Culinary Ambitions at Heat Restaurant in Marina Tower

Located adjacent to the U2 Donaumarina station, Heat restaurant in the Marina Tower offers diners a unique view of the Danube River, complemented by the bustling cityscape of Vienna. Situated on the first floor, access is provided via a wide staircase, leading to a terrace that, while not offering a direct view of the river, presents an expansive sky above.

This venue has transitioned from its previous incarnation as Anabol, a restaurant focused on a somewhat ambiguous fitness nutrition concept. Remnants of its past, such as the carpeting at the entrance and the casual attire of some staff members, hint at its former identity.

Heat differentiates itself by prioritizing a culinary experience that is both enjoyable and ambitious. The interior boasts a contemporary design featuring vintage industrial equipment, potted plants, and an eclectic mix of barbecue cookbooks alongside philosophical texts. The breakfast menu, available exclusively on weekends, showcases enticing options that promise to enhance summer dining. Highlights include a cheddar waffle topped with crispy chicken, chili-bacon caramel, and a wild herb salad, as well as a bread pudding with condensed milk caramel, sea salt, tonka bean ice cream, and cardamom cherries.

Throughout the day, especially during lunch and dinner, the focus shifts to a diverse selection of meats and fish, including items grilled to perfection. A notable dish is the beef tartare sourced from older dairy cows, finely chopped and paired with pickled mustard seeds, smoked egg yolk, and a leek cream, priced at 15 euros. Alternatively, raw shrimp served with a mildly spicy ceviche-inspired ice, featuring flavors like passion fruit and coriander, offers a creative twist, though it tends toward sweetness at 14 euros. For those preferring vegetarian options, the garlic udon noodles, garnished with fried garlic, chili, and nori seaweed, provide a comforting dish, albeit the noodles were slightly overcooked, priced at 16 euros.

The grill menu features a range of premium cuts from various animals, such as Simmental rib-eye priced at 35 euros, a porterhouse from older cows for 160 euros, and Austrian Wagyu available at 20 euros per 100 grams. Additionally, a whole char is available for 18 euros. Accompanying these dishes are unique side options like bacon croquettes with caraway cream for 5 euros, or Pimientos de Padrón served with salted lemon cream and smoked paprika for 6 euros. Beverage options include locally brewed beers from Gusswerk.

Heat is located at Wehlistraße 291, 1020 Vienna, and is open from Tuesday to Thursday from 5 PM to 10 PM, Friday from 5 PM to 11 PM, Saturday from 9 AM to 11 PM, and Sunday from 9 AM to 9 PM.