Have you ever wondered what it’s like to dine in a place where kings, monks, and merchants ate centuries before you were even born? Imagine sitting down to a meal in a restaurant that opened its doors more than 1,200 years ago—and never closed them. That’s not just a fantasy; it’s a real spot you can still visit today, a living piece of history that’s seen empires rise and fall, wars rage, and the world change beyond recognition. Walking inside feels like stepping through a time machine, where the air is thick with stories and every stone whispers secrets.
The Baroque Hall (1620s)
The Baroque Hall is a breathtaking space that immediately stuns you with its grandeur. Built in the 1620s, this hall is a true testament to the lavish tastes of a bygone era. High, vaulted ceilings are adorned with intricate stucco work, and golden chandeliers hang like sparkling crowns, casting a warm glow across the room. The walls are decorated with bold, dramatic paintings, and every inch of the hall feels like it’s straight out of an old royal ball. Guests who dine here often find themselves gazing upward, marveling at the artistry above their heads. It’s not just a place to eat—it’s a space where you’re transported back in time, dining like a noble from centuries past. The acoustics in the hall even make the clinking of glasses sound like music from another age. Sitting in the Baroque Hall, you can almost imagine the laughter and music of celebrations that happened long before modern life rushed in.
The Princes’ Chamber
If the Baroque Hall is all about dazzling spectacle, the Princes’ Chamber is where intimacy and history weave together. This chamber was once reserved for the elite—princes, bishops, and high-ranking guests who expected privacy and comfort. The room is smaller and more secluded, with dark wooden panels and velvet curtains that muffle the outside world. Plush chairs invite you to sink in and linger over your meal, while historic portraits silently watch from the walls. There’s a sense of quiet power here, as though the room remembers every secret conversation and important decision that happened within its confines. People who dine in the Princes’ Chamber often feel like they’re sharing a meal with ghosts of the past, catching echoes of whispered intrigues and royal plots. The ambiance makes even a simple dish feel like a royal feast, and every detail, from the silverware to the candlelight, is steeped in tradition. It’s easy to lose track of time in a room like this.
The Rock-Carved Cellar
Descending into the rock-carved cellar feels like entering another world entirely. This ancient space, literally carved from the mountain, is the oldest part of the restaurant and dates back over a millennium. The walls are rough and cool to the touch, bearing the marks of centuries of use. Low arches and flickering candlelight create a cozy, almost mysterious atmosphere that makes diners feel like they’ve stumbled onto a hidden treasure. The cellar has stored everything from barrels of wine to secret supplies during hard times, and the air carries a faint scent of stone and history. Eating here is an adventure—meals taste richer, stories seem truer, and the world above feels far away. Some say you can even hear the echoes of monks’ footsteps if you listen closely enough. For anyone who loves history or simply craves something different, the rock-carved cellar is an unforgettable setting.
Monastic Stewardship
It’s hard to believe, but much of the restaurant’s incredible longevity is thanks to the monks who once called it home. This restaurant began as part of a monastery, where monks took care of travelers, baked bread, and brewed their own beer. Their daily routines, guided by discipline and faith, set the foundation for the hospitality that still defines the place today. Over the centuries, monks perfected recipes, grew their own herbs, and kept meticulous records—habits that helped the restaurant survive plagues, wars, and political upheaval. Even as leadership changed hands, the monastic influence lingered in the quiet, orderly way things are still done. Some of the original recipes and traditions have been passed down through generations, giving every meal a taste of the past. When you eat here, you’re not just having dinner—you’re taking part in a tradition that began with humble monks who believed in caring for strangers.
Timeless Appeal
What keeps people coming back to a place that’s older than most countries? There’s something undeniably magical about being able to touch, see, and taste history. The restaurant’s timeless appeal lies in its ability to blend the old with the new—serving classic dishes alongside modern favorites, always with a sense of respect for tradition. Guests feel a connection to the generations who came before them, sharing the same food and experiencing the same spaces. The atmosphere is welcoming, never stuffy, and there’s a sense that everyone—no matter how ordinary—gets to be part of a grand story. Regulars and tourists alike leave with a sense of awe, often saying that the memories last longer than the meal itself. In a world that moves fast and forgets easily, this restaurant stands as a reminder that some things are worth preserving. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll come away believing in a little bit of magic yourself.
