Located in the heart of Vienna, Austria, Schweizerhaus is a legendary establishment that has been serving locals and tourists alike for nearly a century. Known for its delicious cuisine, lively atmosphere and rich history, it’s a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring this enchanting city.
A Brief History
The origins of Schweizerhaus can be traced back to 1920 when Karl Kolarik leased a small beer stall in Prater Park. By 1935 he had expanded it into an inn which was named “Schweizerhaus” – or Swiss House – due to its close proximity to the park’s Swiss-style roller coaster. Despite being heavily damaged during World War II, the family managed to rebuild and reopen by 1951.
Culinary Delights
Schweizerhaus is best known for its mouthwatering Stelze (roast pork knuckle) served with mustard and fresh horseradish. This iconic dish pairs perfectly with their wide selection of beers from Czech Budweiser brewery – creating an authentic Central European culinary experience that you won’t want to miss out on.
An Unforgettable Atmosphere
This bustling eatery offers both indoor dining rooms as well as one of Vienna’s largest beer gardens where guests can enjoy their meal under chestnut trees – perfect during warm summer months! With seating capacity up to 3000 people at once, there’s always plenty of room for everyone who wants to partake in this unique Viennese tradition.
Historical Significance
Beyond its delectable food offerings and inviting ambiance, Schweizerhaus also holds significant historical value within Vienna. It played host numerous times over the years not only ordinary citizens but also many famous personalities including actors like Curd Jürgens, Austrian politicians like Chancellor Bruno Kreisky and even international statesmen such as the former Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev.
Family Tradition
Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, Schweizerhaus continues to uphold the values that have made it a beloved Viennese institution. The current owner Karl Kolarik’s grandsons – Thomas and Karl Junior – are committed to maintaining their grandfather’s high standards while also introducing innovative ideas to keep up with modern times.
A True Vienna Experience
Schweizerhaus is not just a restaurant; it’s an integral part of Vienna’s cultural fabric. Whether you’re a food lover seeking out traditional Austrian cuisine, a history buff interested in exploring local landmarks or simply someone looking for an unforgettable dining experience – Schweizerhaus has something for everyone. So next time you find yourself wandering through Prater Park, make sure to stop by this iconic establishment and immerse yourself in true Viennese culture!
Frequently asked questions
What is Schweizerhaus and where is it located in Wien?
Schweizerhaus is a famous and traditional restaurant located in the Prater, Vienna’s well-known amusement park. Its exact address is Prater 116, 1020 Wien, Austria. Known for its large beer garden setting and authentic Austrian cuisine, Schweizerhaus has been a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike since opening its doors in 1920.
What are the operating hours of Schweizerhaus?
Schweizerhaus generally opens from early March to late October each year due to its open-air setting. It operates daily from 11:00 AM until midnight during this period. However, these timings can change according to seasonality or special events so it’s always advisable to check their official website before planning your visit.
What kind of food does Schweizerhaus offer?
The menu at Schweizerhaus primarily features traditional Viennese dishes with their star attraction being the Stelze – an oven-roasted pork knuckle that pairs perfectly with beer. They also serve other classic Austrian dishes such as goulash soup or fried chicken along with various types of sausages like Bratwurst or Käsekrainer (cheese-filled sausage). For dessert lovers there are options like Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) or Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake).
Why is Schweizerhaus significant in historical context?
Schweizerhaus holds a special place in Vienna’s history because it was opened back in 1920 which makes it nearly a century old institution! Over the years, this popular eatery has survived World War II bombings and witnessed major transformations around including evolution of Prater amusement park. It’s also believed that the name ‘Schweizerhaus’ (Swiss house) was given in honor of Switzerland’s neutrality during WWII.
What is the seating capacity and do they accept reservations?
Schweizerhaus can accommodate up to 3000 guests, making it one of the largest beer gardens in Vienna. They have both indoor and outdoor seating areas with majority being outdoors under chestnut trees providing a unique ambiance. While walk-ins are welcome, Schweizerhaus does accept reservations especially for larger groups which is recommended during peak seasons or weekends when it tends to get quite busy.
