Stefan Lechner

Food Journalist · January 5, 2025 · 7 min. leestijd

Cuisine

Best Restaurants in Zell am Ziller

Zell am Ziller is not just the heart of the Zillertal but also a culinary hotspot. From hearty Tyrolean specialities in traditional inns to refined alpine cuisine – every palate finds its match here. As a food journalist, I've tested my way through the local restaurants and present my favourites.

Traditional Inns with Character

At Gasthof Zellerstuben in the village centre, the Dengg family has been serving Tyrolean classics for generations: Kaspressknödel (cheese dumplings) in hearty beef broth, Tiroler Gröstl with fried egg and the legendary Kaiserschmarrn for dessert. The wood-panelled parlour exudes alpine charm. Another insider's favourite is the Brauerei Gasthof next to the Zillertal Beer Brewery – here the freshly tapped beer tastes especially good with homemade pork knuckle.

Alpine Huts with Panoramic Views

If you want to combine dining with views, take the Rosenalm cable car up and stop at the Kreuzjoch Alpine Hut. Here, snack platters with homemade bacon, flavourful mountain cheese and fresh farmhouse bread are served – all locally produced. The terrace offers a 360-degree view of the Zillertal mountains.

Modern Alpine Cuisine and Fine Dining

The restaurant Liebling in Zell am Ziller combines traditional ingredients with modern interpretation. Seasonal menus featuring local game, alpine herbs and creative presentation make every evening a special experience. Reservations recommended, especially at weekends.

Breakfast and Café Tips

For a great start to the day, I recommend Café Hörmann on the village square – homemade cakes, freshly baked croissants and the best cappuccino in Zell. Alternatively, many bakeries offer breakfast rolls with Tyrolean cold cuts – ideal for taking on your hike.

"Tyrolean cuisine lives by the honesty of its ingredients – fresh milk from the alpine pastures, bacon aged for months, and bread that still smells of the wood oven."