Check Out Vienna’s Iconic Cafe Hawelka

If you’re getting ready to travel to the iconic European city of Vienna, here’s an interesting little tidbit you may not know: it’s a hotbed for historical cafes. We’re talking about cafes with thick carpets and lavish halls that great philosophers and poets used to frequent in olden times. There are plenty of great cafes to check out in this Austrian city, but here’s one that’s a tad under the radar: Cafe Hawelka.

Historical Meeting Spot

Cafe Hawelka opened back in 1945, and became a place where writers and critics would meet, including the likes of Albert Paris Gütersloh, Friedrich Torberg, Ernst Fuchs, Friedensreich Hundertwasser, and countless others. It was a place where artists used to hang out and exchange ideas back in the 50s, 60s, and 70s.

Understated Appeal

If you walked into this cafe not knowing anything about it, you’d be shocked to learn about its historical significance. It has a mildly understated disposition, with shaggy carpets, old timey couches, and a dark, cozy vibe. It offers some of the most delicious baked rolls Vienna has to offer, as well as memorable cappuccinos, or “melanges”. It’s definitely not like your typical Starbucks down the street, and that’s exactly what makes it so perfect.