In a small state like the Principality of Liechtenstein, where national identity is proudly lived and the constitutional monarchy represents for many citizens a solid point of balance in parliamentary democracy, one senses an atmosphere of serenity and restraint that inevitably ends up being reflected in the hospitality. It is a place where a taste for quality and attention to detail seem to be a natural part of the landscape. This same philosophy is found throughout the Marée Restaurant, inside the Park Hotel Sonnenhof in Vaduz, where the gastronomic tradition of Liechtenstein dialogues harmoniously with that of neighboring Switzerland and Austria, finding its own expressive language in the solid foundations of great French cuisine, enriched with refined Mediterranean and international influences.
The architect of this culinary identity is Hubertus Real , chef and owner of the hotel, who took over the reins from his parents, Jutta and Emil, transforming the family business into one of the most prestigious gastronomic addresses in the Principality. For over thirty years, he has passionately led the restaurant, which has been awarded 16 Gault & Millau points, a recognition that confirms a constant pursuit of excellence. Hubertus Real's vocation was born at an early age. Growing up practically in his father's kitchen, in 1988, while still very young, he won the gold medal at the WorldSkills Competition in Sydney. In 1993, he officially joined the family business as chef and, shortly thereafter, took over as hotel manager, instilling a continuous qualitative evolution in the establishment.
Emblematic of this is the enhancement of the magnificent park, where the panoramic Eagle's Nest terrace seems suspended among the treetops and the evocative Gazebo , immersed in greenery, creates a perfect dialogue between architecture and nature. The entire complex invites guests to slow down and savor an experience that engages all the senses. But the cuisine is, of course, the beating heart of the Sonnenhof. Everything is prepared in-house, favoring fresh, regional, and seasonal ingredients, in keeping with a philosophy that places authenticity and quality above all artifice.
Among the chef's many creations, there are two that, in my long experience as a gastronome, deserve a place of honor. The first is the extraordinary homemade ravioli called “Emilio”, dedicated to the chef's father: a veal and spinach filling encased in a very thin pastry, enhanced by an impeccably balanced sauce, so convincing that it almost inevitably leads to ordering a second portion. The other is a refined mini-bouillabaisse, in which fish and shellfish interact with a delicate rouille sauce and fragrant croutons. A surprisingly elegant dish, intense yet never invasive, combining aromatic depth and lightness with rare precision.
Alongside the culinary offerings, the quality of the service is impressive. The welcome is discreet, genuinely friendly, and never overbearing; the staff welcomes guests with professionalism and ease, making them feel cared for without ever being intrusive. It's that kind of hospitality that today represents a rare and precious luxury. The experience is rounded out with a remarkable wine list, carefully crafted with intelligence and sensitivity in its pairings. The finest international labels are not lacking, but special attention is paid to Liechtenstein wines, where the undisputed star remains Pinot Noir , a grape variety that finds expression in truly elegant expressions, including those from the historic Court Cellar of the Prince of Liechtenstein.
Marèe Restaurant
Park Hotel Sonnenhof
Mareestrasse 29
FL 9490 Vaduz
Liechtenstein
Tel. +423 239 0202
sonnenhof.li
