To Tide You Over...

Cafés. I know, been there, discussed them. But there are just so many in Vienna, all with very distinct personalities, that I really would like to pay tribute to as many as I can. Besides that, I have also found the best gelato in Vienna. Actually and factually the best.

Café Diglas

There are actually two Café Diglas's but according to Günter the one on Fleischmarkt in the first district is far superior to the other. Once you go past the display counter through the entryway back through a narrow room with tables along one side and into the back area, it's actually a charming little place with lots of nooks, though very little natural light. However the tortes more than make up for it.

Café Korb

Near Stephansplatz, this is definitely a non-tourist joint straight out of the 60s. The waiters still wear tuxes and give table preference to the regulars while turning away the obvious tourists. Oh, there's also the gentleman's bowling ally in the basement (though when you can actually bowl I'm not certain), coupled with the very modern-styled restroom. Their desserts are really good as well, particularly the apple strudel. Or for a light after lunch bite, try their seasonal asparagus soup.

And while we're in this part of town...

Eissalon Tuchlauben

Yes, just catty-corner to Café Korb is Vienna's very best gelato shop. Not only is this perfect summer day treat more creamy here than at any other gelato in the city, it's also the only one (that I've found) which mixes things in with the gelato Cold Stone-style. Well, at least they do with the cookies and the fruit flavors. Just go here, you won't be let down.

The Landtmann Chain

Cafés Mozart, Museum, Landtmann, and... the others associated with the Landtmann chain are doing what I imagine is a spring special at the moment with a whole selection of strawberry desserts. I've tried this one, a chocolate strawberry torte, and the strawberry pistachio slice, both of which are amazing.

Go, my friends. Get out and experience these delights!