Experiencing the food, and especially food markets, in other countries has got to be one of the best things about travel. It tells you so much about the people — their tastes, what they value, their priorities, their daily lives. We always make a beeline for any market we come across. And if it happens to be lunchtime, as it was when we went to the Naschmarkt in Vienna, all is right with the world.
The Naschmarkt is different from many of the markets we’ve visited in Europe. In addition to all the meat stalls, produce stands, and take-away counters, it is filled with dine-in restaurants that are clearly a draw for locals on their lunch hour and tourists looking for a little people watching and a place to rest their feet.
The two-block-long market has double rows of stalls and shops that sell products from pretty much everywhere. We saw Hungarian, Russian, Indian, and Vietnamese products, along with food and wine from all over Western Europe.
After browsing through the shops, we made a quick stop for lunch at Tokori, a pan-Asian restaurant (the sign outside says Asia Time) in the market. We indulged in spring rolls, California maki rolls and cashew chicken, along with the predictable (and awesome) glass of Austrian Gruner Veltliner. A pretty great way to spend an afternoon.
Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.
In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.
Wandering Educators
Tuesday 15th of April 2014
You made me not only hungry, but satisfied my eyes with these beautiful colors and photos! thanks!