Explore Linz's Culinary Delights: A Foodie's Guide To Austria

where to eat in linz austria

Linz, Austria's third-largest city, is a haven for food enthusiasts, boasting modern architecture, quirky museums, and superb eateries. From quaint cafes to gourmet restaurants, Linz offers a variety of culinary delights. The city's vibrant food scene includes international flavours, such as Spanish tapas and Italian cuisine, as well as traditional Austrian specialties like Linzer torte and schnitzel. Whether you're seeking romantic ambiance or a quick bite, Linz has something to tantalize every taste bud. In addition to its gastronomic offerings, Linz also boasts a rich cultural heritage, having been named the European Capital of Culture in 2009. So, whether you're a history buff or a foodie, Linz is sure to satisfy your appetite for knowledge and delicious cuisine.

Characteristics Values
Cuisine Austrian, Spanish, Italian, French, Greek, Iberian, Seafood, Sushi, Steaks
Popular dishes Linzer torte, Tapas, Tripe, Donkey meat, Oysters, Moules frites, Schnitzel, Fish
Notable restaurants Bigoli, Coco, Rosso, Griechen, Café Traxlmayr
Notable people Liliana Alzesberger, Georg Essig, Michael Müller, Andreas Zika, Ingmar Goetzloff, Simone Göttfried, Christian Göttfried
Other places to eat Bakeries, Cafés, Boutique shops

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Linzer Torte

The Linzer Torte is considered the oldest cake named after a city and is a must-try when visiting Linz. It is believed that the recipe for the Linzer Torte is the oldest known cake recipe in the world, dating back to 1653. The cake was mentioned by name as early as that year and the oldest recipe was found in a cookbook by Countess Ann Magarita Sagramosa. The book was titled "Book of All Kinds of Home-Made Things, Such as Sweet Dishes, Spices, Cakes and also Every Kind of Fruit and Other Good and Useful Things, etc." and included four different recipes for Linzer Torte/Linz dough, indicating the cake's popularity during the baroque period.

The Linzer Torte is typically made with butter, almonds, sugar, flour, and fine spices, with redcurrant or ribisel marmalade as the characteristic filling. The dough is prepared with clarified butter, and the cake is assembled in a bowl, similar to modern-day pies, with the fruit filling and strips of dough on top.

If you're looking to try the Linzer Torte in Linz, there are several bakeries and cafes that specialise in this traditional cake:

  • Konditorei Jindrak: Known for its "Original Linzer Torte," this bakery has been using traditional recipes for generations. They bake over 100,000 cakes annually and ship them worldwide.
  • Das Bruckner Kaffeehaus: Located on Hauptplatz, this cafe offers Linzer Torte among other confections.
  • Confiserie Isabella: Found on Landstraße, this confectionery shop is another place to indulge in Linzer Torte.
  • K.u.k. Hofbäckerei: Located on Pfarrgasse, this bakery offers Linzer Torte and other baked goods.
  • Marc Chocolatier: On Harrachstraße, this chocolatier and bakery includes Linzer Torte in their selection.

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Seafood

If you're looking for Italian seafood, try Il Pescatore, Mia Cara, or Il Caminetto. Il Pescatore serves dishes like homemade tortellini stuffed with porcini and prawns, fried baby calamari, and giant prawns. Il Caminetto is conveniently located near hotels, and the food is delicious. Mia Cara is known for its seafood dishes, which are considered branded treats, and it's also worth trying their spaghetti cooked following an old home recipe.

For Mediterranean seafood, consider Rosso, which is considered an authority on fish, offering it fresh or from the dry ager. Gourmets are delighted by the quality of the dishes. The Griechen may be small in name, but its dishes are great, especially the exquisite seafood dishes like turbot. It also has a wonderful view of the steel city and a wine selection that makes hearts beat faster.

Finally, for a trendy mix of restaurant and bar, check out the unnamed restaurant on Johann-Konrad-Vogel-Straße 7–9. They offer very good fish dishes, sometimes oysters, and upscale home cooking, along with good drinks and wines.

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Iberian cuisine

Linz, Austria's third-largest city, is a former industrial hub that has transformed into a cultural hotspot. The city boasts modern architecture, quirky museums, superb bakeries, and a thriving food scene.

When it comes to Iberian cuisine in Linz, there are a few notable options:

Michael Müller and chef Andreas Zika are renowned in the city for their gourmet Iberian cuisine. Their restaurant is known for its exceptional fish dishes, with a 140-kilo halibut being a standout offering. The menu also features other seafood options and a variety of wines and cigars.

For those who enjoy Spanish tapas, Liliana Alzesberger's restaurant is a popular choice, always fully booked due to its delicious offerings. The restaurant also offers good wines and fine fizz, reflecting Liliana's time living in Spain.

In addition to these Iberian-focused establishments, Linz is also home to a diverse range of culinary experiences, including Italian, Greek, French, and Asian-inspired cuisine. The city's restaurants showcase a mix of upscale dining, trendy spots, and traditional tavern fare.

Whether you're seeking gourmet Iberian dishes or exploring the diverse culinary landscape of Linz, the city offers a wealth of options to satisfy your appetite.

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Italian cuisine

Linz, Austria, is home to several Italian restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience. Here are some top spots to enjoy Italian cuisine in Linz:

Pizzeria David Urfahr

Pizzeria David Urfahr is a versatile restaurant offering a range of Greek, Italian, Mexican, and even Austrian dishes. Their Greek gyros and Italian-style pizzas are popular choices, and the friendly service makes the dining experience even more enjoyable. The restaurant is highly rated for its tasty food and convenient delivery options.

Ristorante RIVA

Ristorante RIVA is highly recommended for its delicious Italian cuisine and excellent service. The special Riva pizza and the Greek salad are customer favourites, and the gelato is a must-try for dessert. The staff, including the waiter Stefan, are known for their attentiveness and for engaging customers in pleasant conversations.

CUCINA

CUCINA is a popular Italian restaurant renowned for its authentic and mouthwatering pizzas. The pizzas are crafted with high-quality ingredients and baked in an open kiln, resulting in a thin, crispy crust that is a hallmark of traditional Italian pizza. The risotto is also highly recommended, and the friendly and attentive staff ensure a pleasant dining experience.

Il Teatro

Il Teatro is known for serving the "best pizza in town," with a super crust and fresh ingredients. In addition to pizza, Il Teatro offers a variety of delicious pasta dishes and a unique zwetschke kokos tiramisu for dessert. The cosy atmosphere, decorated in an old Italian style, enhances the dining experience.

Other Notable Mentions

Linz also boasts other Italian restaurants that are worth considering, such as the one located at Wiener Str. 485, 4030, which offers a typical Italian taste and a great wine list. The restaurant at Hessenpl. 19, 4020, is also recommended for its traditional Italian pizzas, fresh ingredients, and friendly service.

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French cuisine

While Linz is known for its Austrian cuisine, bakeries, and local pies, there are a few places to visit if you're craving French food. Coco serves French cuisine in the afternoon, including oysters, champagne, and moules frites. The restaurant is located near the high street and also serves sushi and steak.

For a more upscale experience, Restaurant Verdi is perched on a hilltop and offers modern regional and European classics, including Wiener schnitzel. The restaurant has a spacious room and an excellent wine list.

If you're looking for a cozy brunch spot, Gelbes Krokodil offers a unique film brunch experience. For traditional Austrian dishes served with local charm, try Wia z'haus Lehner. This restaurant is located in the old town and offers excellent value for money.

Linz also has a variety of other dining options, including Greek, Italian, African, and Asian cuisine. The city blends tradition with modernity, so you can find both charming cafes and upscale restaurants.

Frequently asked questions

The oldest inn in Linz is said to serve the best schnitzel and offer a top wine list.

Some of the best restaurants in Linz include Bigoli, which serves homemade pasta and authentic northern Italian cuisine, and Coco, which serves French cuisine and is one of the few kitchens open after 2 pm. Other great spots are the 150-year-old Café Traxlmayr, which offers an amazing pre-World War I experience, and the Rosso, which is considered the best restaurant for fish.

Linz is world-famous for its Linzer torte, which is a type of open jam pie filled with raspberry jam or preserves. The batter includes ground unblanched almonds and is flavoured with cinnamon, cloves, and cocoa.

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