8 Viennese Coffeehouses for Any Trip to Austria

"Just 100 steps from St. Stephen’s Cathedral in the heart of the city, white-jacketed waiters have been quietly serving guests in this old-school setting since 1923. But look closely among the classic wood-paneled vaulted rooms, brass fittings, marble-top tables, and red velvet upholstery. Contemporary flourishes counterpoint the traditional design: ballet tutus as lampshades, contemporary black-and-white photos on the walls, and kitchen utensils whimsically hanging from the crystal chandelier. The pastries and breads are delivered oven-warm daily from Diglas ’ own 140-year-old patisserie, including such specialties such as the Scheiterhaufen (sweet bread pudding), still made like back in the day; the apple crumble tart; and the currant foam cake. Wash them down with a Mozart coffee: double espresso with Mozart chocolate cream liqueur and — what else? — whipped cream. And linger in the evening while a pianist softly tinkles tunes." - Veronica Stoddart