Saxon Flavours at Anna im Schloss: Where History Meets Hospitality

Tucked gracefully within the grounds of the Royal Palace in Dresden, Anna im Schloss is far more than just a restaurant — it’s a vibrant celebration of Saxon culinary heritage, local produce, and genuine family hospitality. The moment we stepped through its doors, we felt welcomed not just as a guest, but almost like an old friend. The staff are wonderfully attentive and eager to share stories about their dishes, their local suppliers, and the history that infuses every corner of this remarkable place.

The interior itself is enchanting, artfully balancing rustic charm with elegant touches. There is a cozy Stammtisch (the traditional table reserved for locals and regulars) that anchors the space with a sense of community. Beyond it, a bright café section invites you to linger over a coffee and cake, while the more refined dining area feels perfect for long, unhurried lunches or intimate dinners. And then there is the terrace — a true hidden jewel. Set within the castle’s courtyard, surrounded by stately architecture, it feels miles away from the bustle of Dresden, even though the city centre is just outside the walls. Here, time seems to slow down.

Breakfast at Anna im Schloss was nothing short of a delightful, indulgent affair — the kind of morning meal that makes you want to linger for hours, forgetting entirely about the day’s plans. It all began with a generous spread laid out on rustic wooden boards: buns of hearty country bread, alongside fresh local butter that practically melted into every crevice, joined with excellent jams. There were beautifully arranged platters of Saxon cheeses, from creamy mild varieties to sharper aged selections, each telling its own regional story. Thinly sliced ham and smoked sausages, delicately spiced and wonderfully savoury, brought a taste of the surrounding countryside right to the table. A stylish egg added a comforting richness. The breakfast is served on weekends.

Later, we spoke with Tim Graul, the owner, who carries forward a long family tradition in gastronomy. His eyes lit up when talking about his parents’ dedication to hospitality, and how he sees Anna im Schloss as both an homage to the past and a bridge to the future. The restaurant’s name is itself a nod to Dresden’s past. The restaurant Anna im Schloss takes its name from Anna von Dänemark, a remarkable figure in Saxon history. As the wife of Elector August of Saxony in the 16th century, Anna was not only part of Dresden’s ruling family but also known for her keen interest in agriculture, horticulture, and the well-being of her people. She helped shape courtly and everyday life in the region, leaving a lasting legacy that still resonates in Saxon culture today. Dedicating the restaurant to her is a fitting tribute, linking the culinary hospitality of the present to the rich traditions of Dresden’s past.

But what truly stood out were the Quarkkeulchen — the quark pancakes so typical of Saxony. Crisp and golden on the outside, tender and slightly tangy within, they are accompanied by a jewel-toned apple compote made from fruit grown in the family’s own orchard. The sweet-sour warmth of the apples against the creamy pancakes was simply unforgettable. Throughout breakfast, the staff checked in with genuine warmth, offering fresh-pressed juices and excellent tea served in charming porcelain cups. As we sat there in the gentle morning light filtering through the courtyard, savouring each bite, it felt less like a restaurant visit and more like being welcomed to a leisurely family table in the heart of Saxony — a true celebration of local flavours, heartfelt hospitality, and the simple joy of sharing good food. Local sourcing is at the heart of the family's philosophy. Almost everything on the menu is drawn from Saxon producers: meats from regional farms, cheeses from nearby dairies, and seasonal vegetables from trusted growers. This commitment to locality shines not just in the quality of the ingredients but in the way dishes feel rooted in the landscape and traditions of Saxony. It’s culinary storytelling on every plate.

The wine list is another standout feature, thoughtfully curated to showcase the best of Saxon viticulture. We tried “Der Weisse Schuh,” a bright, playful white from the Schuh Winery — one of many young, dynamic winemakers revitalizing the Saxon wine scene. Historically, this region has been more renowned for its beers (and the locals still have the quirky habit of mixing beer with wine, a playful rebellion against purists), but there is a steady and growing appreciation for local wines. Talking to the staff, we learned how these wines are gaining ground not only on the table but in the hearts of Saxons themselves.

Whether you come for a leisurely weekend breakfast, a celebratory dinner, or to sit on the terrace with a glass of Saxon wine and watch the day drift by, Anna im Schloss offers an experience that’s both deeply local and universally welcoming — a perfect reflection of Dresden itself. If you’re exploring the Elbe valley or the historic streets of this beautiful city, make sure to step slightly aside from the main paths and treat yourself to the delightful blend of history, family tradition, and regional taste that Anna im Schloss so lovingly offers.

Anna im Schloss

Schloßstraße 27 , 01067 Dresden +49 351 79511535

info@anna-dresden.de

https://www.anna-dresden.de/