Merkel & Merkel

The story

Merkel & Merkel Review: Modern Austrian Cuisine in Salzburg’s Riedenburg

The kitchen and its makers

Merkel & Merkel serves refined Austrian cuisine in the heart of Salzburg, guided by chefs Alexander and Ramona Merkel. Their approach balances seasonal sourcing with straightforward technique, a method that secured a thirteen-and-a-half rating from Gault&Millau for the upcoming 2026 guide. Guests encounter dishes built around honest ingredients rather than unnecessary complexity. The couple recently moved their operation to the Riedenburg district, taking over the former Restaurant Riedenburg space to continue their established service model.

Signature plates and seasonal shifts

The menu anchors itself in familiar Austrian cooking while introducing precise pairings that elevate each course. A crisp Wiener Schnitzel arrives alongside wild lingonberries and lemon marmalade, cutting through the richness without masking the meat. The Tafelspitz follows a similar logic, served with earthy vegetables and a sharp chive sauce that brightens the broth. For contemporary palates, the rosa roastbeef features mustard caviar and red onion, while the vegetarian selection highlights chanterelles folded into cream with brioched dumplings and gooseberries.

The dining room and garden space

Interior design leans toward warmth, using natural materials and soft lighting to create a setting where guests linger over conversation. Large windows frame the street outside, while the adjacent gastgarten and enclosed salettl provide sheltered spots during warmer months. The layout encourages easy movement between tables, allowing staff to attend to each party without crowding. Even on busy evenings, the room maintains a steady rhythm that matches the unhurried pace of the kitchen.