The Lusthaus in the Vienna Prater was once an imperial hunting lodge and at the time of Emperor Franz Joseph a popular meeting place, where the Emperor himself also dropped by on occasion. Today, the charming inn serves its guests traditional Old Viennese cuisine, a selection of seasonal dishes and Viennese wines. Guests can sit in the garden beneath chestnut trees and look at the green main avenue of the Prater. The Hermes Café Restaurant Labstelle in the Hermesvilla in the Lainz Game Reserve also looks back over an imperial past. The nature conservation area was once used as a hunting ground for the emperor. The Hermes Villa was a gift from Emperor Franz Joseph to his wife, Elisabeth, the legendary Sisi. Today, the restaurant uses the herbs from the palace’s own garden for its regional cuisine.

Schönbrunn Zoo is the location of another of the city’s idyllic restaurants. Used as an opulent breakfast salon in the days of empire, the Café Restaurant Kaiserpavillon now serves classic Viennese cuisine and international favorites. Landtmann's Jausen Station in the Crown Prince Garden at Schönbrunn Palace is the perfect place to stop off and savour a snack or coffee break. The restaurant is located in the former play house of the imperial children. In the midst of the greenery, with a view of Schönbrunn Palace, Landtmann’s Jausen Station is a true oasis of peace. Far from the noisy streets, guests can sit here surrounded by picturesque rose and herb beds. The pavilion shines in gleaming white; outside, colorful chairs add colored accents. Brioche croissants and a mélange coffee, cold cuts, delicious Kaiserschmarren and homemade sodas are the perfect ingredients to enjoy the Schlosspark.