This coffee house has been opened since 1860, in which it gained a quick reputation for politicians, writers and philosophers.  It was not only known as one of the meeting places to discuss ideas, but was also known for things such as chess tournaments and games, which led a large majority of individuals into the scene.

In 1986, the entire cafe was renovated, after taking some time off after World War II.  Today, it is once again a popular spot for those in Vienna.

What is great about this cafe is the way in which the atmosphere allows you to enjoy almost a luxurious time while drinking your coffee.  This includes pillars with arched ceilings and low hanging lights.  The exterior is in the old Viennese style, with the decor and arched windows.  A definite archaeological site that can be enjoyed.  The entire build is of the old gothic style, which has been renovated nicely in order to keep the old style atmosphere with the cafe.

This, of course, is combined with the typical coffee house culture, including waiters to serve you, extra food on the side, live music in the evening and the intellectual atmosphere that has always kept this cafe renowned.
If you don’t do anything else in Vienna, stop for a cup of coffee at the Cafe Central.  It is the most popular coffee house there and contains a wide variety of history for you to glance at.

The concept of coffee houses started in Vienna in the 19th century – yes that long ago.  During this time, these were a mixture of restaurants and cafes.  A glass of water always came along with the coffee, and pastries, food dishes and desserts were always offered as items to help you enjoy your stay.

It wasn’t just the cafes that began to rise during this time.  It was also the modern culture of what a cafe could become.  Many would use the Viennese Coffee houses to stay at and talk with friends, write their novels and hang out for hours at a time.

In fact, so much of this happened, that everything in modern cafes is simply a mimic of this original culture.  This includes everything from poetry readings, writers and business men meeting and writing in these areas and music being played in the houses on certain nights.  This also included the “ever present newspaper,” something in which individuals could stay and read and pass to the next person for the daily news. It even included the ability to sit outside during the warm months.

So, if you are ever thinking that a concept or cafe is “unique,” think again.  Most likely, it has already been done through the Viennese Coffee houses.