Schnitzel is a thinly sliced beef that is breaded and fried. Breaded schnitzel is a popular dish in many countries and is typically cooked with veal, hog, chicken, cattle, or turkey. Schnitzel is similar to the French cuisine escalope, Japanese tonkatsu, and Italian cotoletta. Wiener Schnitzel, a popular veal dish in Vienna, is customarily served with a slice of lemon and potato salad as garnish. In Austria and Germany, Wiener Schnitzel is a protected geographical indicator and must be produced using veal. When various meats are used, it might be called “Schnitzel nach Wiener Art” (Viennese style).
Figlmüller Wien
Many eateries in Vienna serve authentic schnitzel. However, Figlmüller Wien (also known as The House of Schnitzel) is a local restaurant that has become internationally famous for its schnitzel. Its history began in 1905, when Johann Figlmüller established a tiny wine tavern in Wollzeile, directly behind St. Stephen’s Cathedral. From the start, it represented the unique Viennese way of life. It was a social gathering spot with a fantastic menu, carefully picked local wines, and, of course, the original schnitzel.
Figlmüller Schnitzel
Figlmüller currently makes a superb Wiener Schnitzel using veal, but their speciality, Figlmüller Schnitzel, is produced with pork. They used the best hog meat cut, the rose or tenderloin, because it is less sinewy than regular schnitzel meat and does not puff up when fried. The tenderloin weighs 250 g. The meat is crushed until it is wafer thin and ready to be coated in egg and flour.
The coating is topped with unique breadcrumbs made from Austrian Kaizer Rolls (Kaisersemmel), which are cooked specifically for Figlmüller and contribute to the schnitzel’s crispy texture. The coating’s recipe dates back to the Imperial Court of Vienna. Court society has long been noted for its debauchery. As a result, it was no surprise that rumours of gold-covered beef surfaced. Inspired by the golden hues, the peasantry devised a more realistic counterpart using eggs, flour, and breadcrumbs. When gently fried, the breading gives the meat its distinctive golden-brown appearance and resembles a feast fit for a Kaiser.
Wollzeile 5
Figlmüller restaurants
Today, the restaurant has two locations in Vienna’s city centre. Although they are constantly crowded, the service and food are excellent. The house special, pork Figlmüller Schnitzel, is served with a potato-field salad dressed in pumpkin seed oil or a small mixed salad.
During our time in Vienna, we went to the Bäckerstraße venue. We tasted the house delicacy, Wiener Schnitzel (veal and marinated Viennese chicken cooked in little pieces). All three had amazing texture and flavour, with excellent frying (not greasy at all), and the meat in all forms melted in our mouth. The coating was likewise well-balanced and did not overpower the meat’s flavour. The side dishes were likewise of excellent quality, as was the local wine.
Aside from the schnitzels, the menu featured a wide range of other Viennese and Austrian delicacies. Dishes include Viennese cooked beef in a saucepan with chive sauce, apple horseradish, and browned potatoes. Finally, despite the crowds of tourists, the establishment is immaculately maintained and has the feel of an old tavern with a welcoming and lively environment. The service was prompt, pleasant, and unassuming, making our meal experience unforgettable. It is highly suggested that you make your reservation through their official website. Otherwise, you would have to wait in a large queue to be served.
The best schnitzel in the world
But is this place worthy of its reputation? In our opinion, it is worthwhile, and Figlmüller might easily claim the title of best schnitzel in the world. The mix of delicate beef, wonderfully crunchy breading, and superb side dishes results in an amazing eating experience. Each mouthful brings you to the heart of Vienna, making it a must-see for any food enthusiast.
Figlmüller Bäckerstraße : Bäckerstraße 6, 1010 Wien, Austria
Figlmüller Wollzeile : Wollzeile 5, 1010 Wien, Austria
Even if you don’ t speak German, you can watch this video to see how the schnitzel is cooked at Figlmüller:
