Eating in Vienna: Things to Taste

Vienna, Austria’s capital, is known for its rich culinary traditions and vibrant food scene. From hearty traditional dishes to mouth-watering pastries, the city has something to offer for every food lover. If you find yourself in Vienna, here are some must-try culinary delights that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

One cannot talk about Viennese cuisine without mentioning wiener schnitzel. This iconic dish is made of breaded and deep-fried veal or pork cutlets and is a staple in Austrian dining. Tender on the inside with a crispy golden coating on the outside, the wiener schnitzel is traditionally served with a side of warm potato salad or parsley potatoes. For an authentic experience, head to Figlmüller, a renowned Viennese restaurant that takes pride in serving the best wiener schnitzel in town.

Another classic Viennese dish that shouldn’t be missed is tafelspitz. This dish consists of boiled beef, usually from the tender loin, served with a variety of side dishes such as apple horseradish and creamed spinach. The meat is cooked to perfection, resulting in succulent and flavorful slices. Plachutta, a traditional Viennese restaurant, is famous for its tafelspitz and has been serving this dish for over a century.

If you’re a lover of sausages, then trying a traditional Viennese würstel is a must. These sausages are made from a mixture of pork and beef, seasoned with a blend of spices, and smoked to perfection. They are usually served with mustard and freshly baked bread. The most famous würstel stand in Vienna is Bitzinger Würstelstand, located near the Albertina museum. Join the locals and enjoy a delicious würstel while taking in the bustling atmosphere of the city.

No visit to Vienna would be complete without indulging in the city’s famous coffeehouse culture. Viennese coffeehouses are not just places to grab a quick cup of coffee; they are institutions that have stood the test of time. The atmosphere is cozy and relaxed, making it the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal and some people-watching. Don’t forget to try a slice of Sachertorte, a famous Viennese chocolate cake. This decadent dessert, usually served with a dollop of whipped cream, is a true delight for chocolate lovers.

Vienna is also known for its mouth-watering pastries and bread. The most famous of them all is the Viennese apple strudel. Made with layers of paper-thin pastry filled with juicy apples, raisins, and a hint of cinnamon, it is a true Austrian delicacy. For the best apple strudel in Vienna, head to Café Landtmann, a historic coffeehouse that has been serving this delicacy for over a century.

Lastly, don’t forget to accompany your meals with some Austrian wine. Vienna is surrounded by vineyards, and the city takes great pride in its wine culture. From Grüner Veltliner to Riesling, there is a wide variety of Austrian wines to choose from. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine and savor the flavors of Vienna.

Eating in Vienna is a food lover’s dream come true. With its diverse range of dishes, mouth-watering pastries, and rich culinary traditions, the city offers a gastronomic experience like no other. So, make sure to taste the iconic wiener schnitzel, indulge in the famous coffeehouse culture, and savor the delectable treats that Vienna has to offer. Your taste buds will thank you.