Vienna isn’t just famous for its classical music, art, and imperial history; it's also a food lover’s paradise. The city’s culinary scene blends rich tradition with modern flair, offering an array of iconic dishes, sweet treats, and local specialties that every visitor should try. Whether you’re dining in a grand restaurant or enjoying a casual snack at a local café, here’s your ultimate food guide to Vienna.
Wiener Schnitzel: The Classic Austrian Dish
When it comes to Austrian cuisine, the Wiener Schnitzel is an absolute must-try. This iconic dish consists of a breaded and deep-fried veal (or pork) cutlet, traditionally served with a side of potato salad or lingonberry jam. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and is a true comfort food staple in Vienna. You’ll find it served in most traditional Viennese restaurants, such as Figlmüller, known for its large schnitzels that hang over the edge of the plate.
Sachertorte: The Sweet Taste of Vienna
No visit to Vienna is complete without sampling Sachertorte, the city’s most famous dessert. This decadent chocolate cake, originally created at the Hotel Sacher in 1832, is made with dense chocolate layers, apricot jam, and a smooth chocolate glaze. It’s typically served with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For the full experience, try it at the Hotel Sacher, or visit the Demel Café, another iconic establishment where you can enjoy a slice in a historic setting.
Apfelstrudel: A Viennese Favorite
Another traditional sweet treat is the Apfelstrudel, a warm, flaky pastry filled with spiced apples, raisins, and cinnamon. Often served with a dusting of powdered sugar and accompanied by vanilla sauce or whipped cream, this dish is perfect for dessert or a mid-afternoon snack. Many local bakeries offer variations of the strudel, but one of the best places to try it is Café Landtmann, where you can enjoy this delicious pastry in an elegant, historic café setting.
Tafelspitz: A Royal Viennese Dish
For something a bit heartier, Tafelspitz is a must-try. This traditional Austrian dish features boiled beef, typically served with a rich broth and accompanied by horseradish, apple sauce, and crispy potato fritters. It was reportedly a favorite of Emperor Franz Joseph I and remains a staple of Viennese cuisine today. Many restaurants serve it, but Plachutta is the most renowned place to try this dish, where they’ve mastered the art of Tafelspitz for generations.
Kaiserschmarrn: A Fluffy Delight
Kaiserschmarrn is a fluffy, shredded pancake that’s often served as a dessert but can also be enjoyed as a breakfast or snack. The pancakes are fried until golden brown and then torn into pieces, dusted with powdered sugar, and typically served with stewed fruit or apple compote. This dish, said to be a favorite of Emperor Franz Joseph I, can be found in many traditional Viennese cafés, but Gasthaus Pöschl is a popular spot to enjoy it in a cozy setting.
Knödel: Hearty Dumplings for Every Meal
Dumplings, or Knödel, are an integral part of Austrian cuisine and come in many forms. There are potato dumplings, bread dumplings, and even sweet dumplings filled with fruit or jam. These dumplings are often served as a side dish to accompany hearty meats, such as roast pork or goulash, but they can also be served as a stand-alone dish. Try the Speckknödel (bacon dumplings) or Marillenknödel (apricot dumplings) at local taverns or Gasthaus restaurants for a true taste of Vienna.
Vienna's Coffeehouse Culture: A Coffee and Pastry Pairing
Vienna is world-renowned for its coffeehouse culture, and no visit would be complete without experiencing it for yourself. Stop by a traditional Kaffeehaus to enjoy a coffee paired with one of Vienna’s delicious pastries. Opt for a Melange, which is similar to a cappuccino, or go for a Einspänner, a strong black coffee topped with whipped cream. While enjoying your coffee, don’t forget to try a pastry, such as the Topfenstrudel (a sweet cheese-filled pastry) or the classic Kipferl (crescent-shaped cookies).
Wiener Würstchen: A Local Sausage Delight
For a quick, savory snack, try Wiener Würstchen, Vienna’s famous sausages that are served with mustard and a side of bread. These sausages are a beloved street food in Vienna, often found at food stalls and stands around the city. The Zurich Würstlstand near the Naschmarkt is one of the best places to sample these tasty treats. They’re perfect for a light lunch or a snack between sightseeing.
Sturzmuseum and the Local Breweries: Taste Vienna’s Craft Beers
In recent years, Vienna’s craft beer scene has blossomed, with many local breweries offering a variety of unique and flavorful beers. Visit the Sturzmuseum to learn about the history of beer brewing in Vienna, or stop by one of the city's many Biergärten to try a locally brewed beer. Vienna’s Ottakringer Brewery is one of the most famous, producing a wide range of craft beers that reflect the city’s modern take on brewing.