The ski resort of Mayrhofen is not only renowned for its fantastic slopes and classy boutiques and hotels – the gastronomic scene in this town is a true foodie’s paradise. There are countless restaurants that will leave you with wonderful memories and eager to book a table for the next day!
The traditional cuisine is hearty, rich and so varied that every member of your party will find something that suits them. Warming and atmospheric, the restaurants themselves provide wonderful settings for the first-rate food. While there is a varied and wide selection of restaurants in the Mayrhofen area, the ones below are some of my top picks – and those that I think will really make your holiday a memorable one.
Schneekarhütte
A resort in itself, the Schneekarhütte boasts an excellent restaurant that has been operating for more than 25 years. It prides itself on superb quality and high standards, and uses only the best ingredients. This is definitely something that you’ll notice and the local suppliers of their food obviously put in as much love and care as they do! The Schneekarhütte also has a top-class wine cellar with an impressive range of vintages. Ask your server for the right pairing to match your dish and be captivated by the unique flavour combinations.
While the menu at Schneekarhütte is full of tasty and interesting plates, these were some of the standouts. I recommend trying a bit of everything if you can!
Breakfast of Champions
The breakfasts at Schneekarhütte are full of class as well as flavour. With three options to choose from, you can decide how decadent you want to be before heading out onto the snow. For under €20 the buffet breakfast includes oysters, roast beef and German sausage on a Sunday – it’s well worth the price. If you’re in the mood for celebration then the mysterious Champagne Breakfast might be for you. The menu doesn’t reveal its mysteries, but suggests that they will prepare a surprise and can provide a romantic table for two.
Stewed Beef Roulade
The Geschmorte Rinderroulade is a work of art. Its presentation matches its fantastic flavour and you’ll be tempted to avoid eating it just to preserve the chef’s design. However, when you do tuck in you’ll be enchanted by the herb dumplings, the tender organic beef and the delectable red cabbage.
A Toast
The restaurant provides the perfect atmosphere for relaxing in the warmth with a drink or two. Their menu is extensive (at over 60 pages) and includes dozens of pages of drink ideas and options (as well as digestifs and cigars). There are hand-picked teas as well as local beers and champagne. They also have a wide selection of Austrian whites that are worth sampling. It would be quite possible to spend several days in Schneekarhütte just sampling their extensive menu!
Top Tip: The menu at Schneekarhütte is so extensive that it’s worth having a browse before you head down to avoid being overwhelmed. It’s not just a meal, it’s an experience. Check out the menu online.
Ahornhütte
The Ahornhütte is a mountain restaurant and, at almost 2000 metres, the views from this delightful spot are almost as captivating as the food itself. It’s at the very centre of the ski resort, making it a perfect spot for some lunch or after-ski cosiness. The restaurant even boasts some outdoor seating with spectacular views of the alps and a cosy environment to while away an evening.
Traditional Fare
The Ahornhütte has a great menu for those who are hungry from a day out on the slopes. The traditional food on offer provides a taste of authenticity and while it might not be delicate, it is delicious! The Wiener schnitzel is amazing, as are the spare ribs and the spinach dumplings. The simplicity of the menu does not do justice to the tastiness of the cuisine. Hearty, warming and mouthwatering, this food couldn’t be more fitting to its location.
A Bit of Everything
The traditional food at Ahornhütte really is the best bet, but there is something for everyone and they cater to the tastes of even the fussiest skiers. With international cuisine, simple snack meals (which are still very filling) and a great beer and wine selection, the cosy and relaxed vibe of the restaurant will leave you feeling very contented.
Granatalm
A trendy option for the foodies out there, the Granatalm serves up some of the finest BBQ food in the region. In my opinion you really can’t go wrong here on a cold winter day.
Famous BBQ
They describe their BBQ as ‘the real deal’ and it is easy to see why. Mouthwatering meat plates are served alongside a great selection of fresh, delectable salads. Fish, chicken, steak – they grill it all here, and the smells alone are enough to draw customers in from far and wide. Luckily, there’s plenty to go around! The Tiroler Gröstl (a dish served with potatoes) is worth a special mention.
Mountain Breakfast
The mountain breakfast is another real treat at this warm and inviting restaurant. It’s a wide and varied selection that’ll get you ready for a day out on the slopes. Made with fresh local ingredients, you’ll be getting a taste of the real Mayrhofen. The service here is almost as notable as the food and the friendly staff go a long way to making the ambience at Granatalm what it is.
Top Tip: Gift vouchers are available here, making the perfect gift for a friend or family member who is looking to visit the region.
Where to Stay
Hotel Pension Waldheim – this hotel provides warmth, comfort and an ideal location for exploring the village. It’s great for skiing and discovering Mayrhofen’s culture.
Hotel Neue Post – Exquisitely and traditionally decorated throughout, the Hotel Neue Post provides genuine hospitality and an atmosphere of authenticity.
How to Get There
In under two hours you can fly from London to Innsbruck with easyJet or British Airways and then it’s just 76km to the village of Mayrhofen. Take a pre-booked shuttle transfer to your accommodation in just under an hour and it couldn’t be easier.
I would recommend Shuttle Direct for quick and simple transfer services. They make getting to Mayrhofen a simple and hassle-free process.
Overview
- UK to INN Flight Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- INN to Mayrhofen Distance: 76 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 57 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct provides pre-booked transfers from airports, train stations and many other locations. Take the hassle out of your holiday by booking a transfer with us. Arrive at your destination relaxed, in a timely fashion and ready to enjoy your holiday. Our professional drivers will make sure you’re transferred in comfort and style.
