Heurigen in Grinzing★★€€
No visit to Vienna is complete without an evening at the Heurigen — the traditional wine taverns where Viennese winemakers serve their own young wine (the "Heurigen"). The word refers to both the wine and the establishment. Recognizable by the Föhrenbuschen (pine branch) above the door: If it's hanging, it's "ausg'steckt" — the place is open.
The Tradition
Since Emperor Joseph II allowed by decree in 1784 that winemakers could sell their own wine directly, the Heurige has been as much a part of Vienna as St. Stephen's Cathedral. The last vintage is served (hence "Heuriger" — the "Heurige," the current one): fresh, light wine, often still cloudy, along with cold buffets with Liptauer (paprika spread), smoked meats, cheese, and potato salad.
★★★ Grinzing — the Heurigen Village
The most famous Heurigen place is at the foot of the Kahlenberg in the 19th district. Cobenzlgasse and Himmelstraße are lined with Heurigen with cozy gardens under vine trellises. Yes, Grinzing is touristy — but the atmosphere on a mild summer evening is still unique. For more authentic experiences, head to Neustift am Walde, Stammersdorf, or Nussdorf.
Recommended Heurige
Weingut Fuhrgassl-Huber · Neustift am Walde 68
Large garden with a view over the vineyards. Excellent wines, especially the Grüner Veltliner and the Gemischter Satz. Quarter (0.25 l) from 3.50 €. Buffet plate 8–14 €.
Wed–Sun 3–11 PM (only during open times — check website!)
Heuriger Sirbu · Kahlenberger Straße 210
Hidden in the vineyards above Nussdorf — one of the most romantic Heurigen in Vienna. Only accessible via a steep footpath (10 min. uphill), but with a dream view over the Danube. Organic wines, honest buffet. Quarter from 4 €.
April–Oct, only during open times. No car, only on foot!
Mayer am Pfarrplatz · Pfarrplatz 2, Heiligenstadt
Historic Heuriger in the house where Beethoven composed parts of the 9th Symphony in 1817. More upscale than most Heurigen, with excellent wines and warm cuisine. Main courses 14–22 €.
Mon–Sat 4–12 PM, Sun 11 AM–12 PM
Buschenschank Hengl-Haselbrunner · Iglaseegasse 10, Grinzing
Traditional family business, less touristy than the main street. Cozy courtyard, honest buffet kitchen, friendly service. Quarter from 3.20 €.
Mon–Sat 4–12 PM
💡 Tipp
Avoid the large Heurigen directly on Grinzinger Hauptstraße — they cater to tour buses. The best experiences are found in the side streets or in Neustift am Walde and Stammersdorf. And order "G'spritzten" (wine spritzer) instead of pure wine — that's how the Viennese do it.
