Gasthof Lend-Platzl

In this restaurant of the historic Parkhotel – first documented as an inn in 1574 – you are taken on a "culinary journey back in time" to the days of the Habsburgs. Anecdotes and old recipes from that period provide the inspiration for cuisine reimagined and served in the form of charmingly plated dishes full of nuances and intense flavours. Guided by the seasons, this is food with classic foundations and an imaginative modern twist. The single set menu of eight or four courses features creations such as "duck, blueberry, mulberry, red oxalis, red cabbage" or "red mullet, oyster, Osietra cavia

This rustic market stall on Kaiser-Josef-Platz is the rather distinctive setting in which Alexander Posch's sophisticated cuisine is served. In the evening, the "Styrian Market Dinner" set menu usually consists of 10 courses of different sizes. The small open kitchen sends out dishes such as "beetroot, tarragon, trout" and "venison, chanterelles, redcurrants" – dishes that impress with their expressiveness and finesse, are stripped back and at the same time beautifully crafted. They are based on seasonal and regional ingredients sourced from the market right outside the door. Julia Glanzer and

This restaurant has the feel of a favourite neighbourhood hangout. Steeped in tradition, it is located in the heart of Graz's old town, between Kunsthaus Graz and the church, Mariahilfkirche. From the terrace, you have a front-row view of the city. This pleasantly modern, rustic-style establishment is run by Romana Maria Pieber and Lukas Lepsic, who are committed to sustainable practices and using organic produce. The menu features regional and traditional Austrian fare with modern and seasonal influences, eg organic Backhendl (breaded fried chicken) in a basket, or organic lamb sugo with aube

The vibe here is pleasantly down to earth – and that goes for both the modern decor and the food at this place, which is run by a dedicated pair, chef Christian Bernhard and sommelier Michael Stafford, who also provides attentive service. In the evening, take your pick from an array of delicious à la carte dishes, such as "chestnut and Jerusalem artichoke foam soup, winter truffles, brioche croutons, chervil" or "miso cod, wok vegetables, pak choi, Everest basmati". At lunchtime, there is an affordable two-course set menu, plus a selection from the evening menu. In summer, there are also shelt

The small restaurant is furnished in a minimalist, upscale, modern bistro style, with a small kitchenette at its centre. The focus is on the fine dining sharing menu, which is served to two or more people – but all dishes can also be ordered à la carte. Creative, technically sophisticated and pleasingly stripped back, combinations such as "tomato, elderberry, black garlic, sunflower seeds" or "onion & onion, whey, sage" are presented. The cuisine is vegetarian for the most part, with meat and fish available depending on availability. The excellent house-baked sourdough bread served at the star

This restaurant boasts a truly unique location, clinging to the side of a steep slope – and affording a magnificent view over Graz! In what used to be a winegrower's house (built in 1820), your charming hosts, Manuela and Milivoj Novak, are at your service. He is the chef but also assists Manuela front of house. Their single surprise menu is served to all guests, beginning at 7pm. You can opt to have five or seven courses featuring dishes such as halibut with Beluga caviar, saffron beurre blanc and courgette. Amuse-bouche is included, and a cheese course can be added for an additional charge.

What a view! It would be worth coming up here if only to drink in the panoramic vista over Graz and far beyond the city limits. The tables right by the floor-to-ceiling windows are particularly popular. Seasonal dishes and classics are served. At lunchtime they have cheaper options, but you can also choose from the evening menu. If you would like to walk, you can get up here on foot via the Schlossbergsteig; alternatively the Schlossbergbahn funicular will get you to the restaurant in just a few minutes. Tip: Take a look at the clock tower or the Schlossberg Museum.