The story
Forsthaus Strelitz sits at the forest edge near Neustrelitz, where chef Wenzel Pankratz prepares nature-inspired cuisine entirely from his own land. The seven hectare estate keeps sheep, pigs, and a cow to supply the daily harvest. Guests receive a single menu that follows the rhythm of the fields rather than a rigid seasonal calendar. This grounded method recently secured three points from Der Feinschmecker and three spoons from the Schlemmer Atlas.
Autumn brings magnificent porcini mushrooms gathered from nearby woodlands, while roasted beets and chard often open the meal. A signature flaxseed chip paired with house churned butter remains a steady favorite among regulars. Pankratz sources roe deer and red deer through local hunters, keeping all preparations inside the kitchen alongside the morning bread. A modest wine list highlights select European bottles that complement the nature-inspired cuisine without overshadowing the food.
Wooden tables and simple chairs fill a historic building that overlooks the property’s garden and greenhouse. Diners arrive after dark to find the surrounding pasture quiet, with livestock grazing well past sunset. The venue opens Thursday through Saturday evening, reserving its guest rooms exclusively for travelers who purchase the 85 Euro dinner service. Reviewers frequently note how the unpretentious space allows this particular style of regional cooking to take center stage.
Recognition
Ambience
Location