Mesnerhaus
Mauterndorf, Austria
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
Set in the Salzburg mountains, in the UNESCO Biosphere Park, Mesnerhaus has been run by Maria and Josef Steffner since 2007. The modern interior design within the venerable walls of this building dating back to 1420se, incorporates the historical architecture beautifully. An extremely warm and welcoming hostess, Maria is responsible for the wine cellar, restaurant and hotel, which has six cosy rooms and a suite. With just as much dedication, Josef delivers expressive, creative cuisine made from regional and seasonal produce, served as a set menu or à la carte. The signature dish Lungau potato with sour cream, egg yolk and Grüll caviar is fabulous.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Historic Building with Modern Interior: Mesnerhaus is uniquely housed in a building dating back to 1420, blending historical architecture with modern interior design to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that merges past and present.
Deep Regional Connection in Cuisine: The restaurant emphasizes a strong bond with its region, using local ingredients such as Lungauer Eachtling potatoes, fresh fish from mountain creeks, and wild herbs, reflecting alpine culinary art combined with world-class creativity.
Personal Touch by the Owners: Run by Maria and Josef Steffner since 2007, the couple personally manages all aspects—from Josef’s imaginative, seasonal cooking to Maria’s warm hospitality and careful curation of the wine cellar and hotel, making guests feel like friends rather than just customers.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Mesnerhaus in Mauterndorf are:
Lungau Ächtleng Potato: A rare regional potato from the Austrian Alps, known for its nutty flavor, firm texture, and full character. It is the centerpiece of their signature dish, often paired with sour cream, egg yolk, and caviar to highlight its simple yet refined nature.
Sour Cream: Used in the signature Lungau potato dish to complement and enhance the potato’s natural flavors.
Egg Yolk: Adds richness and a silky texture to the signature potato dish, balancing the other elements.
Caviar by Walter Grüll: A luxurious ingredient paired with the Lungau potato, elevating the dish with its delicate saltiness and prestige.
Confited Arctic Char: Another notable ingredient featured in a signature dish, served with tomato and elderberry, showcasing the restaurant’s focus on regional and seasonal produce.
These ingredients reflect Mesnerhaus’s dedication to regionalism, sourcing rare and local products, and transforming them into elegant, creative dishes that express the unique terroir of the Austrian Alps.