Christoph’s: Delicious Taste of Austria in Penang
Christoph’s Restaurant is a hidden gem located in the heart of Penang that serves up modern Austrian and European cuisine. This cozy restaurant is owned by Christoph Girsch, formerly E&O Penang’s Hotel Manager. Hailing from a family of farmers and winemakers, he certainly knows his stuff about pairing ingredients with wine.
When you step into Christoph’s Restaurant, you are transported to a traditional Austrian brasserie, complete with wooden furniture and warm lighting. You will be welcomed by its rustic bar and walls adorned with abstract painting from local artists. The atmosphere is relaxed and convivial, with lively music playing in the background.
The menu features classic Austrian dishes, such as Wiener Schnitzel, Kaesespaaetzle, Zwiebelrostbraten and Tafelspitz as well as other European favorites like the Bratwurst and Gambas al Ajilo. We tried the special menu of the day, the Classic Viennese Tafelspitz, made from boiled beef that is tender and flavorful, served with creamy apple horseradish, chive sauce and a side of roasted potatoes. We also ordered the Catch of the Day cooked in “Bohemian Style”, a tasty seafood stew consisting fresh fish, squid and prawn in a tomato ragout. Each dish is made with fresh, quality local ingredients and prepared using traditional cooking techniques, ensuring that diners experience the true flavors of Austria.
Christoph’s offers a selection of Austrian and Portuguese wines to complement your meal, direct from the vineyards of his family and friends. As we are looking for a dry medium red to pair with our dishes, Christoph recommended his family wine from the Dao region in Portugal which hit the right notes. It has the aroma of ripe berries and straw and we can taste the earthy and mineral notes. It goes well with the food and definitely something different from the typical labels carried in most restaurants here. You should try the popular Grüner Veltliner if you opt for a white wine instead.
For dessert, don’t miss the Kaiserschmarm, a light, caramelized pancake served with homemade organic apple sauce. We opted for the Baked Pumpkin Cheesecake with berry compote which is creamy and rich that is sure to delight your taste buds.
What sets Christoph’s Restaurant apart is not only the delicious food, but also the warm and welcoming atmosphere created by Christoph and his team. Christoph and his knowledgeable staff are friendly and often seen mingling with diners, they are happy to offer recommendations and help diners navigate the menu.
Whether you are a fan of Austrian cuisine or simply looking to try something new, Christoph’s Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience modern Austrian cuisine in Penang. With its authentic flavors, cozy atmosphere, and friendly staff, this restaurant offers a truly unique dining experience that is sure to leave you satisfied.
Important Note:
If you had too much to drink or feeling tipsy, be responsible and hire a Buddy Driver on the Trevo App. Get yourself and your loved ones safely home in the comfort of your own car. Use my referral code JK8COL and claim your reward of a ONE-HOUR FREE Buddy Driver ride (capped at RM53 of the total amount). Read more…
