No wonder Restaurant Haerlin is the flagship of the four restaurants at Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten; its reputation and tradition are still as strong as ever. This is a gourmet restaurant of the highest calibre – offering an elegant ambience, exquisite tableware, fine porcelain, silver cutlery and impeccable service. Top chef Christoph Rüffer's quiet nature and typical Hanseatic reserve are reflected in his clear, accented, concentrated dishes.

Restaurant Prinz Frederik at Hotel Abtei in Hamburg presents innovative gastronomic delights in the mediterranean style. Chef de cuisine Jochen Kempf is something of a perfectionist and brings passion and discipline to his craft. His signature dishes are imaginative creations that appeal as much to the eyes as they do the palate. Together with his sous-chef Martin Gers, he makes the fine dining experience at the prestigious Restaurant Prinz Frederik a real must.

At Calla gourmet restaurant, head chef Michael Winkle presents the best of both worlds: European haute cuisine combined with fine, Far Eastern accents, then paired with rare gems from the wine cellar. Calla's restrained, sophisticated interior allows the wonderful food to shine, soft lighting creates a magical ambience, and romantic views of the water and historical Heiligengeist bridge make the evening pleasurable in every way.

Memory gourmet restaurant is in the Hamburg district of Sülldorf, near the Blankenese 'stairway quarter' and Süllberg hill, not far from the Elbe. Top chef Heiko Hagemann delights his guests with refined interpretations of classic modern cuisine. As well as classic choices, there are seasonal, themed menus with perfectly matched wines from regional vineyards. The sophisticated atmosphere is perfect for business meals, events or a delightful family meal.

Anna Sgroi's trademarks are the simplicity and clarity of her compositions, which concentrate on the essential flavours of first-class ingredients. The Italian creates modern, finely nuanced and honed interpretations of the culinary traditions from back home. Restaurant Sgroi is in the lively, upcoming quarter between the city centre and the Outer Alster – which offers good transport links and an exciting, culturally vibrant setting.

Fritz Pichler, head chef at the legendary Bistro-Restaurant Rive in the fishing port, was for five years chef de cuisine on the MS Europa cruise ship. Regional and international dishes of fresh fish and seafood form the basis of his menu. The cruise atmosphere comes free with the restaurant's panoramic setting beside the Elbe, immediately behind the anchored cruise ships, and in summer can be enjoyed from the large outdoor terrace.

Thanks to Michelin-starred chef Thomas Martin, his contemporary, light, fresh cuisine and an expertly put-together wine cellar, Jacobs Restaurant has been one of Hamburg's best gourmet destinations for many years. It offers unforgettable gastronomic experiences, as well as cookery courses, with magnificent views of the Elbe, large murals and heavy crystal chandeliers all adding to the sense of luxury. In fine weather, meals are served on the famous Lindenterrasse.

The Seven Seas gourmet restaurant is at the heart of the Süllberg ensemble. In an elegant ambience, Karlheinz Hauser offers excellent, classic French gourmet compositions with surprising inspirations from the seven seas. Diners can enjoy dramatic views of the Elbe through the angled windows or from the terrace. The Seaside Lounge on the Süllberg's highest terrace is one of the best viewpoints in Hamburg.

Fine dining is the new money: the former Hamburg Hypothekenbank banking hall still buzzes, but not about the gold price and the bank rate. Nowadays, diners flock here to savour gastronomic gems and enjoy the period ambience that blends elegance with authenticity. Thomas Fischer enthrals his guests with a masterful mix of traditional and modern cooking, with the focus firmly on the ingredients.