The American Bar

You can forgive the staff for thinking they're as cool as Benny Blanco from the Bronx, as from just about every angle this is a smooth number. So smooth that Humphrey Bogart himself wouldn't be amiss at the bar. The great 'Bogey' would be sure to approve of the devilishly well-delivered Wallbangers, White Russians and Whisky Sours. But the outstanding feature of the American bar is the decor itself. The creation of legendary architect Adolf Loos, the bar was so far ahead of its time that you'd be forgiven for thinking it was 1930's art deco. He designed it in 1908. A medley of mirrors conceals the fact that this is one of the world's smallest bars.

Liked this one, although it is indeed very small!

Had a great time explaining that in Texas a tequilla shot comes with a lime and not an orange. It is a fun place and the tequilla was excellant.

The building itself is a delight but the service was slow and impolite. (I was particularly unimpressed that the barman serving me appeared to prioritise chatting to a regular over preparing my drinks even though I had ordered them before said regular arrived.) Not tourist friendly despite being advertised all over the place. It's difficult to enjoy a place that posts stupid caveats about not wanting groups or sightseers. (Granted, sightseers are annoying if they do not buy drinks but just look around.) I had anticipated that visiting this bar would be a highlight of a recent trip to Vienna. It was instead a huge anticlimax and I shall not be returning.

Difficult to get a seat but check it out anyway. Great bar!