What has long been a trend in cities like London and New York has finally made its way to the Austrian capital: Gleis//Garten, Vienna’s first food hall. Located in Meidling, slightly removed from the city centre, Gleis//Garten breathes new life into a century-old brick building that once belonged to the tram operator Badner Bahn. As you enter Gleis//Garten, you’re immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of warmth and conviviality. The hall exudes an inviting charm, with wooden accents and verdant palm trees creating a welcoming ambiance that sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Fab Destination Team had the honour of visiting Vienna’s first food hall, the brainchild of young entrepreneurs Felix Bollen and Anton Borkmann. With nine restaurants, three stages, and two bars to explore, navigating Gleis//Garten can feel like embarking on a culinary adventure. Thankfully, low-threshold signage guides the way, making it easy for even the most inexperienced diner to find their perfect meal.
We Love the Sustainability Practices Here
At Gleis//Garten, nature is not only felt; it is also seen. That is why the keyword for this culinary hub isn’t just food and having a good time, but also a large emphasis on sustainability. The original construction of the old train station has been replaced with shrubs of tall olive trees and other botanicals to ensure a healthy balance between art, nature, and having a good time. Feel the lively greenery of this food spot right from the entrance, all the way until the end of the former station.
As we wander through the hall, the eclectic array of cuisines on offer tantalises our senses. Gleis//Garten’s culinary offerings span the globe. Does your palate crave strong Mediterranean flavours, or will a few bites of sourdough pizza suffice? With a diverse array of cuisines, from Greek gyros and Moroccan couscous bowls to Asian wok dishes and Italian pinsa, each dish tells a story of tradition and culinary craftsmanship. Whether you’re craving the smoky flavours of Trixie Kiddo’s BBQ or the aromatic spices of Gnaoua Kitchen’s Moroccan fare, there’s something to satisfy every craving and curiosity. A visit to this urban food garden also means you get to try out their Austrian specialties.
Sips and Suds
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the food hall, an irresistible aroma caught our attention: the unmistakable scent of freshly brewed beer. Following our senses, we soon discovered the heart of Gleis//Garten: Vienna Kraft, the in-house craft brewery. Towering brewing kettles stood proudly amidst the vibrant atmosphere, promising a taste of liquid gold poured straight from the tank to the glass. With a diverse selection of brews on offer, from crisp lagers to robust ales, it was a brewmaster’s paradise and a beer lover’s delight. Experiencing the different traditional Kraft beers is therefore a must, as is taking a bite (or two) out of a classic Viennese Schnitzel.
More than just a food hall
There’s much more to your eating experience than a savoury drink and a nice meal at Gleis//Garten. Gleis//Garten is a cultural hub where art, music, and community converge. With a changing programme that includes art exhibitions, workshops, and family-friendly activities, there’s always something new to discover and explore. Whether catching a live concert or perusing a local art exhibition, throughout the week, Gleis//Garten encourages artists and creatives to quite literally take the stage and immerse the audience with their craft. Stay up to date on the newest in the world of Fashion, Arts, Beauty and Lifestyle; Follow FAB on Instagram.
Our FAB-Facts
Jam-packed entertainment and alternating programmes are what make Gleis//Garten a unique experience for gourmets and everyone alike in the city. But here are some other fab facts that make the food hall a “must-visit” spot:
Cuisines: Italian, American, Moroccan, Asian, Greek, Mediterranean
Alternative Diet: Vegan Friendly
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night, Drinks
Average Cost: 10–20 euros per person.
Opening Hours: Mon-Thu & Sun: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Fri & Sat: 11:00 AM – 01:00 AM
Where to find them: Eichenstraße 2, 1120 Wien
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