Austrian coffee specialities you should try

Anyone spending their holiday in Austria soon discovers something alongside mountains, lakes and historic town centres that tends to stay in mind: the coffee culture. One look at the menu is enough to see that many familiar drinks have different names here than in Germany. That is exactly where the charm lies. Coffee in Austria is often more than a quick hot drink. It is a fixed part of taking time out and enjoying the moment.

The nice thing is that you do not find typical Austrian coffee specialities only in Vienna or other large cities. Traditional names also appear on menus in small towns and villages. If you order with an open mind and try something new, you get to know the country through its flavours as well.

Why coffee in Austria is something special

The Austrian coffeehouse culture is known far beyond the country’s borders. It stands for calm, pleasure and a conscious break in everyday life or on holiday. Instead of drinking coffee on the side, a visit to a café often turns into a small experience. That is why it is worth knowing the typical names and asking for regional specialities.

Many varieties differ not only in how strong the coffee is. Milk, whipped cream and the way the drink is served also shape its character. This creates variations that cannot always be directly compared with common German terms.

Austrian coffee types you should know

Wiener Melange

The Wiener Melange is one of the best known Austrian coffee specialities. It is considered mild and well balanced. For many holidaymakers it is a good introduction to the world of Austrian coffee because it feels familiar yet still has its own character.

Einspänner

The Einspänner is one of those terms that often surprises visitors at first. That makes it all the more worth trying. This speciality has a striking appearance and clearly stands out from classic everyday coffees. Anyone who enjoys a strong coffee with a distinct touch will often be curious about it.

Verlängerter

The Verlängerter is especially interesting for people who prefer their coffee less concentrated. In Austria it is one of the most common orders. For travellers it is a practical choice when they want something straightforward yet still typical for the country.

Kleiner or großer Brauner

The Brauner is also a firm part of the Austrian coffee menu. The name may sound unfamiliar to many guests at first, but it is completely normal locally. If you like coffee with a little milk or cream, this option is often a good fit.

How to order in a café

If you are unsure about the names, just ask. In tourist areas many cafés are used to guests not immediately understanding the Austrian terms. Often a brief question is enough to clarify whether the coffee is rather strong or mild and whether it is served with milk or whipped cream.

• Be open to new names and specialities
• Ask politely if something is unclear
• Try a typical option instead of always choosing what you know
• See your café visit as a conscious part of your holiday

A small taste experience with lasting memories

Austrian coffee types are more than just different versions of a familiar drink. They also say something about everyday life, tradition and the way people enjoy their time. That is why it is worthwhile on holiday not to order just any coffee but to pick a speciality you do not know from home.

Whether it is a Wiener Melange, Einspänner or Verlängerter, those who give these drinks a chance often take home more than just a pleasant taste. You experience a piece of Austria in a relaxed, everyday way. And quite often it is exactly this coffee moment that you remember for a long time.