Obauer
Werfen, Austria
⭐2 Stars
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
This lovely establishment dating back to the 15C is located in the heart of Werfen, known for its distinctive castle complex. It has been run by the Obauer family for decades and now brothers Karl and Rudolf are in charge. Their classic cuisine draws on modern influences and uses select ingredients, e.g. for dishes such as turbot and tipsy char, tomatoes, peas, wild raspberries. Choose between the two set menus or dine à la carte. At lunchtime, there is a moderately priced set menu, including tempting classics such as Wiener schnitzel with Pinzgau veal. Berthold Obauer represents the next generation to lead the friendly and attentive service team, Sommelière Magdalena Gleiss recommends the right wines with charm and profound expertise. The decor is modern and elegant in style, incorporating the historical architecture of the building. There is also a gorgeous terrace to the rear of the property. Overnight guests can look forward to comfortable guestrooms and a delicious breakfast.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Three unique/unconventional aspects of Obauer, Werfen (Michelin 2-star restaurant):
Family-Run with Multi-Generational Hospitality
Obauer is distinguished by its deeply rooted family involvement, with brothers Karl and Rudi Obauer sharing chef responsibilities, supported by son and host Berthold and mother Angelika. This creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere akin to dining at one’s own kitchen table, blending tradition with innovation and fostering a home-from-home feeling for guests.Historic Setting with Alpine Foraging and Preservation
The restaurant is housed in rooms dating back to the 15th century, located in the shadow of Alpine peaks in Werfen. The cuisine uniquely incorporates local ingredients foraged from surrounding mountain slopes, with an emphasis on preserving as much as possible over winter, reflecting a strong connection to place and seasonality.Creative Modern Austrian Cuisine with Offal Specialties
While rooted in classic Austrian flavors, Obauer updates traditional dishes with modern flourishes—examples include trout strudel with veltliner sauce and mushroom purée, and chicken with porcinis and kohlrabi leaf stuffed with rice. Notably, offal dishes such as smoked deer liver with fried foie gras are a specialty, showcasing an unconventional focus within fine dining.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Obauer in Werfen include:
Alpine Salmon: Featured in a signature dish served raw with grapefruit marmalade, horseradish, and zucchini, highlighting fresh, local fish with bright, complementary flavors.
Lake Char: Used in a lasagna dish topped with basil, rosemary, and an aromatic Grüner Veltliner sauce, showcasing regional freshwater fish combined with herbal and wine influences.
Saddle of Lamb: Paired with sour cream radish, parsley paste, and sweet potato, this ingredient reflects traditional Austrian meat prepared with creative accompaniments for balanced richness and freshness.
Veal Knuckle: Presented as a ragout with semolina dumpling, emphasizing classic Austrian comfort food with refined technique.
Turbot and Tipsy Char: Mentioned as select ingredients used in their classic cuisine with modern influences, often paired with vegetables like tomatoes, peas, and wild raspberries to create elegant seasonal dishes.
These ingredients are significant as they represent a blend of local alpine and freshwater produce, traditional Austrian meats, and seasonal vegetables, all prepared with a modern twist that has earned Obauer its two Michelin stars and acclaim in Austrian gastronomy.