Which is better for Sachertorte—Hotel Sacher or Demel?

Ah, the eternal Viennese dessert debate! 🍫☕ Both Hotel Sacher and Demel are iconic for their Sachertorte, but they’re not the same. Here’s how they differ so you can decide:

🍰 Hotel Sacher’s Sachertorte #

• The “original”: Hotel Sacher holds the trademark for the Original Sacher-Torte.

• Texture: Dense chocolate sponge, two thin layers of apricot jam (above and below the chocolate glaze).

• Glaze: Very thick, glossy dark chocolate icing.

• Taste: Rich, slightly drier sponge (traditionally served with unsweetened whipped cream to balance it).

• Experience: Eating at Café Sacher feels elegant, very classic Viennese.

🍰 Demel’s Sachertorte #

• The “rival”: Demel used to be the supplier to the imperial court and had a long-standing legal battle with Hotel Sacher over who could claim the “original.”

• Texture: Slightly moister sponge, one thicker layer of apricot jam right under the glaze.

• Glaze: Silky, slightly lighter chocolate coating.

• Taste: Many find it less dry, with a stronger fruit-chocolate balance.

• Experience: Demel’s café is a bit more relaxed, with a pastry shop atmosphere.

⚖️ The Famous Lawsuit #

• In the mid-20th century, Hotel Sacher and Demel fought over who made the “Original Sachertorte.”

• Outcome:

  • Hotel Sacher = can legally market it as the Original Sacher-Torte.

  • Demel = serves Demel’s Sachertorte (also historic, but not “the original” by law).

🏆 Verdict #

• For tradition & prestige → Go to Hotel Sacher. You’re eating the trademarked cake.

• For taste & slightly moister texture → Many locals prefer Demel.

• Honestly? The best way is to try both and decide for yourself—it’s a delicious rivalry!

✨ Insider Tip: If you don’t want to queue at Hotel Sacher’s café, you can buy slices (or whole cakes) at their shop entrance without waiting for a table.