Our neighbor Austria can rightfully be called a gastronomic paradise – and the recent Gault&Millau awards have confirmed it once again. No fewer than nine restaurants received the full number of toques and will now proudly display yellow plaques by their doors boasting an astonishing five toques. But it wasn’t just the culinary scene that celebrated – hotels and wines were honored too. And we’ve got the names and places you’ll want to bookmark.
Top Culinary Experiences in Austria
Chef of the Year went to Vitus Winkler, recognized for his creative use of what surrounds him daily: meadows, forests, and mountains. His deep connection to nature has earned him a place among Austria’s most exciting chefs today. You can taste his imaginative creations at Krauterreich by Vitus Winkler, awarded 18.5 points. The name translates to “Herb Kingdom,” which gives you a hint of what to expect. This top-tier restaurant lies just about an hour from Salzburg – a perfect addition to any trip itinerary.
One of the most powerful moments of the evening came with the fifth toque for Thomas Dorfer of Landhaus Bacher, whose restaurant – blending Japanese and South American influences – received an incredible 19 points. The 2009 Chef of the Year had waited years for this honor, and the room erupted in applause when it was announced.
“Nineteen points – the highest possible rating – that’s something people only whisper about. It’s like an Oscar. Only a handful of chefs in Austria have achieved it,” said an emotional Dorfer.
His restaurant is less than a two-hour drive from Bratislava, and it’s well worth the trip. Landhaus has been a haven for gourmets in the heart of Wachau for decades – ever evolving, yet never losing its identity.
More Award Highlights:
- Newcomer of the Year: Lisa Morent, leading the s’Morent restaurant in Tyrol
- Pastry Chef of the Year: Julia Knoll, whose desserts shine at Bruderherz Fine Dine in Fiss
- Beer Menu of the Year: Herzogs Bierbotschaft
- Service of the Year: Gloria Conti from Ikarus
- Inn of the Year: Zum fröhlichen Arbeiter
- Vienna’s Inn of the Year: Gelbmanns Gaststube
- Wine List of the Year: Alpenstern
- Austrian Wine List of the Year: Restaurant Eckel
And there’s much more: the traditional “yellow” guide has now been joined by a dedicated hotel guide and two detailed regional guides for Tyrol and South Tyrol. Wine lovers can also dive into a separate wine guide.
If you’re planning a ski trip or a hiking getaway to Austria, Gault&Millau truly has the entire country mapped out – ready to point you toward the best food and experiences. You can explore all the listed restaurants, hotels, and wines featured in the Austrian guide HERE.
Congratulations to all the winners – we hope you’ll enjoy every bite!