When we heard about St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, formerly St Peter Stiftskeller, we knew it had to be part of our Salzburg adventure. Touted as the oldest restaurant in Europe, (and we expect the world), it claims a rich history dating back to 803 AD! This is a restaurant that’s been serving guests for over 1,200 years!! As adventurous foodie’s at heart, how could we resist?
Expecting an ancient, perhaps even rustic setting, we were very surprised by the restaurant's modern, sophisticated décor and ambience. An eclectic rumble of orange and teal woven chairs atop the aged cobblestone floor; matching umbrellas and accessories; draped rugs for guests; golden fairy lights; decorative pineapples; all hugged by the arched stone walls. So dreamy, welcoming and warm.
It was a mild evening and we were seated in the open-air courtyard under the stars, where the ancient abbey architecture created a beautiful backdrop. It felt like we were dining in a magical, historic castle.
The design is a credit to the restaurant’s glamourous owners, Veronika Kirchmair and Claus Haslauer who, as luck would have it, were dining with friends at the table right next to us, adding a special touch to our visit.
A Journey Through Time
Nestled in the heart of Salzburg’s Old Town, St. Peter Stiftskulinarium is part of St. Peter's Abbey, a Benedictine monastery founded in 696 AD. Its storied past is blended with Salzburg’s rich history. First mentioned in 803 AD, the restaurant was referenced in documents by an advisor to Charlemagne. Over the centuries, it has hosted an impressive line up of guests, including Christopher Columbus, Johann Faust, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
Here’s a glimpse into the restaurant’s incredible timeline:
803 AD: The earliest recorded mention of St. Peter's "abbey cellar" appears in documents by Alcuin of York, a scholar and advisor to Emperor Charlemagne.
14th Century: The establishment gains literary recognition through references by the Monk of Salzburg, a noted poet and composer of the era.
1510: Expansion of the cellar area is undertaken, with folklore suggesting that even the legendary Faust esteemed the venue.
1720: The clientele diversifies to include nobility, clergy, and the burgeoning middle class, reflecting its growing prominence.
1763: Composer Michael Haydn, brother of Joseph Haydn, resides on the top floor of the Stiftskeller, intertwining the location with Salzburg's rich musical heritage.
1803: The establishment receives the privilege to brew and serve beer, expanding its offerings beyond the monastery's own wines.
1809: During the Napoleonic Wars, French troops are quartered in the Stiftskeller, marking its role in broader historical events.
1903: Abbot Willibald Hauthaler oversees the construction of the Baroque Hall and the expansion of the 'Willibaldhöhle' vault, enhancing its architectural grandeur.
1918: The monastery cellar suffers looting amid the turmoil of World War I, reflecting the challenges faced during this period.
1992: At 25, Claus Haslauer becomes the first leaseholder of St. Peter's Stiftskeller, ushering in a new era of stewardship.
1996: The inaugural Mozart Dinner Concert is held in the historic Baroque Hall, blending culinary and musical arts—a tradition that continues daily.
1999: Veronika Kirchmair-Haslauer initiates a thoughtful redesign of the restaurant's interiors, marrying tradition with modern aesthetics.
2003: The Stiftskeller celebrates its 1,200th anniversary, commemorating its enduring legacy.
2008: Extensive renovations modernize the kitchen and taproom, aligning with contemporary standards while preserving historical integrity.
2010: St. Paul Soul Food Catering becomes part of the St. Peter Stiftskeller family, offering bespoke and professional event services.
2013: The 'Willibaldhöhle' vault and arcade courtyard undergo redesigns, enhancing their historic charm.
2014: Culinary techniques such as sous vide and charcoal barbecue are incorporated into the menu, showcasing a commitment to innovation.
2017: The establishment is rebranded as 'St. Peter Stiftskulinarium' and earns two Gault Millau toques, recognising its culinary excellence.
2020: Two distinct dining concepts are introduced: 'ACHTHUNDERT&DREI' offers international fine dining, while 'PETER' focuses on Austrian and Mediterranean specialties.
2021: St. Peter Stiftskulinarium is awarded the 'Salzburger Landeswappen' (coat of arms) for outstanding contributions to the state of Salzburg.
And then there was food!
The cuisine is accurately described as “authentic and sophisticated, impressing even seasoned connoisseurs with stunning variety, creativity and outstanding quality”. Whilst the menu is seasonal, the favourites remain. Click on the image below of the Menu to open.
We had to try the Wiener Schnitzel and it was golden perfection, but it was the dishes prepared tableside that were our favourites. Here’s our Tafelspitz – “a classic Austrian dish of beef in broth, served with vegetables, horseradish, and other accompaniments”.
We followed with dessert, where we indulged in the restaurant’s signature dish, Salzburger Nockerl, a light, fluffy soufflé-like dish served on cranberry cream and prepared tableside. It was almost too beautiful to eat!
https://youtube.com/shorts/cZ6RtM9Ic6I?si=2jQ-iHHLM6iJShs9
Exploring the Upstairs: Music and Magic
Before leaving, we explored the Baroque Hall upstairs, where Mozart’s music fills the air during the daily Mozart Dinner Concerts. When we next return to Salzburg, we will be booking a spot for the dinner concert to combine history, music, and fine dining.
A Living History in Every Bite
Dining at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium isn’t just about food—it’s about stepping into a piece of living history. For families visiting Salzburg, it’s a chance to combine education, culture, and unforgettable flavours in one memorable experience.
If you’re planning your next family adventure to Salzburg, add this to your itinerary but be sure to book ahead. This historic restaurant is popular, especially during peak travel seasons. Learn more and reserve your table on their official website.
Make it a learning moment, by sharing the restaurant's history with the family before you go. Knowing they’re dining where Mozart once ate, adds a special spark to the experience.
Before you leave, don’t forget to check out our Tasty Travels T-shirt Range, including a design celebrating the incredible history of St. Peter Stiftskulinarium! Made from high-quality 100% combed cotton and available in kids’, women’s, and men’s sizes with a range of vibrant colours, these tees are as stylish as they are meaningful.
They’re perfect for commemorating your visit—or inspiring future travel dreams! Better yet, why stop at just one? Collect the whole Tasty Travels series and share your love of food and history wherever you go.
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We'll finish with a quote from Peter that perfectly sums up this experience:
There’s artistry on your plate, history in your glass, music in your ears and magic in your heart.