in Vienna – Austria

In Vienna’s 15th district, tucked into the historic Dorotheum-Fünfhaus building, Restaurant Herzig offers a striking blend of past and present. Once an auction hall in a 1920s-era pawnshop, the space has been transformed into a minimalist, gallery-like setting with hardwood floors, contemporary art, and a rooftop terrace overlooking the city. It’s a place where industrial heritage meets modern design, and every detail reflects a deliberate sense of style and atmosphere.

The restaurant is the creation of chef Sören Herzig, a native of Cuxhaven, Germany, whose culinary journey began at just 15. After years in top kitchens—including a seven-year tenure with Juan Amador—Sören eventually settled in Vienna, where he and his wife Saskia opened Herzig. Their vision? A space that feels personal yet dynamic, shaped by creativity and a mix of influences. In 2025, Herzig earned its first Michelin star, cementing its place in Vienna’s fine dining scene.

A Table Full of Surprises
Dining at Herzig is an experience that balances precision with playfulness. On our visit, a Belgian sous chef took the time to explain every detail in Dutch—a thoughtful touch that made the evening feel intimate and accessible.
The menu showcased classic techniques with a modern twist. A vegetarian interpretation of a vol-au-vent appeared as an amuse-bouche, while beurre blanc made frequent appearances, each time refreshed with a subtle acidic note that kept it from becoming monotonous. One of the most intriguing bites? A cracker that turned out to be nothing more than lettuce—yet executed with such finesse that it felt like a culinary sleight of hand.

Global Influences, Local Misses
Herzig’s dishes read like a passport of luxury: scallops, caviar, carabinero prawns, and Australian Wagyu—all impeccably prepared, yet undeniably international. Even the wine list leaned global, with only a single Austrian variant making an appearance. For a restaurant rooted in Vienna’s cultural fabric, this felt like a missed opportunity to showcase Austria’s rich culinary and viticultural heritage.
That said, the flavours were faultless. Each plate reflected Sören’s meticulous approach and his ability to weave together textures and tastes into something memorable.

The Verdict
Herzig is more than a restaurant—it’s a reflection of Sören Herzig’s evolution as a chef and his talent for transforming a forgotten space into a Michelin-starred destination. While the menu could lean more into Austrian identity, the experience remains exceptional: refined, creative, and deeply personal.
If you’re in Vienna and looking for a dining experience that marries industrial chic with culinary artistry, Herzig deserves a spot at the top of your list.

Chef: Sören Herzig
Date of visit: December 13th 2025
Website: https://www.restaurant-herzig.at/
Michelin: 1 star
Gault & Millau: 17