Traditional Austrian Food

1. Kaiserschmarrn

   It is a fluffy shredded pancake that is caramelized in a pan and traditionally served with powdered sugar and plum compote. It’s one of Austria’s most famous desserts and is especially popular in the Alps after hiking or skiing. Despite being a dessert, many locals also enjoy it as a main meal in mountain huts.

   

2. Käsespätzl

   This traditional Austrian alpine dish is made with soft egg noodles layered with melted cheese and topped with crispy fried onions. They’re especially popular in western Austria and usually served in mountain huts. The cheese blend typically includes strong alpine cheeses, giving the dish its creamy and hearty flavor.

   

3. Schweinsbraten

Roast pork, also known as "Bratl," is a traditional Austrian dish. It is seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic, and caraway seeds and roasted until the skin becomes crispy.

Roast pork is served both hot as a main course with typical side dishes such as bread dumplings, potato dumplings, sauerkraut, or coleslaw, and cold as a snack.

1. Wiener Schnitzel

The Wiener Schnitzel is traditionally made with veal. It consists of a veal cutlet that is breaded with flour, then beaten egg, and finally breadcrumbs. It is traditionally fried in lard until golden brown and served with a lemon wedge and a cranberry sauce. The Wiener Schnitzel is one of the most famous specialties of Viennese cuisine and is considered the favorite dish of the Austrian people.

1. Knödel aller Art

2. Kärntner Kasnudel

Kärntner Kasnudeln are one of Carinthia’s most famous traditional dishes. They are handmade pasta pockets filled with a savory mixture of potatoes, curd cheese, herbs, and spices. They are usually served with melted butter and fresh chives. It is a must-try specialty when visiting southern Austria.

1. Frittatensuppe

Frittatensuppe is a traditional Austrian soup made from a rich beef broth or vegetable stock, served with thinly sliced pancake strips known as “Frittaten” and topped with fresh chives. It is perfect for warming up after a cold ski day or as a traditional starter before a hearty meal.

1. Tafelspitz

Tafelspitz consists of slowly simmered beef served in a flavorful broth with vegetables, roasted potatoes, apple-horseradish sauce, and chive sauce. Known for its tender texture and rich flavor, Tafelspitz is a classic part of Viennese cuisine and was famously loved by Emperor Franz Joseph himself.

1. Brettljause

Brettljause is a traditional Austrian snack platter typically served on a wooden board and filled with regional specialties like cured meats, bacon, sausages, cheese, spreads, pickles, fresh bread, and horseradish. Especially popular in alpine huts and countryside inns, the Brettljause is the perfect meal after a long hike or ski day.

1. Germknödel

Germknödel is a classic Austrian sweet dumpling made from soft yeast dough and traditionally filled with plum jam. Served warm with melted butter, poppy seeds, and powdered sugar, it’s one of the most popular comfort foods in Austrian ski huts and mountain restaurants. Sweet, filling, and perfect after a day in the mountains, the Germknödel is a must-try alpine dessert experience.