Zur Palme

The story

Zur Palme Restaurant in Amstetten | Creative Austrian Cuisine & Chef Theresia Palmetzhofer

The chef and the kitchen

At Zur Palme in Amstetten, Theresia Palmetzhofer directs a straightforward approach to Austrian cuisine that favors substance over ceremony. She assumed the helm of the historic Wirtshaus in the mid 2010s, quickly earning recognition as Female Chef of the Year in 2023. The kitchen now ranks among the country’s most reliable culinary voices, proving that thoughtful Austrian cuisine thrives outside major urban centers. Her method stays unpretentious, letting seasonal produce dictate the daily rotation.

Seasonal plates and pacing

Bread arrives automatically alongside whipped onion butter, establishing a relaxed foundation before the first hot course. Intermezzi like octopus with crustacean foam or roasted broccoli finished with cheese foam and pomegranate seeds structure the progression. Main plates rotate between pan roasted salmon trout with fregola risotto and a slow braised Mangalitza rack accompanied by celery and wild mushrooms. A bright lemon tart with sour cherries typically concludes the service.

Courtyard and cellar

The dining space opens onto a paved courtyard that attracts weekend visitors seeking wood fired pizza straight from the oven. Evening guests generally settle into a slower rhythm, directing their attention toward the wine list. The cellar stocks age worthy selections, prominently featuring mature Nebbiolo from Vietti and structured Rieslaner from the Pfalz. Servers guide guests through both lists without pressure, treating the beverage program as a natural complement to the kitchen.