Chef Michael Helfrich Brings the Forest to the Table at silva in Leogang

The allure of the forest — its earthy aroma, soft mossy carpet, and tranquil embrace — finds a new expression in the culinary world, thanks to the extraordinary vision of Chef Michael Helfrich. This Pinzgau native, who has cooked his way from the Alps of Kitzbühel and Lech to the hallowed kitchens of Copenhagen’s world-famous Noma, now channels his passion for nature and fine dining into silva, the signature restaurant at Naturhotel Forsthofgut in Leogang.

A Forest-Inspired Odyssey

silva, named after the Latin word for forest, isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an immersion into the spirit of the woods. Under Helfrich’s watchful eye, every dish becomes a story, every flavour a page turned in a tale of connection between nature and culinary art. Inspired by the forest’s bounty and seasonal rhythm, silva’s philosophy celebrates sustainability, regionality, and the art of crafting exquisite meals that honour the land from which they’re sourced.

From the moment you step into silva, you’re invited to embark on a sensory journey. The setting evokes the essence of the woods with its earthy tones and natural materials, creating a backdrop that feels both luxurious and grounded. With Helfrich at the helm, the kitchen transforms forest gifts into culinary masterpieces, bringing the taste of the wild to the plate and glass.

The Silva Experience

Dining at silva is a revelation. The restaurant’s menus, aptly named Forest and Meadow, offer two distinct pathways to explore the local landscape. Whether you choose the meaty decadence of the Forest menu or the plant-powered elegance of the Meadow menu, each dish is a love letter to the region’s natural riches.

Winter favourites include: Curd Potato Dumplings paired with creamy spinach and glazed radishes, Duck Foie Gras Terrine featuring wild quince jelly, ginger crumble, and a delicate frissée salad, Smoked Celery Ravioli, enhanced with fermented wood apple and rich brown butter. Rounding off the dinner, opt for a stunning Canelé Dessert, accompanied by beeswax sorbet and walnut crumble.

Every bite tells a story of craftsmanship and respect for the environment. Helfrich’s menus, complemented by curated drink pairings, include inventive alcohol-free options that are as thoughtfully composed as the dishes themselves. Here, the art of dining elevates to an act of mindfulness, where every ingredient, technique, and presentation reflects silva’s homage to nature.

A Private Taste of the Forest

For those seeking an intimate culinary adventure, silva offers a private cooking experience for up to 10 guests. Picture this: a front-row seat to Helfrich’s alchemy, where pots sizzle, aromas waft, and dishes are crafted before your eyes. Add a glass of champagne and an amuse-bouche to the mix, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable evening.

Sustainability at Heart

Naturhotel Forsthofgut’s commitment to sustainability permeates every aspect of Silva. The R50 principle governs the menu, ensuring that ingredients are sourced within a 50-kilometer radius whenever possible. This dedication to regionality extends to the hotel’s own forest, 36 hectares of protected land storing 460 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.

The Forsthofgut’s roots in forestry and organic farming shape its ethos, fostering a profound connection to the land. Sustainability initiatives, such as fair trade partnerships and a packaging-free buffet, further illustrate their mission to preserve nature for future generations.

Taste the Forest

Chef Michael Helfrich’s journey to silva is one of artistry meeting authenticity. From his formative years in Pinzgau to mastering his craft at culinary institutions across Europe, Helfrich’s career has been defined by a deep respect for nature’s diversity. Now, at silva, he invites diners to embrace that same reverence through the transformative power of food.

Whether it’s the vibrant flavours of the Forest and Meadow menus, the innovative drink pairings, or the serene ambience of silva itself, one thing is certain: a meal here is more than dining. It’s an invitation to reconnect with nature, to taste the forest, and to experience a culinary philosophy rooted in harmony with the earth. Chef Helfrich has not only redefined fine dining in Leogang but also created a sanctuary where every meal pays homage to the wilderness that inspires it.

Naturhotel Forsthofgut: A Haven of Alpine Luxury

Nestled at the base of the majestic Leogang Mountains, Naturhotel Forsthofgut is a sanctuary where nature and luxury coalesce. Once a humble forestry estate, this family-owned hotel now offers an unparalleled retreat with 109 rooms and suites designed with natural materials like ash wood and wool. The hotel’s waldSPA is a highlight, featuring eco-friendly treatments inspired by the surrounding forests. Culinary excellence extends beyond silva, with the hotel’s other dining options celebrating regional and organic produce. Forsthofgut is a destination that embodies sustainability, alpine charm, and a heartfelt connection to nature, making it a perfect complement to Chef Helfrich’s forest-inspired cuisine.