Lars Lindemann Creates Pomeranian Tapas

Which tapas would you recommend to a guest visiting Usedom for the first time who wants to get acquainted with the regional cuisine? And what is your personal favorite tapa?

My personal favorite is the braised suckling pig cheeks—they’re absolutely delicious! But I also love to recommend the blood sausage patties and the cheese from Züssow. These three tapas make an excellent starter as part of a multi-course meal.

Do you also offer vegetarian tapas?

Yes, of course. For example, we have a “minibacktüfte”—which is a potato dish—served with herb quark and flaxseed oil, and it’s very popular. Although we often have to explain to tourists what a “Tüfte” is. It’s just Low German for “potato.” And the colorful garden vegetables with cream cheese and herb dip are also completely meat-free.

And what do you drink with the Pomeranian tapas?

Honestly? Beer! But of course, red or white wine also pairs perfectly. Ultimately, it depends on the selection of tapas. Above all, though, it has to taste good. If it tastes good, it’s always a good match.

How did you end up at Restaurant Remise?

After earning my degree in hotel management, I worked for many years at a large hotel chain. Before that, I completed an apprenticeship as a waiter. I’ve stayed in the industry my whole life. When I turned 40, however, I started questioning everything and wondered if what I was doing was still the right thing. At the same time, my desire to be self-employed grew stronger and stronger.

As luck would have it, the building that now houses the restaurant belonged to a former coworker who wanted to open a restaurant there and was looking for an operator. Despite the risk, I had a positive gut feeling and took the plunge into self-employment. This was also thanks to the support of my wife, who also comes from the restaurant industry.

What else sets your restaurant apart? Aside from the Pomeranian tapas.

The restaurant is located in an old carriage barn that belongs to Stolpe Castle. Originally, the Countess von Schwerin’s carriages were stored here. Although we don’t know exactly when the barn was built, we estimate it was around 1850. When I first visited here six years ago, it was nothing but a ruin. I could hardly imagine that it would one day become a respectable restaurant. After German reunification, the building was simply left to its own devices.

It wasn’t until 2012 that we began gutting and restoring the barn. In doing so, we made sure to preserve some of its original character. We’ve managed to achieve a good blend of old and new. For example, we were able to salvage some of the old roof beams, which are now incorporated into the restaurant’s decor. Today, they’re part of the bar counter or have been repurposed as large candlesticks.

Many guests ask us which architect designed the interior. But I actually came up with the whole concept myself and brought it to life with the help of just a few craftsmen. Many regulars especially appreciate the cozy atmosphere.

How strong is your connection to Usedom, and what do you appreciate about the island?

I’m originally from Eberswalde, near Berlin. But when we were kids, my grandparents always took us on vacation to the Kaiserbad Ahlbeck. It was during those vacations that I discovered my love for the Baltic Sea. Then, long after I’d started my career, when I heard that a new hotel was set to open in Heringsdorf, I immediately volunteered and wanted to work here. That’s how I came to the island in 1997—over 20 years ago—and stayed.

Now, I cherish Usedom above all as my home. Even though I can’t enjoy the stunning natural beauty every day—because I don’t just live here, I also work here—I love the idyllic landscape. The air, in particular, is wonderful, and the people are very friendly.

What’s your favorite spot on Usedom?

I actually have several favorite spots. One is Lake Wolgast, with its very clean water. It’s not too crowded here—it’s very cozy. But there are also beautiful spots right on the Achterwasser at Gnitz, across from Zinnowitz, that aren’t crowded at all. And in Pudagla, also on the Achterwasser, there’s a charming swimming spot that I can recommend.

Thank you very much for the interview!