The first bite set the tone: We opened Grand Lighthouse with a royal gathering in a vintage setting – A huge old school mountain hotel with original patina.
Bad Gastein in winter has a way of sharpening the senses. The air feels clearer and time seems slightly elastic. During this years editon of Grand Lighthouse, we boxed this certain atmosphere into two sold out dinner nights at eighteen86 by keyone, where food and drinks by MOCHI, XO GRILL, GUT OGGAU and LEMON SOUR レモンサワー became part of the weekend’s rhythm and one the festivals curated highlights.
We started with fermented grape juices from Gut Oggau, champagne by Piper-Heisick, delicate XO-beef tartar rolls and rich and famous Mochi handrolls…all gone almost too quickly.
From there, we took a seat in the classy ballroom and the menu moved with confidence. Remember the classic bone marrow with bonito and teriyaki? We gave this Mochi Classic from back in the days a rebirth – and it was as fantastic as we remembered it.
Next we had a Surf and turf which arrived as a playful crossing of the XO Grill and MOCHI worlds — indulgent, bold, deeply satisfying without feeling heavy.
A beautifully executed fish Wellington followed, buttery and generous, the kind of dish that just makes you happy and humble. Desserts extended the pleasure: two different plates but especially the soft caramel icecream was impossible to skip.
Lets take a look at the pictures we took in between washing dishes and carrying plates.
Wine from Gut Oggau moved effortlessly through the courses, and Lemon Sour レモンサワー made its global debut with a bright, unapologetic edge. Did you have the chance to take a sip already? If not: Give it a try.
All in all another wonderfull alpine journey with beats and sun during the day – and full bellies on the dancefloor at night.
See you next year!
All photos by Hennes Weiss, Philipp Stürzenbecher, Tobi Müller, Matthias Balgavy
