There are certain special evenings at the Mesnerhaus that are the talk of the town weeks in advance. October 25, 2025 will be one such evening. When Andreas Herbst from the Riederalm Leogang comes to visit us in Mauterndorf, it will be more than just a meeting of two friends—it will be a meeting of two culinary philosophies that interpret autumn in their own unique ways.
A summit meeting in a class of its own
Andreas Herbst and Josef Steffner have more in common than just their membership in the Jeunes Restaurateurs d’Europe. Both share a passion for regional products, both have been awarded Michelin stars, and both collect Gault&Millau toques like other people collect stamps. Together, they have two stars and eight toques—but numbers alone don’t tell the whole story.
What really connects the two is their philosophy: cooking with respect for the product, with attention to detail, and with that certain amount of creativity that turns a good dish into an unforgettable experience. Andreas Herbst, who has earned not only a Michelin star but also the Green Star for sustainability at his “dahoam” in Leogang, is bringing his alpine culinary workshop to the Mesnerhaus for one evening.
Autumn on your plate
What can guests expect on this evening? A six-course menu that celebrates autumn in all its facets. Andreas will bring products from his home town of Leogang – perhaps the famous sour cheese, wild mushrooms from the surrounding forests, or tender meat from Pinzgau cattle. Josef will counter with treasures from the Lungau region – from Eachtling potatoes to venison from local hunting grounds.
The evening will begin, as befits such an event, with sparkling Moët & Chandon champagne. The fine bubbles are the perfect prelude to what follows: six courses that show what happens when two masters of their craft join forces. It’s not about competition, but about harmony. Each course tells a story – about the region, the season, the friendship between two chefs.
The perfect companion
The Müller Winery will be represented in person on this evening. Together with the chefs, the winemakers have selected wines that not only accompany the dishes, but also enhance the autumnal flavors and open up new dimensions of taste. From mineral white wines to full-bodied red wines—each drop has been carefully matched to the respective course.
An evening to remember
This extraordinary evening costs €289 per person. The price includes a champagne reception, a complete six-course meal with table setting, accompanying wines, Vöslauer water, and—priceless—the opportunity to experience two of Austria’s best chefs at the height of their creative powers.
Places for this unique event are naturally limited. If you want to be there when Andreas Herbst and Josef Steffner show why autumn is the most beautiful season for connoisseurs, don’t hesitate too long.
The Taste of Herbst – more than just a name. It is the promise of an evening where golden October shines not only outside the windows of the Mesnerhaus, but also on every single plate.
