Sacher Hotel @ Sachertorte in Vienna

When in Europe, there are certain dishes that are universally recognized as some of the most famous and iconic culinary specialties that represent each respective cuisine. In Austria, there are several specialty dishes that are symbolic of Viennese cuisine. In addition to the uber-popular Wiener Schnitzel, Apfelstrudel (Apple Strudel) and Austrian Pancakes, the Sachertorte is one of the most famous dishes not only in Austria but also Europe. Furthermore, having originated over 175 years ago, the Sachertorte is regarded by many as “the most famous cake in the world.”

The Sachertorte is a two layered cake that consists of dark chocolate icing placed in the middle and top. In addition, because the cake itself is a bit dry, it is served with a side of whipped cream, in order to alter the overall texture and composition. Although there are several cafe’s and shops that sell the cake in Vienna, the original (and best way to truly relish the cake) is at the Cafe Sacher at the Hotel Sacher, where the cake originated.

Cafe Sacher (The Hotel Sacher)

Philharmonikerstraße 4, A-1010 Wien

P: +43 (0)1 – 51 456 0

Schnitzel and Things @ Veal Schnitzel

In a city that is full of some of the finest restaurants in the world, the best Veal Schnitzel can be found on the street, literally. Schnitzel and Things, which serves Austrian cuisine, is easily one of the most unique food trucks in the city as it serves some of the most authentic and delicious Austrian cuisine outside of Vienna. While the food truck offers several different favorable Austrian dishes, the best is the Veal Schnitzel, the Austrian version of Veal Milanese. For anyone not familiar with Veal Schnitzel, akin to Veal Milanese, it is prepared by pounding the veal, applying bread crumbs and finally frying the meat. The result is a delicious, savory European dish that despite being served in a food truck, is without question, restaurant quality. The Veal Schnitzel platter, which also includes two side dishes, is only $12. For the sides, I went with the Austrian Potato Salad and Chickpea Salad. Although the chickpea salad was only marginal, the Austrian Salad was quite good. Overall, the taste and incredible value substantiates the argument that Schnitzel and Things is not only one of the most unique food trucks in New York, but it also might be the best. Follow @SchnitzelNThings in order to keep up with the truck’s location, which changes daily.

Schnitzel and Things (Food Truck)

Locations: M: Hudson/Charlton T: 51st St/Park  W: 27th St./Park T: 51st St/ Park/Mad F: 723 Third Ave

Hours: 11:30A.M-2:30P.M

P: + 1 (347) 772-7341

W: www.SchnitzelandThings.com

Twitter: @SchnitzelNThings

Austrian Pancakes @ Hotel Bristol Restaurant in Vienna

Among the many palatable local dishes in Austria, one of the most unique meals I experienced for the first time, while visiting Vienna, was Austrian Pancakes. From the perspective of sheer texture, Austrian Pancakes are very similar to a French Crepe. Unlike American pancakes, Austrian Pancakes are incredibly thin, thus drawing the comparison to a crepe. I tasted the delicious breakfast dish at the Restaurant at the acclaimed Hotel Bristol. The pancakes, which were served hot, included fresh fruit (2 Strawberries and 1 Blueberry) and powdered sugar. By placing the sugar and fruit on top of the pancakes added an unusual flavor and sense of freshness to the dish. Overall, Austrian Pancakes are a treat that are not worth missing.

Restaurant at the Hotel Bristol:
Kärntner Ring 1
1015 Vienna, Austria,
P: + 43 01 515160
W: www.BristolVienna.com

Video: New York Taste Event 2013

On Monday November 11th, New York Magazines Hosted its 15th Annual New York Taste Event featuring 40 of the city’s most recognized Chefs and Mixologists. Chef’s including Jonathan Benno, Paul Liebrandt, Joe NG, Dominique Ansel, Francois Payard and Richard Kuo among others were featured in the event.

Dinner and Drinks with Pearl and Ash’s Richard Kuo