15 Best Cafés in Vienna
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As the morning sun gently illuminates the cobblestone streets of Vienna, there’s a certain magic in the air – a sweet, rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting from the city’s cherished cafés. Having had the pleasure of indulging in countless delightful experiences across the Austrian capital, I am convinced that Vienna’s coffee culture isn’t just a mere tradition, it’s an art form. From the timeless elegance of centuries-old institutions to the modern allure of urban coffee houses, this article explores the must-visit cafés of Vienna, each with its own unique tale brewed in the heart of Europe’s coffee capital.
Café Central
Stepping into Café Central is like walking into a moment frozen in time. Having opened its doors in 1876, this café is a slice of history, boasting a client roster that once included the likes of Sigmund Freud and Leon Trotsky. The palatial architecture, with its towering ceilings and ornate details, complements the elegant ambiance. Yet, it’s not just the historical charm that draws people to Café Central, but the irresistible pastries and coffee, making it a must-visit location in Vienna.
The coffee menu is extensive, but the café’s Wiener Melange, a traditional Viennese cappuccino, stands out for its perfect balance of espresso and milk. Their pastry selection is equally impressive, with each delicacy presenting a fusion of classic Austrian and contemporary flavors. The marzipan-filled croissants and apple strudel, paired with a smooth Viennese roast, make for a heavenly combination.
Café Sperl
Classic Viennese coffee culture thrives at Café Sperl, a quaint café dating back to 1880. The worn red velvet benches, marble tabletops, and vintage billiards table are reminiscent of a bygone era, while the charming staff and convivial atmosphere provide a welcoming modern touch. Café Sperl’s time-honored reputation has made it a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.
The café is renowned for its Sperl-Torte, a delicious almond cake layered with raspberry and buttercream. However, the extensive menu also offers savory options, including traditional Austrian dishes such as goulash soup. A cup of its famously robust coffee, whether enjoyed inside amid the café’s nostalgic charm or outside under the sun, makes for an enchanting Viennese experience.
Café Hawelka
Café Hawelka, with its bohemian allure and artistic legacy, is one of Vienna’s most iconic coffee houses. Frequented by prominent artists and intellectuals in the 20th century, the café retains its distinctive character, with dim lighting and worn leather seating adding to the ambience. Every corner of this café feels steeped in stories and creativity.
For coffee connoisseurs, the special house coffee—strong, yet pleasantly smooth—is a must-try. However, what truly sets Café Hawelka apart is its legendary Buchteln, yeast rolls filled with plum jam, served warm and dusted with powdered sugar. The unique blend of history, art, and delectable cuisine at Café Hawelka promises an unforgettable experience.
Demel
Since 1786, Demel has been renowned as a purveyor of exquisite pastries, charming patrons with its opulent interiors and exceptional service. Once a supplier to the imperial court, this café-patisserie remains a stronghold of Viennese pastry art, with a prominent glass window displaying pastry chefs at work.
The coffee at Demel is impeccably brewed, but the true stars are the confections. The Sachertorte, a dense chocolate cake with apricot jam filling, is a standout, as is the apple strudel. With a diverse array of pastries that flawlessly balance sweetness and flavor, a visit to Demel promises a royal treat.
Café Landtmann
Serving Viennese coffee house culture since 1873, Café Landtmann is a beloved institution. Frequented by famous personalities like Marlene Dietrich and Sigmund Freud, the café continues to exude a classic elegance with its polished wood and green velvet upholstery.
From traditional coffee varieties to special creations, the coffee offerings are varied and exquisite. Equally impressive is the array of pastries, cakes, and strudels, the highlight being the Esterházy Torte, a delightful combination of almond meringue discs and cognac-infused buttercream. Whether you’re indulging in breakfast or a late-night treat, Café Landtmann’s culinary masterpieces are sure to impress.
Café Schwarzenberg
Café Schwarzenberg, established in 1861, is one of Vienna’s oldest coffee houses, serving as a meeting point for business people, artists, and tourists alike. The café’s old-world charm, embodied in its traditional furnishings and grand chandeliers, creates an environment that’s perfect for losing track of time over a cup of coffee.
The coffee at Café Schwarzenberg is a testament to Vienna’s rich coffee heritage, with the Wiener Melange and Einspänner deserving special mention. The café also takes pride in its delectable pastries, particularly the Viennese Apfelstrudel and the rich, chocolatey Sacher Torte. A visit to Café Schwarzenberg offers not only a taste of classic Viennese coffee, but also a window into the city’s history.
Aida Café-Konditorei
Aida Café-Konditorei is a chain of pink-themed coffee shops dotted throughout Vienna, instantly recognizable by its retro 1950s style signage. With over a century of history, Aida has become a cherished part of Vienna’s coffee house culture, maintaining a consistent commitment to quality in its pastries, cakes, and coffee.
Aida’s coffee, roasted in-house, presents an array of options from classic Viennese coffee to cappuccino. A must-try is the Punschkrapfen, a traditional Austrian pastry filled with cake crumbs, nougat chocolate, and a touch of rum. With its vintage appeal and mouthwatering selection of confections, Aida offers a unique twist on the traditional coffee house experience.
Café Prückel
With its mid-century charm, Café Prückel has been a fixture on Vienna’s coffee scene since 1903. Its distinct style, featuring curvaceous furnishings, brass fixtures, and checkerboard floors, is a perfect setting for coffee lovers seeking a slice of Vienna’s past.
The coffee selection is extensive, with the Franziskaner, a frothy blend of coffee and whipped cream, being a popular choice. Equally tempting are the pastries, from the Linzer Torte to the Gugelhupf. Café Prückel also hosts regular live piano evenings, combining Vienna’s love for coffee, sweets, and music in a truly nostalgic atmosphere.
Coffee Pirates
For a contemporary twist on Vienna’s traditional coffee culture, head to Coffee Pirates. This lively coffee shop is known for its expertly brewed specialty coffee, sourced from around the globe and roasted on site. The café’s modern, relaxed vibe makes it a popular spot among students and young professionals.
Offering a range of coffee brewing methods from espresso to French press, Coffee Pirates caters to all taste preferences. While coffee is the star here, the café also serves an assortment of freshly baked goods and sandwiches. The avocado toast, paired with a cup of expertly brewed filter coffee, makes for a perfect brunch.
Café Diglas
Founded in 1875, Café Diglas carries the torch of traditional Viennese coffee culture into the modern age. This café’s charm lies in its timeless elegance, underscored by its mirrored walls, vintage chandeliers, and maroon leather seats.
Café Diglas boasts an extensive coffee menu that will satisfy any coffee enthusiast. Its cakes and pastries, all made in-house, are equally tantalizing, with the fluffy cheese strudel being a customer favorite. Whether for a breakfast meeting or a leisurely afternoon coffee, Café Diglas is a quintessential Viennese experience.
Café Frauenhuber
Café Frauenhuber is Vienna’s oldest coffee house, with a rich history dating back to 1824. Known to have hosted performances by Mozart and Beethoven, the café offers a harmonious blend of history, culture, and culinary delights.
The coffee selection is wide, featuring everything from traditional Viennese coffees to trendy concoctions. The culinary highlight is the Mozart Torte, a luscious chocolate and marzipan creation named after the café’s famous patron. Enjoying a piece of this delicacy in the café’s historic atmosphere is a moment to savor.
Café Korb
Art and coffee blend beautifully at Café Korb, known for its Art Lounge designed by Austrian artist and actor, Otto Tausig. This vibrant café, established in 1904, offers a unique mix of tradition and modernity, with its iconic 1950s decor and rotating art exhibitions.
The coffee, from the classic Wiener Melange to the delightful cappuccino, is brewed to perfection. Café Korb’s unique Apple Strudel, served warm with a side of whipped cream, comes highly recommended. At Café Korb, patrons are treated not only to superb coffee and pastries, but also a feast for the eyes.
Balthasar Coffee Bar
Located in Vienna’s hip Leopoldstadt district, Balthasar Coffee Bar is a modern oasis for coffee enthusiasts. Its sleek design and minimalist decor offer a refreshing contrast to Vienna’s traditional coffee houses, while the carefully curated coffee menu speaks volumes about its commitment to quality.
Balthasar is renowned for its specialty coffee, sourced from top producers and skillfully roasted for the perfect cup. The café also offers a variety of pastries and light bites to accompany your coffee. Their pain au chocolat and an espresso make for a delightful combination, embodying Balthasar’s ethos of simplicity and excellence.
Café Jelinek
Stepping into Café Jelinek is like stepping back in time. This traditional café, established in 1910, charms with its cozy atmosphere, antique furniture, and shelves filled with books. It’s a perfect place for those seeking to experience Vienna’s coffee culture in its most authentic form.
From the renowned Wiener Melange to the comforting hot chocolate, the drinks at Café Jelinek are sure to satisfy. Be sure to try the Topfentorte, a creamy cheesecake that perfectly complements their warm beverages. Whether you’re settling in for a long read or a quiet chat, Café Jelinek offers a comforting retreat.
Café Mozart
Café Mozart, in the heart of Vienna, is an integral part of the city’s café scene. Operating since 1794, this café impresses with its classy interiors, offering views of the State Opera House. It was also featured in the classic film “The Third Man.”
The café serves a range of Viennese coffees and teas, but the true highlight is their dessert menu, especially the Powidl-Pofesen, a traditional plum jam-filled dessert. Paired with their excellent coffee, it provides a delicious end to a day of exploring Vienna. Café Mozart, with its heritage and charm, is a testament to Vienna’s enduring love affair with coffee.
