# Ten plus one dishes to eat when in Vienna

> When in Vienna, your taste buds are in for a royal treat! The city is known for its rich, hearty cuisine, as well as elegant desserts that have been perfected over centuries.

- URL: https://whitealligator.tours/ten-plus-one-dishes-to-eat-when-in-vienna
- Published: 2025-09-14
- Updated: 2026-10-09

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Here are the **must-try dishes** you need to dive into:

**1. Wiener Schnitzel**

This is the king of Viennese cuisine! A thin veal cutlet (though pork is also common) is breaded and fried to golden perfection. Traditionally served with a slice of lemon, potato salad, or parsley potatoes, it’s crispy, flavorful, and simply irresistible.

**2. Tafelspitz**

A dish fit for an emperor—literally. Said to be Emperor Franz Joseph’s favorite, **Tafelspitz** is boiled beef served with apple-horseradish sauce and chive sauce, alongside potatoes and vegetables. It’s comfort food with a royal flair, and one of Vienna’s signature dishes.

**3. Apfelstrudel**

No trip to Vienna is complete without a slice of this legendary dessert. **Apple strudel** is made with thin, flaky pastry stuffed with cinnamon-spiced apples, raisins, and a bit of sugar. It’s often served warm, with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.

**4. Sachertorte**

This world-famous chocolate cake was created at the **Hotel Sacher** in 1832 and has been a Viennese institution ever since. It’s a dense chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam, coated in rich dark chocolate icing. Pair it with a cup of coffee, and you’ve got the ultimate Viennese experience.

**5. Kaiserschmarrn**

This fluffy, shredded pancake was named after Emperor Franz Joseph, who loved it. **Kaiserschmarrn** is caramelized and served with powdered sugar and fruit compote, usually plum or applesauce. It’s a bit of breakfast, dessert, and a snack all in one!

**6. Erdäpfelsalat (Austrian Potato Salad)**

You’ll see this traditional side dish often accompanying schnitzel. Unlike other potato salads, **Erdäpfelsalat** is made with a light vinegar dressing (instead of mayo) and flavored with onions and mustard, making it tangy and fresh.

**7. Knödel (Dumplings)**

These hearty, round dumplings are a staple of Viennese meals. They can be savory (bread or potato dumplings) or sweet (filled with apricots or plums). Either way, they’re comforting and perfect alongside rich dishes like Tafelspitz.

**8. Gulasch**

Though of Hungarian origin, Vienna has made **Gulasch** its own. This beef stew is rich with paprika, onions, and a slow-cooked sauce. It’s typically served with bread dumplings or potatoes, making it a satisfying and warming dish.

**9. Leberkäse**

Don’t let the name fool you—there’s no cheese in **Leberkäse**! This meatloaf-like snack is made from finely ground pork and beef, baked until the top is golden and crispy. Served in a roll with mustard or pickles, it’s a favorite street food.

**10. Melange**

Finally, Vienna is famous for its **coffeehouse culture**, so you have to try a **Melange**. This beloved Viennese coffee drink is similar to a cappuccino—espresso topped with steamed milk and foam. Enjoy it with a slice of cake in one of the city’s historic cafés.

When in Vienna, **eat like the locals**—savor hearty dishes, indulge in decadent sweets, and enjoy the city’s slower pace with a perfect cup of coffee.

**+ 1** **Buchteln**

For a delightful sweet treat, look no further than **Buchteln**! These soft, sweet rolls are filled with jam—usually apricot or plum—and baked until golden brown. Traditionally served warm, they are often topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and accompanied by vanilla sauce for dipping. Buchteln are a nostalgic favorite, often found in bakeries and at family gatherings, making them the perfect comfort food to round out your culinary adventure in Vienna!

Picture: Envato