Kurhaus Warnemünde

A Century of Seaside Elegance

Kurhaus Warnemünde stands as the most expressive building in the Baltic resort town, a testament to the region's golden age of spa tourism. Opened on 24 May 1928 following a decade of planning and a nationwide architectural competition, the building embodies the Neues Bauen (New Building) movement infused with Art Deco elements. Its distinctive silhouette and prime beachfront location have made it an enduring symbol of Warnemünde's transformation from a modest fishing village into an elegant seaside destination. The origins of this architectural masterpiece trace back to the late 19th century, when Warnemünde's rapid growth as a bathing resort—accelerated by the arrival of the railway—created demand for a grand public building. The site itself carries historical significance: before the Kurhaus, a concert garden occupied this prime location, with period structures including a reading hall and pavilion that remain in the Kurhaus garden today. City planner Paul Ehmig designated this exact spot in the 1906 development plan, and the 1909 design competition attracted entries from across Germany, with detailed specifications for spatial programming and construction costs.

Architectural Vision and Interior Spaces

The building's design creates a harmonious relationship between public gathering and intimate dining. The grand Kursaal (assembly hall) features a gallery level and originally served as the primary event space, with a smaller hall adjacent for family celebrations and society gatherings. Garden terraces extend southward from the main hall, creating a seamless transition between interior and landscape. The seaside elevation housed the day restaurant, while service areas and a wine bar occupied the basement level, a functional arrangement that has proven enduringly practical. Today, the Kurhaus contains multiple distinct spaces serving contemporary needs: the Paulo Scutarro restaurant occupies the upper floor with 120 seats and dual sea-facing terraces; a café-restaurant and bar serve casual visitors; event halls accommodate gatherings from intimate dinners to galas for up to 500 guests; and a salt spa provides wellness facilities. The building's accessibility has been modernized with an elevator positioned discreetly at the side, ensuring all visitors can access different levels and function spaces.

From Wartime to Restoration

The Kurhaus experienced its most vibrant period between 1928 and 1939, when its restaurant and café operations, combined with regular cultural events, established it as the social heart of the resort. The building survived the upheavals of the 20th century, though its ownership changed dramatically following German reunification in 1989, when the City of Rostock acquired it. A 1996 transfer to private operators marked a new chapter. In 2010, the restaurant operations temporarily ceased for comprehensive renovation and modernization. The 2011 reopening introduced Paulo Scutarro, an Italian restaurant emphasizing handcrafted Mediterranean cuisine prepared from premium ingredients, establishing a new culinary identity while honoring the building's gastronomic heritage.

The Paulo Scutarro Experience

The restaurant occupies the building's prime upper level, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame unobstructed views across the Baltic. The dual sea-facing terraces—weather permitting—extend the dining experience into the salt air and natural light. The kitchen specializes in authentic Italian preparations: stone-oven pizzas, fresh pasta dishes, and carefully sourced proteins prepared without industrial shortcuts. The menu balances traditional Italian classics with contemporary presentations, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free adaptations. Weekend brunches (Sundays 11:00–14:00) feature an extensive spread of continental breakfast items, charcuterie, prepared dishes, and house-made desserts, with beverages including coffee, tea, juices, and prosecco.

Events and Cultural Programming

Beyond dining, the Kurhaus functions as a premier event venue for the region. Its banquet halls host weddings, corporate conferences, milestone celebrations, and theatrical performances. The building regularly hosts cultural programming in collaboration with the Rostock University of Music and Theatre and the Rostock People's Theatre, presenting musical and theatrical performances integrated with multi-course dining. Special events include New Year's Eve galas with live entertainment, seasonal brunches, and themed dinner experiences. The historic Kurhaus garden provides outdoor event space and remains accessible to the public, preserving the original vision of a community gathering place.

Practical Access and Setting

The Kurhaus occupies a prominent position directly on the Warnemünde beachfront, with the main entrance facing the Hotel Neptun across Seestraße. An adjacent public parking garage with over 500 spaces provides convenient vehicle access. The building sits approximately one kilometer from Warnemünde railway station, accessible via pleasant pedestrian routes through the resort's tree-lined streets. The surrounding area combines beach promenade, residential neighborhoods, and local shops, creating a complete seaside environment where visitors can combine dining or events with beach walks and resort exploration.