ZIRKELWIRT
THE TRADITIONAL TAVERN IN THE HEART OF SALZBURG’S OLD TOWN
ABOUT US
For over 400 years, the Zirkelwirt has been an integral part of Salzburg’s culinary scene – located at Papagenoplatz in the heart of the Old Town.
Nestled in the historic Pfeifergasse, just steps away from the Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mozart’s birthplace and the DomQuartier, our restaurant welcomes you with regional cuisine, heartfelt hospitality and a unique sense of history.
Tradition & Taste in Salzburg – where history comes alive
The Zirkelwirt Salzburg is more than just a restaurant – it’s a place where history lives on. Located in the historic city center, where Mozart, Paracelsus and Salzburg’s prince-archbishops once walked, our tavern combines Austrian culinary tradition with fascinating stories from the era of Freemasons and Salzburg’s old bourgeoisie. Whether you’re a local or a visitor – a meal at Zirkelwirt is a journey through time, with guaranteed enjoyment.
OUR OPENING HOURS
We’re open Monday to Saturday from 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM and Sunday from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
Our kitchen is available continuously from 11:30 AM to 09:30 PM – perfect for a relaxed lunch, an afternoon bite or a cozy dinner in the heart of Salzburg.
right inside the restaurant
By visiting Zirkelwirt, you are not simply stepping into ” just any” place – but one full of fascinating history and stories. The magnificent wrought-iron sign of this old Salzburg inn in Pfeifergasse on Papagenoplatz catches the eye from afar, featuring the gilded compass symbolizing the Freemasons. Founded in 1647, our restaurant can look back on an incredible rich history.
Who is the figure on the square in front of the Zirkelwirt?
Standing right on Papagenoplatz in Salzburg’s Old Town is the figure of Papageno, the beloved character from Mozart’s famous opera The Magic Flute.
Half man, half bird – Papageno is a cheerful rascal who catches birds with his flute and brings them to the Queen of the Night.
His reward: food, drink, wine and sweet treats.
Was Mozart a guest at the Zirkelwirt?
Probably yes. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in 1756 in the Getreidegasse in Salzburg.
His birthplace is only a few minutes’ walk from the Zirkelwirt.
At the time, the Zirkelwirt was already a popular meeting place – including for the Freemasons, with whom Mozart was closely associated.
Whether Mozart actually dined or celebrated here is not historically confirmed – but the proximity, his zest for life and his social circle make it quite plausible.
Paracelsus and the Pfeifergasse – medical genius and myth
Just a few houses away from the Zirkelwirt, at Pfeifergasse 11, lived the famous physician and alchemist Paracelsus – full name: Theophrastus Bombastus von Hohenheim – between 1524 and 1525.
He was considered a pioneer of his time, boldly opposing the Church’s influence on medicine and revolutionizing the health system of the day.
After years of wandering through Europe, he died in Salzburg in 1541.
His grave can still be found today at the cemetery of St. Sebastian, near the Platzl – his final place of residence.
Salzburg specialties made with regional passion
Our menu is a culinary tribute to Austrian cuisine – modern interpretations rooted in regional tradition:
⇒ Veal Wiener Schnitzel with lingonberries
⇒ Homemade cheese spaetzle with crispy onions
⇒ Salzburger sausage with sauerkraut
⇒ Seasonal highlights such as asparagus or game
We also serve local beer from Salzburg, fine Austrian wines and classic desserts like apple strudel or Kaiserschmarrn. Our daily specials change with the season and local market offerings – so every visit to the Zirkelwirt becomes a new culinary experience in the heart of Salzburg’s Old Town.
A perfect place to celebrate and enjoy
Whether it’s a small family gathering, a get-together with friends or a company event: The Zirkelwirt in Salzburg’s Old Town offers the ideal setting for every occasion.
Our cozy dining rooms invite you to linger – full of charm, rustic character and flexible space.
Especially popular: our tranquil outdoor garden with approximately 80 seats, located right in the heart of Salzburg.
Celebrate, enjoy, raise a glass – every visit to the Zirkelwirt becomes an unforgettable moment.
Blogs
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