Elegant-Hotel "Zur Burg"

Hotel Blauer Engel not only offers lovely guestrooms, it is also home to this restaurant. With 360 years of tradition to its name, it oozes historical charm. Warm wood panelling lends the space a cosy atmosphere, and the old tiled stove is a quaint detail. Added to that is service with a personal touch and very good food – to be sampled à la carte or in set menu form. Lotters Wirtschaft brewery is also pleasant with its rustic-style vaulted ceiling.

Antje and Ronny Pester's charming restaurant is in the centre of the village, in the side building of the town hall. In a lovely cosy interior, they serve up ambitious modern cuisine that follows the seasons. Plump for either the à la carte menu to be found in the "Gourmet Bistro" section or the four- to six-course set menu dubbed "Menü Restaurant" – a vegetarian version of which can be pre-ordered. The service is attentive and obliging, and the owner's wine recommendations are spot on. There is a lovely terrace to the rear of the building.

This restaurant has been building on a solid reputation for over 30 years, serving classic cuisine and a sophisticated yet pleasantly down-to-earth atmosphere. Delicious dishes are served as a seasonal menu comprising three to five courses or à la carte. Astute wine recommendations come courtesy of the maître d', who happens to be a trained sommelier. Tip: The small gallery in the building is definitely worth a visit.

Built in 1903, the former coach house of Villa Esche (now the Henry van de Velde Museum) houses this bright, tastefully designed restaurant where diners can enjoy attentive service and top-notch seasonal cuisine. Opt for the four-course menu or order à la carte. At lunchtime, the options are slightly more limited but include moderately priced daily specials. Delightful terrace overlooking the grounds.

At 128m above street level, the striking JenTower affords fantastic views of the city and surrounding area! The cuisine is modern and international: dinner takes the form of a sharing menu comprising three to five courses (vegetarian version available); the lunchtime selection is a little more streamlined. Tip: From the Neue Mitte multi-storey car park, take the lifts up to the restaurant (there is a sign). Hotel on the floors below the restaurant.

Located in a residential area, this restaurant boasts a stylish interior and a courtyard terrace with a beautifully landscaped little garden. The flavoursome dishes draw inspiration from around the globe and incorporate Mediterranean and seasonal influences. Why not enjoy an aperitif at the bar before your meal? The wine list is also worth a look. Guestrooms with modern interior design are available in the hotel of the same name.

The restaurant close to the observation tower, also known as the Balcony of Jena, serves regional cuisine and offers a fantastic view over the city. Three individual rooms are available: country, Art Deco or honeymoon.