What should I order at Café Central?
Café Central
Apple Strudel
Mentioned multiple times as a classic Viennese dessert that is well balanced in flavor, not overly sweet, and served with cream or vanilla pod custard. Some reviewers found it the best they had on their trip.
Sacher Torte
Highly recommended by several reviewers as the best among multiple versions tried, praised for its delicious and balanced taste.
Warm Chocolate Cake
Described as rich, indulgent, and melt-in-your-mouth good, often highlighted as a standout dessert paired with vanilla ice cream and fresh cream.
Kaiserschmarrn
Recommended as a must-try traditional dish, with reviewers expressing satisfaction at choosing to have it at Café Central.
Pancake
Noted as a nice, not overly sweet option that pairs well with a good drink, making it a pleasant choice to enjoy the café's ambience.
Johann Strauss Cake
Mentioned positively as a fresh, delicious local dessert that fits well with the café's extensive selection.
Beef Tartare
Recommended as a delicious appetizer choice, praised for its flavor by diners who tried it.
Roasted Pork
Mentioned as a flavorful main course option, though one reviewer noted it was a bit fatty for their taste.
Cafe Central Sandwich
Described as refreshing with pesto dipping sauce and fresh salad, offering a lighter savory option.
About Café Central
Long-standing venue for Viennese cuisine, with famous historic links including to Freud & Trotsky.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Great wine list
- Live music
- Live performances
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Organic dishes
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- Paid street parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
Pets
- Dogs allowed
- Dogs allowed inside
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is Café Central known for?
Café Central is best known for its apfelstrudel, sachertorte, kaiserschmarrn, and coffee served in a historic Vienna café setting. Reviewers also repeatedly mention the live pianist, which adds to the classic atmosphere while people enjoy dessert and coffee.
What dishes are most recommended at Café Central?
The most recommended items include apfelstrudel with vanilla sauce, sachertorte, kaiserschmarrn, and chocolate cake, plus savory dishes like wiener schnitzel, beef consommé soup, and potato soup. Reviewers often say the pastries are abundant and fresh, and that the desserts are a highlight worth ordering with coffee.
What is the atmosphere like at Café Central?
The vibe is historic, elegant, cozy, and romantic, with a grand interior that many guests describe as beautiful and eye-catching. It suits couples, groups, and solo diners who want a classic Viennese café experience, and the live piano music makes dinner feel especially refined.
Is Café Central good value, and what is the price range?
Café Central is in the €10–20 price range, and several reviewers say the food and experience are worth the price, especially given its prime tourist-area location in Vienna. Guests often mention that breakfast, coffee, and dessert feel like strong value for a historic café with table service and live music.
When is the best time to visit Café Central to avoid a long wait?
Early morning is often the easiest time, with one review noting a weekday visit around 8 a.m. got seated right away, while later visits can involve a 20-minute to one-hour wait. Reservations are recommended for brunch, lunch, and dinner because the café is popular and usually has a line.
Is parking available at Café Central?
Yes. Paid street parking, Usually difficult to find a space is available.
Does Café Central have vegetarian options?
Yes, Café Central offers vegan options.
Is Café Central kid-friendly?
Yes, Café Central is good for kids.
Restaurants like Café Central in Vienna
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