Beyond Schnitzel: Vienna’s Top Vegan Restaurants – A Curated Guide

JOLA, Vegan Fine Dining in Vienna. (Photo: JOLA)

Navigating Plant-Based Food in the Imperial City: Vienna’s Best Vegan Culinary Offerings

Vienna, a city steeped in a rich culinary heritage, is currently undergoing a quiet yet profound gastronomic transformation. While the echoes of Sachertorte and Schnitzel still resonate, a vibrant new narrative is emerging, one composed of plant-based innovation and ethical consumption. Indeed, even at Figlmüller‘s Bäckerstrasse-site, the venerable institution renowned for its iconic Wiener Schnitzel since 1905, one can now savor a vegan rendition made from pea protein, served with their quintessential salads and a glass of homegrown wine. For the curious palate, particularly one exploring the ever-evolving tapestry of Jewish culinary identity, this burgeoning vegan scene offers a fascinating counterpoint to historical Viennese traditions. It’s worth noting that for many seeking kosher options but not requiring a formal hechsher—a rabbinical certification signifying adherence to Jewish dietary laws (kashrut)—vegan and vegetarian establishments often become a preferred choice. This is due to the inherent avoidance of forbidden animal products and the separation of meat and dairy, even if other aspects of kashrut (like specific production supervision or insect checking for produce) are not formally overseen.

Our aim at “Jewish Viennese Food” is to chronicle both the nostalgic whispers of the past and the exhilarating innovations of the present. This curated list offers a glimpse into Vienna’s diverse vegan establishments. It’s important to approach this landscape with a pragmatic palate; while the proliferation of vegan eateries is a welcome development, not all offer the same caliber of culinary artistry. For those accustomed to the refined heights of a Steirereck—Vienna’s multi-Michelin-starred benchmark for traditional haute cuisine—some entries might indeed prove, frankly, disappointing. However, certain spots distinguish themselves through genuine flavor, thoughtful concepts, or simply a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Note on Independance:

Lest there be any lingering suspicion, it is perhaps prudent to state unequivocally that the opinions and recommendations expressed within these pages are entirely, and passionately, my own. This blog operates on a strictly non-profit basis, and I receive no remuneration—financial or otherwise—from any of the establishments featured herein. This ensures that every commendation, every critique, stems from an uncompromised personal palate and a steadfast commitment to authentic, independent insight.

The Vegan Avant-Garde: Where Culinary Artistry Flourishes (Occasionally)

JOLA, Vegan Fine Dining in Vienna. (Photo: JOLA)
JOLA: A true beacon of vegan fine dining, JOLA, an artful portmanteau of its founders Jonathan Wittenbrink and Larissa Andres, transcends mere sustenance, offering a meticulously crafted carte blanche tasting menu that reads like an edible poem. Each dish is a testament to the transformative power of plant-based ingredients, rooted in regional and seasonal bounty, meticulously sourced from small, local producers. Helmed by this passionate, young team – Jonathan in the kitchen and Larissa overseeing the entire guest experience – JOLA’s philosophy extends to its beverage program, featuring a remarkable array of non-alcoholic pairings alongside a deeply curated list of 220 natural wines. Notably, from all available indications, the culinary expertise at JOLA also draws from the chef who previously honed his craft at TIAN, the city’s esteemed Michelin-starred vegetarian establishment, ensuring a high level of gastronomic prowess directly at the vegan table. To dine here is to partake in a truly elevated culinary experience, one designed to convince even the most traditional carnivores of vegan cuisine’s profound delights.
TIAN, Vegetarian Fine Dining in Vienna (Photo: TIAN/Ingo Pertramer)
TIAN: Founded in 2011 by Christian Halper, TIAN stands as a formidable force in vegetarian gastronomy, boasting a Michelin star, a Green Star, and an impressive four toques (18 out of 20 points) from Gault Millau. At its helm is Chef de Cuisine Paul Ivić, a visionary who champions organic, ethically produced products, meticulously drawing from the diversity of rare and nearly forgotten varieties of vegetables, fruits, and grains, utilizing the entire product from root to leaf. Ingredients are primarily sourced from regional suppliers, reflecting a profound commitment to local bounty and sustainability. The name TIAN, fittingly, is a rich tapestry of meaning: in Chinese, it signifies “heaven” (apt for its Himmelpfortgasse, or “Heaven’s Gate Street,” location); in French, it refers to a vegetarian stew; and in Tyrol, Chef Ivić’s homeland, it means “to act, to tackle,” a claim they take quite literally in their kitchen’s experimental spirit. While their commitment to quality is undeniable, offering an exquisite beverage accompaniment that includes organic juices and an extensive wine list of 670 positions, it is important to note that their vegan dishes, though expertly crafted, are by their nature adaptations or “afterthoughts” to their core vegetarian focus.

Everyday Vegan Delights: A Diverse Pantry for the Palate (with caveats)

Das Suess’Kind Veganery: This intimate and genuinely interesting spot champions a philosophy of 100% organic-certified, exclusively vegan, and low-waste dining. Founded by Fabian Rainer and Susanne Kristufek, they set out to defy the notion that vegan food is monotonous, serving up fresh, wholesome, and inventive world cuisine primarily crafted from local ingredients, with the menu changing daily. The eatery itself is a study in thoughtful design, akin to a designer’s workshop: clear lines, monochrome color palettes, and warm light from hand-blown bulbs create a visual pleasure. The central, open kitchen invites patrons to observe Fabian at work, kneading dough or preparing vegetables, perhaps even engaging in a philosophical discourse on food. Beyond the in-house experience, they offer takeaway options meticulously packaged without plastic, further underscoring their commitment to sustainability.
KARMA Food: An uncomplicated and accessible option for those craving plant-based fare, KARMA Food primarily offers Ayurvedic-inspired curries, hearty stews, aromatic biryanis, nourishing dals, and vibrant, colorful veggie bowls. Their commitment to sustainability is evident not only in their predominantly seasonal organic products but also in their packaging: meals can be enjoyed in sustainable containers or, notably, in a “Karma Dabba”—a clever nod to traditional Indian tiffin systems for reusable, eco-conscious takeaway. Beyond the savory, they also tempt with predominantly vegan, homemade Karma-Cakes. To quench one’s thirst, they offer a range of homemade drinks, including refreshing mango lassi, in-house “Karma Coffee” roasted in collaboration with Jonas Reindl Coffee Roasters, and aromatic chai. With several locations throughout Vienna, it’s a convenient choice for a quick, satisfying, and flavorful meal that prioritizes mindful consumption.
Swing Kitchen: Hailing originally from the Austrian countryside and establishing its presence in Vienna in 2015, Swing Kitchen boldly claims the title of the “first vegan burger chain in the world.” This small yet impactful chain has indeed democratized vegan fast food across Vienna. Their “Real Vegan Burgers,” wraps, and “chick’n” nuggets are crafted with a commendable commitment to sustainability, utilizing CO2-neutral and biodegradable ware, and designing their interiors with natural materials. Patrons can also enjoy a range of their house-made soft drinks, such as Swing Cola, iced tea, or Himbeerkracherl (raspberry soda), available via convenient and eco-friendly refill machines. While a beloved local phenomenon, it remains an okay option for quick, casual fare.
Harvest Bistro: A cozy and popular spot, Harvest Bistro offers an entirely vegan menu rooted in a strong commitment to organic quality, sustainability, and Fair-Trade ingredients. Their “vegan soul food” presents creative, modern interpretations of beloved Austrian classics—think plant-based Goulash, “Specklinsen” (lentils with a smoky, bacon-like flavor), and “Kasnockn” (cheese dumplings) brimming with flavor—alongside a vibrant array of international specialties and modern bistro fare. This diverse culinary approach shines particularly bright during their popular all-vegan weekend brunch, for which reservations are highly recommended. Complementing the meals, they serve a Bio-Fair coffee blend from Alt Wien Rösterei, a delightful selection of cakes, and noteworthy vegan iced coffee. The interior, with its rustic, calming aesthetic and deliberately mismatched tables, cultivates a relaxed, “chilled” look. However, it bears mentioning that during our last visit, a certain weariness among the staff was unfortunately quite noticeable, despite their efforts to manage a fully booked house.

For those who wish to delve deeper into Vienna’s extensive vegan offerings, we recommend exploring community-driven platforms. A comprehensive, user-generated list of vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants in Vienna, often sorted by popularity or user review, can be found on sites like HappyCow. This resource offers an invaluable look at the sheer breadth of plant-based dining across the city.

Further Explorations in Viennese Delights

Should your appetite for Vienna’s unique offerings extend beyond the plant-based, we invite you to peruse some of our other curated guides, delving deeper into the city’s celebrated gastronomic and cultural fabric:

And for a broader perspective on the city’s allure, do not miss The Essential Vienna Bucket List – The Vienna Experience: From Art and Architecture to Synagogues and Wine, Exploring the Rich Cultural Offerings of Austria’s Capital City.