Himmelblau Restaurant — Restaurant in Lienz

Himmelblau. My recent visit was an experience I won't soon forget, and if you're ever in the area, this spot is an absolute must-try!

We learned the hard way that even on a weekday, if you don't book well in advance, you might not snag a coveted outdoor table. This place is definitely a local favorite, and for good reason! Despite our oversight, the service was impeccable. The staff were attentive and friendly, making us feel right at home.

Now, about the food – prepare to have your preconceived notions about Austrian cuisine shattered! Every Austrian dish I've encountered before has been notoriously salty, but Himmelblau breaks that mold completely. Their food is incredibly fresh, and what truly sets them apart is their subtle, yet brilliant, Asian fusion twist. They incorporate Asian ingredients here and there, creating delightful flavor profiles that are both familiar and exciting.

The ambiance of Himmelblau is something special too. It has this cool, funky vibe that instantly reminded me of Brooklyn. Think chic, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish. It’s the kind of place where you could easily spend hours just soaking it all in. Their wine list isn't extensive, but they offer excellent house wines. I asked for a Zweigelt, a fantastic Austrian red known for its bright, fruity notes and soft tannins, and they promptly brought it out. It was the perfect accompaniment to our meal.

Between the vibrant, fresh flavors, the delightful Asian influences, the fantastic service, and the genuinely cool atmosphere, Himmelblau has secured a top spot on my list. If I ever find myself in Lienz again, this restaurant will be my first stop, no doubt about it!

Here's a glimpse of the deliciousness: A vibrant salad, possibly the "Salat Frühlingsgefühl" (Spring Feeling Salad) from the menu with lettuce, strawberries, and pine nuts, looking incredibly fresh and appetizing. The grilled halloumi and blue cheese in the salad added a delightful mix of textures...

We had to wait 1:30 hours for our main course. Waiting time for a bowl of soup was 50 minutes. The staff becomes unfriendly when you ask after 1:15 hours about your food. That is unacceptable.

After 1:30 hours waiting time I received the wrong order. Stuff will not serve you any longer after you complain about the waiting time. They simple ignore you and will not ask if you need another drink.

The kitchen team for sure is complete disorganized. We ordered food that is already cooked and prepared (thai curry, soup, meat-salad : those things have to be prepared several hours before). This is not a la carte at all. To put a soup into a bowl does not take 50 minutes.

We ordered at 8:10 pm, when all other tables already had their food. So we came after the bussiest hours. At 9:00pm the restaurant was half empty, the rest of the people drank a glass of wine, when we received our soup. On a neighbours table the people ordered a dessert which needs more manual work than putting a soup into a bowl - but those people got their dessert after only 10 minutes waiting time. Still at the same moment the waiter explained to us, that "everyone has to wait for their food" (which is logical correct, they waited 10 minutes, we waited for 1:30 hours..so everyone waits, just different time-models are applied.)

We will not visit this...

We came across this restaurant by chance and were not disappointed. The owners I believe travel alone or used and his is reflected in their menu. A good selection from various places around the globe. As a large party we selected several dishes and they were all perfect. The steak was to die for, and just melted in your mouth. Service was amazing, the waitress was a true professional. Will certainly go back next time we...