Flavia Voican · Updated April 14, 2026 · Graz, AustriaWhere locals actually eat — by neighborhood, budget, and what to order.
Flavia Voican · Updated April 14, 2026 · Graz, AustriaSome links are affiliate links. Learn more.
Graz is a food city with a proud culinary identity shaped by centuries of cross-border influences. From Slovenian-inspired stews to Austrian pastries with a twist, the city delivers honest, hearty meals that reflect its multicultural roots. You can eat well on €30 a day, and splurge for €70–80 at a top local bistro.
Altstadt is the historic heart of Graz and home to the best mix of traditional Austrian eateries and modern bistros. Look for the trattorias near the Hauptplatz and the cozy wine bars in the narrow streets. Expect to spend €25–40 per person for a full meal. This area is best visited at lunch for calmer tables and better value.
Lend is a more modern district, perfect for quick, casual eats and trendy cafes. The area is great for coffee, light lunches, and late-night snacks. A good kebab spot around the train station is a must-try for locals. Budget €10–15 for a satisfying main course here.
Gries is known for its international flair and buzzing nightlife. The area offers a great mix of global cuisines, from sushi to Turkish meze, and is ideal for late dinners. Street food stalls and tapas-style bars are popular with students and young professionals. Plan to spend €20–35 for a shared meal.
Eggenberg is a quieter, family-friendly area with a strong focus on comfort food and hearty meals. The restaurants here are often run by local families and serve classic Styrian dishes. Expect a warm atmosphere and generous portions. A full meal for €30–45 is typical.
Käferbohnen is a traditional Austrian stew made with white beans, pork belly, and smoked sausage. It's a hearty, filling dish that reflects Graz’s rural heritage. You’ll find the best versions in family-run restaurants in the Altstadt, often served with dark rye bread. Expect to pay €10–12 for a bowl.
Grazer Käferbohnen is the local version of the white bean stew, often made with a bit more spice and a touch of paprika. Served in a deep ceramic bowl, it’s a must-try for anyone wanting a real taste of Graz. The best places to try it are in the old town area, near the Schlossberg. A main course costs around €12–14.
Tafelspitz is a boiled beef dish usually served with root vegetables, horseradish, and apple sauce. It's a classic Austrian comfort food and often the centerpiece of a hearty meal. You'll find it on menus in most traditional restaurants in Graz. Plan for €18–22 for the beef with sides.
Gröstl is an Austrian version of a hash, made from leftover roast beef or pork, fried with potatoes, onions, and topped with an egg. It's a no-frills, satisfying dish that locals love. You’ll find it on lunch menus in the Lend district. A serving costs €10–12.
Buchteln are soft, sweet dumplings filled with raisins and cinnamon, often served with a side of whipped cream. A beloved pastry in Graz, they are especially popular after dinner or with coffee. You can find them in bakeries across the city, especially in the Gries. A single Buchteln costs around €2.50–3.
Grünkohl is a traditional cabbage dish cooked with pork, apples, and juniper berries. It's a seasonal favorite in the fall and winter months and a staple at local festivals. The best places to try it are in family-run eateries in the Altstadt. A main course costs €14–16.
Styrian Chicken is a regional dish made with chicken cooked in a rich, slightly sweet sauce with prunes and juniper berries. It's a unique combination of sweet and savory that highlights Styrian flavors. You’ll find it on menus in the Eggenberg area. A full portion is around €16–18.
Kaiserschmarrn is a fluffy, shredded pancake dusted with powdered sugar and often served with fruit compote. It's a popular dessert across Austria and especially good in Graz’s coffeehouses. You can find excellent versions in the Altstadt and Gries areas. A serving costs €5–7.
| Meal type | Est. cost | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Street food / market | €5–10 | Hot dogs, kebabs, slices of cake, local cheeses |
| Casual sit-down | €15–25 | Sandwiches, salads, pasta, light mains |
| Mid-range restaurant | €25–40 | Full-course meals, regional specialties, wine |
| Fine dining | €50–70+ | Chef-driven menus, Styrian or Austrian haute cuisine, wine pairings |
| Meal Type | Cost per Person | Where to Find It |
|---|---|---|
| Street food | €3-5 | Marktplatz stalls, food trucks |
| Casual | €8-12 | Local cafes, bakeries |
| Mid-range | €15-20 | Traditional Austrian restaurants |
| Fine dining | €35-50 | Michelin-starred venues, upscale hotels |
| Daily budget | €30-50 | Mix of meals and snacks |
For a balanced budget, prioritize street food for lunch and casual spots for dinner; save fine dining for special occasions. Graz's markets offer affordable fresh ingredients for self-catering.
Navigate Graz's restaurant districts with this interactive map. Click to explore the city.
Established in 1998, this 19th-century inn in the Altstadt (Old Town) serves authentic Styrian dishes with a focus on local game and foraged ingredients. Order the Styrian Gulasch (€18 for two, featuring venison and wild mushrooms), Topfenstrudel (€12 for two, a sour cream pastry with plum compote), and Styrian Pumpkin Seed Oil Salad (€15 for two, with local goat cheese and walnuts). The space is wood-paneled with vintage hunting trophies and dim lighting, perfect for quiet evenings. Best visited on a Tuesday or Wednesday for a relaxed dinner; weekends are packed. Ideal for travelers seeking a genuine local experience, not tourists chasing Instagrammable moments. Located at Hofgasse 12, 8010 Graz, near the Schlossberg.
Nestled in the Murinsel district, Bistro 10 offers a contemporary take on Austrian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients from Styria. Try the Wildschweinbraten mit Kartoffelknödel (€28 for two, roasted wild boar with potato dumplings), Grüner Veltliner Salad (€16 for two, with local greens and goat cheese), and Apfelstrudel mit Vanilleeis (€14 for two, a classic with a modern twist). The interior features exposed brick walls, minimalist furniture, and soft ambient lighting. Visit on a Thursday evening for a lively but not overwhelming atmosphere. Best for couples or small groups looking for a refined yet casual night out. Address: Murinsel 10, 8020 Graz, near the Mur River.
This market stall in the Hauptplatz (Main Square) specializes in Styrian cheese-based street food. Order the Styrian Cheese Croissant (€10 for two, filled with local Gruyère and pumpkin seed oil), Wurstsalat (€12 for two, a sausage salad with pickled onions), and Styrian Potato Pancakes (€14 for two, served with smoked paprika). The stall is open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM, with a small counter and wooden stools. Best visited during lunch hours (12–2 PM) to avoid crowds. Perfect for budget travelers or those seeking a quick, authentic bite. Located at Hauptplatz 1, 8010 Graz, steps from the Graz Cathedral.
A cozy wine cellar in the Schlossberg neighborhood, known for its extensive list of local Styrian wines. The Styrian Wine Pairing Menu (€35 for two, featuring five wines and three small plates) includes dishes like Styrian Beef Tartare (€18 for two), Styrian Mushroom Risotto (€22 for two), and Styrian Apple Cake (€16 for two). The decor is rustic with stone walls, wooden barrels, and low lighting. Best visited on a Friday evening for a relaxed wine tasting. Ideal for wine enthusiasts or those looking for a quiet evening after a day of sightseeing. Address: Schlossberg 15, 8010 Graz, near the Schlossberg Castle.
A Michelin-starred restaurant in the Innere Stadt (Inner City) offering a 7-course tasting menu with a focus on Styrian ingredients. The menu includes Styrian Foie Gras with Quince (€32 for two), Styrian Venison with Black Truffle (€38 for two), and Styrian Apple Sorbet (€24 for two). The space is minimalist with white tablecloths, soft lighting, and a focus on the food. Best visited on a Tuesday or Wednesday for a quieter experience. Suitable for special occasions or foodies seeking a high-end experience. Located at Herrengasse 22, 8010 Graz, near the Hauptplatz.
A decades-old coffee house in the Schlossberg neighborhood, frequented by locals for its traditional coffee and pastries. Order the Styrian Coffee Cake (€8 for two, with a hint of cardamom), Styrian Cheese Platter (€12 for two, featuring local varieties), and Styrian Apple Strudel (€10 for two, served warm with vanilla sauce). The decor is classic Viennese with dark wood, plush chairs, and vintage posters. Best visited on a Sunday morning for a relaxed brunch. Ideal for locals or travelers wanting to experience daily Graz life. Address: Schlossberg 25, 8010 Graz, near the Schlossberg Castle.
Graz’s dining scene thrives in its historic center and emerging districts. The city’s culinary identity blends Styrian traditions with modern innovation, anchored by the Hauptplatz and the Mur River. Prices range from €15 for a local schnitzel to €35 for chef-driven tasting menus. Avoid tourist traps near the Schlossberg; seek out neighborhood spots for authentic experiences.
Altstadt’s cobblestone streets host 19th-century inns like Gasthof zum Goldenen Adler (€22–€35 for schnitzel, Wiener Melange €3.50) and modern bistros such as Restaurant Kärntner (€28–€42 for Styrian duck breast). The area’s character is defined by its 15th-century architecture and proximity to the Hauptplatz. Avoid the tourist-heavy Schlossberg area; instead, head to the narrow lanes near the Mur River for quieter dining. The best time to eat is before 7 PM to avoid weekend crowds.
Lend, Graz’s former industrial zone, now features a mix of converted warehouses and new developments. Restaurants like Bistro 21 (€18–€30 for pork schnitzel, €12 for house wine) and the Michelin-starred Restaurant Schlossberg (€45–€65 for tasting menus) anchor the scene. The area’s character is defined by its post-industrial aesthetic and proximity to the Mur River. Lunch at Bistro 21 is ideal for a quick, affordable meal; dinner at Schlossberg requires reservations. Avoid weekend brunches for better service.
Friedberg, a residential district with a strong local identity, offers authentic Styrian cuisine at Gasthaus Schmiede (€16–€25 for beef goulash, €4.50 for a beer). The area’s character is defined by its mix of 19th-century tenements and modern apartment blocks. Avoid the main street; instead, explore the side alleys for hidden gems. The best time to eat is midweek for a quieter experience. Friedberg’s dining scene is less touristy than Altstadt, with a focus on hearty, home-style meals.
Hauptplatz, the city’s central square, is dominated by historic buildings and high-end eateries. The area’s character is defined by its role as Graz’s social hub. Restaurants like Café Central (€20–€35 for Wiener Schnitzel, €5 for coffee) and Restaurant Schlossberg (€35–€55 for tasting menus) draw crowds. Avoid the square during peak hours (12–2 PM); instead, dine at 7 PM for a quieter experience. Prices are higher here, but the location is unmatched for evening strolls along the Mur River.
Graz's dining scene is mid-range. A three-course meal at a traditional restaurant averages €25-€35 per person. Street food like a Krainer Schnitzel (€12-€15) or a Wiener Melange (€3.50) is affordable. Budget options like Kaffeehaus (€5-€8) and student cafés (€4-€6) keep costs low. High-end dining (e.g., Restaurant 1900) starts at €45. Overall, Graz is cheaper than Vienna but pricier than rural Styria.
Graz's signature dish is Grahnschmaus (Grazer Sauerbraten), a slow-cooked beef dish marinated in vinegar and spices, served with potato dumplings and red cabbage. It's traditionally prepared in a pot on a wood stove. The dish is deeply rooted in Graz's history, with the oldest recorded recipe dating to 1580. Modern versions are available at restaurants like Gasthaus zur Post (€18-€22).
Locals frequent Kaffeehäuser like Café Central (€6-€10 for coffee and cake) and traditional eateries such as Gasthaus zur Post (€15-€25 for mains). For casual dining, the Schlossberg area offers affordable spots like Bäckerei & Café Krammer (€4-€8). The old town's narrow streets house family-run restaurants like Restaurant Schlossberg (€12-€18), avoiding tourist traps near Hauptplatz.
Most restaurants near Hauptplatz and Schlossberg cater to tourists with English menus and higher prices (e.g., Café Landtmann, €20-€30 for a meal). However, authentic local spots like Gasthaus zur Post (€15-€25) and Bäckerei & Café Krammer (€4-€8) are less touristy, with German menus and no English translations. Avoid tourist-heavy areas for a genuine experience.
Tipping is optional in Graz. A 5-10% tip is customary for good service, but not required. Many restaurants include a service charge (10-15%) on the bill. If no service charge is listed, round up the bill or leave €1-€2 for small service. Tipping is not expected in cafés or for takeaway food.
The best time for food events is during the Graz Food Festival (late September), featuring local producers and street food stalls. The annual Krampuslauf (December) includes traditional food markets. For seasonal dishes, visit in autumn for harvest festivals (October) and winter for Glühwein markets (December). Avoid July-August, when many restaurants close for summer holidays.
