Chef Norbert Niederkofler has become a trailblazer in ethical fine dining, evolving from his pioneering work at St. Hubertus, where he reached three Michelin stars, to his own visionary projects, including Atelier Moessmer in Brunico and Alpinn – Food Space & Restaurant within the Lumen Museum on Plan de Corones and Horto in Milan. His defining philosophy, Cook the Mountain, has sparked a global movement, bringing together chefs, farmers, and artisans to redefine gastronomy with sustainability and responsibility at its core. As Niederkofler explains, “We use one-third of the ingredients our producers bring us immediately, while the remaining two-thirds are preserved for the next winter. This means that in winter, you can still experience the flavors of spring—just in a different form, whether fermented, marinated, or otherwise transformed.” This ethos of preservation, seasonality, and zero-waste innovation comes to life at Atelier Moessmer, restaurant and creative hub where tradition and modernity converge to shape the future of Alpine cuisine.
When Norbert Niederkofler was invited to take on the culinary direction of Horto in Milan, he agreed—on one condition: that he could bring the philosophy of Cook the Mountain to the city. Translating a concept so deeply rooted in alpine landscapes to an urban environment presented a challenge, but also an opportunity. The result was the creation of “L’ora etica”—The Ethical Hour—a philosophy that maintains the core values of sustainability, seasonality, and respect for producers, but reimagined for Milan. Under this approach, all ingredients must be sourced within a one to one-and-a-half-hour radius of the city, reinforcing a local, ethical supply chain.
How would you describe Italy today in very few words?
Italy, for me, is the most beautiful country. It can be a bit challenging with rules and taxes, but it is rich in culture—not only in art but also in food. Every 50 kilometers, you find completely different food traditions, making it truly unique.
What makes Alto Adige and especially Brunico so special?
We have a great city and a special, safe place to live. There are many sports you can practice around the city, and everything is well-organised for our kids as well. We have Plan de Corones, a very nice ski area; Summer is also beautiful with a lot of hiking and biking tracks.
A stolen secret?
Valle Aurina is still a hidden gem—the valley where I was born. It is rich in tradition and home to diverse cultures.
An unmissable day trip?
Lago di Anterselva is a wonderful place—very romantic, with excellent fly fishing, and a landscape that feels like Canada.
The best time of day?
Early bird – places are very quiet, and when you witness a beautiful sunrise in the morning, the day starts in the right way. It can only get better.
A relaxing moment?
Riding the bike on the various bike trails or through the woods on great trails is an incredible experience.
A special experience to do in Alto Adige / Brunico?
Plan de Corones is home to two remarkable museums. The first, designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid, showcases the extraordinary exhibitions of Reinhold Messner. The second, Lumen, is a museum dedicated to mountain photography. At Lumen, you will also find our second restaurant, Alpinn by Norbert Niederkofler, entirely designed by Martino Gamper, offering a unique culinary experience with breathtaking views.
The essence of Alto Adige?
Three different cultures, three different languages, and a very open mindset. It may feel too small when you’re young, but after traveling the world, it’s the best place to return to—and the perfect starting point for new adventures.
That memorable evening?
With friends and a great bottle of wine at the bar in Ansitz Heufler, an ancient castle at the entrance of Valle di Anterselva.
An unforgettable dish and where?
The venison goulash at the restaurant “Weißes Lamm” in the heart of Bruneck.
Your go-to drink and where?
There are two options – the Komot Aperobistro and Wörtz Bäck, both in the heart of Bruneck.
The hotel of the heart?
The Hotel Petrus in Reischach and Castel Maurn—both are lovely places full of character and completely different from each other.
What to pack for the weekend?
Lots of sunshine in your heart – there are many things to do, and you will be surprised!
The Souvenir?
Go to Moessmer store and buy some Loden – the best fabric in town