A 250-Year-Old Viennese Tavern Gets a Bold Culinary Revival
A 250-Year-Old Viennese Tavern Gets a Bold Culinary Revival
A 250-Year-Old Viennese Tavern Gets a Bold Culinary Revival
A historic Viennese tavern has been given a fresh start by two chefs with a passion for tradition and innovation. Julian Lechner and Simon Schubert took over Gasthaus Zum Reznicek, a building with roots dating back to 1750, and transformed it into a modern yet nostalgic dining spot. The pair, who first met while working at Mraz und Sohn, have revived the venue with a menu blending classic Austrian dishes and bold new creations. The tavern's story began long before Lechner and Schubert arrived. Records show it operated as an inn as early as 1750, later becoming Gastwirtschaft Franz Weiss in 1927—a family-run business for three generations. By the time the two chefs took over, the place was already famous for its roast goose and a reputation for serving 'the best schnitzel in the Ninth District'.
Lechner and Schubert's partnership started at *Mraz und Sohn*, where their shared love of cooking led to a lasting collaboration. Before reviving *Reznicek*, Lechner had already made a name for himself as head chef at *Café Kandl*. Their first success at the tavern was perfecting a traditional Viennese *Cordon Bleu*, setting the tone for their approach: respect for the old, with room for the new. The menu now features Austrian staples alongside inventive dishes. One standout is Lechner's *Seeteufelbackerln*—monkfish cooked in the style of *Paprikahendl*, served with *Spätzle*. But the most talked-about creation is their breaded 'duck-chicken' chimera, a decadent hybrid dish priced at €129. The dining room itself reflects their vision, with a striking scowling fish painting by artist Anna Hugo, commissioned by Lechner to add character to the space.
The revived Gasthaus Zum Reznicek now balances history with creativity, offering both time-honoured recipes and daring experiments. The tavern's legacy, stretching back over 250 years, continues under Lechner and Schubert's leadership. Their blend of tradition and innovation has turned it into a destination for those seeking a taste of Vienna—past and present.
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