The story
At the Lohninger family restaurant on Frankfurt's Main riverbank, Austrian culinary tradition meets the world. Since opening in spring 2010, chef and patron Mario Lohninger has built a place where the hearty, convivial spirit of his homeland is lightened by Mediterranean, Asian, and American accents. The kitchen, recognized by the Michelin guide, works from a philosophy that tradition is not stagnation. Classic Austrian recipes are reinterpreted to be lighter and more modern without losing their essential character.
The atmosphere matches the cooking. Housed in a tastefully renovated old building, the interior combines rustic elements with urban Jugendstil—high, individually decorated ceilings, a timeless grey-and-lilac palette, and custom wooden furniture. It is a relaxed, unpretentious space, whether for a midday pause or a multi-course dinner.
Mario Lohninger’s path to his own restaurant began in his grandfather's bakery and his parents' restaurant in Leogang, Austria. His apprenticeship led him through international kitchens of the highest order, where he worked under mentors like Wolfgang Puck, David Bouley, and Guy Savoy. This global education—from a stint as executive chef at Danube in New York to cooking for the Thai royal court—shaped his style. In Frankfurt, he first earned a Michelin star at his restaurant silk. At Lohninger, he works alongside his parents, Erika and Paul, and his partner Sabine Mischke, realizing a modern vision of a family business.
The menu is divided into two clear sections: "Die Heimat" (The Homeland) and "Die Welt" (The World). Guests are free to compose their own journey, mixing Austrian classics with international creations. Standout dishes that have become signatures include the K.u.K. Ochsenbackerlgulasch with buckwheat spaetzle and the Bigeye Tuna Sashimi, alongside a Pastrami Sandwich that has been a fixture for years. The cooking is rooted in respect for the product, driven by the belief that if his ancestors had access to today's global ingredients and techniques, they would cook with the same joyful variety.
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Behind the facade of the stately corner building, you’ll find Alpine classics à la cheese ravioli and Wiener Schnitzel, alongside the occasional culinary foray into Asia. All in a relaxed gourmet style, of course.
Concept Full of flair and charm, featuring excellent, cosmopolitan yet Austrian-inspired cuisine, prepared with distinction in a stately historic townhouse. Lunch and dinner menus, alongside an attractive à la carte selection. Culinary Style The best Wiener Schnitzel in town? Naturally at Mario Lohninger's! The best oxtail goulash, onion steak, and Carinthian Schlutzkrapfen? Also at Lohninger's! But he can also take things in different directions. Yellowfin tuna sashimi with shiso cucumber salad, grilled miso salmon, Breton monkfish with red cabbage jus, or the New York-style pastrami sandwich are among Lohninger's finest classics. Wine Austria naturally forms the core of the wine list. Knowledgeable guidance is provided. Atmosphere Elegance is presented in a relaxed and casual manner; the stylishly appointed restaurant comes complete with a cozy, feel-good ambiance. Conclusion Mario Lohninger and his team deliver cuisine and hospitality that will leave you truly happy.
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