Mraz + Sohn, Vienna AT

Mraz + Sohn

School Rose Brut

Monkfish and Porcini Soup, Kale with Peanut Butter, Monkfish Pancake with Elderflower Relish

Rye Toast, Porcini Truffle Spread, Minced Ham

Black Kale, Pork, Banana, Apple, Onion

Monkfish, Chives, Black Pepper, Rhubarb

Beet Root Rigatoni, Preserved Beets, Lovage, Sweet Peppers, Freeze-dried Raspberry

Pork Neck Tonkatsu, White Asparagus, Celery Root, Japanese Mustard, Bitter Orange

Pork Shoulder, Razor Clam, Horseradish, Carrots, Bitter Greens, Thai Basil

Ash Goat, Water Buffalo Camembert, 3 year Munster, Box aged Soft Cow’s Cheese, Blue Cheese, Baguette, Apricot Chutney, Unripe Strawberry, Vinegar Almond, Truffle Honey

Frozen Poppyseed Cake, Raspberry

Granny Smith Cream Tart, Pine, Zabaglione

Potato Mochi, Plum Jam

From the moment one clicks on Mraz + Sohn’s URL it is obvious these folks do things different, the MySpace-era template or Pickle cursor used to navigate and make reservations for a Michelin 2* meal that might offer Caviar, Skippy Peanut Butter or both on the same night.

Featuring an open kitchen in front of the of the modern dining room, faux Chanel and out-of-focus art surrounded by brilliant white while Neil Young is playing just loud enough on the turntable, diners are first greeted with a menu offering whimsy but little useful information followed by a shopping cart of Ingredients quite different from the likes of Frantzen.

Owned by a Father and Son team who claims to “take the humble Carrot as seriously as White Truffle” Wine is the next order of business, Sparkling Rose suggested as a good way to begin alongside Monkfish as Soup or Pancake plus crispy Kale topped with the aforementioned store-bought Condiment.

Every bit a family affair, Markus Mraz and son Manuel happily challenging conventional thinking while staff works with the sort of effortless professionalism that brings a smile to each guest’s face, course two suggests the open-faced Sandwiches at Buffet Trzesniewski while a leaf of Kale to follow finds itself wrapped around Pork and Apple with a hint of Banana.

Located out in the 20th district, far from bustling old Vienna, course four further utilized Monkfish seared amidst assertive flavors before proceeding to hand-extruded Pasta dyed by Beets lent brightness by a mélange of roasted Roots, Peppers and Raspberries.

Dividing the main course into two parts, first fried Pork and then the Shoulder shredded amidst Razor Clams plus a lot of fresh Horseradish, Mraz + Sohn’s Cheese Cart is sure to please those seeking more esoteric labels with each well-matured and served alongside Bread plus seasonal accoutrements.

Shifting sweet after a lengthy pause, the frozen Poppyseed Cake with a Raspberry center arguably Markus’ most “Austrian” dish since Ham on Rye, it was with a tableside pour that Apple Tart carefully balanced Pine and sours before ending the night with a delicate bite of Mochi made from Plum and Potatoes.

www.mrazundsohn.at

Posted in Austria, Dessert, Food, Ice Cream, Mraz & Sohn, Mraz + Sohn, Pork, Tasting Menu, Truffle, Truffles, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Cafe Sperl, Vienna AT

Cafe Sperl

Americano, Bailey’s and Coffee

Apple Strudel

Sacher Torte

Sperl Schnitte

A favorite of intellectuals since 1880 Cafe Sperl feels like it has been preserved with a patina, its name maintained despite being purchased by Adolf Kratochwilla four years later and many of the original recipes unchanged over the ensuing 140 years.

Home to everyone from Josef Ferdinand to poets and composers across the decades, tiny wooden tables and men in three-piece suits reading newspapers suggesting little has changed, guests are invited to choose from any table lacking a “Reserved” sign as these are held for regulars.

A frequent recipient of international awards for best Coffeehouse, the Beans medium-roasted and blended to exacting specifications, Drinks should undoubtedly be accompanied by signature Sperl Schnitte with its ribbon of Fudge between buttery Crust and crackling top.

Frank in terms of service, with billiards tables adjacent the restroom, Sperl’s Sachertorte most certainly won’t be mistaken for “the Original” thanks to a more open crumb and what seems to be Buttercream Frosting while Apfelstrudel is more pale than many but tough to fault thanks to shaved Fruit and plenty of Breadcrumbs inside delicate Puff Pastry.

www.cafesperl.at

Posted in Austria, Cafe Sperl, Coffee, Dessert, Food, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Umar Fisch Bar, Vienna AT

Umar Fisch Bar

Bread, 2018 Weingut Bernhard Ott ‘Der Ott’ Feuersbrunn Gruner Veltliner, 2020 Hugl Zweigelt Secco Sparkling Rosé

Prawns, Paprika Herb Butter

Fritto Misto, Aioli

Located in Vienna’s bustling Naschmarkt Umar Fisch Bar is the more casual sibling of Umar Fisch, its outdoor patio offering an al fresco opportunity to enjoy fresh Fish and Shellfish from Wednesday through Saturday beginning at noon.

Known for a creative Chef’s Menu but also offering a la carte eating it is largely amongst locals that guests are invited to enjoy plates both classic and modern, daily Wine specials frequently focusing on local labels for less than €6 a glass.

Lively but restrained thanks to professional service, the laid-back atmosphere in no way suggesting a kitchen that isn’t serious, Frito Misto arrives lightly battered and perfectly fried while jumbo Prawns come bubbling in a clay vessel loaded with Butter and Hungarian Paprika that will see complimentary Bread used to sop up every last drop.

www.umarfischbar.at

Posted in Austria, Bread Basket, Food, Naschmarkt, Umar Fisch, Umar Fisch Bar, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Buffet Trzesniewski Dorotheergasse, Vienna AT

Trzesniewski

Almdudler Original

Sandwiches

Continuing a tradition begun in Poland it is from Buffet Trzesniewski that the Viennese have sought Sandwiches since 1902, the location on Dorotheergasse open daily from mid-morning to dinner with over two-dozen toppings offered on small rectangles of Rye Bread.

Created by Franciszek Trzesniewski of Kraków, his goal of quality and convenience carried on today, it is once inside the iconic space that decisions abound, a “Pfiff” of Beer ordered by most to accompany two bites of Carrot with Cream Cheese or Pureed Mushrooms depending on one’s tastes.

€1.50 each, often-times with Eggs and stripes of Liver or Fish, Beets come liberally tinged with Horseradish while Cucumbers are mixed with pickling spices that are poignant but not to be confused with Relish.

www.trzesniewski.at

Posted in Austria, Buffet Trzesniewski, Buffet Trzesniewski Dorotheergasse, Food, Trzesniewski, Trzesniewski Dorotheergasse, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Demel K.u.K. Hofzuckerbäckeri, Vienna AT

Demel

Sacher Torte mit Schlag

Nougatknodel with Raspberries

Kaiserschmarrn with stewed Plums

First established in 1786, Demel has carved itself into the history of Vienna with everything from Cakes to Candied Violets that earned them the title of a Purveyor to the Imperial and Royal Court (K.u.K. Hofzuckerbäcker) up to this day.

At the current location since 1888 the salon is easily recognized by tourists peeking through windows where chefs can be seen making any Kaiserschmarrn and dumplings using the same recipes created by Ludwig Dehne and carried on by Christoph Demel in 1857.

Now part of a Restaurant group since 2002, fame bolstered by marketing, guests entering Demel will find tables as well as the option to take-away, the shop in back featuring no less than a dozen Cakes alongside various other Confections and Candies.

Arriving early with no wait, though all seats were full in 30 minutes, Coffee was quickly followed by three plates including a splendid Sacher Torte that has apparently been the source of a legal battle as it was created here by Franz Sacher’s son using the original recipe before Hotel Sacher bought “The Original” title.

A bit higher priced than like spots with less accolades, though the experience and Food are nonetheless quintessential Vienna, Kaiserschmarrn arrives piping hot with stewed Plums in a large portion while Nougatknodel features dainty Semolina Dumplings filled with Chocolate and rolled in Streusel with a side of pureed Raspberries.

www.demel.com

Posted in Austria, Breakfast, Demel, Demel K.u.K. Hofzuckerbäckeri, Dessert, Food, pancake, Pancakes, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Café Imperial, Vienna AT

Café Imperial

Americano

Bread Basket, Jam

Gugelhupf

Charcuterie and Cheese

Imperial Torte No 1

Located in the former home of the Prince of Württemberg, now Hotel Imperial, Café Imperial Wien reminisces of days past when the likes of Arnold Schönberg and Johannes Brahms made their way over from the Vienna State Opera for Coffee and Cake.

Favored by Austria’s “Wiener Melange” since 1873, the sort of place where foreign visitors and locals equally inhabit seats formerly filled by Sigmund Freud, Breakfast can be ordered Buffet or a la Carte with each well-priced considering both attentive service and refined environs.

Home to an on-site Bakery, their primary business producing three varieties of Imperial Torte, Breads and Charcuterie are on par with other historic Hotels throughout Europe while both Gugelhupf and “The Original” are noteworthy, the former thanks to density and moisture while the eponymous Torte delicately balances soft Chocolate Cream between razor-thin Almonds, Marzipan and Imperial Icing.

www.cafe-imperial.at

Posted in Austria, Bread Basket, Breakfast, Café Imperial, Café Imperial Wien, Coffee, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, Pork, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Restaurant Silvio Nickol, Vienna AT

Restaurant Silvio Nickol

Schloss Gobelsburg Blanc de Blancs Brut Reserve

Cucumber with Dill, Beet Macaroon, Bluefin and Bell Pepper, Buffalo Carpaccio with Buckwheat Tea, Curried Sweetbreads Egg, Rye Crisp

Buttermilk Bread, Butter, Lardo

Goose Liver, Medlar, Hazelnut, Marigold, Pome Fruit, Brioche

Hamachi, Jerusalem Artichoke, Mango, Coriander, Cilantro, Char Caviar

Langoustine, Fennel, Bulgur, Bouillabaisse, Mussel

Pork Tartare, Onion Chip, Black Bread, Tarragon Cream

Iberico Presa, Eggplant, Bell Pepper, Tarragon, Soy, Cress

Blun Catfish, Cabbage, Raisin, Caper, Rum, Veal Stock

Duck Raviolo, Quinoa, Mushroom, Oat Milk

Challans Duck, Oat, Blood Sausage, Mushroom, Olive

Yuzu, White Chocolate, Lemon Zest

Mimolette, Perigord Truffle, Champagne Ice Cream, Quince, Black Walnut

Pumpkin Seed, Coconut, Milk Foam, Almond Caramel

Rhubarb, Sour Cream, Lemon Balm, Valrhona Chocolate

Lemon Curd, Pastel de Nata, Peanut but not, Warm Cacao

Warm Madeline

Take Home Gift Seasoning Salt

Located in the luxury Hotel Palais Coburg Restaurant Silvio Nickol fits the fine dining mold in its Tasting Menu format, though white gloves are instead black and gold is replaced by sizable displays of amethyst while plates take chances in terms of taste and constituents.

Trained by Heinz Winkler with Michelin 2* since 2012, global influences backed by peerless Ingredients plus skill, it is once inside the Hotel that guests are checked in and led to an elevator, departure from which leads to crisp linen and impeccable service.

Largely playing host to well-heeled residents, and on this occasion a mother with two Children poorly suited for 150-minutes of Carte Blanche dining, music plays almost imperceptibly as Sparkling Wine is poured to accompany Canapes includin thinly-sliced Buffalo in Buckwheat Tea that is impressive but Curried Sweetbreads in a laser-cut Eggshell even more spectacular.

Baking Bread on-site, wedges of the piping-hot Loaf soon gilded with Butter and herbed Lardo, course one comprised Goose Liver Mousse with Nuts, Flowers and Apples, as delicious as it was attractive while a follow-up of raw Amberjack with crispy Sunchokes, cubed Mango and Caviar was a textural work of art.

Frequently blurring the boundaries of Austrian Cuisine, a Langoustine with Fennel Bouillabaisse but one example, course four saw a small-bite of Pork Tartare precede the prized cut of Pata Negra served across Sauce infused with Soy and Tarragon linking it to Eggplant.

Taking a chance with Catfish atop a complex Sauce both sweet and saline, the result irrefutably striking, a single Raviolo of Duck Confit was quickly followed by rosy red Magret again perfectly Sauced with earth and a hint of Olive that pushed the plate past the sum of its parts.

All fun with the Citrus Palate Cleanser, a smile on the plate quickly transferred to its recipient, Chef Nickol’s Cheese course was nothing short of mesmerizing as Mimolette and Truffle competed for the spotlight atop contrasting tastes, consistencies and temperatures.

Transitioning to Dessert with Styrian Pumpkin Seeds atop a creamy base, not bad but lacking the intrigue of Chef’s other plates, a follow-up of early-Spring Rhubarb performed well on a sour backdrop while Mignardises spanned the palate before ending with a Madeline fresh from the oven.

www.palais-coburg.com/en/culinary/silvio-nickol/

Posted in Austria, Bread Basket, Dessert, Foie, Foie Gras, Food, Ice Cream, Macaron, Madeline, Pork, Restaurant Silvio Nickol, Restaurant Silvio Nickol im Palais Coburg, Silvio Nickol, Silvio Nickol im Palais Coburg, Sweetbread, Sweetbreads, Tasting Menu, Truffle, Truffles, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Meierei im Stadtpark, Vienna AT

Meierei im Stadtpark

Wheat Bread, Bacon Bread, Cereal Bread, Sunflower Seed Bread, Rye Bread, Butter

Crispy ‘Fish Sticks’ of Tiger Trout, Red Currant Aioli, Radish, Pumpkin Seed Oil

Beef Consommé, Semolina Dumpling, Boiled Short Rib, Carrot, Chives

Ragout of Potato-Meadow Herb Salad

Veal Beuscherl with Lung, Heart, Tripe, Chive Dumpling, Majoram

Grilled Pork Cutlet, Chickpeas, Romanesco, Pomelo, Mint

Topaz Apple Strudel, Vanilla Curd

Kaiserschmarrn, Red Currant, Plum Jam

From the family behind 2* Steirereck im Stadtpark Meierei is the more casual offshoot with waterside views, great service and classic recipes created with top-quality Ingredients by the skilled hands of Chef Heinz Reitbauer and staff.

Open at 08h00 on weekdays and an hour later Saturday with three services daily, the menu shifting seasonally, guests entering Meierei will find a similar color palate to the gourmet Restaurant upstairs while a terrace facing Stadtpark illuminates the room through floor-to-ceiling glass.

Alongside the Wienfluss with over 100 matured Cheeses and a bountiful larder, plus Bread from the Steirereck Bakery, lunch for most will occur in three courses, an Appetizer of Beef Consommé nearly so complex as Reitbauer’s previously tasted Wedding Soup while “Fish Sticks” of Trout are crunchy and delicious alone or dragged through creamy Currants.

Overly-generous with portions despite a Bib Gourmand pricepoint, the tally for two under €100 without Alcohol, Entrees include a tender Pork Chop grilled beneath Hummus and fried bits while traditional Veal Beuscherl picks up lots of flavor from Offal that is mellowed by Marjoram and hearty Dumplings.

Encourage to order Streudel fresh from the oven at 13h00, but wise enough to request Kaiserschmarrn as Pork and Veal were served, choosing the better of Meierei’s Desserts comes down to personal preference, though the respective toppings of Housemade Vanilla Curd and Plum Jam should be added liberally.

www.steirereck.at/meierei

Posted in Austria, Bread Basket, Dessert, Food, Meierei, Meierei im Stadtpark, pancake, Pancakes, Pork, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

K.u.K. Café-Konditorei L. Heiner (Kaerntner Strasse,) Vienna AT

L. Heiner

Topfentorte

Sacherwurfel

Esterhazytorte

Historically the Royal Bavarian Court Supplier and Royal Court Confectioner KuK Hofzuckerbäcker L. Heiner dates back to roughly 1840 when Andreas Rabl took over a pre-existing Bakery, the eventual naming after grandson-in-law Ludwig Heiner occurring in 1883 and expansion since occurring into the sixth generation with six storefronts.

Best known for its space on Kaerntner Strasse, home to several Cakes and Confections offered beginning at 08h30, guests are invited to dine-in or order take-out, Heiner’s Topfentorte amongst the Café’s most recognized creations thanks to delicate Quark Mousse between Sponge Layers and a bit of Gelatin.

Happy to order Espresso with everything, the double-shot made from well-sourced Beans is best sipped black, additional Cakes include Hungary’s Esterhazy, named after a former diplomat to Austria featuring Fondant, Apricot Jam and an Almond Meringue far better than that at Aida.

Not about to omit Sacher Torte, in this case a cubed “Sacherwurfel” nearly the width of its Chocolate medallion, both taste and texture are similar to that of Café Sacher’s original version though the shell on all sides expectedly tilts this rendition a bit further towards Cocoa.

www.heiner.co.at

Posted in Austria, Breakfast, Dessert, Food, K.u.K. Café-Konditorei L. Heiner, K.u.K. Café-Konditorei L. Heiner Kaerntner Strasse, KuK Hofzuckerbäcker L. Heiner, KuK Hofzuckerbäcker L. Heiner Kaerntner Strasse, L. Heiner, L. Heiner Kaerntner Strasse, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Holzofenbäckerei Gragger & Cie (Spiegelgasse,) Vienna AT

Gragger & Cie

Mohnkuchlein

Mandel Kuchen

Topfengolatsche

Zauner Klipferl

Nussbeugerl

Opened by Helmut and Karin Gragger in 1997 at an old mill in Ansfelden near Linz the story of Gragger & Cie is one of rethinking modern practices, Helmut having given up a job in commercial baking to pursue a more natural course focused on organic raw materials mixed by hand and cooked in a wood-burning oven.

Eventually relocated to Vienna, Helmut’s hand-built oven transported to Spiegelgasse 23 where it still burns daily, entering Gragger & Cie rouses memories of days past with loaves lining racks and several Pastries filling the cases up front.

Also championing socially disadvantaged persons with training across four storefronts, the service amongst Vienna’s most friendly, a tasting of Gragger’s goods began with a Cheese-filled Viennoiserie featuring light sweetness before moving on to crispy Zauner Klipferl with Almonds and Breadcrumbs.

Also featuring Almonds in a toothsome Cake, lightly sweetened and perfect with Coffee, Gragger & Cie’s Poppyseed Semolina Cake comes individually portioned and profoundly nuanced while the Nussbeugerl resembles Hungarian Kifles from the Butter-enriched Dough to the ground Walnut filling.

www.gragger.at

Posted in Austria, Breakfast, Dessert, Food, Gragger & Cie, Gragger & Cie Spiegelgasse, Holzofenbäckerei Gragger & Cie, Holzofenbäckerei Gragger & Cie Spiegelgasse, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Café Sacher, Vienna AT

Café Sacher

Iced Coffee

Apfelstrudel

Sachertorte mit Schlag

Gugelhupf

Purporting to produce their Sacher Torte via the original version kept in a safe since 1832 Café Sacher is something of an institution, its location inside 5-star Hotel Sacher Wien maintaining old-world elegance even as the Hotel has acquired all the modern amenities guests expect.

Just feet from the State Opera, a clientele of well-heeled locals mingling with tourists, it is from 08h00 to 20h00 that diners can indulge in Coffee and Cake or Viennese classics such as Schnitzel or Gulash.

Priced similar to other Coffee houses but steeped in tradition, gold reliefs and crimson carpet throughout, service is professional yet pleasant with Beverages served quickly and Cakes including frosted Gugelhupf brightened by Ginger soon to follow.

Dining on white marble with signature plates, of course, Café Sacher’s Strudel arrives sliced large but lacking the nuance of others in town while the signature Torte features a moist Chocolate sponge beneath a ribbon of Apricot and Ganache plus a Sacher medallion perched on top.

www.sacher.com/restaurants/cafe-sacher-wien

Posted in Austria, Café Sacher, Coffee, Dessert, Food, Hotel Sacher, Hotel Sacher Wien, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Steirereck im Stadtpark, Vienna AT

Steirereck

2010 Weingut Bründlmayer Brut Reserve

Beet Macaron, Jerusalem Artichoke Tart, Carrot pickled as Blueberries, Bread, Butter, Salt

Bacon Bread, Chorizo Bread, Double Sourdough

Blood Sausage Bread, Malted Rye, Walnut Bread

Salad Greens / Leek Veloute, Dill

Alpine Char, Blueberry, Birch, Walnut Leaf, Sorrel, Sour Apple, Radish

Viennese Wedding Soup with Beef Consommé, Lovage, Semolina Dumpling, Veal Liver Dumpling, Stangeri, Chives, Minced Spleen Toast

Osetra Gold Caviar, Beluga Lentils, Banana, Bacon, Mushroom, Pistachio, Mace, Pine

Perlfisch, Tomato, Sweet Potato, Lemon Verbena, Eggplant, Kohlrabi

Styrian Beef Gulash with Alpine Beef Cheeks, Pickled Peppers, Shallots, White Bread Leek Slice

Piglet´s Tail, Swiss Chard, Shiso, Black Currant, Cream of Brussels Sprouts, Bok Choy

Sweetbreads, Yacon, Medlar, Aji Amarillo, Almonds, Peanuts, Pea Asparagus Sprouts

Wiener Schnitzel of Milk-Fed Veal, Lemon, Parsley‐Potatoes, Lingonberries

Iced Cedar, Service Berries, Lemon Balm, Grapes, White Currants

Forest Perennial Rye Souffle, Cornell Cherry, Dark Chocolate Ice Cream, Coffee, Gin, Sorrel

Poppyseed ‘Noodles’, Pistachio, Poppyseed Butter, Damson Ice Cream

Citrus Mignardises

Gin Fizz Ice, Lemon Foam

Owned by the Reitbauer family Steirereck seeks to interpret Austria’s cuisine in new ways, a location inside Vienna’s Stadtpark at the same time urban and one with nature such that guests feel transported to the fields, gardens and streams from which their meal is created.

Built in 1904 with a mirrored glass extension added later, and focused on native Ingredients less commonly offered in traditional restaurants, Steirereck’s tasting menu taps into country’s cuisine in novel ways while historic dishes find themselves benefitted by Michelin 2* skills during lunch in a sun-bathed dining room.

Mainly light woods and crisp linens, several courses finished tableside or offered from rolling carts, it is after a Sparkling Wine toast that dining begins, the Bread Carte offering more than a dozen varieties including one impregnated by Blood Sausage while Canapes range from a delicate Beet Macaron and Jerusalem Artichoke Tart to the complexity of a chewy Carrot “pickled as Blueberries.”

Next offered fresh-cut Salad Greens from the Steirereck Garden plus velvety Leek Soup it is henceforth that each dish is presented with a detailed list of its contents, all happily explained by attentive yet affable service that even managed to appease a particularly ‘difficult’ diner at the adjacent table.

Skipping the famous Char in Bee’s Wax, late-winter’s Tasting instead begun by the Fish cooked mi cuit around Almond-Blueberry Cream with textural variants surrounding, a more traditional Lunch started with Reitbauer’s take on Viennese Wedding Soup featuring Lovage-infused Consommé, Veal Liver Dumplings and Spleen Toast.

Arguably Austria’s premier Restaurant, Chef Heinz Reitbauer’s dedication to agricultural research prominently noted in each plate, course two of the tasting sees Golden Osetra Caviar juxtaposing tender Beluga Lentils atop the flavors of Banana and Mushrooms while a follow-up of uncommon Carp from Lake Attersee is served grilled amidst spicy Citrus.

Led by Birgit Reitbauer up front, a recent winner of W50B’s Gin Mare Art of Hospitality Award, traditional dishes continue via Styrian Beef Gulash with Alpine Beef Cheeks, Spelt and Pickled Peppers while the tasting menu’s Piglet´s Tail is hidden beneath Tempura Shiso and Swiss Chard with vibrant cooking Jus.

Rounding out savories with classic Wiener Schnitzel and Sweetbreads, the latter served with an indigenous sweet Tuber called Yacon and nutty Aji Amarillo, the immense Cheese Carte was omitted in favor of saving space to enjoy previously unknown Service Berries atop Iced Cedar and the Forest Perennial Rye Souffle with a sidecar of Gin, Cornell Cherries and Dark Chocolate Ice Cream.

Not forgetting Reitbauer’s famous Potato Noodles with Poppyseed Butter and Crumble, nor the icy pedestal supporting Plum Ice Cream, Lunch concluded with myriad winter Citrus including Chocolates, Cookies, dried Peel and Gin Fizz Ice with Lemon Foam as a way of saying auf Wiedersehen.

www.steirereck.at/restaurant

 

Posted in Austria, Bread Basket, Coffee, Dessert, Food, Ice Cream, Macaron, Macaroon, Pork, Souffle, Steirereck, Steirereck im Stadtpark, Sweetbread, Sweetbreads, Tasting Menu, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Backerei Ströck (Rotenturmstraße 6,) Vienna AT

Ströck

Speck Kasestangerel

Marmelcroissant

Wiedermandelcroissant

Birnen Tarte Bourdaloue

Serving Austria for over 50 years Backerei Ströck remains family owned in its third generation, locations throughout Vienna opening early to provide guests with Sandwiches, Bread, Tartes and Viennoiseries.

Mostly a take-away operation across 70+ stores, the promise of fresh bakes and a lack of leavening agents part of the business since day one, it is upon entry that one will notice an abundance of options including several organic choices displayed across racks and cases.

Low-priced compared to more artisan competitors, many Pastries available under €2, Ströck’s Baguette is predicably less intricate than what one might find at Josef or Öfferl, the addition of Pork and Cheese making up some ground while an Almond Croissant was unfortunately build on Frangipane and immediately flaccid.

Much improved in the Marmelcroissant with Apricot Jam, though Pastry layers are still poorly separated, look to the Birnen Tarte Bourdaloue for something classic and delicious as cooked Apples settle into a delicate base with Sugar and Nuts.

www.stroeck.at

Posted in Austria, Backerei Ströck, Backerei Ströck Rotenturmstraße, Breakfast, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, Pork, Ströck, Ströck Rotenturmstraße, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Cafe-Konditorei Aida (Singerstraße 1,) Vienna AT

Cafe-Konditorei Aida

Americano

Gezogener Apfelstrudel mit Schlag

Sachertorte mit Schlag

Aida Cremeschnitte

Esterhazy-Torte

Brightly decorated in pink with locations from adjacent Saint Stephen’s Church to the airport Aida Cafe-Konditorei has been serving Vienna since 1913, their claim of “better than the original” Sachertorte drawing the ire of some though the light Chocolate sponge and ribbon of Jam is merely one of Aida’s offerings.

Now boasting 34 stores, arguably the most popular franchise in Vienna, it is seated inside that guests are offered pleasant service beginning at 08h00 daily, early arrival at the flagship finding Apfelstrudel still warm inside shattering Puff Pastry with a generous amount of Fruit and textural Breadcrumbs at the center.

Happy to order housemade Whipped Cream with everything, though an Americano made from well-sourced Beans is best sipped black, additional Cakes include Hungary’s Esterhazy, named after a former diplomat to Austria featuring Fondant, Apricot Jam and an Almond Meringue sponge lightly perfumed by Rum.

Not sold on the Sacher Torte’s billing, though certainly an enjoyable rendition cut large, Cremeschnitte has become something of a signature for Aida across the years and with layers of Puff Pastry breaking briskly around Chantilly Cream and Vanilla Custard it is easy to see why.

www.aida.at

Posted in Aida, Aida Cafe, Aida Cafe Singerstraße 1, Aida Cafe-Konditorei, Aida Cafe-Konditorei Singerstraße 1, Aida Singerstraße 1, Austria, Breakfast, Cafe-Konditorei Aida, Cafe-Konditorei Aida Singerstraße 1, Coffee, Dessert, Food, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Restaurant Walter Bauer, Vienna AT

Restaurant Walter Bauer

Schloss Gobelsburg Blanc de Blancs

Rye Bread, Baguette, Butter

Housemade Leberkäse, Mustard

Goose Liver, Blood Orange, Chicory, Brioche

Pumpkin Risotto, Beans, Cottage Cheese

Lamb, Polenta, Artichoke, Red Bell Pepper

Kaiserschmarrn, Nuts, Pears, Chocolate Ice Cream

From the lack of a website and paper register it can safely be said that Restaurant Walter Bauer is something of a throwback, a single star from Michelin suggesting competent cooking that is no-frills and heartfelt.

Named for its Chef whose Cuisine leans French by way of Vienna, all prepared properly and presented professionally, it is atop white linen that Bread is served almost immediately while Wine proves nearly essential thanks to frequent reminders by waiters.

Eventually opting for Sparkling Chardonnay out of Niederösterreich, its bright Citrus not ideal for an amuse of Austrian Bologna but well-suited to Foie Gras and Oranges, course two consisted of Pumpkin Risotto decorated in Green Beans with dollops of Curd Cheese.

Receiving Olive Oil with no explanation alongside the Rice, plus a pile of magazines to pass the time with no Wi-Fi, it was under vaulted ceilings surrounded by pink walls that beautifully-cooked Lamb arrived next with Polenta, Artichokes and a single curl of Bell Pepper.

€69 for 3-courses, plus €4 for Bread and €16 for “Schmarrn,” Dessert riffs on Viennese shredded Pancakes but misses the mark in portion-size and structure with the lone saving grace some poached Pears and velvety Chocolate Ice Cream.

www.gastro.news/restaurants/restaurant-walter-bauer

Posted in Austria, Bread Basket, Dessert, Foie, Foie Gras, Food, Ice Cream, pancake, Pancakes, Pork, Restaurant Walter Bauer, Tasting Menu, Vacation, Vienna, Walter Bauer, Walter Bauer Restaurant Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Restaurant Konstantin Filippou, Vienna AT

Restaurant Konstantin Filippou

2017 Erwin Tinhof Weissburgunder

Fermented Soy, Aged Sardine, Onion Stick, Kombu

Tartlette, Egg Yolk, Crustacean Foam

Bread, Roasted Onion Butter

Croatian Mackerel, Pumpkin, Ponzu

Black Salsify, Pecorino, Almond Milk

Brandade, Amur Carp, Caviar

Fish Soup, Root Vegetables, Lemon Aioli

Branzino, Kohlrabi, Trahanas

Veal Tafelspitz, Brussels Sprouts, Mushroom

Greek Yogurt, Rosehip, Honey

Quince, Salted Almond, Chocolate, Vanilla

Mint, Kumquat, Lemon / Coffee, Vanilla, Cassis / White Chocolate, Passion Fruit, Matcha / Chocolate Sable, Mousse, Banana, Liqueur / Olive, Pistachio, Yuzu

Opened in 2013 with its first Michelin star in 2014 and second in 2016 Restaurant Konstantin Filippou sees its chef celebrate his Greek and Austrian background in the heart of Vienna.

Born in Graz to a family frequently found in the kitchen a love for cooking started early, an apprenticeship in Filzmo followed by time in Werfen eventually yielding a job at Steirereck where techniques were honed while learning to use some of Austria’s most revered Ingredients.

Further mentored at 3* Gordon Ramsay and Arzak before launching his eponymous Restaurant and minimalist dining room Konstantin Filippou seeks “clean tastes and [to] avoid the noise,” a lack of music at Lunch or Dinner quite noticeable as diners are invited to watch several dishes being prepared in clear view.

A relative bargain during the daytime at 3-courses for €56 or €68 for four, plus Amuses, Canapes and Mignardises, it was with an assertive local Weissburgunder that lunch got started, Sardines and upright Onions perched in salty Custard followed by an airy Lobster Tart and Whole Grain Bread alongside aromatic Butter.

Not exclusive to Austria, but rather a Chef whose travels have inspired the use of exquisite products from around the globe, course one saw diners diverge as one selected Mackerel not entirely dissimilar from the amuse while his lady saw textures of Salsify layered atop aged Cheese and faintly nutty Cream.

Supplementing a signature and daily dish next, Filippou’s Brandade and Caviar predictably delicious while “Fish Soup” featuring Langoustines and Lobster tasted distinctly Mediterranean by way of Citrus, Entrées each ate hearty whether Branzino with fermented flavors or Veal Tafelspitz surrounded by earthy Sprouts and Mushrooms.

Always artistically plated, “Greek Yogurt, Rosehip, Honey” a yin-and-yang of consistencies on either side of a delicate Tuille, it was as a bonus that both guests were gifted the Tasting Menu’s Dessert of Quince suspended in Almond Pudding with subtle notes of Chocolate and Vanilla.

A well-paced meal, neither rushed nor lingering too long between plates, Mignardises spanned the palate from cooling Mint with Lemon to poignant Olive and Pistachio ending with Dark Chocolate, Banana and Booze.

www.konstantinfilippou.com/restaurant

Posted in Austria, Bread Basket, Coffee, Dessert, Food, Ice Cream, Konstantin Filippou, Konstantin Filippou Restaurant, Lobster, Restaurant Konstantin Filippou, Tasting Menu, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Öfferl Dampfbäckerei (Wollzeile,) Vienna AT

Öfferl

Apricot Krapfen (Marillenfaschingskrapfen)

Sacher Torte Muffin (Bio SacherTorte)

Walnut Croissant (Walnusscroissant)

Prune Jam Powidlbuchtl (Bomische Powidlbuchtl)

Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel)

Promising to “secure an average of two square meters of biodynamic soil for the next generation” with every Loaf of Bread Öfferl Dampfbäckerei undoubtedly has a vision, their commitment to local Farmers spelled out in literature and embodied by the use of only biodynamic Grain in every item.

Described as a “community whose common denominator is respect for nature,” the Coffee, Milk and Jam sold on-site all responsibly sourced from Organic farms, guests entering any of Öfferl’s locations will quickly be greeted by the smell of Yeast followed by friendly and knowledgeable service.

Infrequently in the market for Bread when traveling, though Öfferl’s loaves do appear impressive, it was instead five Pastries that were taken elsewhere to enjoy, a Doughnut piped with stewed Apricots springy and light while the Walnusscroissant is a twice-baked beauty with lightly sugared Cream doing little to compromise skilled lamination.

Blending classics with modernity, Powidlbuchtl akin to a Parker House Roll stuffed with stewed Prunes, Öfferl throws its name into the mix for Vienna’s best Apfelstrudel thanks to myriad textures and natural sweetness while the Bio Sacher Torte reminisces of Souffle at the base of a Chocolate and Apricot Muffin.

www.oefferl.bio

Posted in Austria, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, Öfferl, Öfferl Dampfbäckerei, Öfferl Dampfbäckerei Wollzeile, Öfferl Wollzeile, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Joseph Brot (Landstraßer Hauptstraße,) Vienna AT

Joseph Brot

Espresso, Financier

Chai Latte with Oat Milk, Financier

Organic Vegan Sour Cherry Chocolate Cake

Organic Vegan Hazelnut Apricot Muffin

French Toast with Poppyseed Plum Jam, Stewed Plums, Organic Curd Cheese

Apple Strudel

Almond Croissant

Cinnamon Roll

With eight locations across Austria it would be difficult to suggest Joseph Brot is anything but successful, the Bakery’s focus on 100% Organic Ingredients predictably commanding premium prices for handcrafted Food combining modern techniques with traditional recipes.

A bit different from store to store, some simply Patisseries while the flagship on Landstraßer Hauptstraße also contains Joseph’s Bistro, it was around 08h30 Monday that two guests sat down to Breakfast beginning with scalding Espresso and a carefully prepared Oat Milk Chai Latte.

Frequently Vegan and always handmade, an all-natural Sour Cherry Chocolate Cake as close as one gets to Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte without Cream and Booze, those seeking a hidden gem should keep their eyes peeled for the soft yet dense Wholegrain Muffin studded with Hazelnuts and filled with Apricot Preserves.

Open, airy and natural, with loaves used on menus at many of Vienna’s best Restaurants, fans of French Toast will find Joseph’s Brioche seared golden around Poppyseed Jam with Plums and whipped Cheese on the side while Apfelstrudel arrives warm and classical featuring Puff Pastry, Apples and nothing else to hide.

Onward to Viennoiserie that are heated to order suffice it to say any Almond Croissant eschewing Frangipane for hand-ground Filling is bound to impress while a Cinnamon Roll topped in Granulated Sugar earns high marks for texture and butteriness.

www.joseph.co.at

Posted in Austria, Coffee, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, French Toast, Joseph Brot, Joseph Brot Landstraßer, Joseph Brot Landstraßer Hauptstraße, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Plachutta Wollzeile, Vienna AT

Plachutta Wollzeile

Plachutta’s Elderflower Sparkling Wine

Bread, Butter on Ice

Starter Trilogy – Tafelspitz Beef Jelly, Beef Tartare, Goose Liver Crème Brulee

Gustostuckerl – Tafelspitz, Schulterscherzl, Huferscherzel, Beef Soup, Shredded Pancakes, Bone Marrow, Carrots, Black Bread, Potatoes Rosti, Creamed Spinach, Chive Sauce, Applesauce with Horseradish

Sweet Curd Dumplings – Berry Compote

Chocolate Nut Souffle – Chocolate Sauce, Whipped Cream, Almonds

With three locations amongst a family of six Restaurants Plachutta is nothing short of an Austrian icon, Emperor Francis Joseph’s fondness for boiled Beef carried on with careful consistency for locals and tourists alike.

A true Imperial tradition with copper pans and a dozen different cuts of Beef available daily, guests entering Plachutta’s Wollzeile location are immediately greeted by attentive servers, tables inside or out available beginning at 11h30 daily and most occupied by those with reservations.

Working with only Austrian Beef and local farmers, a point of pride spelled out alongside how to best enjoy Tafelspitz, dinner begins with tepid Bread and ice-cold Butter that is easily forgotten for starters presented singular or as a “Trilogy” of Beef in Aspic, smooth Tartare and creamy Goose Foie Gras beneath a torched Sugar top.

Encouraged to try Plachutta’s Elderflower Sparkling Wine alongside the boiled Beef, in this case three cuts ranging from lean to marbled, Tafelspitz earns its accolades with beautiful texture while clear Broth finds lots of flavor from Root Vegetables, Chives and melted Marrow.

Upsold on Spinach, unnecessary when fried Potatoes and Marrow on Toast plus sliced Pancakes in the Soup are available, Sauces consist of enjoyable Chive Cream and Applesauce aggressively flavored with Horseradish.

An orderly experience intended to turn tables with servers only somewhat fluent in English, Dessert saw a Chocolate “Souffle” accidentally served instead of the Dairy Cream version requested, though it seems safe to assume neither would have been as authentic or memorable as tangy Sweet Curd Dumplings atop Berry Compote.

www.plachutta-wollzeile.at

Posted in Austria, Bread Basket, Dessert, Foie, Foie Gras, Food, pancake, Pancakes, Plachutta, Plachutta Wollzeile, Souffle, Vacation, Vienna Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Weibel’s Wirtshaus, Vienna AT

Weibel’s Wirtshaus

Truffled Chestnut Soup, Cream, Biscuit

Potato and Cucumber Salad

Cranberry Sauce

Wiener Schnitzel, Lemon

Kaiserschmarrn, Apple Mousse, Blueberries, Stewed Plums, Strawberries, Gooseberries

Espresso

Recommended by trusted travelers and Michelin Weibel’s Wirtshaus feels as though it may have occupied Kumpfgasse 2 for centuries, a short walk from St Stephen’s Cathedral finding the small Restaurant serving traditional Viennese fare plus seasonal inspirations.

Something of a “Gastropub” by Austrian standards, with outdoor dining offered in the garden, it is by a lone server that guests dining at lunch are guided with no rush as each and every plate is made in the kitchen as ordered.

Possibly an old home or inn, the kitchen hidden from view and a bar beneath more seating upstairs, Weibel’s comes decorated in tchotchkes and photos providing temporary distraction until the arrival of velvety Chestnut Soup unfortunately a little overwhelmed by Truffle Oil.

Fair priced from Appetizers to Entrees, €22,90 for a hulking piece of Wienerschnitzel more than justified by tender flesh and loosely-adherent Breading, don’t overlook semi-sweet cooked Cranberries as an addition nor a generous bowl of Potato and Cucumber Salad.

Open lunch and dinner with a sizeable Wine list for someplace so small, Dessert includes many of the usual suspects though none comes more recommended than torn Pancakes, or Kaiserschmarrn, kissed by Confectioner’s Sugar and ready to be topped with stewed Plums or Apple Mousse.

www.weibel.at

Posted in Austria, Coffee, Dessert, Food, pancake, Pancakes, Truffle, Truffles, Vacation, Vienna, Weibel's Wirtshaus Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,