On March 23, Schladming transformed into an international meeting point for haute cuisine: the event “The Heart of Food” took place at the Glacier Restaurant on Dachstein, bringing together chefs, emerging talents, and media from around the world. Amid alpine panoramas and culinary masterpieces, it became clear once again how highly Austria is valued as a hotspot of the European gourmet scene — and that craftsmanship, such as that of Gmundner Keramik, plays a role as visible as the dishes themselves.
Tradition Meets Culinary Art
The highlight of the event was “Reaching for the Stars”, where the MICHELIN Guide awards for the new Austria selection were presented. Rising stars and promising talents from all federal states took center stage, along with the country’s entire culinary identity. The dishes, served on Gmundner Keramik plates, clearly demonstrated that Austrian cuisine is closely intertwined with the country’s artisanal traditions.
Dachstein Signature Plate
A special eye-catcher was the Signature Plate by Gmundner Keramik, created specifically for the event, featuring a stylized Dachstein mountain range. Each handcrafted piece is unique and demonstrates how centuries-old tradition, meticulous craftsmanship, and modern design come together. In this way, the tableware itself became part of the exclusive presentation — a reflection of a culture that unites regionality, artisanal skill, and contemporary haute cuisine.
Handcrafted in the Manufactory
On March 24, selected journalists were also given the opportunity to visit the Gmundner Keramik manufactory. Media outlets such as Le goût d’Emma, Die Welt/Feinschmecker, and essen & trinken gained insight into the creation process of this traditional manufactory. From the first brushstroke to the finished plate, it became clear why the company is recognized worldwide for its quality and authenticity. The journalists were impressed by the deep understanding of material and form evident in every piece.
At the MICHELIN Guide event, it became evident what Austria stands for on the international stage: a spirit of innovation that combines deeply rooted traditions with new, creative approaches — whether in gastronomy or craftsmanship.
Images: Stefan Simonovic & Martin Huber
