From boat builder to restaurateur: Jens Müller's fish rolls inspire!

From boat builder to restaurateur: Jens Müller's fish rolls inspire!

In Bodstedt, a picturesque town on the Baltic Sea, there is a fresh culinary address that has been established for five years: the restaurant “Zum alten Hafen”. Jens Müller, the owner, is a real stroke of luck for regional gastronomy. 21 years ago, the now 44-year-old started as a temporary worker in the restaurant and worked his way up to being completely taken over. He talks with great passion about his beginnings as a boat builder in the Rammin boatyard in Barth and his successful career as a chef after his apprenticeship at the Ribnitz education center.

Müller's specialty are the fresh fish rolls, which are prepared upon order and are available from just 3.90 euros. His secret: He gets the fish - perch, zander, pike, eel and herring - every day from the local fisherman André in Barth. Another highlight is that Müller smokes some fresh fish himself every day, as he lacks a saleswoman to sell smoked fish.

Culinary offerings and commitment

In the “Zum alten Hafen” restaurant, however, it’s not just fish that’s important. Müller offers a diverse menu with fish and meat dishes as well as vegetarian options. He is on duty every day from 7 a.m. until late in the evening to offer his guests a real taste experience. But the personnel issue also remains a challenge: the restaurateur has ten employees, but is still struggling with the lack of qualified staff.

But it's not just about business; Müller also has a passion for sailing. His self-built Zeesboat “Adele” not only brings him joy, but is also an integral part of his free time, which he enjoys spending in the Bodden area.

A look outside the box

The restaurant “Zum alten Hafen” is not just a restaurant for locals; it also attracts tourists looking for delicious fish dishes and an authentic Baltic Sea experience. In the context of culinary offerings in Germany, fish restaurants are always very popular. According to the restaurant guru, there are impressive ones in this country 8,746 restaurants, which specialize in seafood and vary in popularity.

For travelers coming to Riga, the beautiful capital of Latvia, there are also numerous gastronomic highlights. This city is famous for its cobblestone streets and Art Nouveau buildings and is home to the largest market in Europe. Here you can enjoy traditional Latvian dishes as well as excellent cuisine in local restaurants, showing how diverse the culinary landscape is in the region. You can find more information about Riga on Port info.

Whether in Bodstedt or Riga – the passion for fresh, local cuisine is at the forefront. Jens Müller and his restaurant show that good food comes from fresh ingredients and love for preparation.