Damon Mcknight
Graz, Austria's second-largest city, is a foodie's paradise. Located at the foot of the Austrian Alps, the city is surrounded by lush countryside where farmers have been growing vegetables, curing meat, and producing cheese for centuries. The city's culinary scene is influenced by the Mediterranean countries to its south, resulting in a vibrant cafe culture. Graz offers everything from traditional Austrian cuisine to international dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The city also hosts unique culinary events like the Long Table, where 700 diners share a five-course tasting menu prepared by the area's top chefs. Whether you're looking for cosy cafes, romantic restaurants, or bustling markets, Graz has something to delight every food lover.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Local Specialties | Tafelspitz, Wiener Schnitzel, Apfelstrudel, Backhendl, Goulash, Deviled egg with smoked salmon and salmon roe, Pumpkin seed oil, Sissi-Busserl, Strudel with pears and marzipan, Vulkanland cured ham, scarlet runner beans, and freshly-baked bread |
| Notable Restaurants | Der Steirer, Genießerei am Markt, Dreizehn by Gauster, Landhauskeller, Restaurant Florian, GenussLaden - Gut Schlossberg, El Gaucho, Steak Boutique |
| Events | Long Table of Graz, where 700-750 diners share a five-course meal with wine pairings and local musical talent |
| Dietary Options | Vegan, vegetarian, traditional Austrian, international, halal |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Traditional Austrian food
Graz is known for its pastries, including the famous Apfelstrudel (apple strudel), which is served with vanilla ice cream. The city is also known for its pumpkin seed oil, which is used to dress salads and is available to buy in many restaurants.
For an introduction to Styrian food, Der Steirer serves Styrian tapas, including strudel with pears and marzipan, and larger plates topped with Backhendl and Goulash. Another traditional Austrian dish is Tafelspitz, which is prime boiled beef with bouillon and sliced pancakes or meat strudel served with fried potatoes, creamy spinach, chives cream, and apple-horseradish.
Other traditional Austrian dishes include Wiener Schnitzel (a fried dish of breaded meat served with fried potatoes and sour cream and onions), Kasspatzln (a comforting cheese noodle dish made with local cheeses), and Schweinebraten (a favourite in traditional Viennese restaurants).
Exploring Ischgl, Austria: Elevation at 6,100 Feet
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$8.63 $18.34
Local specialties
Graz, Austria's second-largest city, is renowned for its food and food events. The city takes its cultural influences from the Mediterranean countries to its south, which is reflected in its cafe culture.
Graz is surrounded by lush countryside where farmers have been growing vegetables, curing meat, and producing cheese for centuries. The city is particularly known for its pumpkin seed oil, a green, full-flavoured liquid that is often used to dress salads.
Graz also has more vegetarian options than anywhere else in Austria. Ginko Vegan Cafe is one such example, serving up vegan dishes and treats. For a traditional Austrian meal, Der Steirer is a popular choice, serving Styrian tapas alongside classic Austrian dishes. The 'Emperor's recommendation' is Tafelspitz, which is prime boiled beef with bouillon and sliced pancakes or meat strudel served with fried potatoes, creamy spinach, chives cream, and apple-horseradish.
For those with a sweet tooth, the oldest functioning bakery in Graz, Hofbäckerei Edegger-Tax, is the place to go. Its signature treat is the Sissi-Busserl, a type of chocolate-drizzled macaroon named after a former Empress of Austria. Sorger, one of the oldest and largest bakeries in the Styria region, is another great option for those seeking traditional pastries, confectioneries, and ice cream.
Graz also has a thriving market scene, with stalls selling local produce, wines, and snacks from nearby farms. The Genießerei am Markt, located in a stall at the Kaiser-Josef-Platz market, is a great place to sample regional, seasonal cuisine.
Heat Group Austria: A Look at Their Success and Innovations
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Graz's cafe culture
Graz, Austria's second-largest city, is known for its vibrant cafe culture. The city's Mediterranean influence means that the cafe culture spills out onto the streets, with people enjoying Aperol spritzes in the afternoon sun rather than espresso coffees. To immerse yourself in the local rhythm, find an outside table at one of the many small bar cafes and sip on a spritz. Accompany your drink with some local specialities, such as Vulkanland cured ham, scarlet runner beans, and freshly baked bread. Explore the small streets around Färbeplatz or Mariahilferstrasse for a true Graz cafe experience.
Graz offers a unique blend of traditional Austrian cuisine and international influences. The city's culinary scene is heavily influenced by the local region of Styria, known as Austria's culinary cauldron. The Ginko Vegan cafe is a testament to Graz's commitment to vegetarian options, with more veggie choices than anywhere else in Austria. For those seeking a taste of traditional Austrian food, Landhauskeller, located in a historic courtyard next to the 16th-century Landhaus, serves up dishes like Tafelspitz and Wiener Schnitzel.
Der Steirer, located near the Tegetthoff Brücke, is a popular spot for locals and offers a fun mix of modern twists on classic Austrian dishes. Their menu features Styrian tapas, including strudel with pears and marzipan, alongside larger plates topped with Backhendl and Goulash. Another unique dining experience is Genießerei am Markt, located in a stall at the Kaiser-Josef-Platz market. Chef Christopher Leitinger showcases regional, seasonal cuisine, taking advantage of the market's proximity to source the best ingredients.
Graz also hosts special culinary events, such as the Long Table, where 700 diners share a five-course tasting menu prepared by the area's best chefs, each course paired with a wine. This event takes place in the heart of the beautiful old town, creating an unforgettable al fresco dining experience. The city's rich culinary offerings, from its cafe culture to its fine dining, make Graz a true foodie destination in Austria.
Exploring Austria: Is Mistelbach a City or State?
You may want to see also
Fine dining
Graz, Austria's culinary capital, is a foodie's paradise. The city boasts a plethora of fine-dining options, ranging from traditional Austrian cuisine to international fare. Here are some top choices for fine dining in Graz:
Der Steirer is a popular choice for those seeking an authentic Styrian food experience. Located near the Tegetthoff Brücke, the restaurant embraces the tapas trend, serving up Styrian specialties in small plates. The warm and trendy décor, featuring wooden wine crates, vaulted ceilings, and suspended wine bottles, adds to the overall charm. The ''Emperor's recommendation'' is Tafelspitz, a prime boiled beef dish served with sliced pancakes or meat strudel. The extensive wine list offers a wide range of options to pair with your meal.
For a romantic evening or a business dinner, Restaurant Florian, situated inside the five-star Parkhotel Graz, offers an idyllic setting. The restaurant features a rose garden, a traditional-style dining room, and a winter garden conservatory, creating a fantastic ambience. The menu showcases gourmet Austrian cuisine, accompanied by a fine selection of wines.
Eckstein by Albert, located in the centre of town, offers a comfortable and approachable fine dining experience. The low-lit atmosphere, reminiscent of a wine cellar, sets the tone for a delightful meal. The knowledgeable waitstaff are happy to provide explanations and recommendations, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
El Gaucho, housed within the Renaissance Landhaus building, offers a unique twist on Argentine cuisine and local steaks. The beef served here is a combination of Argentinean and Austrian cattle, dry-aged for 32 days to achieve a precise flavour. The menu also includes delicacies such as goose liver and soft-shell crab, alongside a selection of beers.
Genießerei am Markt, located in a stall at the Kaiser-Josef-Platz market, provides an opportunity to savour regional, seasonal cuisine. Chef Christopher Leitinger showcases his culinary skills using the market's best ingredients. While the setting may be casual, the focus is on the food, making it a unique dining experience.
These are just a few examples of the fine dining destinations Graz has to offer. Each restaurant brings its unique character, atmosphere, and culinary delights to the table, ensuring a memorable dining experience in Austria's culinary capital.
Duty-Free Liquor Shopping in Vienna, Austria: What to Know
You may want to see also
Vegetarian and vegan options
Graz, Austria's culinary capital, is a haven for vegetarians and vegans, with a plethora of dining options to satisfy various tastes and preferences. Here are some of the top vegetarian and vegan spots to check out:
Ginko
Ginko is a beloved vegetarian and
Café Erde
Café Erde is an entirely vegan restaurant located at Andreas-Hofer-Platz, offering a charming atmosphere with wooden decor, an old piano, and abundant greenery. The lunch menu, available from Monday to Saturday, features a daily changing selection of international and Austrian dishes. The regular menu includes vegan versions of Austrian classics, such as schnitzel with tofu or seitan. The lunch menu is excellent value, with a main and side salad for €6.20, or €7.90 if you add soup. Drinks and desserts are extra, but there are vegan options available.
Falafel Werk
Falafel Werk is a popular choice for vegetarians and vegans, offering a variety of falafel dishes. You can enjoy falafel plates, sandwiches, wraps, salads, breads, hummus, and fries. The only non-vegan items on the menu are the Ayran (dairy) drink and the baklava. Falafel Werk is a great option for fresh, flavourful, and affordable vegan food in Graz.
Der Steirer
For a taste of authentic Styrian cuisine, head to Der Steirer near the Tegetthoff Brücke (bridge). Here, you can sample a variety of Styrian tapas, including strudel with pears and marzipan, and the 'Emperor's recommendation', Tafelspitz, a prime boiled beef dish. Der Steirer embraces a trendy and inviting atmosphere, featuring wooden wine crates, vaulted ceilings, and suspended wine bottles.
Geruchtekuche
Geruchtekuche is a gourmet vegetarian restaurant in Graz that pushes the boundaries with its daring menus. While it may not be entirely vegan, Geruchtekuche offers a unique dining experience for those seeking innovative and creative vegetarian cuisine.
Graz truly shines when it comes to vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that everyone can find delicious and satisfying meals to enjoy during their visit to this beautiful city.
Austria's Location: A Guide to the Heart of Europe
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Traditional dishes in Graz include Tafelspitz (prime boiled beef with bouillon and sliced pancakes), Wiener Schnitzel, and strudel. Pumpkin seed oil is also a local specialty.
Some popular restaurants in Graz include Der Steirer, Genießerei am Markt, Landhauskeller, Restaurant Florian, and El Gaucho.
The Long Table of Graz is a culinary event where 700-750 diners share a meal at a long table in the heart of the city's old town. The area's top chefs prepare a five-course tasting menu, each course paired with a wine.
