A Meat Free Vienna Food Guide

Before heading to Vienna this summer for a short trip, I was super nervous that I would not be able to find good vegetarian options in traditional Austrian restaurants. I did not expect to find many decent vegetarian food spots, beyond the universal falafel stand.

However, to my surprise, I found some amazing vegan and vegetarian restaurants with impressive menus. Some of the veggie dishes I indulged in were truly delicious and unique, ranging from traditional Austrian food to meat-free takes on classic fast food.

This quick guide will cover some ways to make the best of Vienna’s vibrant food scene as a vegetarian or vegan.

Traditional food

When it comes to traditional Austrian food, you will usually find menus stacked with meat. Many Austrians and food critics alike, will argue that the best national dishes almost exclusively contain meat.

There aren’t many restaurants in Vienna, where you can find many vegan dishes inspired by traditional Austrian recipes. But there is a hidden little bistro, not too far out of the city centre by metro, called: VELANI.

The whole menu is vegan and includes a range of specials which offer you a true taste of Austria. You can find Schnitzel, Goulash, and many other classics containing incredible-tasting mock meat.

I opted for the Bratknödel, which is basically dumplings with beef stuffing, served on a bed of Sauerkraut done vegan style. The dish is a favorite amongst locals, especially in wintertime and thanks to the chefs at VELANI’s, vegans and veggies don’t have to miss out on this national delicacy!

Beers

Austria is home to some of the best beers in the world. Although, sussing what beers are vegetarian or vegan-friendly can be difficult when traveling. But not to worry! One of Austria’s most famous and popular Breweries; Stiegel is completely vegan. The globally exported brand offers not only a range of high-quality classic and craft beers but also a tasty range of alcohol-free drinks.

If you are also looking for a great bar to try some more local beers at, whilst soaking up the atmosphere of a traditional Austrian pub away from tourists, head to Pub Schönbrunn. Kell the barman was super helpful and knowledgeable about his stock and Austrian beer.  Upon your arrival to the bar, he would be more than happy to help you find a vegan beer you enjoy.

Global food 

Vienna is home to some incredible vegan food spots which go beyond traditional Austrian cuisine, you can find vegetarian/vegan restaurants all over the city with global veggie dishes ranging from Chinese to Mexican and Greek.

One of my favorite spots I came across was Tau Vegan Restaurant, the food was quick, extremely tasty and the Asian-inspired menu was very broad.

For those of you with a much bigger budget, opt for a fine-dining vegetarian eatery not far from the main tourist hotspots of Vienna, called Restaurant JOLA. The place is well known in the Austrian food scene and rightfully so. JOLA’S seasonal menus are loved by meat eaters and vegans alike.

But, if you are looking for a much more reasonably priced meal and varied menu, Secret Garden Café Restaurant, offers a range of dishes from all over the world at a fair price.

On the go 

If you are on the go and don’t have time to sit down for a meal, or even if you need a few budget-friendly options there are plenty of meat-free options in Vienna. Cafes and supermarkets in Austria’s capital offer an amazing range of vegan Sandwiches and vegetarian pastries, which go for under five euros. 

SPAR is one of the biggest supermarkets in Vienna providing amazing vegan sandwiches. But, if you would prefer to support an independent business; Café Harvest have the tastiest cakes, baguettes, and soups which can be made to go or to eat in-house.

In terms of other affordable meal options, any visitor to Vienna, veggie or not needs to pay a visit to the Naschmarkt market!  The famous flea market is home to a huge range of fresh fruit juice stands, and a huge selection of stalls and restaurants offering unique healthy and cheap bites to go such as fresh salads and wraps, a personal recommendation worth visiting for any veggie, would be Tewa am Naschmark.