The restaurant industry remains in family hands
A significant generational change has taken place in the restaurant at Heiligenberg Castle: restaurateur Annette Bombala has handed over the management to her daughter Hannah Knell. Around 195 invited guests attended the official handover ceremony.
A festive setting with numerous guests
Among the guests were Mayor Birgit Kannegießer, Dietmar Oeter, and representatives from the cultural, gastronomic, and political spheres. The event began with a champagne reception and, under spring-like weather, developed into an all-day celebration in the castle park and the historic rooms.
From café to gastronomic flagship
The gastronomic success story on the Heiligenberg began in 2013. Together with the Heiligenberg Jugenheim Foundation, Annette Bombala developed the idea of a café in a historical setting.
What began as a small concept has evolved over the years into a diverse hospitality business with a café and restaurant, as well as numerous events. These include themed evenings, brunches, and seasonal markets. The castle's location overlooking the Rhine plain has also made it a popular venue for celebrations and weddings.
Successor with international experience
Hannah Knell, a trained restaurateur, is taking over the management. Her experience in renowned establishments and abroad forms the basis for the further development of the business. She has already established new event formats that complement the existing offerings.
In her farewell speech, Annette Bombala announced her intention to retire from active business operations, but expressed satisfaction at handing over her life's work to family hands.
Appreciation and outlook
Bombala's long-standing commitment was praised in several speeches. Peter Schellhaas also addressed a message of greeting to the guests.
The restaurant will continue under a new name and will retain its role as a cultural and culinary meeting place for the region. Gifts such as lemon trees and traditional lucky charms symbolized the transition.
The day ended with conversations, reminiscing, and a look toward the future – characterized by gratitude for what had been achieved and confidence for the coming years.
(SEEHEIM – RED/PM/CP)
Featured image: Dr. Dietmar Oeter, Annette Bombala, Mayor Birgit Kannegießer, Hannah Knell and Christine Friedrich, Dehoga. Photo: Organizer / Hannah Knell
