The true definition of a Michelin 3 star is someplace worthy of a detour. While it wasn't quite a…read moredetour, we did pick Berlin over another destination given the opportunity to try RUTZ.
Where to start???
1. Timing - stars aside, the restaurant serves a 12 course menu, at 15 each, that's 3+ hours... comments not withstanding about length, it is to be an evening event. Not meant to be consumed while watch timing, meant to be enjoyed at its fullest.... It is a process but well worth the time investment
2. Flavor profile - every course delicate yet balanced. Never too heavy, just walking the balance of the ingredients
3. Ingredients- in the heart of winter, they manage to maintain a variety of foraged vegetables
4. Cooking style - creative yet respectful to traditional cooking methods, you will see some unexpected treatment (puréed sauerkraut and fried into chips???) but not "magic"
5. Philosophy- a humbled and relaxed approach, nothing stuffy about the place, for a guy who has every bragging rights, Chef Marco is down to earth, friendly and humbly devoted to his craft.
Last but not least, what's a meal like this without the perfect wine pairing.... The som did a wonderful job. Each dish paired beautifully with the right kind of wine and the correct profile.
All in all, very much deserving of their 3 star. I would come back to Berlin just to come here again.
5.