Café Schopenhauer

8 Viennese Coffeehouses for Any Trip to Austria

"Bohemian meets traditional at this lovingly renovated Old Viennese coffeehouse that doubles as a bookstore. A true neighborhood hangout in a quiet residential area, “it’s a little bit like a village,” waiter Daniel Burger tells me. You’re as likely to find nose-pierced hipsters as ladies who lunch. Though the décor ticks all the turn-of-the-century boxes — brass lamp fixtures, gold-framed mirrors, marble tables, and velvet-covered banquettes — informally T-shirted waiters and big easy chairs make it feel more casual. Felt-topped tables await card players, while eclectic books beckon from shelves and display stands. Café Schopenhauer is named for 19th-century philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer and even the breakfast dishes have philosopher names (Friedrich Nietzsche, anyone?). While the pastries are limited, even the menu fuses old and new: avocado toast and soy milk matcha alongside bestselling beef goulash and egg dumplings. Either way, settle in with a good book and while away a pleasant afternoon." - Veronica Stoddart