Kirchenwirt
Leogang, Austria
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
Dating back to 1326, this traditional inn located in the heart of Leogang has been run with enthusiasm by the same family for over 130 years. Barbara Kottke and her brother Hans-Jörg Unterrainer represent the sixth generation at the helm. In their cosy, rustic dining area – or, in summer, on the terrace with a view of the parish church – you can choose between a six-course tasting menu (also available in a pescetarian version) and à la carte dishes. Chef Stefan Birnbacher proposes, for example, a creation he calls Alpine Waters: a mildly spiced, pickled brook trout served with a wafer-thin layer of lardo, and kohlrabi – pickled and in the form of a cream – along with a broth made with Leogang saffron and seasoned with hemp nut oil. His signature caviar dish (Black Gold) is another tantalising option. There is also a hearty beef broth or Wiener schnitzel. The owner and his front-of-house team really know their way around the fantastic national and international wine list. Tip: gorgeous guestrooms in the hotel.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Historic Legacy Since 1326
Kirchenwirt is one of the oldest establishments in Salzburgerland, with its first documented mention dating back to 1326. It has been continuously run by the same family for over 130 years and is now managed by the sixth generation, siblings Barbara Kottke and Hans-Jörg Unterrainer.K1326 Gourmet Menu: "Shaping the Alps"
The restaurant offers a unique gourmet menu that creatively combines carefully selected Alpine products. Dishes include innovative presentations such as lightly cured char served almost raw in a lovage and tomato broth, parsley root soup paired with kohlrabi, and veal kidneys with elderberry balsamic sauce, showcasing a distinctive culinary style that blends tradition with modern finesse.Exceptional Non-Mainstream Wine Selection Curated by Owner-Sommelier
The wine cellar, curated by owner and sommelier Hans-Jörg Unterrainer, is notable for its focus on top-quality, non-mainstream wines. This personalized and carefully selected wine list is considered a highlight of the dining experience, complementing the regional cuisine perfectly.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Kirchenwirt in Leogang include:
Brook trout: Featured in the signature dish "Alpine Waters," it is mildly spiced and pickled, served with a wafer-thin layer of lardo and accompanied by kohlrabi in pickled and cream forms. This highlights the use of fresh Alpine freshwater fish with delicate seasoning.
Kohlrabi: Used both pickled and as a cream, it complements the brook trout dish, adding texture and a subtle earthy sweetness that balances the acidity and spice.
Leogang saffron: Incorporated into a broth served with the brook trout dish, this local saffron adds a distinctive aromatic and colorful element, emphasizing regional Alpine flavors.
Hemp nut oil: Used to season the broth in the "Alpine Waters" dish, it introduces a nutty, rich flavor that enhances the complexity of the dish and reflects local ingredient sourcing.
Caviar ("Black Gold"): A signature luxurious ingredient featured in a celebrated dish, showcasing the restaurant's finesse and ability to blend local tradition with gourmet sophistication.
These ingredients are significant as they represent a blend of traditional Alpine products and refined culinary techniques, creating innovative dishes that honor the region's heritage while offering new taste experiences. The use of local specialties like Leogang saffron and hemp nut oil alongside classic elements such as brook trout and caviar defines Kirchenwirt's distinctive cuisine.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menu
- 6 Courses: €120
Signature Dishes
- Alpine Waters: Price not specified
- Black Gold (Caviar dish): Price not specified
- Beef Broth: Price not specified
- Wiener Schnitzel: Price not specified