Vienna is a paradise for food lovers. From classic Viennese cuisine to modern gastronomy, the Austrian capital offers an incredible culinary experience for every visitor. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or cozy taverns, Vienna’s restaurant scene is diverse, flavorful, and steeped in tradition. This guide highlights the best restaurants in Vienna and the must-try local dishes that define Austrian culture.
Where to Eat in Vienna: Top Restaurant Picks
1. Plachutta Wollzeile
Cuisine: Traditional Austrian
Location: Wollzeile 38, 1010 Wien
Known for its legendary Tafelspitz (boiled beef), Plachutta is a staple of Viennese dining. The elegant interior and expert service make it ideal for experiencing authentic Austrian cuisine.
Website: https://www.plachutta.at
2. Figlmüller Bäckerstraße
Cuisine: Viennese
Location: Bäckerstraße 6, 1010 Wien
Famous for the Wiener Schnitzel, Figlmüller serves one of the largest and most iconic schnitzels in Vienna. The family-owned restaurant has been a favorite since 1905.
Website: https://figlmueller.at
3. Gasthaus Pöschl
Cuisine: Classic Viennese
Location: Weihburggasse 17, 1010 Wien
A local favorite, Gasthaus Pöschl serves hearty, homemade dishes like Gulasch and Käsespätzle in a charming, rustic setting.
4. Steirereck im Stadtpark
Cuisine: Fine Dining, Modern Austrian
Location: Am Heumarkt 2A, 1030 Wien
Ranked among the world’s best restaurants, Steirereck offers a modern take on Austrian flavors in a stunning glass pavilion inside Stadtpark.
Website: https://www.steirereck.at
5. Naschmarkt Restaurants
Cuisine: International & Austrian
Location: Naschmarkt, 1060 Wien
Vienna’s Naschmarkt is not just a market but also a hub of multicultural food. From local taverns to Middle Eastern eateries, you’ll find something for every taste.
Must-Try Viennese Foods
Wiener Schnitzel
Austria’s national dish is a thin, breaded veal or pork cutlet fried to golden perfection. Usually served with potato salad or parsley potatoes.
Tafelspitz
Boiled beef served with horseradish, apple sauce, and vegetables. Emperor Franz Joseph’s favorite.
Sachertorte
This rich chocolate cake with apricot jam is best enjoyed at Café Sacher, the birthplace of this dessert.
Apfelstrudel
A traditional Austrian pastry filled with spiced apples and raisins, often served with whipped cream or vanilla sauce.
Kaiserschmarrn
Shredded pancakes sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with fruit compote—comfort food at its best.
Gulasch
Originally Hungarian, this hearty stew is a Vienna staple, especially in colder months.
Dining Tips for Tourists in Vienna
- Reservations: Recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
- Tipping: Around 5–10% is standard in Austria.
- Opening Hours: Many restaurants close in the afternoon (14:00–17:00) before dinner service begins.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re tasting a schnitzel in a 100-year-old tavern or indulging in gourmet cuisine overlooking the Danube, Vienna’s restaurants offer a memorable and delicious journey through Austrian culture. Exploring local food is one of the best ways to experience Vienna—and each bite tells a story of the city’s rich culinary heritage.
