Silvio Nickol was born in 1975 in Hoyerswerda, Germany, and discovered his passion for cooking at a young age. After completing hotel-school training, he refined his craft in some of Europe’s most respected kitchens, including Wald- & Schlosshotel Friedrichsruhe, Die Schwarzwaldstube under Harald Wohlfahrt, and with chef Heinz Winkler. These formative experiences shaped his precise, ingredient-driven approach to gastronomy.
In 2007, Nickol became head chef at Schlossstern in Velden, where his leadership earned the restaurant significant national acclaim and solidified his reputation as one of the region’s most talented chefs. Since 2011, he has led the gourmet restaurant at Palais Coburg in Vienna, transforming it into one of the city’s most distinguished dining destinations.
Renowned for his dedication to seasonal produce, technical finesse, and harmonious flavour construction, Nickol consistently receives high praise from major culinary guides, top rankings, and industry awards, including recognition as “Chef of the Year” by leading gastronomic publications.
Today, Silvio Nickol continues to shape contemporary Austrian fine dining with clarity, precision, and an unwavering respect for ingredients.