Must-try Dishes
Tiroler Gröstl - Tyrolean Hash (hearty potato dish) - Made with pan-fried potatoes, beef, and onions, it’s a comforting, crispy meal. Locals love to enjoy this dish in the evening at cozy taverns after a long day of skiing.
Schlipfkrapfen - Tyrolean Dumplings (filled pasta) - These half-moon-shaped dumplings are stuffed with a savory mixture of potatoes, cheese, and spinach, often served with melted butter. They're a popular lunch option, usually found in family-run alpine restaurants.
Wiener Schnitzel - Viennese Schnitzel (breaded veal) - Thinly pounded veal, breaded and fried until golden, served with potato salad or lingonberries. While best known as a classic dinner choice, locals enjoy this hearty dish year-round, often ordering it with a side of salad.
Kaiserschmarrn - Emperor’s Mess (shredded pancake) - A fluffy pancake torn into pieces, dusted with powdered sugar, and often served with fruit compote. Locals indulge in this sweet delight as an evening treat or after a day on the slopes.
Gröstl mit Spiegelei - Hash with Fried Egg (breakfast or lunch dish) - A brunch twist on the Tiroler Gröstl, it adds a sunny-side-up egg on top, enhancing the richness. It's a common order among locals, who savor it in the late morning after a night out.
Slivovitz with Cheese - Slivovice und Käse (cheese platter tradition) - Slivovitz, a strong plum brandy, is often enjoyed alongside flavorful local cheeses as a unique pairing. It’s customary to share this combo during social gatherings or special occasions, adding a fun twist to the tasting experience.
Jägerschnitzel - Hunter’s Schnitzel (mushroom-covered delight) - Similar to the Wiener Schnitzel but topped with a rich and earthy mushroom sauce. Locals enjoy this dish during colder months, as it’s a warm, hearty choice after outdoor activities.
By the way, don’t be surprised to see locals pouring a bit of apple sauce over their Schnitzel. It’s a unique combination that might catch you off guard at first!
Desserts & Drinks
Glühwein - Glühwein (spiced mulled wine) - A warm red wine infused with spices like cinnamon and cloves, often served steaming hot. Locals enjoy it at Christmas markets, where the cozy aroma and festive atmosphere make it a holiday favorite.
Apfelstrudel - Apfelstrudel (apple pastry) - A delicate, thin pastry filled with spiced apples, raisins, and a hint of cinnamon, baked until golden. It's typically served warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and often accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream, especially during winter.
Almdudler - Almdudler (herbal lemonade) - A refreshing herbal drink made from a unique blend of alpine herbs and natural fruit flavors. You’ll often see locals grabbing a cold bottle of this during outdoor summer hikes or picnics in the beautiful parks around Innsbruck.
Affogato - Affogato (espresso dessert) - A delightful mix of rich vanilla ice cream topped with a hot shot of espresso, creating a perfect warm-cold contrast. This is a popular after-lunch treat among locals to maintain energy levels throughout the afternoon, especially during chilly months.
Eiskaffee - Eiskaffee (iced coffee) - A cool blend of strong coffee served over vanilla ice cream and topped with whipped cream, making for a fabulous summer dessert. You’ll find locals sipping this as a sweet pick-me-up on sunny days, often at outdoor cafés; just be sure to ask for “Eiskaffee” to avoid the usual coffee ordering mistake.
