6 must-try street food tips in Vienna
A long dinner in a cozy setting definitely has its charm. However, sometimes things need to be quick. Street food is no longer just a trend, and in Vienna, you can find everything from classic döner kebabs to schnitzel burgers and baos. Since food is a matter of taste, in the next few minutes, I will tell you some spots that are in my opinion great for quick and delicious take-away food.
Just a small note: I visited all these places at my own expense. As always, whether it’s a collaboration or not, this post reflects my honest, personal opinion. I’m all about giving you genuine recommendations based on my own experiences.
Brioche und Brösel
Let’s keep it brief. Brioche und Brösel (with newly interpreted Viennese classics) is my absolute favorite street food spot in Vienna. Figlmüller, a true institution for Wiener Schnitzel, is a name every Viennese knows. Figls, Joma, and Lugeck, also from the same operators, are popular dining addresses for locals. Brioche und Brösel certainly holds its own against these names.
Located in the Rotenturmstraße pedestrian zone, right in the heart of Vienna, a former sausage stand has been transformed into a premium street food concept, reinterpreting Austrian classics. The menu is as compact as it is good. The three burger varieties, Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, and Leberkäse make the choice difficult. The side dish includes homemade chips with truffle mayonnaise.
My tip is the Schnitzelburger. A thin, perfectly soufflĂ©d veal schnitzel in the usual FiglmĂĽller quality with parsley mayonnaise, bacon jam, crisp lettuce, and pickled lemons. It may sound crazy, but it’s a combination that works from start to finish. Enjoy it right at the stand or find a cozy spot, like by the Danube Canal.
Tanis am Kutschkermarkt
World-class döner in the heart of Vienna. When someone boasts such accolades, they have to deliver. The döner from Tanis at Kutschkermarkt stands out for its excellent quality and homemade ingredients. The chicken skewer is hand-made, the meat comes from Styria, the flatbread is homemade, and the vegetables are fresh. No hundred ingredients – just intentionally simple to ensure the taste of the high-quality ingredients shines through. The price is very fair at 5 €. For lamb lovers, there is a lamb skewer available on Saturdays instead of the chicken kebab (for 6 €). Great taste, but beware, it’s also very intense!
The stand is located at Kutschkermarkt in the 18th district. Besides döner, you can find other Turkish specialties like Lahmacun, falafel, köfte, grilled dishes, and more. Additionally, there is a large selection of premium meats (beef, lamb, chicken) available for purchase, with excellent advice from Tanis himself included. You can even have your purchased steak cooked at the stand and enjoy it at a small table next to the stand. However, a to-go meal is perfect for exploring the beautiful market.
MY TIP: A fresh sweet date from one of the nearby fruit stands makes a perfect dessert!
Smashbox
For those who love authentic American smash burgers, Smashbox is the place to be. As the name suggests, the burger patties are pressed thinly on the grill to create a unique crust. The famous Martin’s Potato Buns from New York are fluffy and add to the American vibe in Vienna. The Classic Cheeseburger is highly recommended, featuring a double patty of organic beef, cheddar, homemade sauce, and pickles. Simple but good. There’s also a chicken and a halloumi burger on the menu. Fries or coleslaw are must-have sides for an authentic burger spot. I especially recommend the truffle-parmesan mayonnaise.
The small venue in the 4th district, Wieden, greets guests with typical American hip-hop music. While there are only a few seats, it’s not a problem given its proximity to Vienna’s city center (especially Burggarten and Stadtpark). There is also a new branch in the 7th district near MariahilferstraĂźe, which I’ll be sure to test soon!
Ebi Mini
There might be some debate about whether this food spot qualifies as street food. Ebi Mini in the 6th district does have some tables with service but is primarily focused on take-away. Locals are likely familiar with the all-you-can-eat chain Ebi, but this smaller sibling follows a different concept. They offer well-known but also unique maki and sushi creations at a fair price, reflecting the high quality of the ingredients. There are also options like gyoza, baos (stay tuned for a specific tip), hot dishes, and desserts. There’s something for everyone here!
The bowls with fish or purely vegetarian ingredients are perfect to enjoy in the nearby Burggarten or at Maria-Theresien-Platz between the Natural History Museum and the Museum of Art History. They also taste great at home after a day of sightseeing!
Bao Bar
Having hinted at this earlier, I now want to introduce you to my tip for bao buns in Vienna. But what are bao buns? For those who aren’t familiar with the term, a short explanation: Bao buns are steamed buns from Asian cuisine, often filled with meat or other ingredients.
The Bao Bar in the 2nd district not only looks modern but also offers a very modern and fresh take on this classic. There are nice seating options, but the self-service concept also makes take-away appealing. The chicken and pork come from Austria, and the tofu is organic. With various creations available, there’s something for everyone. I particularly enjoyed the crispy chicken and pulled pork. If you like, you can also have some of the creations in a rice bowl. Side dishes include sweet potato fries and edamame. The nearby Prater is ideal for enjoying the food in the open air.
There are also branches in the 4th and 7th districts. But beware, the menu varies between locations!
Baschly
If you love oriental street food, Baschly will fully satisfy you. Located on the campus of the Vienna University of Economics and Business in the 2nd district, there is not only a highly recommended restaurant but also a stand right in front offering take-away. The chicken shawarma is especially recommended, as well as falafel in bowls or wraps. You can also get individual falafel for a quick snack. The perfect hummus is available here too! If you like, you can find a nice spot on the modern university campus or sit in the nearby Prater.
Beware! The stand does not have fixed opening hours. However, it is generally open at lunchtime during good weather. The restaurant also offers take-away (opening hours are only until early afternoon). The branch in the 9th district, which mainly caters to students, currently has no fixed opening hours.
