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$18.09 (as of November 20, 2024 15:23 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)The World’s Oldest Restaurant Was Frequented By Mozart And Columbus” delves into the rich history and exquisite offerings of St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, located in Salzburg, Austria. Situated within the medieval walls of St. Peter’s Abbey, this historic eatery, dating back to 803 AD, has hosted luminaries such as Christopher Columbus and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Originally a wine cellar that evolved into an inn and tavern, the restaurant now features opulent décor and serves a fusion of Mediterranean and Austrian cuisine. Managed since the 1990s by Veronika Kirchmair and Claus Haslauer, who meticulously balanced renovations with historical preservation, it remains a cultural landmark offering themed rooms, elegant banquet halls, and vibrant entertainment. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to dine in a place steeped in centuries of history, where some of the world’s most remarkable figures once broke bread? Imagine savoring a meal in a restaurant that’s not only been around for over a millennium but has also hosted legendary personalities like Mozart and Columbus. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, let me take you on a tour of this extraordinary place.
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The World’s Oldest Restaurant: St. Peter Stiftskulinarium
Located in the heart of Salzburg, Austria’s old town, under the imposing Mönchsberg mountain, lies the St. Peter Stiftskulinarium. This isn’t your average old restaurant—it’s officially recognized as the oldest existing restaurant in the world. Established in the year 803, St. Peter Stiftskulinarium has a history as rich as its cuisine.
The Ancient Origins
St. Peter Stiftskulinarium’s story begins within the medieval walls of St. Peter’s Abbey, a magnificent seventh-century Benedictine monastery. Originally built as a wine cellar to serve religious pilgrims, the place eventually expanded into an inn and tavern.
Over the years, it catered to an array of travelers, from explorers to artists. Notably, Christopher Columbus, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and even the infamous alchemist Faust are said to have graced its tables.
Remarkable Individuals and Events
In 1763, the composer Michael Haydn, brother of the renowned Joseph Haydn, made his home on the top floor of the inn. Fast forward to today, and the restaurant continues to draw dignitaries and celebrities from around the world, keeping alive its legacy as a cultural hotspot in the eastern Alps. With a seating capacity of up to 850 guests, it’s a testament to its ongoing relevance and charm.
Modern Management with Historic Respect
Veronika Kirchmair and Claus Haslauer acquired the first-ever lease on the property in the early 90s. Since then, they have managed it with admirable dedication, balancing modern innovation with the respect due to its historical context. Let’s explore how they’ve transformed this ancient sanctuary into a contemporary culinary haven.
Renovations and Redesigns
The duo has modernized the decor, revamped the kitchen, and updated the menu while maintaining the old-world charm that makes St. Peter Stiftskulinarium unique. It’s now affectionately referred to as “Peter” or “St. Peter’s.”
Culinary Innovations
The restaurant offers a delightful fusion of Mediterranean cuisine and traditional Austrian specialties. Moreover, it boasts splendidly decorated rooms, a cocktail lounge, and a wine bar. The setting is also perfect for special events, spectacular Christmas displays, and New Year’s Eve galas.
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Themed Rooms: Historical Elegance Meets Modern Design
One of the highlights of dining at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium is the themed rooms, each offering a distinct ambiance and historical significance.
Petrusstube Room
Situated in what was once the monastery’s tavern, this rustic alpine-themed room is adorned with animal furs, mounted stag’s heads, and crucifixes. It perfectly captures the essence of its origins.
Richardstube Room
This preserved brick vault was built over 500 years ago as a rock wine cellar. Today, it remains a lovely spot to enjoy fine wines.
Haydnsaal Room
Step into the past with this small 18th-century banquet room that boasts Baroque parquet ballroom floors. Michael Haydn once frequented this room to sip wine and compose his music.
Séparée Im Berg Room
This moody space, entirely within the mountain, is surrounded by rock from floor to ceiling. It offers an intimate setting perfect for business meetings or private gatherings.
Bürger-Prälatenstube Room
As the Stiftskulinarium’s oldest room, it features dramatic coffered ceilings and elegant dark wood paneling. It historically served as a meeting place for church VIPs.
Willibaldarkaden Room
An outdoor space amidst the abbey’s garden, it’s partially enclosed by a domed arcade. This versatile area is now used for receptions, banquets, art exhibits, and nightlife events.
A Feast for the Senses: Dining at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium
Dining here isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re enjoying classical music, fine dining, or a sumptuous brunch, each meal is meticulously crafted to provide an unforgettable experience.
Mozart Dinner Concerts
Held in the majestic Barocksaal banquet hall, the Mozart dinner concerts transport you back to 1790. Guests dine under candlelit chandeliers and frescoed ceilings, enjoying a three-course dinner based on historical recipes.
Menu for Mozart Dinner Concerts:
| Course | Description |
|---|---|
| Lemon Chicken Soup | Served with curd cheese and rosemary dumplings |
| Main Course | Roasted capon with red wine and herb glaze, polenta, and vegetables |
| Dessert | Salzburger nockerl, a sweet souffle resembling snow-flecked mountains |
Regular Menu: A Culinary Extravaganza
The regular menu is a celebration of Austrian cuisine interspersed with international flavors.
Select Dishes from the Menu:
| Course | Dish Description |
|---|---|
| Appetizers | Yellowfin tuna tartare, mango foam soup |
| Main Courses | Wiener schnitzel, tafelspitz (boiled beef dish), veal goulash, venison medallions, chicken piccata |
| Arctic char, mussels in tomato-vermouth sauce, homemade gnocchi, lobster pasta | |
| Desserts | Passionfruit tart with raspberry sorbet, crème brûlée, apple strudel |
| Steaks | Austrian Simmentaler calf, U.S. Black Angus, Wagyu beef |
Weekend Brunch
The weekend brunch menu at Peter is a delightful blend of breakfast and lunch favorites. Think homemade bread and pastries, egg dishes, fish like Icelandic salmon, and a variety of spritzes, highballs, sparkling champagnes, craft cocktails, and mocktails.
Conclusion
Dining at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium is more than just a meal—it’s a step back in time. With its intricate blend of history, culture, and exceptional cuisine, it offers a unique experience unlike any other. Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or someone seeking an unforgettable adventure, St. Peter’s promises to be a place where your senses are delighted, and your soul is enriched. So, the next time you’re in Salzburg, don’t miss the opportunity to dine at this remarkable establishment that has gracefully stood the test of time.
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