Planning a trip to Austria in 2025? Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that’s as rich as the country’s Alpine views and imperial history! At ASAPHolidays, we believe food is the heart of travel, and Austria’s cuisine is a delicious blend of hearty comfort dishes, decadent desserts, and vibrant cafe culture. From Vienna’s cozy coffeehouses to Tyrol’s rustic taverns, here’s your guide to the best Austrian foods you must try, plus tips to make your foodie journey unforgettable. Check out our guide to shopping in Thailand for more travel inspiration!
Why Austrian Cuisine is a Must-Try
Austrian food is a melting pot of flavors, influenced by the Austro-Hungarian Empire and neighbors like Germany, Hungary, and Italy. Think crispy schnitzels, velvety soups, and desserts that pair perfectly with a Viennese coffee. Whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, or dessert enthusiast, Austria has something to tantalize your taste buds. Let’s dive into the top 15 Austrian dishes you can’t miss on your ASAPHolidays adventure!
Wiener Schnitzel: Austria Food Golden Classic
Nothing says Austria like Wiener Schnitzel—a thin, breaded veal or pork cutlet fried to golden perfection. Served with a side of tangy potato salad or tart lingonberry jam, it’s crispy, juicy, and oh-so-satisfying. For the best experience, visit a traditional Viennese Gasthaus like Figlmüller, a local favorite.
Pro Tip: Pair it with a glass of crisp Grüner Veltliner wine for a true Austrian meal.
Tafelspitz: The Emperor’s Favorite
A staple since Emperor Franz Joseph’s days, Tafelspitz is tender boiled beef served in a fragrant broth with root vegetables, horseradish, and applesauce. It’s hearty yet refined, perfect for a cozy evening in Vienna.
Travel Hack: Book a table at Plachutta, where Tafelspitz is served with flair, and let ASAPHolidays arrange your dining experience for a hassle-free trip.
Käsespätzle: Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite
Think of Käsespätzle as Austria’s answer to mac and cheese. These soft egg dumplings are smothered in melted cheese and topped with crispy onions. Popular in Tyrol and Vorarlberg, it’s comfort food at its finest.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Most taverns offer meat-free versions, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Apfelstrudel: A Sweet Austrian Icon
No trip to Austria is complete without Apfelstrudel, a flaky pastry filled with warm apples, cinnamon, and raisins. Served with whipped cream or vanilla sauce, it’s a must in Vienna’s historic coffeehouses like Café Central.
ASAPHolidays Tip: Join our curated Vienna food tour to sample strudel at the city’s best cafes! Book your tour at ASAPHolidays.com.
Sachertorte: Chocolate Heaven
Created in 1832, Sachertorte is a rich chocolate cake layered with apricot jam and a glossy chocolate glaze. Enjoy it with a Melange (Austrian cappuccino) at Hotel Sacher for an authentic experience.
Fun Fact: The recipe is a closely guarded secret, making every bite a piece of history.
Goulash: Spicy and Soul-Warming
Inspired by Hungary, Austrian Goulash is a hearty beef stew spiced with paprika and served with bread dumplings. It’s perfect for warming up after a day exploring Salzburg’s snowy streets.
Where to Try: Local Heurigen (wine taverns) offer the best homemade versions. Learn more about Austria’s wine culture at Austria.info.
Knödel: Versatile Dumplings
Knödel are Austria’s beloved dumplings, made from bread, potatoes, or flour. Savory versions pair with meats, while sweet ones, like plum-filled Marillenknödel, are a summer treat.
Travel Tip: Visit a farmers’ market in Graz to taste fresh, seasonal Knödel.
Frittatensuppe: Pancake Soup Perfection
Frittatensuppe is a beef broth with thinly sliced pancakes (Frittaten). Simple yet flavorful, it’s a must-try at traditional Austrian inns.
Schweinsbraten: Roast Pork Done Right
Schweinsbraten is succulent roasted pork with crispy crackling, served with sauerkraut and dumplings. It’s a Sunday lunch favorite across Austria.
Zwiebelrostbraten: Onion-Lover’s Delight
This tender beef roast, Zwiebelrostbraten, is topped with crispy fried onions and served with roasted potatoes or dumplings. It’s a flavorful dish that screams Austrian tradition.
Erd institutional: Erdäpfelsalat: Zesty Potato Salad
Unlike creamy American potato salad, Erdäpfelsalat is light and tangy, made with vinegar, mustard, and onions. It’s the perfect side for schnitzel or roast pork.
Kaiserschmarrn: Fluffy Pancake Bliss
Kaiserschmarrn is a shredded pancake dusted with powdered sugar and served with plum compote. It’s a sweet, fluffy treat named after Emperor Franz Joseph.
Where to Try: Mountain huts in the Alps serve the freshest Kaiserschmarrn with stunning views.
Marillenknödel: Apricot Dumpling Delight
These sweet dumplings, Marillenknödel, are filled with juicy apricots and coated in buttery breadcrumbs. A summer favorite, they’re a must in Wachau’s apricot region.
ASAPHolidays Exclusive: Our Wachau Valley tour includes a stop at a local farm to taste these fresh. Plan your trip at ASAPHolidays.com.
Salzburger Nockerl: A Dessert Soufflé
A light, fluffy soufflé, Salzburger Nockerl is shaped to resemble Salzburg’s hills. It’s sweet, airy, and a perfect end to your meal.
Beyond the Plate: Austria’s Food Culture
Austrian cuisine is more than just food—it’s a celebration of history and community. Visit Vienna’s Naschmarkt for fresh produce and street food, or sip coffee in a Kaffeehaus, where time seems to stand still. For a local vibe, head to a Heuriger (wine tavern) to pair dishes with Austria’s crisp wines or refreshing beers. Explore more Austrian culture at Vienna.info.
Travel Smart: Austria’s seasons affect its menus. Winter brings hearty stews, while summer is perfect for fruit-based desserts. Let ASAPHolidays craft a seasonal itinerary to match your foodie cravings!
Conclusion: Savor Austria with ASAPHolidays
From the golden crunch of Wiener Schnitzel to the sweet fluff of Salzburger Nockerl, Austrian cuisine is a feast for the senses. Each dish tells a story of tradition, from imperial palaces to Alpine villages, making your 2025 trip a culinary journey to remember. At ASAPHolidays, we’re here to turn your foodie dreams into reality with tailored tours that blend Austria’s flavors, culture, and charm. Don’t just visit Austria—taste it, live it, and love it with ASAPHolidays. Ready to plan your delicious adventure? Visit ASAPHolidays.com today and let’s start cooking up your perfect trip!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most famous dish in Austria food?
Wiener Schnitzel is Austria’s iconic dish, a breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet loved worldwide. Try it at a Viennese Gasthaus for the authentic experience.
Are there vegetarian options in Austrian cuisine?
Yes! Dishes like Käsespätzle, Erdäpfelsalat, and sweet Knödel (like Marillenknödel) are vegetarian-friendly. Many restaurants also offer meat-free versions of classics.
Where’s the best place to try Austrian desserts?
Vienna’s coffeehouses, like Café Central or Hotel Sacher, are perfect for Sachertorte and Apfelstrudel. For Salzburger Nockerl, visit a traditional restaurant in Salzburg.
How can ASAPHolidays enhance my foodie trip to Austria?
ASAPHolidays offers curated food tours, dining reservations, and personalized itineraries to explore Austria’s culinary gems, from Vienna’s cafes to Wachau’s farms. Contact us at ASAPHolidays.com to plan your trip!
What’s the best time to visit Austria for food?
Winter (December–February) is ideal for hearty dishes like Goulash, while summer (June–August) is perfect for fresh, fruit-based desserts like Marillenknödel. ASAPHolidays can tailor your trip to any season!
