BrennNessel
Tucked away near S-Bahn Dresden-Mitte, BrennNessel, or "the stinging nettle", puts a creative spin on winningly fresh veggie fare, such as beetroot gnocchi baked with goats' cheese and chicory. There's a flowery courtyard for spring days.

Address: 18 Schutzengasse | Telephone: 0351 494 3319 |

Lila Sosse
Chilli, herbs and spices pep up German classics at this boho-flavoured courtyard bistro in Neustadt. Seasonal dishes like pigs' cheek ragout with Spätzle noodles and chestnut-apple tiramisu with marzipan are uniquely served in preserve jars.

Address: 70 Alaunstrasse | Telephone: 0351 803 6723 |

Kastenmeiers
Contemporary art lends a modern flavour to this converted rococo palace opposite the Frauenkirche, with an arcaded courtyard for warm-weather dining. The menu moves with the seasons, from market-fresh fish to asparagus, and dishes are served and presented with finesse. 

Address: 3-5 Tzschirnerplatz | Telephone: 0351 4848 4801 |

Villandry
Great for an intimate dinner, this subtly lit, art-strewn restaurant puts a Mediterranean spin on locally sourced ingredients. The slate menu brought to tables might star such gastronomic showstoppers as slow-braised beef with Savoy cabbage, potato-porcini gratin and vanilla pear. Twice-weekly cookery courses reveal how it's done.

Address: 8-10 Jordanstrasse | Telephone: 0351 899 6724 |

Gourmetrestaurant Caroussel
This is an elegant retreat for the discerning gourmet. Chef Dirk Schröer's creations - such as Saxony venison - delight politicians, entertainers and local theatre-goers alike, and have earned the restaurant a Michelin star, along with many other awards.

Address: 14 Königstrasse, Innere Neustadt | Telephone: 0351 180 030 |