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Wien › Mariahilf › My Secret Garden - Vegetarian Café & Restaurant Vienna
My Secret Garden - Vegetarian Café & Restaurant ViennaBWorth Trying
Mariahilfer Str. 45, 1060 Wien, Austria
· Vegetarian restaurant, Cafe, Garden
· 4.7/5 Google (868 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Cozy vegetarian hideaway with creative global curries, great cakes, and a leafy courtyard; order at the counter, expect moderate prices and occasionally small portions or sold-out items later in the day.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
My Secret Garden delivers solid neighborhood dining through flavorful global vegetarian cooking and a genuinely appealing hidden courtyard that justifies its loyal following. However, inconsistent execution—with portions and selection varying by time of day—and a counter-service model that limits attentiveness prevent it from reaching higher territory. It's a worthwhile detour for plant-based diners seeking authentic, creative cooking in a peaceful setting.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked just off Mariahilfer Straße, this vegetarian cafe feels like a hidden garden oasis. Guests praise friendly counter staff and describe it as a place to linger over chai or cake in the leafy courtyard. One diner summed it up: "A calm refuge with wholesome food right by the bustle." The cooking leans global and plant-forward rather than strict tradition, with Thai and Indian curries, tempeh, and a Korean-inspired bowl. It is creative without feeling fussy, and fans rave about the dal and raw cashew cheesecake. Portions and selection can vary later in the day, so arrive earlier if you want the broadest choice. Families will manage well here. Soups, mild curries with rice, and cakes make easy picks, though there is no dedicated kids menu. Counter ordering and the casual setup suit strollers and quick bites, but picky eaters may prefer simpler soups or dessert-first strategy.
At a Glance
- Cozy courtyard hideaway steps from Mariahilfer Straße
- Flavorful global vegetarian curries and legitimately tasty gluten-free desserts
- Items can sell out late; portions sometimes feel small for price
- Counter service may feel hands-off to some
- Gluten-free diners should confirm grains used due to one miscommunication report
What Sets It Apart
- leafy_hidden_courtyard
- global_vegetarian_curries
- gluten_free_desserts_that_taste_good
What People Love
- Warm, cozy vibe away from street noise
- Rich, aromatic dal and curries
- Raw cashew cheesecake that tastes indulgent
- Friendly staff and quick service
- Plenty of vegan and gluten-free options
Points of Concern
- Selection narrows late afternoon; some mains sell out
- Portions occasionally feel small relative to price
- A few service lapses reported (delayed bread, mixed attentiveness)
- Gluten-free labeling confusion reported once; celiacs should ask clearly
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost€22-30 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For cautious palates, choose Zucchini or Carrot-Orange soup and plain rice
- For gluten-free dessert, pick the raw cashew cheesecake or caramel slice
Perfect For
- Casual lunch after shopping on Mariahilfer Straße
- Plant-based travelers seeking comfort dishes
- Coffee and cake in a quiet courtyard
- Solo work session with a hearty soup
Location Insights
Area: Busy shopping artery near MuseumsQuartier; mix of locals, students, and visitors seeking casual bites.
Safety: Well-trafficked, well-lit shopping district; generally safe day and evening.
Nearby: Arcade off Mariahilfer Straße with boutiques and cafes; near museums and retail.
MariahilfMariahilf offers a lively dining scene with a variety of cafes, casual eateries, and some upscale restaurants. The atmosphere is dynamic and cosmopolitan, catering to a diverse crowd seeking both traditional Viennese and international cuisine, including vegetarian and healthy options.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–19:00
Tuesday11:00–19:00
Wednesday11:00–19:00
Thursday11:00–19:00
Friday11:00–19:00
Saturday11:00–19:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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