The best lounge bars in Vienna
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Want to discover the most unusual cocktails and play music bingo at the same time? At Kan Zuo, that's not a contradiction. The atmosphere can be loud, the menu has to be witty, and there's been no shortage of exquisite creations since this wonderland opened its doors almost 20 years ago. Bob Dylan would say: "Forever young!"
The Hawaiian shirts worn by Arik and Matty Vinnitski's team are colorful, and so is the cocktail menu – both perfectly complementing their own brightly colored, handcrafted tiki mugs. The cheerful world of strong, Polynesian-inspired rum cocktails has clearly found its Viennese home: Zombie, Mai Tai… it's all there!
It happened exactly as Peter Friese had dreamed: the diversity of Italian culinary experiences, presented democratically, came to Vienna. Panini and small pasta dishes, but also "Garibaldi" and "Sarti Spritz." An orange slice in a tumbler accompanied the signature menu of the ever-active David Penker team. Much love!
Luster likes to add an Asian touch to its cocktail culture. Experimental mixes made from unusual ingredients whisk guests away to new flavor worlds in a relaxed atmosphere, without any hint of preachiness. In the "Shrooming," for example, Japanese gin, shōchū, roasted rice, and shiitake mushrooms combine to create a fascinating aromatic adventure.
In this Instagram-worthy bar, the glasses are filled differently depending on the season. A few classics are always available, though – after all, it's never too late for a "Horse's Neck." With the signature cocktails, taste and flair are key: the "Kracherl Royal" combines Uhudler vermouth with gin, plum, lemon, and champagne.
The beautiful old wooden furniture alone creates a wonderful atmosphere, and for just the right dose of hipness, in addition to fine cocktails (refreshing: "Golden Cadillac"), there are also slightly modified versions of classic aperitivo drinks: "Negroni Sour" is a sundowner par excellence. And to accompany it, you can nibble on the "Nibbles of the Week".
Matthias Habringer, a master of his craft, delights with creative and sophisticated concoctions and is constantly on the hunt for unusual ingredients. His creations include the "Poison Ivy" with real matcha and honey, and the fresh sage-lime daiquiri – and that's just the beginning of a cocktail adventure!
In a minimalist interior, cocktails are reimagined with verve: The "Sputnik Shots" are almost legendary, but thanks to homemade spirits and a lot of creativity, professional barflies also discover new things here, such as the "Prince of Vienna" with cognac, curaçao and – nomen est omen – Wiener Gemischter Satz.
They're known for their bold drinks with dark spirits – from the Berry Rum Smash and Baba Sys Ice Tea to the house classic, The Ed. But Zoran Djurovic remains innovative, for example with the aperitif offerings that introduce the city classic to new customers. And in 2026, we can wish First all the best for its 30th anniversary!
Passionate restaurateur Mario Bernatovic combines bar, bistro, and fine dining into a harmonious overall concept. Uncompromising quality is paramount in both the kitchen and bar, yet the atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious. A staple is the "Albert Bellini," while the "Apricot-Jalapeño Margarita" is exceptional. Seasonal cocktail highlights add fresh touches.
It should come as no surprise that laid-back music with vinyl sound, cozy retro furniture, and good, unpretentious drinks are an ideal combination. In fact, even the coldest drink in the second "Needle" (for example, an "Ottotai") tastes even better when you can browse the vinyl selection.
By evening, the bar menu is brought out: This all-day establishment boasts a diverse selection of top-quality cocktails. From aperitifs and sours to highballs and mules – nothing is missing. They can be justifiably proud of their own creations, such as the "1090 Spritz" with honey syrup and myrtle.
As befits a classic pub, lovers of freshly tapped beer and whisky fans will find themselves right at home here; the small, fine selection of cocktails with a recognizable Irish focus also goes well with the well-made pub food: The range extends from the "Irish Negroni" to the "Irish Old Fashioned".
Café coziness meets the energy of a bar! But with style, since we're in the heart of "Bobostan" – so you can move directly from coffee and focaccia to long drinks, cocktails, and aperitifs: With a variety of Negronis, every day is a good one anyway. The selection of natural wines is also impressive.
The name of this cool outdoor spot refers not only to a family of amusement ride operators, but also to the carefree, "everything's perfect" feeling that almost automatically sets in here. This is also thanks to the drinks: "The Boner" (with Averna, MAKAvA, and mint) is practically summer in a glass.
The oriental shisha bar spans three rooms and invites you to relax with water pipes and fine cocktails. Happy Hour is the perfect time to start! Whether you prefer something sparkling, fruity, or smoky – you're sure to find something to your liking. The refreshingly sweet and slightly bitter "Jacky & Honey" with whiskey, lemon, and honey was a real winner.
A Viennese cocktail club you should know about. The moment you step inside, you'll notice: this place serves not only sophisticated beats but also exciting drinks. Despite unusual, sometimes contrasting flavors, a perfect harmony emerges. The "Delicious" with Ketel One Vodka, cinnamon, and cucumber is the best example of this.
Slurping is encouraged! You'll rarely find better oysters in the city, and the remarkably friendly service also brings only delicacies when it comes to drinks: a variety of wines and vermouths, along with creative non-alcoholic options, complement an extensive selection of spritzers. Gin and vodka are combined according to guests' wishes.
The ambiance and the equally appealing drinks are more than worthy of the Steigenberger name. The cocktails are appropriately elegant, but they also demonstrate a willingness to experiment with homemade syrups and essences. One of their signature drinks is the "Highdudler" with gin, lemon, raspberry, basil, and Almdudler (a popular Austrian soft drink).
Along the Danube Canal, the outdoor seating area transforms into a relaxed retreat in summer for anyone needing a mini-vacation. Folding chairs, containers, and charming details create an urban gardening atmosphere. Following the motto "Rent your BBQ," you can even fire up the grill yourself. "Basil Smash," colorful spritzers, and Bavarian beer await.
