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Gasthaus zum HolunderstrauchB+Worth Trying

Name: Gasthaus zum Holunderstrauch
Address: Schreyvogelgasse 3, 1010 Wien, Austria, Wien, Austria
Rating: 4.7

Schreyvogelgasse 3, 1010 Wien, Austria · Restaurant · 4.7/5 Google (907 reviews)

Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Cozy Viennese gasthaus for classic Austrian comfort food and beer; strong hospitality, cash-only, with occasional quality and basement ambiance complaints.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Gasthaus zum Holunderstrauch delivers reliable traditional Viennese comfort with strong food quality in schnitzel, goulash, and kaiserschmarrn, paired with genuinely friendly service. However, periodic inconsistency—greasy dishes, tough fish, quality lapses—prevents higher grades, and the basement setting can feel stuffy. It's a solid neighborhood favorite for authentic Austrian fare at fair prices, best suited for those prioritizing warm atmosphere and hearty classics over flawless execution.

Restaurant Summary

Tucked off the main sights, this gasthaus feels warm and cozy rather than showy. Guests describe friendly servers, beer flowing, and a downstairs room that hums without pretense. One diner summed it up: "A genuine local vibe with simple comforts." Occasional gripes mention the basement feeling stuffy and the surprise of cash only, but most leave smiling over hearty plates. The cooking leans traditional Austrian—schnitzel, goulash, roast beef with onions, and a kaiserschmarrn that easily feeds two. It is everyday tavern fare done with care more than cheffy theatrics, best for those seeking classics at fair central-Vienna prices. A few reviews call out off-days (oily schnitzel, tough fish, canned-tasting salad), so expectations should be for rustic comfort over refinement. Families should be fine here: kids often go for schnitzel and fries, sausages, or simple chicken. Vegetarians have limited choices (omelette, dumpling and egg), and vegan options are scarce. Portions skew generous; consider sharing the kaiserschmarrn so no one waves the white flag before the tram ride home.

At a Glance

Cozy, welcoming tavern vibe with friendly service
Classic Viennese dishes done well, especially schnitzel, goulash, and kaiserschmarrn
Cash-only policy catches visitors off guard
Basement can feel stuffy; occasional food inconsistency
Limited vegetarian and minimal vegan choices

What Sets It Apart

cozy_basement_setting
classic_viennese_menu
friendly_regulars_vibe

What People Love

Feeling treated like a local
Big, satisfying portions
Fair prices for the 1st district
Simple, honest cooking without fuss

Points of Concern

Cash only; plan ahead to avoid ATM runs
A few reports of greasy schnitzel, canned-tasting salad, or tough fish
Basement seating can be stuffy or carry bathroom smell per isolated reports
Limited vegetarian and almost no vegan options

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost€28-42 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

For vegetarians, choose the cheese or vegetable omelette (€13.00) and a soup starter
Pair schnitzel with a mixed salad and a lager; share dessert to balance portions

Perfect For

Casual Austrian comfort meal near the sights
Group dinners with hearty plates and beer
First Vienna night when you want local classics
Cold-weather comfort food cravings

Location Insights

Area: Historic city center with a mix of offices, culture, and tourism; intimate lanes off main sights.

Safety: Generally very safe, well-lit, high foot traffic; occasional late-night bar noise.

Nearby: Near Hofburg/Graben; close to other taverns, cafes, and shops; strong tourist draw with local regulars.

Innere StadtInnere Stadt offers a sophisticated dining scene with a blend of traditional Viennese cuisine and contemporary gastronomy. The area is characterized by elegant cafes, historic inns, and upscale restaurants, attracting both locals and visitors seeking authentic and high-quality dining experiences.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday11:00–00:00 Tuesday11:00–00:00 Wednesday11:00–00:00 Thursday11:00–00:00 Friday11:00–00:00 Saturday Sunday

Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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