A Viennese Icon with a Storied Past
Schweizerhaus has deep roots in Vienna’s culinary and social history. The name dates back to the 19th century, but the current iteration became popular in the early 20th century, especially under the Kolarik family, who still run it today.
The beer garden originally served as a relaxing stop for visitors heading to or from the Prater amusement park. Over the decades, it evolved into a full-blown Viennese institution. Its location in the Prater – once a hunting ground for the imperial family – adds to the historic charm.
One of the most iconic aspects of Schweizerhaus is its commitment to Budweiser Budvar beer from the Czech Republic, served ice-cold and with a thick foam head. The restaurant’s long-standing partnership with the Budvar brewery has made Budweiser Budvar a defining part of Schweizerhaus’s identity.
But what really made Schweizerhaus famous is the Stelze. The dish is cooked using a special preparation process involving marination and slow roasting, resulting in that famously crispy exterior.
Despite its size and popularity, Schweizerhaus has managed to retain its traditional charm. Birthdays, reunions, after-work drinks, or just a sunny afternoon – people have been coming here for generations to enjoy the same comforting food, the same beer, and the same familiar buzz of Vienna in spring and summer.
