Chef Andrea Fenoglio - A Family Story of Stars and Passion

Restaurant Sissi (one Michelin star) is a culinary institute among locals and visitors to the historic town of Merano in Italy's South Tyrol. From fine dining to boutique stays, the Fenoglio family's journey in hospitality is a true labour of love.

The Origins: A Starched Chef's Hat and a Childhood Dream

Star Chef Andrea Fenoglio was born in Mondovì in the province of Cuneo and has a perfect pairing of parents – a Piemontese father and an Austrian mother. From the age of 8 months, he grew up in Merano, where he ended up at the best restaurant in Merano after years of training. Let's take a trip back in time. Picture a young Andrea Fenoglio, wandering the bustling halls of Badrutt's Palace in Saint Moritz. Among the pristine white chef's toques hanging to dry, something clicked in his heart—a spark that would set him on a lifelong culinary adventure. That image of starched white hats was more than a laundry sight; it was a revelation.

From that moment, Andrea knew his path. With a hunger to master the culinary arts, he began his journey under the tutelage of the legendary Chef Andreas Hellrigl at Restaurant Andrea in Merano. Soon, the enthusiastic youngster with big dreams was ready to carve his own way, launching his iconic Restaurant Sissi in 1991 at 23 years old, and he gained his Michelin star in 2009.

The Magic of Sissi: Where Time Stands Still

Step inside Restaurant Sissi, and you're greeted by a sophisticated and elegant Art-Nouveau style ambience—a delicate blend of history, Italian flair, and a touch of nostalgia. The large windows frame the view of Via Galileo Galilei and the historic Castello Principesco Castle, creating a postcard-like backdrop as you dine. 

The dishes? Each crafted with a twist showcasing the best of Merano's flavours, including his signature seven-course Settepiatti - a tasting menu, and for the plant-based gourmands, there's the Cinquepiatti Vegetarian menu. But punters can opt for a shorter menu, which is available too.  

Andrea's kitchen isn't just about cooking; it's about storytelling. Together with his trusted maître, Arianna, and his creative sous-chef, Jona, the team at Sissi offers an experience where time seems to pause, allowing guests to savour every bite, every moment. An impressive wine list of more than 500 hand-picked wines is there to escort the dinner through their foodie-focused journey. The vibe is casual and buoyant, and Restaurant Sissi is on the hotlist of the best places to eat in Merano and South Tyrol.

As Fenoglio charismatically gestures, "In reality, we don't just serve food and wine. We serve up a holiday that lasts for two or three hours."

Sissi and the Habsburg Smoothie - The Boutique Hotel

Steinach Townhouse stands as a testament to Merano's rich history and the Fenoglio family's dedication to hospitality. Housed within two meticulously restored buildings—a 17th-century farmhouse and a Habsburg-style mansion—the townhouse exudes charm with its pistachio green shutters and thoughtfully curated interiors. Each suite offers a harmonious blend of historical elements and contemporary design, featuring Gothic doors, hand-painted stencils, and mid-century furnishings. Guests can enjoy views of the 13th-century St. Nicholas' Church and the medieval rooftops of Merano, immersing themselves in the town's storied past while experiencing modern comfort.