Austrian cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors and traditions, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage and diverse influences. From hearty comfort foods to exquisite pastries, Austrian dishes are sure to tantalize your taste buds. This article explores the must-try dishes of Austrian cuisine and highlights some of the best food tours that offer an immersive culinary experience.
Must-Try Dishes in Austrian Cuisine
1. Wiener Schnitzel
Description
Wiener Schnitzel is perhaps the most iconic Austrian dish. It consists of a thin, breaded, and pan-fried veal cutlet, typically served with a slice of lemon, potato salad, or parsley potatoes.
Where to Try
- Figlmüller in Vienna is renowned for serving some of the best Wiener Schnitzels in the city.
- Gasthaus Pöschl in Salzburg offers a traditional take on this classic dish.
2. Tafelspitz
Description
Tafelspitz is a traditional Austrian boiled beef dish, often considered the national dish of Austria. It is typically served with horseradish sauce, apple-horseradish sauce, and a variety of side dishes like roasted potatoes, spinach, and chive sauce.
Where to Try
- Plachutta in Vienna is famous for its Tafelspitz, offering a variety of cuts and preparations.
- Gasthaus zur Oper in Vienna also serves an excellent version of this dish.
3. Sachertorte
Description
Sachertorte is a world-famous Austrian chocolate cake, invented by Franz Sacher in 1832. It consists of a dense chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam, coated in dark chocolate icing.
Where to Try
- Hotel Sacher in Vienna is the birthplace of the original Sachertorte.
- Café Demel in Vienna also offers a renowned version of this iconic dessert.
4. Apfelstrudel
Description
Apfelstrudel, or apple strudel, is a traditional Austrian pastry made with thin layers of dough filled with spiced apples, raisins, and breadcrumbs. It is often served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of vanilla sauce or whipped cream.
Where to Try
- Café Central in Vienna is famous for its Apfelstrudel.
- Café Tomaselli in Salzburg offers a delightful version of this classic dessert.
5. Kaiserschmarrn
Description
Kaiserschmarrn is a fluffy, shredded pancake that is slightly caramelized and often served with powdered sugar, fruit compote, or apple sauce. It is a popular dessert or main course in Austrian cuisine.
Where to Try
- Café Residenz in Vienna is known for its delicious Kaiserschmarrn.
- Gasthof Goldener Hirsch in Salzburg offers a traditional take on this dish.
6. Goulash
Description
Austrian Goulash is a hearty stew made with beef, onions, paprika, and other spices. It is typically served with bread dumplings, potatoes, or Spätzle (egg noodles).
Where to Try
- Griechenbeisl in Vienna is one of the oldest restaurants in the city and serves an excellent Goulash.
- Stiegl-Brauwelt in Salzburg offers a flavorful version of this dish.
7. Brettljause
Description
Brettljause is a traditional Austrian snack platter, typically consisting of various cold cuts, cheeses, pickles, and spreads, served on a wooden board. It is a popular choice for a light meal or snack.
Where to Try
- Heuriger (wine taverns) in the Vienna Woods are great places to enjoy Brettljause along with local wines.
- Gasthaus zum Eulenspiegel in Salzburg offers a delicious Brettljause platter.
8. Knödel
Description
Knödel are Austrian dumplings made from bread, potatoes, or flour. They can be served as a side dish or as a main course, often filled with meat, cheese, or fruit.
Where to Try
- Gasthaus Ubl in Vienna is known for its variety of Knödel dishes.
- Bärenwirt in Salzburg offers traditional Knödel with different fillings.
Food Tours in Austria
1. Vienna Food Tours
Vienna Food, Coffee, and Market Tour
This tour takes you through Vienna’s culinary highlights, including traditional markets, coffee houses, and local eateries. You’ll sample Wiener Schnitzel, Sachertorte, and other Austrian delicacies while learning about the city’s food culture.
Vienna Naschmarkt Food Tour
The Naschmarkt is Vienna’s most famous market, offering a wide range of international and local foods. This tour includes tastings of Austrian cheeses, meats, and pastries, as well as insights into the market’s history.
2. Salzburg Food Tours
Salzburg Traditional Food Tour
Explore Salzburg’s culinary scene with this guided tour that includes tastings of traditional dishes like Brettljause, Knödel, and Mozartkugeln (Mozart balls). You’ll also visit historic eateries and learn about the city’s food traditions.
Salzburg Beer and Food Tour
This tour combines Salzburg’s rich beer culture with its culinary delights. You’ll visit local breweries, sample traditional beers, and enjoy paired food tastings, including hearty Austrian dishes.
3. Innsbruck Food Tours
Innsbruck Culinary Walking Tour
Discover Innsbruck’s food scene with this walking tour that includes stops at local markets, traditional restaurants, and pastry shops. You’ll taste Tyrolean specialties like Speckknödel (bacon dumplings) and Kaiserschmarrn.
Tyrolean Evening with Dinner and Folk Show
Experience Tyrolean culture with this evening tour that includes a traditional dinner and a folk show. Enjoy dishes like Gröstl (fried potatoes with meat and egg) and Tyrolean dumplings while being entertained by local musicians and dancers.
4. Graz Food Tours
Graz Food and Wine Tour
This tour explores Graz’s culinary and wine culture, with tastings of Styrian specialties like pumpkin seed oil, local wines, and traditional dishes. You’ll also visit historic wine taverns and learn about the region’s wine-making traditions.
Graz Market Tour
Visit Graz’s farmers’ markets with this guided tour that includes tastings of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and local delicacies. Learn about the region’s agricultural heritage and culinary traditions.
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