Muvamo Opinion
If you are planning what & where to eat in Vienna, think of this as the city’s menu organized for real life. We start with what to eat, then show you our favorite places that truly deliver it. Want an iconic Wiener Schnitzel? You will see the best rooms for that golden, airy crust. Craving dessert first? Skip straight to Kaiserschmarrn, Sachertorte, and Apfelstrudel for the most reliable slices and skillets. Prefer to plan by vibe? Browse Classic Austrian Restaurants for heritage flavors, Hearty Dishes for big portions and beer-friendly plates, Refined for white-tablecloth precision, and International for lively, modern kitchens.
Viennese Coffeehouse Culture gets its own spotlight, because lingering matters here. We also include Heuriger (Wine Taverns) picks for relaxed afternoons with local wine, plus unique venues that pair good cooking with strong architecture and views. Everything is chosen for consistency, ambiance, and quality to get the best out of your Vienna trip. Use the sections like filters: tap into traditional food when you want comfort, pick photogenic spots for your camera roll, and mix in a Würstelstand for late-night plans.
- Guided Tours & Activities
- Popular Austrian Food You Have to Eat in Vienna
-
Culinary Spots you shouldn’t miss
- Coffeehouses (Kaffeehäuser)
- Heuriger (Wine Taverns)
- Würstelstands (Sausage Stands)
- Classic Austrian Restaurants
- Refined Austrian Restaurants
- International Cuisine in Vienna
- Vienna’s Most Unique Restaurant Experiences
- High Above Vienna: Rooftop Bars & Restaurants
- Gastgärten – Vienna’s open-air dining rooms
Guided Tours & Activities
- Half-Day Countryside Wine Tour from Vienna: Escape the city and sip your way through Austria’s scenic wine country on this relaxed half-day tour, complete with tastings at family-run vineyards and charming countryside views.
- Gerstner K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäcker Baking Show & Tasting: Go behind the scenes of Vienna’s legendary imperial bakery and watch expert patissiers craft classic Austrian desserts – then indulge in perfectly made pastries fresh from the source.
- Chocolate Museum Tour + Make Your Own Bar: Discover the art and fun of chocolate-making at Vienna’s Chocolate Museum, then create your own personalized chocolate bar to take home. A sweet, hands-on experience for all senses.
- Johann Strauss Dinner Show at the Prater: Dine in style and enjoy a lively tribute to the “Waltz King” himself, Johann Strauss, in this elegant dinner show blending traditional Viennese cuisine with classic operetta flair.
- Naschmarkt Gourmet Tour: Explore Vienna’s iconic Naschmarkt with a local foodie guide, sampling bold flavors from Austrian and international vendors while uncovering the market’s colorful stories and secrets.
- Savor Vienna: Food, Coffee & Hidden Market Gems: Step off the tourist path and taste your way through Vienna’s culinary undercurrents – from tucked-away markets to beloved local cafés, this tour reveals the city’s delicious everyday culture.
Popular Austrian Food You Have to Eat in Vienna
Wiener Schnitzel
What it is
A crispy, golden-brown breaded veal cutlet, traditionally served with potato salad or lingonberries.
Why we love it
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside – this is Austrian comfort food at its finest.
Did You Know?
Despite being Vienna’s most famous dish, the Wiener Schnitzel may not actually be Viennese! One popular theory says it was inspired by the Milanese dish “Cotoletta alla Milanese”, brought to Austria in the 19th century by an Austrian general. But while Italy might claim some influence, the Viennese perfected it – frying it until golden in butter or lard and making it the crispy, iconic dish we love today!
Where to eat – our favorites
The city’s top pork schnitzel: paper-thin, golden, and crisp, with edges that stretch well beyond the plate. Order it with the traditional potato salad and a spoon of lingonberries. Be sure to reserve in advance to avoid the long queue.
Home of the best classic veal Wiener Schnitzel in the city, pan-fried to a flawless, even gold with a delicate crunch. Choose your frying fat – Butterschmalz, Schweineschmalz, or vegetable oil – then add potato salad and enjoy the open-kitchen view.
A refined spot near the opera serving veal schnitzel that’s evenly golden and consistently tender. Pair it with their signature potato salad and a glass of Grüner Veltliner for a stylish lunch or a pre-theater meal.
This sister location serves the same giant pork schnitzel with a golden, crispy crust and tender bite. The pace is quick, portions are generous, and it’s perfect for a fast, satisfying meal near the city center.
A cozy corner Gasthaus turning out honest, perfectly seasoned schnitzel that feels like home. Expect a relaxed room, cold beer, and a potato salad that hits the sweet-sour balance just right.
Tafelspitz
What it is
Boiled beef served with broth, horseradish, apple-horseradish sauce, and chive sauce.
Why we love it
Tafelspitz shows how simple ingredients can become something special when cooked with care. The beef is slowly boiled until it’s very tender and full of flavor from the broth. What really brings it all together are the classic sides – a sweet and spicy apple-horseradish sauce, creamy spinach, crispy rösti potatoes, and a warm bowl of broth to start. It’s hearty, comforting, and full of Viennese tradition. Being served from a copper pot at the table adds a nice, old-fashioned touch.
Did You Know?
The Emperor’s Favorite Dish – Tafelspitz was the favorite meal of Emperor Franz Joseph I. Simple yet elegant, it was considered a dish fit for royalty.
Where to eat – our favorites
Vienna’s benchmark Tafelspitz, served in gleaming copper pots with crystal-clear broth, marrow bone, and precise slices of boiled beef. Finish with Rösti, creamed spinach, apple-horseradish, and chive sauce for the full ritual.
A refined setting in one of Vienna’s oldest taverns, with polished service and a Tafelspitz that’s tender in a fragrant, clear broth. On warm days, book the leafy outdoor courtyard for a slow, elegant meal.
Beyond the famous schnitzel, their Tafelspitz is cleanly flavored and beautifully tender in a clear, restorative broth. Pair it with apple-horseradish and Rösti for a balanced, classic plate.
Known for schnitzel, yet the kitchen delivers a polished Tafelspitz with deeply savory broth and neatly carved beef. Add creamed spinach and chive sauce to round out a very Viennese experience.
Comfort-first Tafelspitz in a cozy, unfussy room, with broth that tastes like it simmered all afternoon. The apple-horseradish has the right kick, and the potatoes come crisp and golden.
Kaiserschmarrn
What it is
Kaiserschmarrn is a fluffy, caramelized, shredded pancake, lightly sweetened and often served with powdered sugar, raisins, and fruit compote (usually plum or apple). The name translates to “Emperor’s Mess,” as it was a favorite of Emperor Franz Joseph I. It’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for sharing!
Why we love it
It’s like the best parts of a pancake and French toast combined! The crispy edges, the fluffy inside, and the caramelized sugar create the perfect bite every time. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that’s just as fun to eat as it is delicious, especially when served fresh from the pan.
Did You Know?
Legend has it that Kaiserschmarrn was originally made as a failed pancake – the cook accidentally tore it apart, but instead of tossing it out, they added sugar and served it to the Emperor. He loved it, and the dish became a staple of Austrian cuisine!
Where to eat – our favorites
Kaiserschmarrn here is a reliable classic, usually served with warm plum compote on the side. It’s also available to go from the street-side window, which is a great option if you’re in the mood for something sweet during a walk through the Hofburg or nearby city center.
Kaiserschmarrn here is a classic choice, served in a beautiful, historic setting. It’s a relaxed yet refined way to enjoy one of Vienna’s most beloved desserts.
Classic Kaiserschmarrn served with warm plum compote, offering the familiar sweet-tart combination. The bright, chandelier-lit rooms and professional service make it feel polished and welcoming.
Kaiserschmarrn is served in light, torn pieces and paired with apricot or plum compote. The terrace overlooks the Ringstrasse, making it a pleasant spot to pause and enjoy a classic Viennese dessert.
A lighter, café-style Kaiserschmarrn with a soft texture and easy portions for sharing. The mid-century setting, bright atmosphere, and unhurried vibe make it a comfortable choice for a relaxed afternoon break.
Sachertorte
What it is
Sachertorte is Vienna’s most famous chocolate cake, made with dense chocolate sponge, a thin layer of apricot jam, and a glossy dark chocolate glaze. It’s always served with a whipped cream, balancing the richness perfectly.
Why we love it
It’s rich but not too sweet, with a balanced mix of dark chocolate and fruity apricot. Enjoying a slice in one of Vienna’s historic cafés adds to the experience, combining classic flavor with old-world charm.
Did You Know?
There was a long-standing legal battle over who makes the “Original Sachertorte” – Café Sacher and Demel fought for years over the rights to the name. In the end, Café Sacher won, but both still serve amazing versions!
Where to eat – our favorites
Home of the original Sachertorte: dense chocolate sponge, a neat apricot layer, and a mirror glaze, best with a generous dollop of whipped cream. The wood-paneled salon feels timeless and makes even a quick coffee-and-cake stop feel celebratory.
A refined take on Sachertorte with a glossy chocolate finish and a clear, aromatic apricot note. You can order it at the marble counter or enjoy it in the historic salon with a coffee, surrounded by classic Viennese atmosphere.
An elegant upstairs salon at Hotel Sacher where the classic torte meets porcelain, silver service, and quiet luxury. It’s the polished way to savor Vienna’s most famous slice away from the bustle.
Beautifully balanced Sachertorte with a smooth glaze and clean layers, served in chandeliered rooms opposite the Opera. Pair it with a melange or take a boxed slice to go from the patisserie downstairs.
Apfelstrudel
What it is
Apfelstrudel is a traditional Viennese apple pastry made with very thin, flaky dough wrapped around a filling of apples, raisins, cinnamon, and sometimes nuts. It’s usually served warm, topped with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or vanilla sauce.
Why we love it
The mix of crisp, delicate pastry and warm, soft apple filling is hard to beat. The cinnamon and raisins add just the right amount of sweetness and spice. And if you get the chance to watch it being made – with dough stretched so thin you can almost see through it – it’s a fun bonus.
Did You Know?
The secret to perfect Apfelstrudel lies in the dough – it’s traditionally stretched by hand until it’s thin enough to read a newspaper through! It’s a skill that takes years to master, and you can even watch it being made at the Strudelshow at Schönbrunn Palace.
Where to eat – our favorites
Apfelstrudel with delicate, thin pastry filled with tart apples, raisins, and a hint of cinnamon. Served warm with vanilla sauce in an elegant, historic setting.
Hand-pulled strudel with a delicate, glassy crust and juicy apple filling, often with rum raisins for depth. Watch the patissiers at work through the glass kitchen, then pick up a boxed slice to go from the counter.
Apfelstrudel with a bright apple filling and just the right touch of sweetness, best enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can sit down in the chandeliered salon or pick up a neatly packed slice from the patisserie downstairs.
Classic Viennese strudel with flaky layers and lightly spiced apples, served warm with vanilla sauce or cream. The Ringstrasse terrace is ideal for lingering over coffee and a second forkful.
A cozy, old-school café serving rustic, comforting strudel with generous apple and a homey aroma. Settle into the wood-paneled room, order a melange, and let time slow down.
Other Hearty Austrian Classics
While Wiener Schnitzel and Tafelspitz are the most famous dishes, Vienna’s hearty cuisine has much more to offer. These traditional meals are rich, flavorful, and often slow-cooked, making them perfect for anyone who loves comfort food with a rustic touch. From tender beef dishes to warming stews and simple yet delicious Austrian home cooking, here are some must-try dishes beyond the usual tourist favorites.
What to eat:
- Paprikahendl – Tender chicken cooked in a creamy paprika sauce, usually served with dumplings or buttered noodles.
- Zwiebelrostbraten – Roast beef in a rich onion gravy, topped with crispy fried onions and served with pan-fried potatoes.
- Schweinsbraten – Juicy, slow-roasted pork with crispy skin, served with dumplings and sauerkraut.
- Stelze – A massive roasted pork knuckle with crispy crackling, typically enjoyed with mustard, horseradish, and a cold beer.
- Gulasch – A slow-cooked, paprika-spiced beef stew, often served with dumplings or bread.
- Fiaker Gulasch – A heartier version of gulasch, topped with a fried egg, sausage, and pickles.
- Krautfleckerl – A simple but delicious pasta dish made with caramelized cabbage, butter, and black pepper.
- Eiernockerl – Soft egg dumplings tossed with scrambled eggs and often served with a fresh salad.
Where to eat – our favorites
Go hungry for organic pork knuckle, built for sharing with big mugs of beer. The sprawling Prater garden under chestnut trees keeps the vibe easy, lively, and very Vienna.
Historic vaulted rooms set the stage for hearty staples like rich beef goulash, Schweinsbraten, and fluffy Serviettenknödel. It is the place to lean into old Vienna flavors with a glass of Austrian red.
A classic heuriger for generous platters, from roast pork and sausages to creamy spreads and warm bread. Settle in the leafy courtyard with a jug of house wine and plan on seconds.
Hearty Brettljause, warm roasts, and seasonal comfort dishes pair beautifully with the winery’s own pours. The vine-draped courtyard is pure Grinzing charm and perfect for an unhurried feast.
Comfort-first cooking shines in plates like Zwiebelrostbraten, creamy veal goulash, and a standout schnitzel. The cozy corner setting, cold beer, and spot-on potato sides make it an easy favorite.
Other Sweet Austrian Classics
Vienna is famous for its Mehlspeisen (traditional baked goods and desserts), and while Sachertorte and Apfelstrudel get most of the attention, there are plenty of other delicious treats worth trying. From warm, fluffy Buchteln to crispy Palatschinken, these desserts are a must for anyone with a sweet tooth.
What to eat:
- Buchteln – Soft, oven-baked yeast buns filled with apricot jam or plum jam, served warm with vanilla sauce. A comforting and nostalgic dessert.
- Germknödel – A giant fluffy dumpling filled with plum jam, topped with melted butter, poppy seeds, and powdered sugar – popular in winter and at ski resorts.
- Marillenknödel – Sweet apricot dumplings made from potato or quark dough, coated in buttery toasted breadcrumbs.
- Topfenstrudel – A variation of Apfelstrudel, filled with sweet quark cheese, sugar, and raisins – lighter and creamier than its apple-filled counterpart.
- Powidltascherl – Small, plum jam-filled dumplings, usually made from potato dough and dusted with powdered sugar.
- Palatschinken – Austrian-style thin pancakes, similar to crêpes, served with jam, chocolate, or sweet quark cheese.
Where to eat – our favorites
A grand pastry counter with perfect tranches, cream slices, and seasonal chestnut desserts, all made for lingering under arches and chandeliers. Order cake plus a melange, or take a pretty boxed slice for later.
Royal-level sweets from Punschkrapfen and Esterházy to glossy petit fours, with a shop counter that makes gifting effortless. Watch the patissiers at work, then leave with a ribboned box for your afternoon stroll.
Elegant tortes, fruit-glazed tartlets, and jewel-like petit fours served in chandeliered salons across from the Opera. Pair something chocolate-forward with a glass of champagne for a quietly decadent break.
Beyond the famous torte, expect refined pastries, tender Gugelhupf, and dainty chocolates in a timeless wood-paneled setting. The boutique next door is ideal for curated sweet souvenirs to go.
Old Vienna charm with warm, pillowy Buchteln filled with jam and dusted in sugar, served late evening. Add a strong coffee, find a corner table, and let the room’s cozy glow do the rest.
Culinary Spots you shouldn’t miss
Coffeehouses (Kaffeehäuser)
What it is
Vienna’s coffeehouses are cultural institutions where locals linger for hours, reading newspapers and soaking in the old-world charm. You can get more info about it in our blog about Viennese Coffeehouse Culture.
Why we love it
The atmosphere is unmatched – order a Melange (Viennese-style cappuccino) and pair it with a slice of Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel.
Did You Know?
A UNESCO Cultural Treasure – Vienna’s coffeehouse culture is so special that UNESCO officially recognized it as part of Austria’s “Intangible Cultural Heritage.”
Where to try – our favorites
Opposite the Opera, the chandeliered salons offer a refined setting for a classic Wiener Melange and a carefully crafted slice from the patisserie. It’s an ideal spot for a mid-afternoon break, with polished service and the option to add a glass of champagne if you’re in the mood.
A grand room of arches and polished marble where literati once lingered, now perfect for a melange and a classic pastry. The elegant setting and generous natural light make it a photogenic, relaxed spot for a coffee break.
Historic salons and a glass-walled bakery bring craft to the forefront, pairing strong coffee with iconic sweets. Order at the marble counter or settle in for table service, then leave with a ribboned box to go.
Right on the hill above Schönbrunn, this café rewards the climb with an Einspänner and panoramic city views. Sit by the tall windows for golden light and an elegant pause before wandering the gardens.
Inside the Kunsthistorisches Museum’s cupola hall, you sip coffee beneath frescoes and marble. Come for a cultured break between galleries, with classic cakes and a calm, art-soaked atmosphere.
Heuriger (Wine Taverns)
What it is
A Heuriger is a traditional Viennese wine tavern, where local winemakers serve their own wines along with simple, hearty food.
Why we love it
It’s the perfect way to escape the city while still being in Vienna. Sit under grapevines, sip a glass of Grüner Veltliner, and enjoy local specialties like Liptauer (spicy cheese spread) and Brettljause (cold cuts and cheese).
Did You Know?
Vienna is the World’s Only Capital with Its Own Vineyards – Unlike any other major city, Vienna has over 700 hectares of vineyards, and many Heuriger serve their own locally produced wine.
Where to try – our favorites
Mayer am Pfarrplatz is a classic heuriger with a vine-draped courtyard, easygoing house wines, and generous Brettljause that invites a long, relaxed afternoon. The historic setting includes Beethoven’s former residence next door.
Classic Grinzing hospitality with leafy gardens, warm roasts, and platters built for sharing alongside fresh local wines. It is an easygoing spot for long conversations and second rounds.
A hilltop favorite with vineyard views over Vienna, deck chairs, and a breezy, rustic setup. Order chilled white by the glass and a simple cold plate, then stay for sunset.
Alternative Places to Try
For alternative heuriger to try, start with Furhgassl-Huber for sprawling courtyards, hearty warm dishes, and easygoing group vibes; then head to Wieninger am Nussberg for vineyard-edge benches, skyline views, and crisp, cooling whites. Schübel-Auer offers historic rooms, a leafy terrace, and reliably tasty house wines, while Wiltschko feels neighborly and unfussy with generous cold platters and a relaxed pace. Heuriger Zur Christl brings classic charm, light seasonal plates, and a friendly, local crowd. For a more wine-focused stop, Heuriger Wieninger pairs precise whites and Gemischter Satz with thoughtful snacks and a quietly refined atmosphere.
Würstelstands (Sausage Stands)
What it is
Vienna’s famous sausage stands are the ultimate street food experience. They serve a variety of sausages with mustard, horseradish, and fresh bread.
Why we love it
Perfect for a quick and satisfying snack, especially after a night out. Try the Käsekrainer – a smoked sausage with melted cheese inside.
Did You Know?
Vienna’s Würstelstands began as mobile carts run by disabled veterans who were granted night licenses in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Many later became fixed kiosks, shaping the city’s late-night food culture of standing tables, quick sausages, and a chat over mustard.
Where to try – our favorites
The city’s most polished würstelstand, perfectly placed between the Albertina and the State Opera for a late-night bite after a concert. Order a Käsekrainer that snaps, add sweet and spicy mustard plus a slice of dark bread, and lean in for the cheeky high-low of champagne by the glass with street food.
Just steps from the Giant Ferris Wheel, this stand serves crisp-skinned sausages with the same fast service and lively fairground atmosphere. Go for a classic Bosna or Waldviertler, grab an Ottakringer, and enjoy the energy of the Prater all around you.
Alternative Places to Try
For excellent alternatives, try Würstelstand LEO for old-school charm and one of the city’s oldest stands, Zum scharfen René at Schwarzenbergplatz for fiery options and Würstelstand am Hohen Markt for a central stop with a standout Bosna and lively, post-midnight energy.
Classic Austrian Restaurants
What it is
Classic Austrian restaurants, known as Gasthäuser or Beisln, are the heart of Viennese comfort food. These traditional inns and taverns serve authentic, home-style dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, and Gulasch, often in a cozy, rustic setting with wooden interiors, white tablecloths, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Why we love it
These restaurants offer a taste of Vienna’s culinary history, where recipes have been passed down for generations. The portions are generous, the flavors are rich, and the experience is all about slowing down and enjoying a meal like the Viennese do – with great food, good company, and perhaps a glass of Grüner Veltliner or a refreshing G’spritzter.
Did You Know?
Many classic Viennese dishes have their roots in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, blending influences from Hungary, Bohemia, and beyond. Even Wiener Schnitzel, Vienna’s most famous dish, is believed to have been inspired by an Italian recipe for breaded veal known as “Cotoletta alla Milanese.”
Where to try – our favorites
The city’s top pork schnitzel: paper-thin, golden, and crisp, with edges that stretch well beyond the plate. Order it with the traditional potato salad and a spoon of lingonberries. Be sure to reserve in advance to avoid the long queue.
Historic beisl with vaulted rooms and candlelit corners, serving rich goulash, roast pork, and fluffy dumplings. Come for old Vienna atmosphere and hearty, reliable plates.
This sister location serves the same giant pork schnitzel with a golden, crispy crust and tender bite. The pace is quick, portions are generous, and it’s perfect for a fast, satisfying meal near the city center.
Go for organic pork knuckle designed for sharing over big mugs of beer. The sprawling Prater garden under chestnut trees keeps everything lively, easy, and very Vienna.
Comfort-first cooking in a cozy corner room, from standout schnitzel to Zwiebelrostbraten with spot-on potato sides.
Refined Austrian Restaurants
What it is
Refined Austrian dining is the city’s polished side of tradition: classic recipes, premium sourcing, and dining rooms where linen, lighting, and pacing are part of the experience. Think Tafelspitz carved from copper pots, elegant takes on seasonal game and river fish, and desserts that respect craft as much as nostalgia.
Why we love it
You get the comfort of Viennese flavors with the clarity of modern technique. Places like Pfarrwirt, Plachutta, Zum Schwarzen Kameel, and Lugeck deliver consistency, beautiful plating, and rooms that feel thoughtfully designed. It is ideal for a smart lunch or a slow evening where the wine list has range, the service is calm, and every plate photographs as well as it eats.
Did You Know?
Tafelspitz became a hallmark of refined Austrian dining in the 19th century when Emperor Franz Joseph reportedly favored the dish. Today, the full ritual of clear broth, marrow, chive sauce, apple-horseradish, and Rösti remains a quietly luxurious way to taste Vienna’s culinary heritage.
Where to try – our favorites
Refined dining in one of Vienna’s oldest taverns, with seasonal Austrian classics, a focused wine list, and a leafy courtyard that feels quietly luxurious.
Benchmark Tafelspitz in gleaming copper pots, precise slicing, and the full ritual of Rösti, creamed spinach, apple-horseradish, and chive sauce. Elegant, calm, and ideal after Schönbrunn.
A historic address known for refined Viennese cooking, a stylish dining room, and an iconic bar perfect for aperitifs. Look forward to polished versions of local classics and impeccable presentation.
Central and impeccably run, serving textbook Tafelspitz and refined Viennese staples with crisp linens and steady, professional pacing. A smart choice for a polished lunch or pre-theater dinner.
Design-forward brasserie by the Figlmüller family, offering elevated Austrian favorites with clean flavors, excellent sourcing, and a bright, contemporary room that photographs beautifully.
International Cuisine in Vienna
What it is
Vienna’s international food scene reflects its cultural diversity. Shaped by decades of immigration and global influence, the city offers a wide range of authentic cuisines. You’ll find everything including traditional Vietnamese pho, Mediterranean seafood, Japanese ramen, Indian curries, and creative fusion dishes – each adding to the city’s dynamic dining landscape.
Why we love it
The quality and authenticity of international food in Vienna are outstanding. Many restaurants are run by families or chefs from the respective countries, ensuring traditional flavors and cooking techniques. The variety is also incredible – you can find everything from cozy, family-owned spots to award-winning fine-dining establishments. Plus, many international restaurants in Vienna prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients, often sourced locally.
Did You Know?
- Vienna has one of the best Middle Eastern food scenes in Europe, with outstanding Lebanese, Turkish, and Persian restaurants.
- Naschmarkt, the city’s famous food market, is a great place to sample global flavors, from Indian curries to Italian antipasti.
- There’s a strong Japanese food culture in Vienna, with excellent ramen shops, sushi bars, and even traditional izakayas.
- Vienna’s pizzerias frequently rank among the best in Europe, with many chefs trained in Naples.
Where to try – our favorites
Lively spot overlooking the Riesenrad, serving vibrant Middle Eastern plates with Israeli soul. Share mezze, order the sabich or musakhan, and pair it with fresh juices or a spritz.
A stylish rooftop hangout with international small plates, co-working energy by day, and golden-hour views at night. Go for bao, bowls, and clever veggies, then linger over cocktails on the terrace.
Serious smashburgers with crisp edges, quality beef, and house sauces, plus loaded fries for a proper cheat meal. The vibe is minimal, the execution tight, and it hits the late-night spot.
Steak, pasta, and sushi under one roof at Marienbrücke, with after-work drinks and skyline views. Choose classic or creative rolls at the sushi bar, or go for dry-aged cuts matured in what they tout as Vienna’s largest walk-in dry-ager. A sleek, international crowd-pleaser for date night or a lively group dinner.
A longtime favorite on Vienna’s best-known market, busy from morning through evening. Order hummus tastings, sabich, and grilled dishes, then wander the nearby stalls for spices and sweets.
Vienna’s Most Unique Restaurant Experiences
What it is
Vienna is home to many incredible restaurants, and some stand out for their unforgettable settings. Dining in a grand imperial palace, a historic greenhouse, or inside a world-class museum offers a unique experience where atmosphere, history, and exceptional cuisine all play a part.
Why we love it
These restaurants turn a simple meal into an experience. With stunning architecture, breathtaking views, or the chance to dine surrounded by art and history, each location offers something truly unique. Ideal for special occasions or for anyone who enjoys a beautiful setting with their food.
Did You Know?
- Café Gloriette was once a gathering place for Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Sisi.
- Brasserie Palmenhaus sits inside what used to be the Habsburgs’ royal greenhouse.
- KHM Café lets you dine under the magnificent domed ceilings of Vienna’s world-famous Kunsthistorisches Museum.
Where to try – our favorites
Dine beneath marble, columns, and the cupola of the Kunsthistorisches Museum for an art-soaked pause between galleries. Classic Viennese dishes and pastries taste even better under frescoes and soft museum light.
A soaring Art Nouveau greenhouse filled with palms and natural light, perfect for a relaxed lunch in a striking setting. Order a spritz and take in the view of the Burggarten through the glass walls.
Located above Schönbrunn with sweeping city views, this café turns coffee and cake into a postcard moment. Sit by the tall windows for golden light after a stroll through the gardens.
A rotating restaurant high above Vienna serving classic plates with 360-degree views of the city and the Danube. Time your visit for sunset and let the skyline slowly spin around you.
A sleek, riverboat-like pavilion on the Danube Canal with a lively café upstairs and a stylish restaurant below. Come for brunch, stay for cocktails, and take in the laid-back waterfront atmosphere.
High Above Vienna: Rooftop Bars & Restaurants
What it is
Vienna’s charm extends high above the street, with some of the city’s best restaurants and bars offering impressive views from above. Sip cocktails on a rooftop terrace, enjoy fine dining with a panoramic skyline, or watch the sunset over historic landmarks – these elevated spots pair great food and drinks with stunning scenery.
Why we love it
There’s something special about dining with a view. The sparkling lights of the city at night, the iconic rooftops of the historic center, or the Danube stretching into the distance all offer a different perspective on Vienna. These spots are perfect for romantic evenings, special celebrations, or a relaxed drink with an unforgettable backdrop.
Did You Know?
Vienna’s historic core is kept intentionally low-rise to protect sightlines around landmarks like St. Stephen’s, so even mid-height rooftops feel strikingly panoramic. Fun extra: the Donauturm’s restaurant completes a slow 360-degree rotation roughly every half hour, while MQ Libelle turned a once-closed museum roof into a public terrace with some of the best free views in the city.
Where to try – our favorites
Skyline dining in Vienna’s famous tower, offering wide city views and a refined menu with Austrian influences. Visit at dusk to catch the city lighting up as day turns to evening.
Rooftop bar at Andaz with Nordic touches, crafted cocktails, and firepits on the terrace. Come for golden hour, stay for the panoramic night skyline.
Top-floor perch above the Wurstelprater serving vibrant Middle Eastern plates with a view of the Riesenrad. Great for a lively dinner that turns into drinks.
Elegant rooftop lounge at The Ritz-Carlton pouring champagne and precise cocktails with Ringstrasse views. Dress smart and time it for sunset.
Open-air terrace atop the Leopold Museum with striking angles and a relaxed vibe. Ideal for photos of the MuseumsQuartier and a breezy pause above the courtyards.
Gastgärten – Vienna’s open-air dining rooms
What it is
Gastgärten are Vienna’s alfresco extensions of cafés, beisln, and restaurants – leafy courtyards, shaded terraces, and sidewalk setups where eating outside feels effortless. In warm months, the city shifts outdoors, and these gardens become the most pleasant places to linger over Austrian classics, cold beer, or a glass of Grüner Veltliner.
Why we love it
Great food tastes better with dappled light, a soft breeze, and the hum of the city in the background. Gastgärten deliver exactly that – civilized pacing, photogenic settings, and a relaxed social rhythm that suits long lunches, golden-hour aperitifs, and unhurried dinners.
Did you know
Vienna’s Schanigarten tradition dates back to the 18th century, when cafés moved tables onto the street each spring. Today, many restaurants add handsome courtyard gardens and park-side terraces, turning good meals into mini urban retreats.
Where to try – our favorites
A vast Prater garden under chestnut trees, made for sharing organic pork knuckle with big mugs of beer. It is lively, relaxed, and ideal for groups who want a classic Vienna-in-the-open experience.
A classic beer garden feel with plenty of seating, dependable Austrian staples, and well-poured draft beer. Come for an easygoing meal outdoors that works just as well for a casual lunch as for a long evening with friends.
Elegant yet relaxed terrace seating by the green edge of the city, perfect for a refined take on Austrian comfort food. Expect crisp linens, good shade, and a pleasantly unhurried pace that encourages a second glass.
A beautiful, leafy courtyard that pairs artful interiors with village-like calm. Order seasonal Austrian dishes, sip from the thoughtful wine list, and stretch dinner into a quiet, candlelit night.
Sit on the Burggarten side for sunshine, palms in the background, and postcard views of the park. Light, bright, and photogenic, it is the spot for a spritz, a fresh lunch, and an easy pause in the middle of town.
