Vienna’s culinary scene is a delicious fusion of flavors, drawing from the region’s history, its neighbors, and its unique cultural heritage. From traditional Viennese classics like Wiener Schnitzel and Tafelspitz to cozy wine taverns known as Heuriger, Vienna offers a rich array of flavors to explore. This guide highlights must-try dishes, the best places to enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine, and where to experience local wines and street food in Vienna.

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Must-Try Viennese Dishes: Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, Goulash

Viennese cuisine is deeply rooted in Austria’s imperial past, blending influences from Central and Eastern Europe with local ingredients and flavors. Here are three iconic Viennese dishes that every visitor should try:

1. Wiener Schnitzel

Wiener Schnitzel is perhaps the most iconic dish in Vienna and a must-try for anyone visiting the city. This classic dish is made by tenderizing a veal cutlet, coating it in breadcrumbs, and frying it until golden. The result is a deliciously crispy and flavorful dish that is traditionally served with a wedge of lemon, parsley potatoes, and lingonberry jam.

Variations: Although traditionally made with veal, Wiener Schnitzel can also be found made with pork, chicken, or turkey. Each variation offers a slightly different taste while maintaining the crispy, golden crust that defines the dish.
Where to Try It: Many restaurants in Vienna serve Wiener Schnitzel, but some of the best places to try it are local taverns and restaurants specializing in traditional Austrian cuisine.

2. Tafelspitz

Tafelspitz is another Viennese classic and is known as a favorite of Emperor Franz Joseph I. The dish consists of boiled beef served in a rich broth with root vegetables and spices. Traditionally, it’s accompanied by apple-horseradish sauce and chive-sour cream, creating a satisfying combination of flavors.

How It’s Served: Tafelspitz is typically served in two parts. The flavorful broth, with vegetables, is served as a soup starter, followed by the tender beef slices served with accompaniments.
Where to Try It: Look for Tafelspitz at restaurants that focus on traditional Austrian recipes, especially those known for honoring Vienna’s culinary history.

3. Goulash

Vienna’s take on goulash, a dish originally from Hungary, is a heartwarming beef stew with a rich, paprika-based sauce. Unlike the traditional Hungarian version, Viennese goulash tends to be thicker and often includes potatoes and onions. This comforting dish is popular year-round but especially cherished during the colder months.

Variations: Viennese goulash comes in various styles, including the more rustic “Fiakergulasch,” which is served with a fried egg, sausage, and a pickle on top.
Where to Try It: Goulash can be found in many Viennese taverns and local restaurants, particularly those specializing in Austrian and Central European cuisine.

Best Restaurants for Traditional Austrian Cuisine

Vienna is filled with excellent restaurants that celebrate the city’s rich culinary heritage. Here are some top spots for an authentic Austrian dining experience.

1. Figlmüller (Wollzeile)

Known as the “home of the Schnitzel,” Figlmüller has been serving its famous Wiener Schnitzel since 1905. The Schnitzels here are so large they extend beyond the plate, and they’re made with pork rather than veal for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Must-Try Dish: Figlmüller Schnitzel, paired with their signature potato salad.
Location: Wollzeile 5, near St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

2. Plachutta (Wollzeile)

Famous for its Tafelspitz, Plachutta is a top destination for those looking to try this classic Viennese dish. The restaurant takes pride in its traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients, creating an authentic and memorable dining experience.

Must-Try Dish: Tafelspitz, served with broth and traditional sides.
Location: Wollzeile 38, centrally located in Vienna’s Inner City.

3. Gasthaus Pöschl

This cozy, traditional Austrian restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere with some of the best home-style Austrian cooking in the city. Gasthaus Pöschl is well-known among locals and serves classic dishes like Wiener Schnitzel and Goulash, along with rotating seasonal specials.

Must-Try Dish: Wiener Schnitzel and the Fiakergulasch, served with a fried egg.
Location: Weihburggasse 17, near Karlsplatz.

4. Zum Schwarzen Kameel

Zum Schwarzen Kameel is a historic eatery in Vienna that dates back to 1618. Known for its charming interior and traditional Viennese dishes, this restaurant is also popular for its open-faced sandwiches and Austrian delicacies.

Must-Try Dish: Goulash and their variety of sandwiches made with Austrian meats and cheeses.
Location: Bognergasse 5, in Vienna’s Inner City.

5. Heuriger Hans Maly

While technically not a restaurant, Heuriger Hans Maly offers a traditional tavern experience, serving rustic Austrian dishes and excellent local wines. The relaxed atmosphere and communal tables make it a favorite for those looking to experience the Heuriger style of dining.

Must-Try Dish: Sample a plate of Austrian cheeses, cold cuts, and hearty bread, paired with local wine.
Location: Sandgasse 8, in the Heiligenstadt district.

Viennese Heuriger (Wine Taverns) for Local Wine Tasting

Vienna is unique among capital cities for its extensive vineyards within the city limits, which makes local wine an essential part of its culinary culture. Heuriger are traditional wine taverns where locals and visitors gather to enjoy wine and hearty, homemade dishes.

1. What to Expect at a Heuriger

A visit to a Heuriger is an immersive experience into Viennese hospitality and local flavor. These taverns serve wines from their own vineyards, offering varieties like Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, and Gemischter Satz (a Viennese field blend). Heuriger are typically family-owned and have a rustic, relaxed atmosphere, with communal tables and gardens for outdoor seating.

2. Top Heuriger in Vienna

Mayer am Pfarrplatz: This historic Heuriger was once frequented by Beethoven. Today, it serves up delicious wines and traditional dishes, creating a warm and authentic Viennese atmosphere.
- Must-Try Wine: Try the Gemischter Satz, a local specialty, along with a cold meat platter.
- Location: Pfarrplatz 2, in the Grinzing district.
Weingut Wieninger: Known for its dedication to organic wine, Weingut Wieninger is both a winery and a Heuriger. It offers guided tastings and tours, allowing visitors to learn about Viennese viticulture while enjoying fresh wines.
- Must-Try Wine: The Wiener Gemischter Satz DAC and Grüner Veltliner.
- Location: Stammersdorfer Str. 31, just outside central Vienna.
Heuriger Sirbu: Perched on the slopes of Kahlenberg, Heuriger Sirbu offers stunning views over Vienna and the surrounding vineyards. It’s an ideal spot for enjoying wine with traditional Austrian dishes.
- Must-Try Dish: Cheese and sausage platter paired with a fresh Grüner Veltliner.
- Location: Kahlenberger Str. 210, in the Döbling district.

Food Tours and Street Food Markets

To get a taste of Vienna’s diverse food culture, a food tour or visit to a street market is a fantastic way to sample a range of flavors and learn more about the city’s culinary traditions.

1. Vienna Food Tours

Vienna offers a variety of food tours that highlight the city’s famous dishes, unique ingredients, and local delicacies. Here are some popular options:

Vienna Naschmarkt Tour: The Naschmarkt is Vienna’s largest and most famous food market, with over 120 stalls offering everything from fresh produce and meats to international delicacies. Guided tours introduce visitors to the market’s best offerings, including Austrian cheeses, charcuterie, spices, and baked goods.
Taste of Vienna Tour: This tour takes you through Vienna’s historic center, sampling classic foods like Wiener Schnitzel, Sacher Torte, and local pastries while learning about the city’s culinary history.
Sweet Vienna Tour: Ideal for dessert lovers, this tour focuses on the city’s famous pastries and sweets, including strudels, tortes, and chocolates, along with visits to famous cafes like Café Demel.

2. Street Food Markets

Vienna’s food markets offer a vibrant mix of Austrian classics and international street food, allowing visitors to try different dishes in a lively atmosphere.

Naschmarkt: Located near Karlsplatz, Naschmarkt is a bustling food market that has been around since the 16th century. In addition to local produce, it features food stalls and small restaurants offering everything from Viennese delicacies to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fare.
- Must-Try Items: Austrian cheeses, cured meats, pastries, and fresh pretzels.
- Opening Hours: Open daily except Sundays, with Saturdays being the busiest.
Karmelitermarkt: Located in the trendy 2nd district, Karmelitermarkt is a smaller market with a mix of fresh produce, specialty shops, and food stalls. It’s popular with locals and features some excellent options for breakfast and brunch.
- Must-Try Items: Seasonal produce, pastries, and international street food.
- Opening Hours: Tuesdays through Saturdays, with weekends offering the widest variety.
Brunnenmarkt: Vienna’s longest street market, Brunnenmarkt in the multicultural 16th district is a great spot to find Middle Eastern, Turkish, and Balkan foods. It’s a hidden gem for those looking for international flavors alongside traditional Austrian items.
- Must-Try Items: Freshly baked bread, grilled meats, and spices.
- Opening Hours: Monday through Saturday, with a lively atmosphere on weekends.

Conclusion

Vienna’s culinary landscape is a treasure trove for food lovers, blending imperial history with local traditions and multicultural flavors. From the timeless classics of Wiener Schnitzel and Tafelspitz to the intimate experience of a Heuriger and the lively energy of street food markets, Vienna offers countless ways to indulge in its culinary delights.

Whether you’re sampling wine at a Heuriger, exploring the city’s food markets, or enjoying a traditional Austrian dinner, each culinary experience in Vienna is an invitation to savor the flavors and history that define this enchanting city. For anyone with a love of food and culture, Vienna promises an unforgettable feast for the senses.