Top Spots to Eat Kaiserschmarrn in Vienna
Legend has it, this light-as-air dessert (meaning ‘Emperor’s mess’ in English) came into existence back in imperial times. Austrian emperor Franz Joseph I was travelling through the Alps and decided to stop by a farm for something to eat. The farmer he called upon, made nervous by this unexpected, royal visit, scrambled the pancake in a panic. In an attempt to hide the catastrophe, he smothered it in a rich berry jam. Lo and behold, the Kaiserschmarrn was born. Here are the best places to try it in Vienna.
Landtmann's Jausen Station
Cafe, Restaurant, Austrian, Contemporary
Heindls Schmarren & Palatschinkenkuchl
Heindls Schmarren & Palatschinkenkuchl
Heindls is a classic pancake house with a traditional Austrian vibe. You can sample a huge range of both savoury and sweet pancakes – from ham with Gouda cheese and Norwegian salmon, to a an array of Kaiserschmarrn, including a Linzer Mandalscharrn: a delicious and rich combination of almonds and stewed raisins. The chefs are deeply proud that Heindls is a quintessentially Austrian establishment and ensure that all the ingredients used are homegrown – including the flour, which is created in Austrian mills, and the sugar, which is from Vienna and Lower Austria.
Heindls Schmarren & Palatschinkenkuchl, Grashofg 4, Wien, Austria, +43 1 513 8218
Kaiserschmarrn dusted with icing sugar | Pixabay
Café Central
Café Central
This iconic coffeehouse offers a range of pastries and delicacies and their version of Kaiserschmarrn gives any competitor a run for their money. Perfectly fluffy and not overly sweet, they come served with a sharp sauce and still piping hot. The café, first opened in 1876, has preserved the grand atmosphere of a splendid past. The beautiful vaults, marble pillars, exquisite chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, the royal, purple upholstery and the intricate design of the chairs instantly transport customers to imperial-era magnificence.
Café Central, Herrengasse 14, Wien, Austria, +43 1 533 3763
The stunning interior of Café Central | © Vienna Tourist Board
Maxing Stüberl
Maxing Stüberl
The Maxing Stüberl is an elegant and traditional wine tavern, reportedly the oldest in Vienna. Located around the corner from Schönbrunn Palace, guests enjoy the cosy Austrian ambiance, and the authentic recipe of the Kaiserschmarrn – sheer fluffy perfection.
Maxing Stüberl, Maxingstraße 7, Wien, Austria, +43 1 877 5581
Café Landtmann
Cafe, Tea , Australian
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