Neighbourhood Bites: Discovering Vienna One Grätzel at a Time
Discovering the fantastic food scene that lies beyond the city’s famous architecture and culture
Vienna is a city that’s known for its grand architecture, coffee houses and musical heritage, but beyond its beauty lies a thriving food scene which is waiting to be explored.
With 23 districts, divided into neighbourhoods, which are referred to by locals as “Grätzel”, describing a small inner-city unit which is made up of a few streets. Each Grätzel offers its own personal flavour; from traditional Austrian classics with modern interpretations, to cosy Heuriger (wine taverns), each neighbourhood has its own dining character. Instead of asking yourself where should I eat in Vienna, why not explore the city one Grätzel at a time? Below are some of the best local restaurants, wine taverns and coffee spots worth adding to your itinerary.
Skoptik & Lohn
Located within Vienna’s 2nd district, Skoptik & Lohn is a popular dining spot with a modern take on traditional Viennese dining and food. The restaurant is as much about the atmosphere as the food, with a striking dining room with hand-painted walls by Otto Zitko that creates a distinct setting in Vienna. The Schnitzel is a popular favourite and raved about by many, whilst the cocktail menu makes it an ideal spot for an evening with drinks and dinner.
Where: Leopoldsgasse 17, 1020 Wien
Times: Opening hours are from 18:00- Midnight
Pomali
For something different, Pomali offers a relaxed and unhurried take on Viennese dining. It’s referred to as cosy, small and unhurried, which adds to its character. They prioritise accessible dining and service, high-quality food and dishes which are simple but unique.
Modern vegetable dishes are the majority of dishes available, but meat and fish alternatives can be served as well. With its welcoming atmosphere and more local feel, Pomali feels more like a neighbourhood rather than a tourist spot, with reasonable prices adding to the charm and allowing guests to explore the quieter side of Vienna.
Where: Marzstrafe 87, 1150 Wien
Times: 17:00- 23:00 (Monday- Friday)
Chez Bernard
For a taste of “Vienna meets Paris", head to Chez Bernard. Located within Hotel Motto, this rooftop dining restaurant sits beneath a glass dome, combining Parisian-style dishes with an elegant setting overlooking the city.
The menu is Parisian-inspired, but local Austrian dishes are still available, giving guests the choice between something different whilst still offering a taste of Vienna on the menu.
Where: Mariahilferstrasse 71A / Entrance: Schadekgasse 20, 1060 Vienna
Times: Monday- Friday, 07:00- 15:00, 17:30- 01:00 / Saturday- Sunday 08:00- 15:00, 17:30- 01:00
Reznicek
For those looking for traditional Viennese dishes, Reznicek is a Michelin-star, award-winning restaurant with the perfect plate for you. Located in Vienna’s 9th district, the restaurant serves traditional Viennese food, including their Beuschel, a classic Lung Ragout, which is considered the best in the city. The combination of warm atmosphere, great service and outstanding Austrian food and wine selection makes Reznicek a place worth visiting.
Where: Reznicekgasse 10, 1090 Wien
Times: Tuesday- Saturday, 17:00- 01:00
Café Braunerhof
A visit to Vienna wouldn't be complete without experiencing the legendary and UNESCO-recognised coffeehouse culture. Café Braunerhof is one of the city’s most historic coffeehouses and knows how to balance socialising and relaxation in one place.
Known for its coffee, people can enjoy catching up with friends here, as well as enjoying their own company and slowing down with a coffee. The café has been associated with Vienna’s cultural scene, with Austrian novelist and playwright Thomas Bernhard reported to be a daily visitor.
Where: Stallburggasse 2, 1010 Wien
Times: Daily, 08:00- 22:30
Buschenschank Fuhrgassl- Huber
For a true taste of Vienna’s wine culture, Buschenschank Fuhrgassl-Huber offers a traditional Heuriger experience within the city’s vineyards.
This traditional Heuriger has an excellent wine selection with wide-ranging food, buffet-style, on offer. Located on the outskirts of the city centre, the peaceful setting provides a glimpse into a more traditional side of Vienna, with the tavern’s connection between past and present being a key highlight and favourite for both locals and visitors.
Where: Agnesgasse 3, 1190 Wien
Times: 14:00- Midnight (Friday- Saturday), 14:00-23:00 (Tues, Weds, Thurs), 14:00-22:00 (Sunday).
Café Pruckel
In a city full of coffee houses, Café Pruckel offers something for design lovers. Serving traditional Viennese coffee and charm, it is a locals' favourite spot, with its distinctive architecture. The interiors date back to the 1950s and were designed by architect Oswald Haerdtl, who was a regular guest himself at the café. Vegan and vegetarian options are available, whilst live piano music features on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Where: Stubenring 24, 1010 Wien
Times: Daily, 08:30- 22:00
For more information: www.vienna.info
