Restaurant Goldener Hirsch

Directly accessible from the Herbert-von-Karajan-Square and the Festival Hall or via the main hotel entrance in the Getreidegasse, Restaurant Goldener Hirsch is a landmark of Salzburg: What was once a blacksmith's shop is nowadays Salzburg's most illustrious restaurant, favoured by government officials, world-class artists and international celebrities.

The simple, sophisticated dining room pays homage to its humble ancestry with rustic Austrian wooden chairs and tables that harmonize with the wooden beams that cross the ceiling. Pronounced arches and white walls are decorated with engravings of hunting scenes that recall an era of grandeur. Austrian green is featured in the traditional waiter uniforms and table linens. Hand woven in white and green, they repeat the hotel's signature stag motif.

Be sure to pay attention to the table next to the old fireplace. Named the "Grilltisch", it has been there since the restaurant opened, and is the spot where architect Clemens Holzmeister was chosen to design the Festival Hall. The most sought after table in the restaurant, however, is the "Karajantisch", the favourite spot of the famous composer Herbert von Karajan.

True authenticity is also reflected in the cuisine and in the work of Chef Gernot Hicka who has been with the hotel for over 16 years. A delightful combination of traditional Salzburg specialties and recognised international dishes - Chef Hicka's creations have earned the restaurant many Toque Awards. While the menu changes in conjunction with the seasons, a few signature dishes are Ham Mousse with Cumberland Sauce, Saddle of farm-raised Venison with red cabbage, and Bohemian dumpling with cranberries. A sweet temptation is "Rigo Jansci": a rich chocolate sponge cake with indulgent chocolate mousse filling. According to a legend, it was created by a former Belgian Princess for her lover, the gypsy baron Rigo Jansci. The perfect accompaniment to any meal is a bottle of wine from our extensive cellar, which boasts a cultured selection of the best Austrian and worldwide vintages.

View our daily lunch and dinnner menu