Cafe Sacher Vienna sacher cake

A Foodie’s Guide to Vienna: Must-Try Spots You Can’t Miss

Dear travelers,

I’ve already shared the must-see landmarks, tips on how to get to Vienna, where to stay, which Christmas markets to visit and even the spots for the best cocktails in town. But I can’t let you stay hungry! Let me share the amazing places I’ve visited for some delicious food in Vienna.

1. The Iconic Viennese Experience

Must-Try Iconic Viennese Cafés and Desserts

If there’s one thing Vienna is known for, it’s its historic coffee houses. These aren’t just places to grab a quick cup of coffee—they’re institutions that have been around for centuries. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, these cafés were gathering places for writers, artists, and thinkers. Notable figures like Sigmund Freud, Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and Franz Kafka frequented coffee houses to work, socialize, or debate. A typical coffee house serves a variety of coffee drinks, with the Melange (similar to a cappuccino) being the most iconic.

Café Sacher

  • What’s Special: Café Sacher is the birthplace of the famous Sachertorte, a dense chocolate cake layered with apricot jam and covered in glossy chocolate icing.
  • Why I Love It: The moment you walk in, it feels like you’ve traveled back in time. Everything from the red velvet chairs to the chandeliers screams elegance. The Sachertorte is, of course, the highlight.
  • What to Try: A slice of Sachertorte paired with a cup of Viennese Melange (a creamy coffee similar to a cappuccino).
  • Pro Tip: There’s often a line, so go early in the day to beat the crowds.
Cafe Sacher Vienna sacher cake

Café Demel

  • What’s Special: Founded in 1786, this café is another iconic spot famous for its cakes and pastries. It once served as the court confectioner for the Austrian royal family. Also, there is a rivalry between Café Sacher and Demel over the rights to the original Sachertorte. The story began in 1832 when Franz Sacher created the cake. His son, Eduard, perfected it while working at Demel before founding the Hotel Sacher, where the cake became a signature dish. In the 1950s, a legal battle erupted between the two establishments over who could claim the “original” recipe. The feud ended in 1963 with a settlement: Hotel Sacher was granted the title “Original Sachertorte” (featuring two layers of apricot jam) and Demel sells theirs as the “Eduard-Sacher-Torte” (with one jam layer).
  • Why I Love It: The desserts at Demel aren’t just delicious—they’re works of art. You can even watch the pastry chefs at work through a glass window.
  • What to Try: Sacher, of course. I like it more here than in Café Sacher.
  • Pro Tip: Demel is a great alternative to Café Sacher if you’re short on time or want to try a wider variety of cakes.
Sacher cake Demel Vienna
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Café Gerstner

What’s Special: Open since 1847, it’s one of the city’s oldest patisseries and even served Emperor Franz Joseph I. This place blends luxury with a cozy vibe.

Why I Love It: Walking into Café Gerstner feels like stepping into a more glamorous time. It’s fancy without being intimidating, and the pastries? Absolutely unforgettable. Their famous Sisi Cake is a must-try.

What to Try: You have to try the Sisi Cake, named after the beloved Empress Elisabeth (“Sisi”). It’s a rich marzipan and raspberry jam cake topped with a smooth layer of white fondant—it’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Pair it with a cup of their house coffee.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a quieter experience, head upstairs to the elegant salon. 

Cafe Gerstner Sisi cake Vienna

2. Unique Dining Spots

For a Fun and Modern Twist: The Rollercoaster Restaurant

If you’re seeking something more unconventional, the Rollercoaster Restaurant is an experience you won’t want to miss. This unique dining spot combines two of my favorite things: food and fun.

The Rollercoaster Restaurant

  • What’s Special: Your food arrives at your table via miniature rollercoaster tracks. Yes, it’s as fun as it sounds!
  • Why I Love It: The whole concept is just so fun, especially if you’re traveling with kids or a group of friends.
  • Pro Tip: It tends to get pretty crowded, especially on weekends, so making a reservation is a good idea to skip the wait. Personally, I wasn’t too impressed with the food, so I’d suggest sticking to snacks and a drink to enjoy the fun atmosphere 
Rollercoaster Restaurant Vienna

3. Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Exploring Freyja, Ramasuri, and Ulrich – The Foodie’s Local Guide

Vienna has so many hidden gems and local spots that might not be as famous as Café Sacher or Demel, but they are equally deserving of attention. Here are three of my favorites.

Freyja

  • Why Go: Freyja is a modern bakery that takes traditional Viennese pastry-making to the next level. Known for its innovative creations and Scandinavian-inspired minimalist design, it’s the perfect spot for breakfast or a sweet snack.
  • Pro Tip: If you’re in the mood for something a little different, try their seasonal specials, such as a pumpkin-flavored pastry in the fall.

Ramasuri

  • Why Go: A local favorite for breakfast or brunch, Ramasuri is a cozy and modern restaurant offering a menu full of fresh, vibrant dishes with a focus on local ingredients.
  • The Experience: The café’s laid-back vibe makes it perfect for a relaxed morning meal. Try their eggs Benedict.
  • Pro Tip: The outdoor seating is ideal for a sunny day, so if you can, enjoy your brunch in the fresh air.
Ramasuri Vienna

 Ulrich

  • Why Go: A stylish, modern restaurant with a creative menu that changes with the seasons.
  • The Experience: The interior is chic and minimalistic, and the menu is always full of surprises. Whether you go for a meat dish or a vegetarian option, Ulrich’s attention to flavor and presentation will leave you impressed.
  • Pro Tip: I loved the shakshouka, which is eggs cooked in tomato sauce. Must try!
Ulrich Vienna

If you’re planning a trip to Vienna and love good food, these spots are a must! Each one has something special to offer, and trust me—your taste buds will be very happy!

Truly yours,

The Creation of Us