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1. Viennese Apfelstrudel: Austria’s Beloved Apple Pastry
Apfelstrudel, a delightful pastry filled with spiced apples, cinnamon, sugar, and raisins, is wholeheartedly embraced by Austria as one of its iconic national foods. Though its origins are debated, Austria has truly made this sweet and crusty dessert its own. The aroma of Apfelstrudel fresh from the oven is simply irresistible, making it a beloved treat available throughout the country, perfect for a quick bite of authentic Austrian street food.
Where to eat: Indulge in this classic at Cafe Mozart, Albertinaplatz 2, Vienna.
2. Wiener Schnitzel: Austria’s Signature Fried Cutlet
Wiener Schnitzel is perhaps the most recognizable dish in Austrian cuisine. Known as the Vienna Schnitzel, this delectable fried cutlet is a staple Austrian national food, served with fried potatoes, sour cream, and onions. You can find this iconic dish everywhere, from street food stalls to upscale restaurants, making it a versatile option for both casual lunches and gourmet dining experiences.
Where to eat: Experience the best at Figlmuller, Wollzeile 5, Vienna.
3. Vienna Sausage: A Staple of Austrian Culinary Heritage
When searching for authentic Austrian food, Vienna sausage is a must-try. The use of meats is prevalent in Eastern European cuisine, and the sausage is a beloved staple in Austria. This parboiled sausage, made from a blend of pork and beef, is smoked at low temperatures, then used in main dishes or simply fried and served in a hot bun.
Where to eat: Savor the flavor at Bitzinger Wurstelstand Albertina, Augustinerstrasse 1, Vienna.
4. Knödel: Austria’s Flavorful Dumplings
Knödel, a popular dumpling in Eastern Europe, has been wholeheartedly embraced by Austria, with Austrians crafting it into something truly special. Counted among the best Austrian foods and snacks, Knödel can be both sweet and savory. Savory Knödel are served as side dishes or meatballs in soups, while sweet Knödel often feature plums.
Where to eat: Explore the variety at Knoedel Manufaktur, Josefstaedter Strasse 89, Vienna.
5. Tafelspitz: Austria’s Classic Boiled Beef Dish
Tafelspitz is a traditional Austrian food that you’ll find as a main course in many restaurants. This classic dish consists of beef boiled in a broth of vegetables and spices. The meat is typically served with minced apples and horseradish or sour cream with chives, making for a hearty and filling meal with rustic origins.
Where to eat: Enjoy this traditional dish at Plachutta Wollzeile, Wollzeile 38, Vienna.
6. Tiroler Gröstl: A Heartwarming Taste of the Austrian Alps
Tiroler Gröstl is the ultimate comfort food, particularly common in the Austrian Alps. This simple yet decadent dish features pan-fried potatoes, chopped beef or pork, butter, and onion. Often topped with a fried egg, it’s a must-try for anyone craving classic traditional Austrian food.
Where to eat: Relish this hearty dish at Gasthof Weisses Rossl, Kiebachgasse 8, Innsbruck.
7. Käsespätzle: Austria’s Cheesy Noodle Delight
Käsespätzle is Austria’s delightful version of macaroni and cheese, perfect for warming up on a chilly day in the mountains. These soft egg noodles come in various shapes and are served with a generous helping of cheese, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.
Where to eat: Find this cheesy delight at Gasthaus Seibl, Oberhaggen 1, Lochau, Vorarlberg.
8. Potato Gulasch: A Flavorful and Hearty Austrian Stew
The hearty and spicy Gulasch, originally from Hungary, has become a long-standing part of Austrian food culture. Potato Gulasch is one of the most popular Austrian dishes, made with vegetables like potatoes, onions, bell pepper, and sausages, seasoned with hot paprika. A bowl of Gulasch is best enjoyed with toasted bread.
Where to eat: Experience this flavorful stew at Gulaschmuseum, Schulerstrasse, Vienna.
9. Kaiserschmarrn: Austria’s Royal Shredded Pancakes
Kaiserschmarrn, meaning “Emperor’s Mess,” is a dish truly fit for royalty. These fluffy shredded pancakes are served as a dessert or a meal, topped with jams, sweet sauces, fruit compotes, and caramelized dry fruits. Originating in the 19th century, it has become a beloved part of traditional Austrian cuisine.
Where to eat: Indulge in this sweet treat at Cafe Central, Herrengasse 14, Vienna.
10. Buchteln: Austria’s Sweet and Spongy Baked Buns
Buchteln, with Bohemian influences, have become a part of Austrian everyday food. These delicious baked buns are filled with jam, ground poppy, or sweet curds. The soft buns have a browned, crunchy top and are airy and spongy inside due to the yeast bread. They are often served as dessert with vanilla sauce or simply sugared on top.
Where to eat: Enjoy these sweet buns at Cafe Hawelka, Dorotheergasse 6, Vienna.
11. Brettljause: Austria’s Rustic Snack Board
Brettljause, a delightful Austrian snack, consists of bread, meat, pickled vegetables, and spreads, all served on a wooden board. With “Jause” meaning a snack between meals and “Brettl” referring to the wooden board, this rustic dish offers a taste of Austrian flavors in a simple yet satisfying way.
Where to Eat: Zum Weissen Rauchfangkehrer, Vienna, Austria
12. Sachertorte: Austria’s Decadent Chocolate Cake
Sachertorte is a must-try dessert for anyone visiting Austria. This rich chocolate cake, with a thin layer of apricot jam and a dark chocolate icing, is a testament to Austria’s long history of making some of the finest desserts in the world.
Where to Eat: Cafes throughout Austria offer this classic dessert.
13. Kardinalschnitte: Austria’s Elegant Layered Dessert
Kardinalschnitte is an elegant layered dessert common in Vienna. The colors of the dessert, white and gold, are synonymous with the colors of the Catholic Church. The dessert consists of thick cream on the interior and interlaced walls of cornmeal butter, topped with coffee flavor and fresh berries.
Where To Eat: Teufner Backerei Cafe Konditorei, Melk, Austria
14. Fiakergulasch: Austria’s Hearty Goulash Variation
Fiakergulasch is a variation of the traditional Viennese goulash, made of diced beef prepared in a sauce of onions, garlic, water, tomato, vinegar, bay leaves, and more. This dish is typically served with a variety of garnishes and accompaniments such as fried wiener sausage, fan-cut pickled gherkins, bread dumplings, and sunny-side-up eggs.
Where To Eat: Gasthaus Zur Eisernen Zeit, Vienna, Austria
15. Martinigans: Austria’s Festive Stuffed Goose
Martinigans is a type of stuffed goose widely prepared across Austria as a traditional food on St. Martin’s Day. Typically, it is stuffed with chestnuts and dried plums before being roasted. You may also add gravy prepared from pan drippings and stock.
Where To Eat: Restaurant Krone, Dornbin, Austria
16. Mondseer: Austria’s Aromatic Cheese Delight
Mondseer is an Austrian cheese made from pasteurized cow’s milk, originating from the town of Mondsee. This semi-hard cheese is pale yellow, with a creamy, smooth, and firm texture and a strong aroma. Infused with red cultures and salt water, it has a sweet and spicy flavor.
Where To Eat: Mondsee, Austria
17. Spargel: Austria’s Spring Asparagus Sensation
Spargel, or asparagus, is a local delight to try during spring in Austria. Vienna and Austria offer some of the world’s most delicious green and white asparagus, prepared in creative, fresh ways. Served with butter and lemon, as a soup, or wrapped in prosciutto with hollandaise sauce, Spargel is a must-try.
Where To Eat: Marchfelderhof, Vienna, Austria
18. Powidltascherl: Austria’s Plum Jam Turnovers
Powidltascherl are delicious plum jam turnovers unique to Austria and Germany. Made with potato dough and filled with a blend of plum jam and rum (or plum schnapps), these pastries are topped with breadcrumbs, cinnamon, vanilla, dry fruits like walnuts, and butter.
Where To Eat: Pfudl, Vienna, Austria
19. Belegte Brote: Austria’s Open-Faced Sandwiches
Belegte Brote are open-faced mini sandwiches with a variety of toppings. These Austrian classics offer a flavorful experience with choices of fillings and beverages, making them a must-try for anyone exploring Austrian cuisine.
Where To Eat: Trześniewski, Vienna, Austria
20. Topfentascherl: Austria’s Curd-Filled Pastry
Topfentascherl is a delightful dessert featuring a pastry filled with curd and various fruits. This sweet and savory dish is a traditional Austrian staple, found in households, bakeries, and restaurants. Common fruits include apricots and bananas, offering a healthy and appetizing treat.
Where To Eat: Das Restaurant Wasserfall, Salzburg, Austria
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Frequently Asked Questions About Austrian Food
1. What is the most famous Austrian food, and what makes it special?
The most famous Austrian food is undoubtedly the Wiener Schnitzel. This iconic dish features a thin, breaded, and pan-fried veal cutlet, celebrated for its crispy texture and savory flavor. What makes it special is the traditional preparation method, ensuring a perfect balance of tenderness and crunch.
2. What does a typical Austrian breakfast consist of, and what flavors can you expect?
A typical Austrian breakfast often leans towards the sweeter side. It commonly includes bread, rolls, or pastries served with butter, jam, and honey. Some Austrians also enjoy cold cuts, cheese, and a soft-boiled egg. Expect a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors to kickstart your day.
3. How does Austrian food differ from German cuisine, and what unique dishes set it apart?
While Austrian and German cuisines share similarities, Austrian food is often perceived as more refined and influenced by its multicultural history. Unique Austrian dishes like Tafelspitz (boiled beef), Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancakes), and Sachertorte (chocolate cake) set it apart with their distinct flavors and preparation methods.
4. What are some must-try Austrian street food options, and where can you find them in Vienna?
Some must-try Austrian street food options include Vienna sausage, Käsekrainer (cheese-filled sausage), and Leberkäse (meatloaf). You can find these delicious treats at popular street food stalls like Wurstelstand Leo, Berliner Doner, and Bitzinger Wurstelstand in Vienna.
5. Where can you find authentic Austrian cuisine in Austria, and what restaurants are highly recommended?
For authentic Austrian cuisine, consider visiting traditional restaurants like Schulhause, Wiener Wiaz Haus, and Plachutta. These establishments are known for serving classic Austrian dishes made with high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, offering an unforgettable dining experience.
6. Are there any Indian restaurants in Vienna, and what are some popular choices for Indian cuisine?
Yes, Vienna boasts a variety of Indian restaurants catering to diverse palates. Some popular choices include Indien Village, In-dish, Indian Pavilion, Tulsi Indian Cuisine, and Indus Restaurant. These restaurants offer a range of Indian dishes, from flavorful curries to tandoori specialties.
7. What role does coffee play in Austrian food culture, and what are some traditional coffee drinks to try?
Coffee holds a significant place in Austrian food culture, particularly in Vienna, where coffee houses are integral social hubs. Traditional coffee drinks to try include Wiener Melange (coffee with steamed milk and foam), Einspänner (coffee with whipped cream), and Fiaker (coffee with rum and whipped cream).
8. How has Austrian food been influenced by neighboring countries, and what are some examples of cross-cultural dishes?
Austrian food has been significantly influenced by its neighboring countries, including Hungary, Italy, and the Balkans. Examples of cross-cultural dishes include Goulash (Hungarian stew), Knödel (dumplings), and various pasta dishes reflecting Italian influences.
9. What are some popular Austrian desserts besides Sachertorte, and what flavors and textures can you expect?
Besides Sachertorte, popular Austrian desserts include Apfelstrudel (apple strudel), Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancakes), and Buchteln (sweet rolls). Expect a delightful range of flavors and textures, from the flaky pastry of Apfelstrudel to the fluffy sweetness of Kaiserschmarrn and the soft, jam-filled Buchteln.
10. How can you incorporate Austrian food into your home cooking, and what are some essential ingredients to have on hand?
Incorporating Austrian food into your home cooking is easier than you might think! Essential ingredients to have on hand include veal, potatoes, onions, paprika, flour, eggs, and various spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. With these ingredients, you can recreate classics like Wiener Schnitzel, Potato Gulasch, and Apfelstrudel in your own kitchen.
