Early in the afternoon, a large and a small group of hikers are already sitting under the parasols outside on the idyllic square in front of the Zornheimer Weinstuben. The lively guests have hiked the "Hiwweltour" through the Rheinhessen vineyards and now want to fortify themselves with regional wine and the delicious dishes of chef Lucas Christgen: hiking makes you hungry. Marijana Christgen and her service team take care of the dusty guests and their parched throats with dynamic charm. Shortly before, a funeral party left the restaurant – such is everyday life in a wine tavern in the countryside. Despite the hustle and bustle, Lucas takes the time for a chat: the Christgens simply take care of their visitors.

The chef grew up in Mainz and learned his trade in the old town. He gained international experience in Switzerland and on luxury cruise ships in the South Seas and Antarctica. While working as head chef at Schloss Sörgenloch in Rheinhessen, he met Marijana – a classic case of "cook and waitress" love! In 2004, the restaurateur couple passionately embarked on the adventure of self-employment and have been successfully running the Zornheimer Weinstuben ever since.

The former sexton's house from the 17th century fascinates guests with its unique atmosphere. In the historic half-timbered house right in the center of town next to the church, visitors will discover cozy spots in small rooms and snug corners on four floors. On the second floor, there is even a small roof terrace with additional outdoor seating.

The service team sprints cheerfully up and down the stairs to serve the guests. The dishes are in line with upscale, modern country house cuisine—with a Mediterranean influence. Croatian cuisine from Marijana's home country sometimes leaves its mark on the menu. Bruschetta, king prawns, and grilled fresh fish such as zander are just as much a part of the menu as Rhine-Hessian potato soup. Rhine-Hessian chicken breast is offered alongside homemade fettuccine with Mediterranean vegetables.

Wine has played a role in Lucas' family for generations. Croatia is also a wine country with a long tradition, so it's no surprise that the Christgens work together to create a varied and high-quality wine list. "We only stock wines from winemakers we personally appreciate. We also showcase the winery in the restaurant!" explains Lucas Christgen confidently. The extensive wine list offers wines from well-known as well as lesser-known Rheinhessen wineries and is moderately priced. Over twenty wines by the glass make it easy for wine lovers to choose. When it comes to sparkling wine, only the best is good enough: six perfect sparkling wines from the highly decorated Rheinhessen sparkling wine estate Raumland are on offer.

During menu evenings, the winemakers introduce themselves personally in the wine bars. The restaurateurs appreciate the enchanting atmosphere of the house, which has been carefully restored by an architect and tastefully furnished with great attention to detail: they themselves live with their two children in part of the half-timbered house.

The Great Wine Capitals Best of Wine Tourism Award 2023 in the category "Wine Gastronomy National" goes to the "Zornheimer Weinstuben." The authentic combination of wine, tourism, and genuine hospitality made a lasting impression on the jury.