Top 10 Foods to Try in Vienna (And Where to Find Them!)

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10 Must-Try Foods to Try in Vienna (And Where to Find Them!)

When exploring a new city or country, travel and eating go hand in hand. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller to Vienna, figuring out what to eat and where can be a challenge, so let us simplify it for you.

1. Wiener Schnitzel

It’s one of those classic traditional foods that perfectly captures the essence of Viennese cuisine.

Typically served with a slice of lemon and a side of potato salad or parsley potatoes, the dish offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavours. Sometimes, it’s accompanied by French fries or even a simple salad to balance the richness of the schnitzel.

2. Sachertorte

The original recipe for Sachertorte features a rich chocolate sponge cake layered with a thin layer of apricot jam, which adds a subtle tanginess that perfectly balances the sweetness of the chocolate. The cake is topped with glossy chocolate icing.

Often served with a dollop of whipped cream, it’s an absolute delight for those with a sweet tooth!

For an authentic Sachertorte experience, head to Café Sacher, located in the Hotel Sacher – a luxury stay that complements the cake’s rich history and flavour.

3. Apfelstrudel

It’s a staple in many Viennese coffee shops, where you can enjoy a slice alongside a cup of rich, aromatic coffee. 

As one of the best things to savour in the Austrian capital, the Apfelstrudel offers a comforting taste of traditional Viennese baking.

4. Tafelspitz

This main dish consists of slow-cooked beef simmered with various root vegetables. This creates a rich and flavourful broth. 

Often associated with Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I, Tafelspitz has a long history as a favourite among the aristocracy. 

It’s traditionally served with apple horseradish, chive sauce, and crispy roasted potatoes.

5. Kaiserschmarrn (Shredded Pancake)

It consists of a light, fluffy pancake that is shredded and caramelised. It’s then served with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a side of fruit compote. Rum-soaked raisins are often added to the batter for extra flavour. 

While often enjoyed in traditional cafés, you can also find this dish at street vendors on the Naschmarkt, a must-visit in any Vienna food guide.

6. Erdäpfelsalat (Potato Salad)

This dish is a classic in traditional restaurants across Vienna and is commonly served as a side to complement main dishes like Wiener Schnitzel or Tafelspitz. 

7. Wiener Würstel (Viennese Sausage)

They’re typically served with mustard, ketchup, and freshly grated horseradish.

8. Kaspressknödel (Cheese Dumplings)

Much like the Polish variant of dumplings (pierogi), Kaspressknödel offer a great way to experience local dumpling traditions.

9. Fiakergulasch

10. Palatschinken

Beyond the Top 10: Other Food to Try

If you have more time (or appetite) to explore Vienna’s food scene, take advantage of the additional Viennese dishes below. They’ll give you a deeper taste of Vienna’s rich culinary traditions and local flavours:

• Käsekrainer: A popular choice among locals, this cheese-filled sausage adds a delicious twist to the traditional sausage experience.

• Kaisersemmel: This crusty bread roll is a favourite for breakfast or a light snack, often enjoyed with butter or cheese.

• Austrian Wine: Explore local wine taverns where you can enjoy a glass of Austrian Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing Grüner Veltliner. These white wines perfectly complement Vienna’s culinary offerings.

• Leberkäse: Often referred to as “Austrian meatloaf,” Leberkäse is a savoury, meat-filled dish that’s a great quick bite.

• Knödel: These hearty dumplings are a versatile side dish, usually served with meat dishes or in soups.

• Tiroler Gröstl: A traditional Tyrolean dish made from leftover roast meat, potatoes, and onions, all fried together for a satisfying meal.

• Brettljause: This Austrian wooden board is loaded with an assortment of cold meat, cheeses, pickles, and bread – perfect for a hearty snack or light meal.

• Powidltascherl: These delicious plum jam turnovers are filled with sweet plum jam and make for a perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Tips for Foodies in Vienna

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your foodie journey in the Austrian capital:

• Tipping Etiquette: Tipping around 5-10% is appreciated in Vienna, though it’s not obligatory. When paying by card, inform the staff of the total amount you want to pay, including the tip. For example, if your bill is €45 and you want to leave a €5 tip, let them know you want to pay €50.

• Explore Street Food and Markets: For a true taste of local cuisine, don’t miss the street food stalls at Naschmarkt and other local markets. These are excellent places to sample quick bites like Langos or Wiener Würstel.

• Join a Food Tour: Food tours are one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Vienna’s culinary scene. They typically include visits to multiple eateries and markets, with the added benefit of a local guide to share insights and recommendations. We’ve listed a few recommended food tours in the next section.

• Book Restaurants in Advance: It’s wise to make reservations ahead of time for popular spots and fine dining. This ensures you get a table at your desired venue and helps avoid long waits.

Great Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Vienna

Below are five highly-rated food tours and cooking classes so you can really get into Vienna’s food scene! We’ve picked them as a starting point for your foodie adventures:

FAQs: Vienna Food

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