Vienna Eats

Ever since I was in my elementary school's kid-friendly production of The Sound of Music, Austria seemed like a dream to me. People walking around in lederhosen and singing in gardens! What could be better? So naturally, when the opportunity arose to visit Austria I jumped at it. My first stop: Vienna, Austria.
Let's start with everyone's favorite topic- FOOD!
Viennese coffee is above and beyond what you have ever heard about it. I highly recommend letting any coffee shop be your first destination after landing. They're quaint and the coffee will perk you right up from the flight. You really can't go wrong with your order, but iced coffee is not nearly as popular in Austria as it is in America so be careful when ordering it. The coffee shop I went to did not offer iced coffee which I found out after ordering it and being served a hot coffee with a glass of ice cold water next to it. Regardless, it was phenomenal.
My recommendation: Whichever coffee shop looks cutest!

Next... GELATO. Yes, gelato. I was as surprised as you are. Isn't that Italian? Why would you go to Austria for Gelato. Well, take a quick peek at a map of Europe and what borders Austria? Italy! And let me tell you, the recipe definitely carried over. It was AMAZING. I got Nutella and Berry Yogurt flavored and could not have been happier.
My recommendation: Zanoni & Zanoni

And of course I have to end it with the iconic Viennese dish of Apfelstrudel (AKA: apple strudel). Now, I've had my fair share of cinnamon-y, sugary, apple-y dishes in the US. But NOTHING compares to what I was served in Austria. It was warm, fresh, and absolutely delicious. It tasted like Viennese culture if that is even possible. Getting a real Apfelstrudel from Vienna is an absolute must. My recommendation: Anywhere that you can get it warm!