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 Sunday from 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM.
Our kitchen is available continuously from 11:30 AM to 10:00 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.
STARTERS
MAIN DISHES
BEVERAGE
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 over 100 seats, located right in the heart of Salzburg.
Celebrate, enjoy, raise a glass – every visit to the Zirkelwirt becomes an unforgettable moment.
Blogs
Discover the Zirkelwirt Salzburg – your traditional restaurant in Salzburg city
If you are looking for an authentic restaurant in Salzburg city, a cozy Salzburg restaurant, or a charming restaurant in Salzburg’s Old Town, Zirkelwirt Salzburg …
Reserve your table now
Du suchst ein besonderes Geschenk für Familie, Freunde oder Kollegen? Mit einem Gutschein für den Zirkelwirt in der Salzburger Altstadt verschenkst du echte Genussmomente – ob zum Geburtstag, Jubiläum oder einfach als Dankeschön.
Unsere Gutscheine sind im Restaurant erhältlich oder bequem online bestellbar.
Reserve your table now
Book your table at Zirkelwirt Salzburg quickly and easily online: Choose your date, time and number of guests – and we’ll take care of the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions about Zirkelwirt.
Where is Zirkelwirt located in Salzburg?
Zirkelwirt is located in Salzburg Old Town, making it a centrally situated tavern in Salzburg city for both locals and visitors.
What type of cuisine does Zirkelwirt offer?
As a traditional tavern in Salzburg, Zirkelwirt offers homemade Salzburg specialties prepared using classic recipes and regional ingredients.
Is Zirkelwirt a traditional tavern?
Yes, Zirkelwirt is a historic tavern in Salzburg Old Town, known for authentic Austrian cuisine and long-standing hospitality.
What are Zirkelwirt’s opening hours?
Zirkelwirt is open Monday to Sunday from 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM.
What are the kitchen hours at Zirkelwirt?
The kitchen is open Monday to Sunday from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
How can I make a reservation at Zirkelwirt?
All available table capacities can be viewed exclusively and in real time on our website. We are also happy to welcome walk-ins and usually have space available.
Who is Zirkelwirt suitable for?
Zirkelwirt is a popular tavern in Salzburg city for locals, tourists, couples, and families looking for traditional Austrian cuisine.
360° Tour of the Zirkelwirt Salzburg
Discover our traditional tavern in Salzburg’s Old Town – virtually and from the comfort of your home. Experience the atmosphere of our dining rooms, the garden seating and the unique charm of the Zirkelwirt in a digital 360° tour.
Book A Table
*Powered by OpenTable