Vienna for Foodies: 21 Unique Places to Eat in the City of Music

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Ever thought of Vienna as your next foodie destination? Well, you should. This city, famous for its music and art, is also a haven for those with an adventurous palate. And we’re not just talking about the usual suspects like schnitzels or strudels, though they’re undeniably delicious.

As a travel blogger who’s married to an Austrian, I’ve spent months in Vienna, and I’m excited to share the best foodie experiences. Imagine dining amid history, surrounded by artifacts in a museum. Or how about a restaurant where your food takes a thrilling rollercoaster ride before landing on your plate? Sounds wild, right? That’s Vienna for you – always ready to serve up the unexpected. So, if you’re itching to explore where traditional flavors dance with modern twists, Vienna’s the place to be. Here are all the unique dining spots you should know about.

• 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend doing this foodie tour in Vienna. They bring you to the best spots in the city to try the most traditional breakfast, lunch, and dessert dishes. This tour is an absolute must-do on a Vienna itinerary in my opinion.

Unique Restaurants in Vienna, Austria: 21 Incredible Vienna Eateries

Are you ready to explore the most unique restaurants in Vienna? Vienna boasts an extensive range of dining venues that will impress any food lover. Continue reading to discover where to dine in Vienna, Austria for a one-of-a-kind culinary experience.

Are you in search of traditional Viennese dishes with a contemporary touch? Or perhaps a dessert that’s as much an artistic spectacle as it is a sweet indulgence? Whatever your taste buds crave, Vienna has something special to offer. Here’s your comprehensive guide to the most unique restaurants in Vienna.

1. ULRICH

ULRICH sits on the picturesque St. Ulrichsplatz in Vienna’s trendy 7th district (Neubau). It’s directly across from the charming Baroque church that gives it its name. This all-day café-restaurant-bar has become the neighborhood’s most coveted terrace, blending modern urban style with warm wood, exposed brick, and industrial grays.

What sets ULRICH apart is its commitment to healthy, seasonal cuisine with an international twist. The menu features paper-thin flatbreads that regulars rave about, plus standout dishes like beetroot hummus, avocado toast, Thai chicken with creative spice combinations, and their popular “Ulrich salad.” The breakfast program is legendary…expect exceptional pancakes, poached eggs, and fresh smoothies that draw both locals and tourists who book a week ahead during peak season. The location is prime Neubau real estate, steps from the vibrant Spittelberg quarter and Museum Quarter, surrounded by boutique shops and galleries.

2. Rollercoaster Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Prater Amusement Park
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: International / Casual Fare
• 🔥 Standout Features: Food delivered via mini rollercoasters, interactive ordering, Prater park location, and fun theme.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Families/kids, novelty dining seekers, Prater visitors, and fun, unique meals.

Get ready for your food to make a grand entrance at the Rollercoaster Restaurant in Vienna’s Prater amusement park. Your meals and drinks arrive via miniature rollercoaster tracks, looping directly to your table. You order via tablets, adding to the futuristic fun.

The menu features international fare. Consider their classic cheeseburger with fries. The wiener schnitzel or various pasta dishes are also popular choices. Watching your order zip along the tracks is undeniably entertaining, especially for kids.

3. Swing Kitchen

Vienna’s answer to cool vegan fast food, Swing Kitchen is where plant-based comfort classics get a burger-joint makeover. The mood is upbeat and playful with monochrome tiles, a bit of swing era jazz, and light pouring through wide street-facing windows. Order their Swing Burger with crunchy soy patty and vegan cheese – add sweet potato fries and a house-made vegan shake for a wildly satisfying combo. It’s casual, budget-friendly, and draws students and locals alike. Plus, it’s centrally located near MuseumsQuartier, making this spot perfect for a quick pre-art tour meal. I was initially skeptical, but their “chicken” nuggets taste scarily realistic!

4. Naturhistorisches Museum Cafe & Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Inside the Natural History Museum Vienna
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $35 per person (Cafe pricing)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Viennese Cafe / Light Meals / Pastries
• 🔥 Standout Features: Grand museum setting with high ceilings/marble, coffee & cake focus, and elegant architecture.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Museum visitors, architecture fans, coffee/cake breaks, and feeling fancy on a budget.

Take a break in high style at the cafe inside Vienna’s stunning Naturhistorisches Museum. Located within the museum’s magnificent dome hall, the setting is breathtaking – soaring ceilings, ornate carvings, and grand architecture. It feels incredibly elegant.

Enjoy classic Viennese coffee specialties. A slice of rich Sachertorte (chocolate cake) or creamy Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) are must-tries. Light savory snacks like open-faced sandwiches are also available. It offers a wonderful chance to relax.

5. Steirereck

This dining temple in Stadtpark is Austria’s most celebrated restaurant for a reason. Steirereck fuses contemporary Viennese elegance with hyper-local produce – much of it grown on their own farm. Inside, mirrored panels frame city-park greenery, and soft lighting sets a serene, almost magical mood. Chef Reitbauer’s signature char cooked tableside in beeswax is theatrical and unexpectedly delicate. For dessert, the caramelized pumpkin seed oil ice cream is a revelation. Book well ahead, dress up, and save room for their infamous bread trolley. Strolling the Stadtpark afterward feels like an extension of the experience. I honestly still daydream about that beeswax fish.

6. Café Vollpension

• 📍 Location: Multiple Locations (e.g., near Naschmarkt, Mariahilf)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Viennese Cafe / Cakes & Pastries (Grandma-Style)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Cakes/pastries baked by seniors (“Omas & Opas”), cozy retro/kitschy decor, social enterprise concept.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Cake lovers, supporting seniors, cozy vibes, intergenerational hangs, and nostalgic treats.

Step into grandma’s living room at Café Vollpension. This unique cafe concept employs seniors (“Omas” and “Opas”) to bake traditional Austrian cakes and pastries based on their family recipes. The decor is delightfully retro and kitschy, filled with mismatched furniture.

Grab a coffee and a generous slice of whatever cake catches your eye – the apple strudel is a classic. Their chocolate Gugelhupf or a seasonal fruit tart are all baked with love and taste genuinely homemade. It’s a wonderful social enterprise.

7. TIAN

For a posh yet playful take on vegetarian fine dining, TIAN is unmatched in Vienna. The dining room is sleek and quietly artistic, with sculptural lighting and a serene hum. All dishes are vegetarian or vegan, many showcasing rare or forgotten veggies. Their “Roots & Seeds” tasting menu is a culinary adventure – don’t miss the floral-infused amuse bouche or the creamy Jerusalem artichoke ravioli. Cocktails here are creative and ingredient-driven too. TIAN sits a few blocks from Stephansdom, perfect for a cultured evening out. I was wowed by their edible “garden” plate, almost too pretty to eat.

8. Dinner in the Dark at Vier Sinne

• 📍 Location: Wien at Vier Sinne
• 💲 Price range: $80 – $120+ per person (reservation required)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Mystery Multi-Course / Sensory Focus
• 🔥 Standout Features: Dining in complete darkness, focus on taste/smell/touch senses, guided experience
• 🎯 Perfect For: Adventurous eaters, unique dates, sensory explorers, icebreakers, and memorable nights out.

Challenge your senses with Dinner in the Dark (Dunkeldinner) offered by venues like Vier Sinne. This unique concept involves eating a multi-course meal in absolute, pitch-black darkness, removing sight entirely from the experience. You’re guided through the meal.

The surprise menu might include a creamy pumpkin soup to start. For the main, perhaps tender braised beef with textured root vegetables, or delicate pan-seared fish. A complex chocolate mousse with fruit compote could be dessert. It’s a fascinating adventure.

9. DSTRIKT STEAKHOUSE

Meat lovers, rejoice! DSTRIKT inside The Ritz-Carlton is all about serious steak in a slick, clubby setting. Fire-cooked Austrian dry-aged cuts take center stage, paired with local sides and killer sauces. Go for the porterhouse or marble-rich ribeye, and don’t skip the truffled mashed potatoes. The open kitchen, low lighting, and deep booths make it ideal for date night or business splurges. After your meal, the hotel’s rooftop bar is just an elevator ride up for a panoramic sunset view. I’m still dreaming about the bone marrow starter dipped with house sourdough.

10. Figlmüller

• 📍 Location: Wollzeile
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Austrian / Viennese / Schnitzel House
• 🔥 Standout Features: World-famous schnitzel, historic alleyway location, founded in 1905, always a line.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Schnitzel fanatics, classic Vienna seekers, and a legendary meal.

This place is a true Vienna institution, famous for one thing: schnitzel. Figlmüller has been serving its legendary version since 1905, and the vibe is pure old-world tavern. It’s always bustling and loud, with the sound of mallets tenderizing pork echoing from the kitchen. The anticipation is real as you wait for the main event.

Don’t overthink the menu. You are here for the Figlmüller schnitzel, a massive, paper-thin pork cutlet so big it hangs off the sides of the plate. It’s famously served without a lemon wedge to prove its perfection. Get it with the classic and delicious potato-field salad on the side for the complete, iconic experience.

11. Lingenhel Greißlerei, Restaurant & Käserei

This intimate spot is equal parts gourmet shop, restaurant, and urban dairy. Casein lovers, rejoice: Lingenhel makes their own mozzarella and ricotta right behind a glass wall. The casual-luxe vibe is perfect for grazing on their cheese board, fresh-baked bread, or more refined fare like wild boar ragu. The light-filled dining room oozes Viennese charm with rustic wooden tables and modern art. Bonus: Pick up pastries or rare pantry items in the adjoining deli. I was floored by the silky burrata topped with olive oil and salt flakes – a total standout.

12. Piaristenkeller

• 📍 Location: Josefstadt (Near City Hall)
• 💲 Price range: $60 – $100+ per person (Includes experience elements)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Traditional Viennese / Austrian Imperial Cuisine
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic monastery cellar, traditional food, hat museum/wearing fun hats, and unique ambiance.
• 🎯 Perfect For: History buffs, traditional Austrian fans, unique ambiance seekers, quirky dining, and fun group dinners.

Dine deep beneath Vienna in the historic wine cellars of a former monastery at Piaristenkeller. Dating back centuries, this unique restaurant offers traditional Viennese and Imperial Austrian cuisine in an incredibly atmospheric underground setting.

Expect classic dishes. Their Tafelspitz (boiled beef) is a Viennese specialty. Hearty Wiener Schnitzel or rich goulash are also popular choices. Part of the fun involves their adjacent Hat Museum – guests are encouraged to don elaborate hats!

13. If Dogs Run Free

• 📍 Location: Gumpendorfer Straße (6th District)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person (Drinks focus)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Cocktail Bar
• 🔥 Standout Features: Stylish craft cocktail bar, creative/classic drinks, dim/moody lighting, and knowledgeable bartenders.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Cocktail connoisseurs, stylish dates, intimate drinks, exploring Vienna nightlife, and quality sips.

For seriously good cocktails in an effortlessly cool setting, head to If Dogs Run Free. This bar focuses squarely on the art of the cocktail, offering both inventive signature creations and perfectly executed classics. The atmosphere is dim, moody, and stylishly minimalist.

The bartenders are knowledgeable. Trying one of their signature cocktails, like the “Barking Mad” (a gin-based concoction) is a good idea. A classic Negroni or an Old Fashioned are also made with precision. It’s a top spot for cocktail lovers.

14. Der Wiener Deewan

Student favorite and cult classic, Wiener Deewan is an all-you-can-eat Pakistani buffet in a boho, mismatched room right by the university. The twist? You pay as much (or as little) as you feel is fair. The spread changes daily – expect creamy daals, spicy chicken curries, crispy samosas, and house-made mango lassi. Colorful pillows and handwritten signs make it cozy and welcoming. Thanks to the pay-what-you-wish model, it’s a must for budget eaters and groups. After lunch, you can walk to Votivkirche or people-watch in Sigmund-Freud-Park. I still can’t believe how good the chickpea curry was!

15. BIER & BIERLI

• 📍 Location: Near Opera / City Center
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Traditional Viennese / Austrian Pub Fare
• 🔥 Standout Features: Massive Austrian/global beer list, traditional Viennese food, cozy pub feel, and knowledgeable staff.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Beer lovers, traditional food fans, casual pub nights, trying local brews, and hearty meals.

As the name suggests, BIER & BIERLI is paradise for beer lovers in Vienna. This cozy, traditional pub boasts an enormous selection of Austrian and international beers. Knowledgeable staff can help you navigate the extensive list to find your perfect brew.

Alongside fantastic beer, they serve hearty Viennese pub fare. A classic Wiener Schnitzel is a must. Their savory goulash with bread dumplings, or a platter of Austrian sausages with mustard and horseradish, are also comforting choices.

16. WEIN & CO Wien Mariahilfer Straße – Weinbar & Shop

If you want to sample Austrian wine right in the heart of Vienna’s bustling shopping district, this sleek wine bar-meets-bottle shop is a find. Belly up to the marble counter for a flight of Grüner Veltliner, order a charcuterie board, and soak up the vibrant crowd – from chic locals to off-duty shop staff. The glass walls are perfect for Mariahilfer Straße people-watching, and the vibe gets lively in the evenings. There’s even a “wine ATM” for tastings at your own pace. I loved popping in for a pre-theatre glass before heading to the Volkstheater down the road.

17. Cafe Neko

• 📍 Location: City Center (Near Stephansplatz)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person (Entry/drink purchase usually required)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Coffee Shop / Tea / Light Snacks
• 🔥 Standout Features: Japanese-style cat cafe with resident cats, interaction opportunities, and relaxing vibe
• 🎯 Perfect For: Cat lovers, relaxing cafe breaks, animal therapy, unique cafes, and quiet hangs with felines.

Need a dose of feline therapy with your coffee? Cafe Neko is Vienna’s charming Japanese-style cat cafe. Pay a small entry fee or purchase a drink/snack, and then relax in a calm environment surrounded by resident cats lounging, playing, or napping.

They offer standard cafe beverages. A melange (Viennese coffee with milk foam) or a selection of Japanese teas are popular. Light snacks or cakes, like a slice of cheesecake or a muffin, are also available. It’s a peaceful oasis.

18. Mama Liu & Sons

A buzzy neo-Chinese restaurant with a cult following, Mama Liu & Sons specializes in build-your-own hot pot and killer homemade dumplings. The huge communal tables invite group feasting, while playful contemporary decor (giant lucky cats and bold murals) keeps things casual. Their pork & shrimp wontons in chili oil are addictive, and the vegan hot pot set brims with market-fresh veggies and tofu. Book ahead for dinner – this place gets packed. Located close to the MuseumsQuartier, it’s a stone’s throw from some of Vienna’s best art museums. I’m already plotting a return session for more of those spicy noodles.

19. Mraz & Sohn

• 📍 Location: Brigittenau (20th District)
• 💲 Price range: $200+ per person (Tasting Menu only)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern Creative / Fine Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Michelin-starred fine dining, creative/artistic plating, family-run (father/son chefs), and edgy vibe.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Ultimate foodies, special splurges, adventurous fine dining, culinary art fans, and Michelin star seekers.

Prepare for a high-end culinary adventure at Mraz & Sohn, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its highly creative and playful approach to fine dining. The experience revolves around surprising tasting menus featuring innovative techniques and stunningly artistic presentations.

The menu is ever-changing. Expect dishes like delicate char with dill and cucumber. A playful foie gras “lollipop” or inventive seafood preparations with unexpected textures also showcase their artistry. Dining here is a unique gastronomic journey.

20. Palmenhaus

• 📍 Location: Burggarten
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $80 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Brasserie / Austrian / International
• 🔥 Standout Features: Stunning Art Nouveau glasshouse, palace garden setting, high ceilings, huge tropical plants.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Romantic dates, architectural admirers, and impressive brunch spots.

Dining inside Palmenhaus feels like you’ve found a secret tropical jungle inside an imperial palace. This breathtaking 400-foot-long Art Nouveau glasshouse is filled with towering palm trees and natural light, creating a vibe that’s grand yet relaxed. The gentle hum of chatter echoes up to the high ceilings.

The menu is a mix of Austrian and international classics. Start with a drink on the beautiful terrace overlooking the park. For food, the veal burger Palmenhaus is a solid choice, and so is the classic Wiener schnitzel. For a lighter bite, the buffalo mozzarella and green asparagus is perfect for a warm afternoon.

21. Café Central

• 📍 Location: City Center (Herrengasse)
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $45 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Grand Viennese Coffee House / Pastries / Light Meals
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic intellectual hub with stunning architecture, famous cakes/pastries, and piano music.
• 🎯 Perfect For: History lovers, classic coffee house fans, cake/pastry indulgence, feeling fancy, and iconic Vienna stops.

Step into Viennese history at Café Central, arguably the city’s most famous grand coffee house. Once frequented by intellectuals like Trotsky and Freud, the soaring ceilings and marble pillars evoke a glorious bygone era. Live piano music fills the air.

The real stars are the classic Viennese coffees and the stunning display of cakes. A slice of their famous Sachertorte is a must. Their Apfelstrudel or a creamy Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake) are also fantastic. Experiencing the grandeur is an essential Vienna ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Unique Places to Eat in Vienna

Have questions about Vienna’s unique dining spots? Our FAQs will help you navigate the world of unique restaurants in Vienna and make the most of your culinary adventure.

What is a must-eat in Vienna, Austria?

When in Vienna, indulging in the city’s culinary classics is a must. From the flaky layers of Apfelstrudel to the rich and decadent Sachertorte, Vienna offers a delightful array of traditional Austrian dishes. For those seeking a unique dining experience, exploring unique restaurants in Vienna like Café Central or Mraz & Sohn can elevate your gastronomic journey. Don’t forget to try the Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet, which is a staple in Viennese cuisine.

Is Vienna a foodie city?

Absolutely! Vienna is a melting pot of culinary traditions, influenced by its rich history and its location at the crossroads of Europe. The city boasts a vibrant food scene, from historic coffeehouses and traditional Austrian eateries to modern fusion restaurants. For those with a penchant for the unique, Vienna offers a plethora of unique restaurant in Vienna options that cater to every palate and preference.

Is Vienna cheap for food?

Vienna offers a range of dining options to suit every budget. While dining at upscale restaurants might be on the pricier side, the city is dotted with affordable eateries, street food stalls, and markets where one can savor delicious Austrian dishes without breaking the bank. It’s all about exploring and finding those hidden gems!

Is it rude to not finish food in Austria?

In Austria, as in many cultures, it’s generally considered polite to finish the food on your plate, especially when dining in someone’s home. It’s seen as an appreciation of the meal prepared. However, in restaurants, while it’s appreciated if you enjoy your meal, it’s not considered rude if you can’t finish it. It’s always a good idea to express your enjoyment and thank the chef or host, whether you finish your plate or not.

How do I find unique dining spots in Vienna?

Vienna is brimming with dining establishments, each offering its own unique flair. To discover the most unique spots, consider exploring local blogs, asking residents for recommendations, or simply wandering the city’s charming streets. You’ll often stumble upon hidden gems that aren’t always in the mainstream guides.

What’s the dining etiquette in Vienna’s restaurants?

When dining in Vienna, it’s customary to greet fellow diners with a friendly “Guten Appetit” before starting your meal. Tipping is appreciated, usually around 5-10% of the bill. And remember, it’s polite to maintain eye contact when raising your glass for a toast!

Are there vegetarian-friendly unique restaurants in Vienna?

Yes, Vienna is increasingly catering to vegetarians and vegans. Many of the city’s unique restaurants offer vegetarian options or entire vegetarian menus, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the rich and diverse Viennese culinary scene.

Is it common to make reservations at restaurants in Vienna?

While not always necessary, it’s a good idea to make reservations, especially if you’re planning to dine at one of Vienna’s more popular or unique restaurants. This ensures you get a table and can fully enjoy your dining experience without any wait.

Final Thoughts on Unique Vienna Restaurants

Vienna is an Austrian gem where every corner hums with history and every alley hides a culinary secret. It’s a place where the past and present dance in harmony, and the food? Well, it’s nothing short of a symphony. Diving into the unique restaurants in Vienna is like opening a treasure chest of flavors, stories, and experiences. Each bite, each sip, tells a tale of traditions, innovations, and passion.

So, as you wrap up your Viennese adventure (hopefully in February, which is my favorite time to visit), remember the delightful eateries that make Vienna a true food lover’s paradise. Here’s to many more delicious discoveries in this enchanting city!