Last month I introduced you to five amazing cafés in Graz for afternoon coffee and cake. As the feedback to that post was incredibly positive, I thought I’d keep the Graz series going and share three of my favourite restaurants in Graz for dinner with you today. I’m more a brunch and breakfast person myself and eat dinner more often at home than out and about. However, when I do go out I always make sure to try new restaurants in Graz and try to figure out my favourites. And three favourites I want to show you today – each one featuring a different cuisine so you have a broad selection of restaurants to choose from.
Best Pizza in Graz: Pizzaiolo Pizzeria Napoletana
Pizza is life. And I found it incredibly hard to find a Pizzeria in Graz I really liked. Coming from Carinthia, where the Italian border isn’t far, I must admit I was spoiled with a broad selection of really tasty pizza to choose from. When I moved to Graz I didn’t find it too easy to find a Pizzeria that would live up to my expectations. Then, after years of searching, Pizzaiolo opened their doors at Dietrichsteinplatz. I went there, I tried it, and I was hooked.
Their pizza is supposed to taste like a real Napoletana pizza. Let me assure you, you won’t be disappointed. They do not have too many toppings to chose from. But those they offer are of best quality and you can definitely taste that. I always opt for the Buffalina with a sweet and rich tomato sauce, fresh basil and a top layer of buffalo mozzarella on top. The dough is thin in the middle and soft as a cloud on the sides. To me, this pizza really does come close to perfection. Just make sure to either reserve a table or be there early – it’s usually crowded.
Pizzaiolo, Dietrichsteinplatz 7, 8010 Graz Website: www.pizzaiolo.at
Best Sushi in Graz: Memori
With Sushi, I never was as particular as with Pizza. But then again, I had never been to Japan and cannot really compare what is being offered here with “the real deal”. When I heard about a new premium sushi place, though, I knew I needed to check it out immediately. And oh I was in for a treat. The sushi that is served at Memori is unlike any I have ever had before. There are so many options to chose from and when you feel overwhelmed you can even ask the chef for his recommendation.
On our first visit, we ordered the crunchy roll from the menu, a poké bowl and a mixed sushi platter to share. The second time around, we were able to take a seat at the sushi bar and hence got to try a selection of the best sushi dishes they have. And each and every piece was absolutely incomparable. The fish is so fresh and of high quality, the plates are arranged incredibly beautiful and you certainly will define what you expect of sushi once you’ve been there. The only drawback is that it is a bit outside of the city centre. It is absolutely worth going there by bus or car, though.
Memori, Kärntnerstraße 501, 8054 Graz Website: www.memori-restaurant.com
Best Steak in Graz: El Gaucho
El Gaucho certainly is an institution in Graz. Everyone has been there even once and many people like to go there time and time again because it simply amazes everyone. We went there for my birthday and shared a 600g T-Bone steak that was out of this world. El Gaucho certainly isn’t cheap. They do serve top quality meat and other dishes, though. If you are vegetarian/vegan you probably won’t find this the perfect option for you, as their menu is based around meat. However, if you are in town and want to have some hearty in a cosy and comfortable atmosphere that doesn’t feel too forced or fancy, make sure to check out this place.
el Gaucho Steakhouse, Landhausgasse 1, 8010 Graz Website: www.elgaucho.at
