Looking for the best breakfast in Vienna and breakfast in Austria? You’re in the right place!
Vienna, Austria’s capital, renowned for its architectural beauty, rich history, and vibrant art scene, also boasts an enticing culinary culture. As the city awakens, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee blends with the sweet scent of pastries, signaling the start of a new day.
But where should you go to enjoy the best breakfast in Vienna? We’ve got you covered! Here is our hand-picked guide to some of the top spots for breakfast in this enchanting city.
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Breakfast Culture in Vienna – Breakfast in Austria
Vienna, Austria’s capital city, renowned for its cultural events, imperial sights, coffee houses, and wine taverns, also boasts a delightful breakfast scene. The Viennese have a laid-back approach to breakfast. It’s not just about eating; it’s about enjoying the morning, often extending well into the afternoon, particularly during weekends.
Coffee houses are the heart of social life in Vienna, and they also serve as perfect breakfast spots. Friends meet here to start the day together, enjoying delicacies while the world outside awakens.
What is a Typical Austrian Breakfast
A traditional Austrian breakfast, or “Frühstück” as it’s known in German, typically consists of semmel (freshly baked rolls) served with butter, marmalade or honey, and cold meats or cheese. Other common accompaniments include boiled eggs, yogurt, and muesli. Austrians take their coffee very seriously, and it’s often enjoyed with breakfast.
In recent years, Vienna’s breakfast scene has expanded to include a wider range of international offerings. From full English breakfasts to Middle Eastern Shakshuka, you can find almost anything your heart desires.
Best Places for Breakfast in Vienna
Café Central
Located in the heart of Vienna, Café Central has been serving customers since 1876. With its historical charm, high ceilings, and decadent pastries, it offers an authentic Viennese coffee house experience. Their breakfast menu includes a variety of traditional Austrian dishes like Strammer Max (bread with ham and a fried egg) and sweet treats such as Apfelstrudel.
The Breakfast Club
This trendy eatery is a haven for breakfast lovers, serving breakfast all day long. The Breakfast Club offers a menu that caters to different tastes and dietary preferences, from avocado toast and pancakes to vegan bowls and gluten-free options.
Ulrich
Ulrich, located near St. Ulrich’s square, is a popular spot among locals. It offers a blend of traditional and contemporary breakfast options. You might want to try the Ulrich’s breakfast, a platter of ham, cheese, butter, marmalade, and a soft-boiled egg, served with semmel (Austrian bread roll).
Motto am Fluss
Perched on the Danube Canal, Motto am Fluss offers not just delicious food but also stunning views of the water. Their extensive breakfast menu includes Viennese classics, international dishes, and an array of coffees and teas.
Café Sperl
Step back in time at Café Sperl, a traditional Viennese café established in 1880. Known for its old-world charm and excellent pastries, Café Sperl is an ideal place to relax and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Try their Viennese breakfast, a delightful spread of a semmel, croissant, butter, jam, and coffee.
Joseph Brot
For those seeking a healthier option, Joseph Brot offers organic, locally sourced, and homemade fare. With several locations across Vienna, this bakery and café specializes in artisanal bread and pastries. Don’t miss their bio breakfast which includes an assortment of their signature breads, ham, cheese, butter, and homemade jam.
Figar
Figar is a trendy spot popular among locals for its lively atmosphere and wide range of breakfast offerings. Their breakfast menu is served until 4 pm, making it a perfect choice for late risers. From their avocado toast to their mouthwatering Shakshuka, Figar offers a contemporary take on breakfast with a distinct Viennese flair. Don’t miss out on their excellent coffee, a perfect companion to your breakfast.
Café Drechsler
Café Drechsler, situated near the Naschmarkt, is a Viennese institution with a modern twist. Having served patrons for over a century, the café was given a contemporary makeover by British designer, Sir Terence Conran. Their menu covers traditional Viennese breakfast items as well as unique offerings like their oriental breakfast. If you’re there on a weekend, try their weekend breakfast special, served with a glass of prosecco.
Superfood Deli
If you’re looking for a health-boosting start to your day, Superfood Deli is the place for you. They serve a variety of acai bowls, smoothies, and cold-pressed juices. Their power-packed breakfast offerings are not only nutritious but also vibrant and photogenic, making your breakfast a feast for the eyes and the body.
Die Liebe
Die Liebe, translating to ‘The Love,’ lives up to its name by serving breakfast made with love and care. This cozy and charming café offers a range of breakfast options from around the world. You can opt for their French, English, Austrian, or even their Mediterranean breakfast. For the sweet-toothed, their ‘Sweet Liebe’ – a selection of homemade cakes, marmalade, and honey, is a must-try.
Each of these establishments adds to the diversity and vibrancy of Vienna’s breakfast scene, making the city a true breakfast lover’s paradise.
Vienna’s Attractions: Things to Do in Vienna
Beyond breakfast, Vienna offers a wide array of attractions. Visit the stunning Schönbrunn Palace and stroll around its beautiful gardens, or take a trip to the Vienna State Opera for a dose of high culture. The MuseumsQuartier district offers a collection of museums such as the Leopold Museum and the MUMOK. For shopping, visit Mariahilfer Straße and for some relaxation, the Vienna Prater, a large public park, is a must-visit.
FAQs
What is a typical breakfast in Vienna?
A typical Viennese breakfast consists of semmel (freshly baked rolls) served with butter, marmalade, or honey. Cold cuts and cheese are often added to the spread, alongside boiled eggs. For something more hearty, a plate of sausages or ham might also be included.
What do they eat for breakfast in Vienna, Austria?
In addition to the traditional semmel rolls and cold cuts, Austrians love their pastries for breakfast. You may find a wide array of delicious baked goods such as croissants, strudels, and Kipferl (an Austrian croissant-like pastry). Muesli and yogurt are also popular choices, especially for those looking for healthier options.
How much is breakfast in Vienna?
The cost of breakfast in Vienna can vary greatly depending on where you choose to eat. In an average coffee house or café, you could expect to pay anywhere from €5 to €15 for a decent breakfast. Higher-end restaurants or hotels may charge more.
When should I eat in Vienna?
Breakfast in Vienna is typically served from as early as 6:30 am, with some places offering breakfast items well into the afternoon. Lunch is usually eaten between 12 pm and 2 pm, and dinner can start as early as 6 pm. However, it’s worth noting that many Viennese prefer a lighter meal in the evening, with the main meal often being lunch.
Final Thoughts on the Best Breakfast in Vienna
Experiencing the best breakfast in Vienna is more than just a culinary delight; it’s a cultural immersion. The city’s vibrant breakfast scene reflects the larger Viennese culture – a mix of traditional practices and a cosmopolitan spirit.
From the historic coffee houses serving classic Austrian breakfasts to chic, modern establishments offering a global array of choices, the breakfast culture in Vienna is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself.
No matter what your taste buds crave, Vienna’s breakfast scene has got you covered. So, as you plan your day around visiting magnificent palaces or engaging museums, don’t forget to schedule a hearty Viennese breakfast. It’s not just a meal; it’s an integral part of the Vienna experience. The smell of fresh semmel, the taste of locally sourced cold cuts, and the sound of coffee brewing in the backdrop, all contribute to starting your day the Viennese way.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor eager to experience the culinary delights of Austria’s capital, this guide to the best breakfast in Vienna should come in handy. Enjoy your meal, or as the locals say, “Guten Appetit!”
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.