The only woman from South Tyrol to gain a Michelin star to date passed away on March 27, 2025.
We love our craft and are privileged to write about extraordinary gastronomic experiences, fascinating landscapes, astounding food and complex wines. But sometimes, we also have to report difficult news. Last Thursday, after a brief, but grave illness, Anna Matscher, South Tyrol's first and thus far only woman to obtain a Michelin star, passed away.
Falstaff was – and still is – closely connected with Anna and her husband Luis Matscher. In 1987, despite both coming from other fields, the couple took over the old family inn in Tesimo, near Merano. Word soon spread that their approach to cuisine was markedly diffferent to local tradition. As a young food enthusiast, Falstaff Italia's Director, Othmar Kiem was curious and soon became a patron at Zum Löwen. Slices of dumplings browned with small, sautéed chanterelles may seem like a simple dish today, but back then it was a revelation. Together with Luis, Kiem took a sommelier course long before he started out as a professional writer. Over the years he has been a frequent and always delighted guest of the Matschers.
Their dedication and commitment are extraordinary: First, they eliminated the counter, then they renovated the inn, transforming the former barn into a fine dining establishment. Finally, Anna's culinary art was awarded a Michelin star.
Falstaff Italia's Co-Director, Simon Staffler is also deeply connected to Zum Löwen. It was there, still working as a waiter, that he took his first steps into the world of fine dining. Thanks to Luis Matscher, he discovered wine and the true joy of tasting. In fact, Zum Löwen was the place where that Othmar and Simon first met, got to know each other, and eventually started their highly successful collaboration.
Writing that Anna Matscher has left us brings up many wonderful memories, but also great sorrow: Anna, you left too soon! However, every time we make your soft and light ricotta dumplings, we will do so with joy and nostalgia, thinking of you.
Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler
& the entire Falstaff Italia team
