Signature Dishes: Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz (beef boiled), and Apfelstrudel
Best Food Neighborhood: Mariahilfer Straße in Vienna for a mix of international and local cuisine
Average Meal Cost: €15-€20 for lunch; €30-€40 for dinner at mid-range restaurants
Food Market Name: Naschmarkt, the largest open-air market in Austria offering diverse culinary delights
Must-Try Drink: Heuriger (local wine taverns), especially Grüner Veltliner or Riesling
Must-Try Dishes
Vienna is renowned for its Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal cutlet that is often served with lemon slices and parsley. Tafelspitz, another culinary gem of Austria, consists of boiled beef accompanied by horseradish, apple sauce, and chives, typically enjoyed in traditional Viennese restaurants. No visit to Oesterreich would be complete without tasting Apfelstrudel, a sweet pastry filled with spiced apples and served warm with vanilla sauce or ice cream.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to experience the full spectrum of Oesterreich's food scene is during late spring (April to June) when many restaurants debut their seasonal menus featuring fresh ingredients from local farmers, or in autumn (September to November), where hearty dishes and festive wine selections dominate.
3 Insider Tips
Explore the Naschmarkt for a taste of authentic Oesterreich cuisine with over 140 stalls selling everything from exotic fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts.
Participate in a Heurigen tour to experience firsthand how Austrian wine is made, paired beautifully with local cheeses and sausages.
Order the daily special (Tagesgäste) at casual eateries for an affordable yet satisfying meal that often features seasonal produce.