Paderborn, where Elmar Simon's modern French cooking has earned one Michelin star (2026).
Elmar Simon owns the restaurant and runs the kitchen. The restaurant describes his cooking as food that melts on the tongue, with many flavours brought into one harmonious dish. Regional produce comes first, and seasonal menus keep the card moving. Der Feinschmecker places his classically French cooking between local ingredients and produce from further afield.
Guide coverage names a Delbrück venison saddle, Senne trout and Icelandic cod with brown butter. The dining room has white tablecloths and brown-washed walls, warm tones and careful lighting. A vegetarian menu is available, and courses can be ordered one at a time.
Recognition
Ambience
Details
History
High quality cooking
Atmospheric and spacious gourmet restaurant with a relaxed vibe close to downtown. Chef Elmar Simon and his team surprise their guests with five to seven creative courses.
Concept For many years, the restaurant has been the culinary cornerstone of the city. Three menus are available, including a vegetarian option. They can also be assembled course by course upon request. Culinary Style In his classically French-inspired cuisine, Elmar Simon draws from both local and distant sources – such as Delbrück venison saddle or the "Senne trout" – as well as from further afield, as evidenced by his Icelandic cod perfectly complemented by brown butter. Wine The wine list features an extensive selection of Europe's finest vineyards, with a strong emphasis on Germany. Despite its breadth, it remains accessible and pleasantly reasonably priced. Atmosphere White tablecloths and brown-washed walls contribute to a refined ambiance. Verdict Fine dining with a clear sense of style and consistently reliable quality.
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