A Foodie’s Guide to Vienna’s Traditional Cuisine

Austria, Vienna

Vienna, the city of music and art, is also a food lover’s paradise.

Known for its rich culinary history and traditional dishes, Vienna offers a diverse range of culinary delights that will satisfy even the most discerning of foodies.

Wiener Schnitzel - The King of Viennese Cuisine

No visit to Vienna would be complete without trying the city’s most famous dish – the Wiener Schnitzel. This delicious, crispy breaded veal cutlet is a true Viennese classic and can be found on the menu of almost every traditional restaurant in the city.

The key to a great Wiener Schnitzel is in the quality of the veal and the thinness of the cutlet. And if you’re wondering how to tell if a Schnitzel is authentic, just remember the rule of thumb: “The bigger the Schnitzel, the less authentic it is.”

For a true Wiener Schnitzel experience, head to Plachutta, a traditional Viennese restaurant that has been serving up Schnitzel for over 100 years. Their Schnitzel is so good that even Arnold Schwarzenegger is a fan!

Tafelspitz - The Emperor's Favorite

Another traditional Viennese dish that should not be missed is Tafelspitz. This boiled beef dish is considered to be the “Emperor’s Favorite” and is often served with a variety of side dishes, including roast potatoes, lingonberry jam, and creamed spinach.

The best place to try Tafelspitz is at Figlmüller, a family-run restaurant that has been serving the dish for over 100 years. Their Tafelspitz is cooked to perfection and is sure to leave you feeling like royalty.

Apfelstrudel - The Sweet Ending

No Viennese meal would be complete without a sweet ending, and what better way to finish off your culinary journey than with a slice of Apfelstrudel? This delicious apple-filled pastry is a true Viennese classic and can be found in almost every traditional coffee house in the city.

For a truly authentic Apfelstrudel experience, head to Demel, a Viennese institution that has been serving pastries and cakes since 1786. Their Apfelstrudel is so good that it’s rumored to have been a favorite of Emperor Franz Joseph himself.

Vienna’s traditional cuisine is a true taste of history and a must-try for any food lover. From the crispy Wiener Schnitzel to the comforting Tafelspitz and the sweet Apfelstrudel, Vienna offers a diverse range of culinary delights that will satisfy even the most discerning of palates. So, put on your stretchy pants, and head to Vienna for a culinary adventure you’ll never forget!

And remember, whenever you need a break from all that eating, you can always take a walk and enjoy the beautiful architecture and culture of the city.