Exploring Salzburg’s cuisine: from tradition to diversity

No matter if you crave hearty Austrian comfort food, vegan specialties, or international cuisine – in Salzburg you will find restaurants, inns, and cafés that cater to every taste, often with delightful surprises along the way.

Traditional Salzburg cuisine – regional, hearty, authentic

Salzburg is home to many long-established inns where you can enjoy Austrian dishes in a truly authentic atmosphere. At St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, the oldest restaurant in Europe, you dine beneath centuries-old vaults and experience regional specialties at the highest level. For something more rustic, head to the Bärenwirt, where classics such as Backhendl (fried chicken) and roast pork have been served since the 17th century. In the heart of the Old Town, Wirtshaus Zwettler’s invites you to cozy evenings with Kasnocken (small dumplings with melted cheese from the Pinzgau region), goulash, or the famous Salzburger Nockerl (a sweet soufflé). And for an especially sociable experience, the Augustiner Bräustübl Mülln offers a unique beer-garden atmosphere with traditional Schmankerl (local delicacies).

Vegetarian and vegan dining – discovering Salzburg plant-based

In recent years, Salzburg has become an exciting destination for meat-free cuisine. At The Green Garden, modern vegan cuisine meets seasonal ingredients. Colorful bowls, homemade burgers, smoothies, and changing daily specials await you. The restaurant is bright, stylishly designed, and very popular with locals – it’s often worth making a reservation in advance. Heart of Joy Café offers a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes as well as a weekly menu with carefully chosen specialties.
Tip: Many restaurants in Salzburg are happy to adapt their dishes on request or provide vegan alternatives – just ask, it’s usually no problem.

Halal options and international cuisine

Those looking for restaurants with halal options will also find plenty in Salzburg. Istanbul Kebaphaus Salzburg is a popular spot for Turkish cuisine – besides Döner Kebab, you can enjoy hearty lamb dishes, rich stews, oriental appetizers, and freshly baked flatbread. The Indian restaurant Maharaja offers a wide selection of curries, tandoori dishes, and vegetarian meals, many of them halal. The spices are authentic, the portions generous, and the service warm.

Beyond that, you will find numerous Italian pizzerias serving wood-fired pizza, Greek tavernas with souvlaki and mezze, sushi bars with fresh fish, or Mexican restaurants with tacos and burritos. In the Old Town, it’s worth strolling through the narrow streets – many restaurants display their menus outside, making it easy to decide spontaneously what appeals to you and whether it suits your preferences.

Salzburg specialties you should try

Some dishes are simply part of any stay in Salzburg – more than just a quick bite, they tell stories about the region, its traditions, and a love of good food. Whether sweet or savory, simple or refined, these classics embody the Salzburg way of life and should not be missed on any culinary journey. Salzburger Nockerl are perhaps the city’s most famous dessert. This airy soufflé is made from whipped egg whites, sugar, and a bit of flour, baked golden in the oven, and dusted with powdered sugar. Served warm, usually straight from the baking dish, it makes an impression: the three peaks are said to represent Salzburg’s local mountains – Mönchsberg, Kapuzinerberg, and Gaisberg.
Kasnocken are a hearty dish perfect for cooler days. These small dumplings, similar to spaetzle, are mixed with tangy cheese and gratinated in a pan. They are topped with crispy fried onions and often served with a fresh green salad. Many inns have their own recipe, proudly passed down through generations – true Salzburg soul food.
The Wiener Schnitzel is another must-have, served in countless variations across Salzburg. Traditionally made from thinly pounded veal, breaded, and fried golden in clarified butter, it is often also offered with pork or turkey. Common accompaniments include lingonberries, potato salad, or parsley potatoes.
Salzburger Brezen are the perfect snack on the go. These especially large, soft pretzels can be found in many bakeries and at market stalls, available in sweet and savory varieties. Fresh from the oven, they are delicious on their own or with butter or spreads. Especially during a stroll through the Old Town, they are an easy and tasty companion.

Food delivery

Sometimes it’s simply more comfortable to stay at home and have your meal delivered. In addition to the well-known platforms, there are also several restaurants in Salzburg that deliver directly, usually with phone orders or an order form on their website.
Tip: Especially on weekends or in the evening, peak times can lead to longer waits. It’s best to order a little earlier if you don’t want to wait too long.

Enjoy Salzburg’s culinary diversity

Whether in a long-established inn, a trendy vegan restaurant, or a cozy dinner at home – in Salzburg it’s easy to eat well and discover something new. Enjoy your meal!