Our story
Three generations,
one house
Hi, we’re Julia and Vanessa. Julia’s grandma Käthe built up Haus Hamacher in 1954. Today we’re carrying it on, with respect for what came before and excitement for what’s to come.
1954
In 1954 Grandma Käthe and her husband open Haus Hamacher. With a restaurant and a big ballroom that becomes the place to party in Gangelt.
More than one couple met here on the dance floor.
In the family ever since
The house has stayed in the family ever since. From 2006 to 2025 Julia’s father ran it.
For many people in Gangelt it’s still an institution today. People have married and christened their children here, celebrated birthdays and said goodbye.
Oma Käthe
Without her there would be no Haus Hamacher. In 1954 Julia’s grandma Käthe started it all together with her husband.
Her name is still on our menu today: as Rinderroulade Oma Käthe.
Everything in between and after
Here people celebrate, grieve, laugh and cry. People get engaged here, and go on first dates. And sometimes you just pop in for a drink.
We’re Julia and Vanessa
Julia was more or less born at Haus Hamacher and has been helping out here since she was a teenager, including while she was at university. Oma Käthe is her grandmother.
Vanessa started in 2016, while still at school, as a part-time waitress. And she simply stayed. All through university, all through the pandemic. At some point she fell in love with Julia.
Then came the decision
At some point the question came up of who would carry the house on. We decided to do it together.
A big, maybe slightly crazy step. And exactly the right one.
And now
Just like at Grandma’s. Only cooler.
We’re building on what this house has always been: a place for everyone. For meeting up, celebrating, eating, drinking and somehow for living, too.
Step by step we’re bringing the disco vibe of the 70s back into the house and making something of our own out of it.
If you were young back then, you’ll recognise it. If you’re young today, you’re just discovering it.
There’s more to us than the two of us
Our family also includes our team from the kitchen, service and housekeeping. Many of them have been with us for years and have been through good, very good, bad and very bad times with us.
That brings people together. With each other and with the region.
What matters to us
We believe in openness, respect and the idea that diversity is a strength. Everyone should feel welcome and safe with us. No matter where you come from, who you are or how you live.
There’s no place here for hateful, discriminatory or exclusionary attitudes.
When you’re with us, you’re not just visiting. You’re part of an open place.