After the Naschmarkt and the creative Neubau district Vienna’s pub, bar and art scene has discovered the Karmelitermarkt in the Second District. The Schöne Perle restaurant has made a name for itself as something of a culinary pioneer. The kitchen in Leopoldsgasse in the former Jewish quarter has been putting a new spin on traditional Viennese cuisine since 2002. Nowadays, the Schöne Perle is a successful example of the new bistros, with elegant interior furnishings and good food.
Diagonally opposite is Das Engel, where heavenly dishes are served at two large wood tables in a stylish and cozy atmosphere. A couple of houses further along, the long-established Vincent under present chef Peter Zinter experiences culinary flights of fancy and is currently considered to be one of the best gourmet restaurants in the city.
A hot tip in the immediate vicinity is Skopik & Lohn, which attracts with its friendly yet modest interior, a garden for guests and Viennese cuisine with an international twist. On the way there, you'll pass by Pizza Mari, a trendy pizzeria.
The Karmelitermarkt, which has existed since 1671, is also constantly having new dining establishments added to it: Zimmer 37 is a delicatessen shop and restaurant combined. The owner offers vegetarian Five Elements cuisine. Fine weather can be enjoyed in relaxation in the sunny sidewalk café. Moments specializes in fish dishes.
Directly opposite is Madiani which takes you on a voyage of discovery through Georgian cuisine. Diners can choose typical national dishes such as Khinkali, filled pastry pockets. The delicious Russian and Georgian breakfast varieties are highly recommended, with tea straight from the samovar — or there is also the traditional Viennese version with a bread roll and honey. The breakfasts at café bar Einfahrt on the fringes of the market are just as sumptuous – and are served until way past noon on Saturday.
Tewa , like its sister restaurant at the Naschmarkt, offers modern and organic trendy cooking at the Karmelitermarkt. Directly adjacent is Kaas am Markt, a mix of delicatessen and restaurant, with excellent organic and slow-food products and snacks.
A bit farther, around the corner from the Karmelitermarkt, is the cake shop Fett+Zucker. A small shop with cute vintage furniture and a cozy atmosphere offering all kinds of cakes to lift your spirits.
