Cafe Sperl

Sperl is one of a select group of historic cafes to have survived the twists of time intact. But owing to a location beyond the Ring, it's often less bustling than its peers. And that's very much part of its charm. Sperl is arguably the sleepiest of the lot - the only thing that's missing is a 110 year old doorman (with curling white moustache) recounting anecdotes about the Emperor Franz Joseph. But of course, you can't have everything, and Sperl has more than enough to compensate. Often exuding a melancholic air, Sperl is in mourning for Stefan Zweig and the writers of yesterday.

Visited Vienna in June 2010 and Cafe Sperl was on my must-visit list. Had a wonderful lunch under the trees outside with three friends. The food was tremendous. Yes, the service was slow, but it was crowded. One of my best memories of Vienna.

This cafe has the atmosphere, but the waiters were not exactly quick, nor particularly friendly. Better options elsewhere.

I spent one year as exchange student in Vienna back in 2001-2002. I used to go to Cafe Sperl weekly, sometimes daily and I must admit it's very cosy and not full of tourists. I left my heart in there...

As far as ambiance goes.....it's fair, I mean you can't eat the ambiance when one is starving. Cafe Central (site of the film) Bride of the Wind is MUCH nicer - enjoy!

I was so exited to go there, after all it is one of the cafes that Johann Strauss played his music. It was cold outside and granted we had about 45 minutes till closing. the waiters totally ignored us and after about 40 minutes someone finally came over to ask if we wanted coffee, when we were all starved. If you insist on visiting this establishment be prepared for total rudeness and waiting for an eternity.

Beautiful place - full of atmosphere!