Café Schwarzenberg

Café Schwarzenberg is a classic Viennese coffee house situated in the heart of Vienna, Austria. It can be found on the Ringstraße boulevard, specifically at Kärntner Ring No. 17, near Schwarzenbergplatz in the central Innere Stadt district. Contrary to numerous other conventional Viennese coffeehouses, Cafe Schwarzenberg did not specifically target artists and intellectuals as its clientele. The interior of the building has remained largely unchanged since it was opened in the 19th century, which is quite notable. The café is highly favored by tourists. Vernissages, concerts, and readings are frequently organized and hosted. The menu offers a selection of fresh pastries daily, along with a variety of Viennese specialties.

Café Schwarzenberg, which opened in 1861, is the oldest coffee house on the Ringstraße. It was established by a married couple named Hochleitner during the construction of this renowned boulevard. The location swiftly gained significance as a crucial gathering spot for influential entrepreneurs and financiers. One of the well-known regular guests at the establishment was Josef Hoffmann, an architect who played a significant role in founding the artistic manufacturing company known as Wiener Werkstätte. Hoffmann lived from 1870 to 1956. Hoffmann drafted many of his designs at Café Schwarzenberg.

After World War II, in Allied-occupied Austria, the Soviet Red Army utilized the space as an officers’ mess for hosting various events. The decor was damaged by gunfire, and the effects of this damage were still visible as late as 1979. Café Schwarzenberg was previously operated by the Österreichisches Verkehrsbüro travel company until January 1, 2008, when it was acquired by the Austrian Vivatis food company.

Café Schwarzenberg is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, thanks to its charming Schanigarten located on the sidewalk of Ringstraße. In addition to hosting a diverse range of cultural events like readings and concerts, the venue also offers Kaffeehausmusik (“Coffee House Music”) on multiple evenings throughout the week. During the Viennese ball season, Cafe Schwarzenberg stands out as one of the few cafés that provide early morning goulash and beer breakfasts specifically for ball attendees.