Quick answers — eating in Vienna
- Best restaurant overall
- Steirereck im Stadtpark
- Best value
- Gasthaus CS (€40-60 | $45-65)
- Strongest cuisines
- German & Austrian, Modern European, Vegetarian & plant-based
- Dishes to try
- Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, Sachertorte, Apfelstrudel
- Booking window
- For two and three-starred restaurants, book at least 2-4 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Online booking systems are common and convenient.
Booking several weeks or months in advance is essential for top-tier establishments. Dress codes typically range from smart casual to formal, favoring elegance. Tipping around 10-15% is customary for good service. Dinner usually commences between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM, often concluding around 10:30 PM.
German & Austrian
Best German and Austrian restaurants in Vienna
German-speaking Europe hides a lot of quiet fine dining: precise, produce-led cooking in small rooms, alongside the beer halls everyone already knows.
Steirereck im Stadtpark
Two MICHELIN StarsModern Austrian · Stadtpark · €225-295 | $245-320
Heinz Reitbauer
Steirereck offers an extraordinary culinary journey through Austrian produce, reinterpreted with precision and artistry. Located in a striking contemporary pavilion within Stadtpark, the experience is both elegant and deeply rooted in regional flavors. Dishes often feature rare ingredients and unexpected textures, served with impeccable, knowledgeable service.
Order: Char Roe from Saibling with Dill, Cucumber and Lemon; 'Milk Pig' with Celery, Apple and Walnuts
Pramerl & the Wolf
One MICHELIN StarModern Austrian · Alsergrund · €135-170 | $145-185
Wolfgang Zankl
This intimate and unpretentious restaurant delivers bold, contemporary Austrian cuisine with a focus on exceptional ingredients and innovative pairings. The tasting menu is a concise exploration of seasonal produce and regional flavors, executed with precision and flair. The cozy atmosphere encourages a relaxed yet refined dining experience.
Order: Char with Celeriac, Apple and Walnut; Venison with Red Cabbage, Juniper and Pear
OPUS Restaurant
One MICHELIN StarModern Austrian · Innere Stadt · €125-160 | $135-175
Marco Barth
Located within the historic Hotel Imperial, OPUS offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on modern Austrian cuisine. Chef Barth reinterprets classic dishes using refined techniques and high-quality seasonal ingredients, presented in an elegant Art Nouveau setting. The impeccable service enhances the luxurious ambiance.
Order: Wiener Schnitzel vom Kalb (veal schnitzel); Imperial Duck with Cherry and Red Cabbage
Konstantin Filippou
Two MICHELIN StarsMediterranean-Austrian · Innere Stadt · €225-275 | $245-300
Konstantin Filippou
Konstantin Filippou’s namesake restaurant masterfully blends Austrian precision with Mediterranean vibrancy, reflecting his Greek-Austrian heritage. The refined, minimalist setting allows the intensely flavorful and exquisitely presented dishes to shine. Expect a dynamic tasting menu that highlights seasonal produce and exceptional seafood, executed with distinct culinary vision.
Order: Langoustine with Black Truffle, Celeriac and Hazelnuts; Lamb with Artichoke, Olive and Rosemary
Mraz & Sohn
Two MICHELIN StarsModern Austrian · Brigittenau · €195-245 | $210-265
Markus Mraz
Mraz & Sohn, a family-run establishment, offers an avant-garde take on Austrian cuisine, characterized by playful presentations and bold flavor combinations. The atmosphere is vibrant and unique, matching the unconventional and highly creative dishes. It's a culinary adventure that challenges expectations while remaining deeply rooted in quality ingredients.
Order: Grilled Octopus with Black Pudding, Potato and Paprika; Pigeon with Foie Gras, Apple and Celery
Gasthaus CS
Bib GourmandAustrian · Penzing · €40-60 | $45-65
Christian Csencsics
Gasthaus CS provides excellent traditional Austrian cooking with a contemporary touch, offering exceptional value. The menu features classic dishes prepared with high-quality ingredients and meticulous execution in a relaxed, inviting setting. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy authentic Viennese flavors without the formality of fine dining.
Order: Wiener Schnitzel; Zwiebelrostbraten (roasted beef with onions)
Bros. (Bros. Restaurant)
MICHELIN SelectedAustrian-Mediterranean · Innere Stadt · €90-120 | $100-130
Philip and Robert Bros.
Bros. is an exciting addition to Vienna's culinary landscape, offering modern and creative dishes with a blend of Austrian and Mediterranean influences. The restaurant is known for its intimate ambiance and a tasting menu that changes frequently to showcase seasonal ingredients. Expect thoughtful compositions and a fresh approach.
Order: Artichoke with Black Garlic and Almond; Duck Breast with Plum and Szechuan Pepper
Modern European
Best modern European restaurants in Vienna
Modern European is the catch-all for kitchens that borrow technique from France, produce from their own region and ideas from everywhere — usually tasting-menu only.
Silvio Nickol Gourmet Restaurant
Two MICHELIN StarsModern European · Innere Stadt · €245-295 | $265-320
Silvio Nickol
Within the opulent Palais Coburg, Silvio Nickol presents an avant-garde approach to fine dining. His tasting menus are a progression of technically brilliant and intensely flavored dishes, characterized by creative combinations and stunning visual appeal. The atmosphere is luxurious and refined, promising an unforgettable gastronomic event.
Order: Langoustine with Yuzu, Cucumber and Seaweed; Pigeon with Fermented Garlic, Cherry and Almond
Aend
Two MICHELIN StarsContemporary · Mariahilf · €210-250 | $230-270
Fabian Günzel
Aend offers an inventive and sophisticated culinary experience, focusing on high-quality ingredients and a meticulous presentation. Chef Günzel’s dishes are thoughtful, often surprising, and executed with finesse in a sleek, minimalist setting. The tasting menu takes diners on a journey of nuanced flavors and textures, reflecting a modern approach to European cuisine.
Order: Dry-aged Duck with Carrot, Orange and Pepper; Pike Perch with Kohlrabi, Buttermilk and Dill
Vegetarian & plant-based
Best vegetarian and plant-based restaurants in Vienna
Vegetable-led tasting menus are no longer a side option. These kitchens build whole menus from produce, and most will happily go fully vegan with notice.
Tian
One MICHELIN StarVegetarian · Landstraße · €145-185 | $160-200
Paul Ivić
Tian redefines vegetarian cuisine, elevating vegetables and plant-based ingredients to the star of the plate with extraordinary creativity and depth of flavor. Chef Ivić uses biodynamic produce, often from their own garden, to craft vibrant and complex dishes. The elegant yet relaxed ambiance complements the innovative, sustainable dining experience.
Order: Carrot with Sea Buckthorn, Calendula and Pine Nuts; Beetroot with Blackcurrant, Horseradish and Buckwheat
Budget
Where to eat cheaply in Vienna
Bitzinger Wurstelstand Albertina
A classic Viennese Würstelstand offering delicious sausages like Käsekrainer and Bratwurst, served with mustard and a Kaisersemmel. Perfect for a quick, authentic street food experience. Expect to pay around €5-8.
Neni am Naschmarkt
Located at the vibrant Naschmarkt, Neni serves flavorful Middle Eastern and Israeli cuisine, famous for its sharing plates like hummus, falafel, and shakshuka. It's lively and great for a casual meal. Main dishes typically range from €12-20.
Figlmüller (Wollzeile)
Renowned for its 'Schnitzel the size of a wagon wheel,' Figlmüller offers the quintessential Viennese Schnitzel experience in a bustling, traditional setting. It's crispy, thin, and delicious – a must-try. Schnitzels are around €18-25.
Mochi
A popular spot for contemporary Japanese cuisine, Mochi offers excellent sushi, sashimi, and innovative Asian-fusion dishes. It's stylish and busy, perfect for a modern, flavorful meal without breaking the bank. Expect to pay €15-30 for main dishes or a selection of rolls.
Glacis Beisl
Tucked away in the MuseumsQuartier, Glacis Beisl offers traditional Austrian comfort food with a charming garden setting. Dishes are hearty and authentic, from Goulash to Tafelspitz. Main courses typically cost €14-25.
Local dishes
What to eat in Vienna
Wiener Schnitzel
A quintessential Viennese dish, this is a thin, pan-fried, breaded veal cutlet. It's traditionally served with lemon wedges and a side of potato salad or lingonberry jam. Its crispy exterior and tender interior make it a beloved classic. Enjoy it at Figlmüller, famous for its enormous schnitzels.
Tafelspitz
Emperor Franz Joseph I's favorite dish, Tafelspitz is boiled beef simmered with root vegetables and spices. It's typically served with horseradish, chive sauce, and creamed spinach. The broth is often served as a starter, followed by the tender meat. Plachutta Wollzeile specializes in this traditional dish.
Sachertorte
An iconic chocolate cake, the Sachertorte features dense chocolate sponge cake with a thin layer of apricot jam, coated in dark chocolate icing. It's traditionally served with unsweetened whipped cream. Its rich flavor and elegant presentation make it a must-try. The original can be savored at Hotel Sacher Wien.
Apfelstrudel
This delightful pastry consists of thin, flaky dough wrapped around a filling of grated apples, cinnamon, sugar, and sometimes raisins. It's baked until golden and often served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, vanilla sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Café Central offers an excellent version.
Kaiserschmarrn
A fluffy, caramelized shredded pancake, Kaiserschmarrn is a sweet dish often served as a dessert or a substantial main course. It's made from flour, eggs, sugar, and milk, cooked in butter, torn into pieces, and then caramelized. It's typically accompanied by apple sauce or plum compote. Try it at Demel.
Goulash
While a Hungarian invention, Viennese Goulash has its own distinct character. It's a rich, hearty stew typically made with tender beef, onions, paprika, and caraway seeds, served with a Semmelknödel (bread dumpling) or potatoes. It's less spicy than its Hungarian counterpart. Reinthaler's Beisl serves a classic version.
Melange
The quintessential Viennese coffee house drink, a Melange is similar to a cappuccino. It consists of half coffee (usually brewed in a drip machine) and half hot milk, topped with milk froth. It's often served in a large cup with a glass of water on the side. Café Sperl is an ideal spot to enjoy one.
Brettljause
A traditional Austrian cold platter, particularly popular at Heurigers (wine taverns). It features an assortment of cured meats, various cheeses like Liptauer (a spicy cheese spread), pickles, hard-boiled eggs, and fresh bread. It's a perfect accompaniment to local wine. Enjoy it at a Grinzing Heuriger like Wieninger am Nussberg.
How to book a table in Vienna
- · For two and three-starred restaurants, book at least 2-4 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Online booking systems are common and convenient.
- · Many top restaurants require a credit card guarantee or a non-refundable deposit for tasting menus, particularly for larger groups or peak times. Check cancellation policies carefully.
- · Consider booking lunch menus at starred establishments; they often offer a similar quality experience at a significantly lower price point, making fine dining more accessible.
- · Be punctual for your reservation, as no-show policies can be strict. Inform the restaurant immediately if you anticipate being late, or if you need to cancel.
FAQ
Vienna restaurant questions travellers ask
What is the best restaurant in Vienna?
Steirereck im Stadtpark in Stadtpark is the benchmark table — Modern Austrian, led by Heinz Reitbauer, two michelin stars, around €225-295 | $245-320 per person. Order the Char Roe from Saibling with Dill, Cucumber and Lemon; 'Milk Pig' with Celery, Apple and Walnuts
Where is the best German and Austrian restaurant in Vienna?
Steirereck im Stadtpark in Stadtpark is the German and Austrian table to book in Vienna (€225-295 | $245-320 per person). Other strong options: Pramerl & the Wolf, OPUS Restaurant, Konstantin Filippou.
Where is the best modern European restaurant in Vienna?
Silvio Nickol Gourmet Restaurant in Innere Stadt is the modern European table to book in Vienna (€245-295 | $265-320 per person). Other strong options: Aend.
Where is the best vegetarian and plant-based restaurant in Vienna?
Tian in Landstraße is the vegetarian and plant-based table to book in Vienna (€145-185 | $160-200 per person).
Where can I eat well in Vienna without spending a fortune?
Gasthaus CS is the best-value table on this list at roughly €40-60 | $45-65 per person. Beyond fine dining, locals point to Bitzinger Wurstelstand Albertina, Neni am Naschmarkt, Figlmüller (Wollzeile).
How far in advance should I book restaurants in Vienna?
For two and three-starred restaurants, book at least 2-4 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Online booking systems are common and convenient. Many top restaurants require a credit card guarantee or a non-refundable deposit for tasting menus, particularly for larger groups or peak times. Check cancellation policies carefully.
What food is Vienna famous for?
Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, Sachertorte, Apfelstrudel, Kaiserschmarrn — the dishes most worth eating where they come from. A quintessential Viennese dish, this is a thin, pan-fried, breaded veal cutlet. It's traditionally served with lemon wedges and a side of potato salad or lingonberry jam. Its crispy exterior and tender interior make it a beloved classic. Enjoy it at Figlmüller, famous for its enormous schnitzels.
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