In Short
Who would have thought that you could discover one of Hamburg’s most magical places on the top floor of a retirement home? The Elbwarte in Hamburg is a real insider tip for anyone looking for a relaxed café experience with a magnificent view. And even if you might initially think: “A café in an old people’s home?” – believe us: this is anything but ordinary.
Between a Glass Dome and a Glass Elevator – a Location With Style
Even the journey there is a small event in itself. The glass elevator takes you almost majestically to the top floor of the Augustinum Hamburg – a retirement home right on the Elbe. Once at the top, you enter the Elbwarte: a light-flooded café in an impressive glass dome with an almost 360-degree view of the Elbe, harbor, cranes and container ships. The atmosphere? Calm and stylish – especially great when the sun is shining outside and the view stretches out into the distance.
The terrace is the absolute highlight. Small but beautiful – and with a panorama that can easily compete with the famous spots on the Landungsbrücken, just without the tourist hustle and bustle. One area of the café is reserved for residents of the building, but the rest is also open to external guests by prior reservation. And you should definitely do this: spontaneously popping in is rather difficult here, as the rush to this special place can be quite big.
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What’s on the Plate?
- Various cakes & tarts (changing selection, approx. €4-5)
- Hot drinks such as coffee, tea, cappuccino (prices within the usual range, approx. €3-4)
- Cold drinks such as juice spritzers, water, lemonade (average, approx. €3)
Enjoyment with a View – but Completely Relaxed
Okay, we admit it: if you come here expecting absolute pastry artistry, you’re more likely to find solid home cooking on your plate. The cakes and tarts are delicious, no doubt about it, but they won’t win any Michelin stars. But that’s not necessary, because the cake tastes twice as good when combined with the sweeping view over the Elbe.
The drinks? Quite okay, but nothing that will stay in your memory for long. On the other hand, the service is friendly. If you stop off at the Elbwarte, it’s best to bring time and a desire to slow down. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours, take a deep breath and simply enjoy the moment.
Our Conclusion: Sunset Over the Harbor – Yes, Please!
The Elbwarte in Hamburg is not a classic hipster café with fancy drinks and homemade banana bread creations. But it does have what many cafés in Hamburg don’t: an incredibly beautiful location, a magical view and a peaceful atmosphere. If you want to experience a special afternoon – perhaps with a visitor or just for yourself – this is the place for you.
And don’t forget: book, book, book! Otherwise you’ll unfortunately only be able to enjoy the view of the beautiful glass tower from below.
Overall Rating
Want to know more? Check out the website of Elbwarte in Hamburg here!
