But that’s no problem for the former professional road cyclist. “Despite all the hustle and bustle, I’m my own boss, and that’s the most important thing for me,” he says proudly. Markus’s menu changes with the seasons. “In winter, dishes featuring pumpkin or sauerkraut are popular. But heartier dishes such as roast pork, roast beef with onions or veal liver are also big hits.” He himself likes to cook with thyme – “because it’s so healthy”.

Traditional winter recipe

What Markus has increasingly noticed in recent years is a shift in society: away from factory farming and towards vegetarian alternatives. Particularly popular in winter, for example, are potato pancakes with sauerkraut, a Tyrolean classic. This cabbage dish is a real vitamin C powerhouse that should feature on everyone’s menu, especially in winter. “Anyone trying to make this at home should be prepared for a bit of a faff,” smiles Markus. This is because the boiled potatoes are pressed through a potato ricer, mixed with egg yolk, salt and pepper, nutmeg and coarse-grained flour, and kneaded thoroughly. The dough is then rolled out. “Next, you cut out the ‘leaflets’ and fry the treats in hot fat. They’re served with sauerkraut.”

Markus doesn’t have a secret ingredient. He works by feel and experience. And with a great deal of passion for cooking: “You have to feel how the dough feels.”

Anyone who’d like to experience Markus’s culinary skills for themselves can pop into the Goldenen Löwen in Hall in Tirol.