The story
Mayer in Gröbming has served refined Styrian cooking for seven generations. Stefan Ell-Mayer directs the kitchen of this family-run establishment, steering a young team that bridges classic inn fare with contemporary plating. The culinary philosophy centers on regional produce obtained from nearby farms and local hunters. The chefs will occasionally source ingredients from distant suppliers when higher standards appear.
Diners generally navigate a compact à la carte selection or book the six-course surprise menu. The Caesar Salad à la Mayer pairs lobster ravioli with chunks of fresh crustacean. Crispy gold trout rests beside sweet figs, while autumn tables feature pumpkin foam soup and blossoms stuffed with grain soufflé. Pointed cabbage courses receive careful attention through nut butter and plum reductions. This approach keeps Styrian cooking both grounded and ambitious.
The dining terrace opens directly toward the Grimming, recognized as Europe’s tallest independent mountain. Recent architectural updates have refreshed the historic structure into a bright, contemporary space. Individual guest rooms maintain unique layouts that prioritize quiet retreat over standardized design. Young staff members manage reservations and table service with an emphasis on steady, unforced hospitality.
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History
The Grimming is the highest free-standing mountain in Europe, and against this record-setting backdrop, the stage opens for Stefan Ell-Mayer’s cuisine, which masterfully shifts between classical tones and fine-dining compositions. The terrace is cozy, the inn has been stylishly renovated, and a young crew works in the kitchen—an excellent lineup! We choose the six-course surprise menu, starting with braised oxheart tomato and flame-seared zander. The Caesar Salad à la Mayer comes with lobster ravioli and lobster meat, the pointed cabbage features nut butter and plum, and the crispy golden trout is served with figs. Early autumn is ushered in with a pumpkin foam soup, a pumpkin blossom filled with grain soufflé, and a magnificent pumpkin dessert—a tartlet with chai ice cream. Applause for this performance! Very welcoming service and an excellent drink selection. Address: St. Martin am Grimming 12, 8954 St. Martin am Grimming, Austria. Contact: 03684 2203. Email: urlaub@mayer-grimming.at. Website: https://www.mayer-grimming.at/ Opening hours: Tue–Fri 17:00–21:00, Sat 11:00–14:00 and 17:00–21:00, Sun 11:00–14:00. Team: Stefan Ell-Mayer, Chef.
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