The story
Ludger Stenkamp and Heinz Gangelhoff lead the kitchen at Restaurant 1 bis 25 in Bocholt, where the menu centers on carefully prepared German comfort food. Their approach strips away unnecessary complexity while preserving the honest flavors of traditional home cooking. Guests receive structured tasting menus that unfold across up to six courses. The kitchen relies on precise technique to elevate familiar ingredients without masking their original character.
The restaurant divides its service between two separate dining spaces, each designed to maintain a quiet and focused atmosphere. A strict limit of twelve guests ensures that every plate receives individual attention from the serving team. Patrons experience fully composed sequences rather than à la carte selections, which allows the cooks to coordinate timing and pacing precisely. This controlled environment supports a steady rhythm that lets visitors settle into the meal without interruption.
The Schlemmer Atlas awarded the establishment one and a half spoons in its 2026 edition, highlighting the consistent quality of the staged menus. Critics note how the cooks balance nostalgic recipes with modern plating standards to create memorable evening meals. Diners return repeatedly because the kitchen maintains a clear vision of what homestyle German cuisine should achieve. The focus remains firmly on substance rather than theatrical presentation.
Recognition
Details
