A culinary new beginning is imminent: award-winning top chef Thomas Gruber is leaving the renowned Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden and bringing his vision of regional slow food with an urban touch to Schladming from the end of November 2025.
Most recently, the Carinthian native spent over seven years as executive chef at the historic Schlosshotel Velden, where he was awarded two toques by Gault&Millau and three Falstaff forks. Now he is moving from Lake Wörthersee to the foot of the Planai – and has found a new stage for his creative cuisine at Gasthaus Zirngast.
Together with sous chef Michelle Kohlweiß, with whom he has been working for many years, Gruber wants to show in Schladming that regionality, craftsmanship and modern lightness go together wonderfully.
‘We want to show that pub cuisine can be reimagined today – regional, but with an urban twist. Traditional recipes, interpreted in a modern way. And always with a clear focus on quality and origin,’
explains Thomas Gruber.
One example: his ‘Steirerkrapfen’, filled like a taco, inspired by the region – yet with an international appeal.
With his membership of the JRE – Jeunes Restaurateurs, Gruber brings not only experience but also a strong network to Schladming. ‘Membership is like a seal of quality and helps to position a new location culinarily,’ says the Carinthian.
We are delighted to welcome Thomas and Michelle to the Zirngast team – and to write a new chapter of tavern cuisine with genuine Styrian hygge together. ✨