Philo-Mensa

On May 26, 1789, the day Friedrich Schiller gave his critically acclaimed inaugural lecture at "alma mater jenensis" (now Friedrich-Schiller-University) , he wrote into his diary: "Alas! Another rainy day. Students didn't listen to my lecture. Wish I could dwell some place warmer. Sole highlight of the day: lunch at Philo Mensa. What a heavenly delight!!! This should make my stay in Jena an agreeable one. P.S.: Need to write a poem about that delicious mushroom dish."

Alright - you got us on that one. The story is total bogus! But nevertheless, we believe, if Friedrich Schiller walked the earth today and came to Jena, he wouldn't find but poetic phrases for Philo Mensa (Philosophenweg 20). Philo-Mensa is one of the two university-run cafeterias in downtown Jena. It has more than 700 indoor seats and a nice terrace and garden with seating. There is also a smaller food counter and a coffee bar upstairs.

Lunch is offered between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. You can choose between four dishes, at least one of which is veggie. There is also a help-yourself pasta counter - always a good alternative. Look out for the Green Happy Face VITAL dish: it is basically a low-fat, good-for-your health meal which is non the less as yummie as the other ones. Prices range from 1,50€ to 2,50€ at student rates, employees and guest have to pay an additional charge of 1,40€ per meal.

As for the taste, Philo-Mensa proves time and time again to be an exception to the rule. The food is tasty and nutricious - all you need to take you through a tough university day. Feel free to ask for a bigger portion ("Männer-Portion") if you are extra hungry. Surprisingly, the menu (check online) hardly ever repeats itself. The Head Chef always comes up with a new treat. This is not usual business - a tip of the hat for that!

Our verdict: Yes, Philo-Mensa can!

5 Jena Towers out of 5

Supplement, July 2011: In this year's "Mensa of the Year" contest, organized annually by the German student magazine UNIKUM, Philo-Mensa was awarded the 3rd prize in the category "choice". Well done!!! See result

Restaurant Ratszeise

Restaurant Ratszeise is perfectly located on the Market Square in central Jena. The building which was previously the town hall has some nice history attached and the dining experience is equally as nice. Ratszeise offers traditional German fare in a cosy atmosphere. We found the “Klein und Kalt” dishes perfectly sized for a 3-4 person starter, while the main dishes were just as satisfying. The food was delicious and portion sizes, plentiful. Between us we ordered some quite meaty dishes and lighter dishes, and we each were happy with the depth of taste and quality of the food. A shared starter, three main meals and three drinks cost us around €35, which we believe to be great value for this dining experience (and let us not forget the Cheers review, and how much that meal cost!). Good food, service, atmosphere and location.

Don’t miss Asparagus season or the Maß on the drinks menu!

Our Verdict: Great dining at a great price!

4.5 Jena Towers out of 5