To Top

What Food To Try in Linz and Food Prices

How much does lunch and dinner cost

Examples of food prices, cafes, street food and other dining options in Linz for 2024.

National currency: Euro, symbol — € (international currency code EUR).
General Cafe Price Guide
Average prices in Linz cafes and restaurants
$16.4 
Quick Lunch for One
Starting from $13.14
$65.7 
Dinner for Two
to celebrate your trip
Starting from $54.77
$8.8 
Combo Meal
Starting from $8.76

What to Try in Linz

Must-try Dishes
Granatenschnitzel - Pomegranate Schnitzel (juicy pork dish) - This is a pork schnitzel coated in a crunchy layer of pomegranate seeds, delivering a unique tartness. Locals enjoy it at family-run restaurants during cozy Sunday dinners, complementing it with a side of potato salad.

Leberkäse - Bavarian Meatloaf (hearty meat dish) - A baked loaf made from finely minced pork, beef, and bacon, often served warm with mustard and pickles. A popular street food option, it’s typically enjoyed by locals during lunch or after a night out as a quick bite.

Älplermagronen - Alpine Macaroni (comforting pasta dish) - A filling mix of macaroni, potatoes, cream, and cheese, often topped with crispy onions. This dish is a staple during winter months and is commonly found in cozy chalets, best enjoyed with a group around a fireplace.

Stelze - Pork Knuckle (crispy local specialty) - This is a roast pork knuckle served with sauerkraut and dumplings, boasting perfectly crispy skin. It's a classic dish at beer halls, usually shared among friends on special occasions or during football matches.

Salzburger Nockerl - Salzburg Soufflé (light soufflé dish) - Comprised of a fluffy meringue, this unique dish is usually served in a large dish resembling a mountain. A delightful surprise, locals savor it especially after a heavy meal, as a light finish.

Krautfleckerl - Cabbage Noodles (filling vegetarian option) - Noodles dressed in sautéed cabbage and speck, it's a heartwarming vegetarian dish beloved by locals. You’ll often find it served at traditional taverns during chilly evenings, showcasing rustic Austrian comfort food at its finest.

Karpfen - Carp (seasonal fish dish) - Fresh carp, usually prepared in a sweet-sour sauce, symbolizes the festive season and is typically served during Christmas. Locals relish it at family gatherings, making it a cherished dish that brings everyone together.

Frittatensuppe - Pancake Soup (surprising combination) - A flavorful broth served with finely sliced pancakes, this dish is a staple in many households. People often enjoy it as a light starter before a main meal, commonly showcasing the knack for reimagining simple ingredients.

Desserts & Drinks
Melange - Melange (coffee-based drink) - A delightful mix of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, often topped with a sprinkle of cocoa or cinnamon. It's the go-to coffee for locals during afternoon breaks, often enjoyed with a slice of cake from an adjacent bakery.

Punsch - Punsch (warm and spiced punch) - A comforting blend of black tea, rum, sugar, and seasonal fruits, typically served steaming in festive mugs. This drink is especially popular during the Christmas markets, a warm companion while strolling through the stalls amidst the winter chill.

Linzer Torte - Linzer Torte (nutty pastry) - A delectable pastry made with ground nuts, spiced dough, and a tangy layer of red currant jam, often topped with a lattice crust. Local bakeries sell them year-round, but you’ll find them especially loved during celebrations and as gifts during the holidays.

Kaiserschmarrn - Kaiserschmarrn (sweet shredded pancake) - Fluffy, caramelized pancake shreds served warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and often accompanied by fruit compote. It's a classic dessert that families often prepare on Sundays, making for a cozy afternoon treat with a steaming cup of coffee.

Gugelhupf - Gugelhupf (rich, moist cake) - This moist cake, typically made with chocolate or nuts, has a dense texture and is usually enjoyed cold. Locals love to bake it for family gatherings or special occasions, and you can often spot them in bakeries, especially around celebratory times.

By the way, don't be surprised if the Lattes are larger than you expect—locals prefer to savor their drinks slowly, making every sip count!

Food and Groceries in Linz

Vegetables, Fruits and Bread
Bread $2.44
Bananas $2.04
Oranges $3.05
Potatoes $2.37
Apples $2.91
Beverages
Water 1.5L $0.69
0.5L Local Beer $1.38
Imported Beer $1.62
Wine Rating >4.0 $8.76
Milk 1L $1.47

Various Groceries
Meat (Beef or Pork) $19.72
Chicken $15.88
Cigarettes $6.02
Rice $2.22
Local Cheese $16.27

Overview of Cuisine and Specialties

The rush of people at lunchtime in Linz is a rhythmic dance you quickly grow accustomed to. Around 12:30 PM every weekday, you’ll see locals flocking to nearby lunch spots, eager to grab a quick bite before heading back to work. This could be a schnitzel with a side of potato salad or a tasty kebab from one of the many vendors dotting the streets.

Meal times in Linz generally align well with Central European patterns. Breakfast is often light, with rolls and coffee consumed between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. Lunch, served around 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, is the primary meal where many gather to enjoy hearty dishes. Dinner typically begins at around 6:00 PM and continues into the evening. The ambiance in the restaurants after dark tends to create a vibrant social scene, especially in areas like the Altstadt.

In terms of pricing, lunch menus are quite affordable, often ranging from €8 to €15 in popular districts like the Landstraße. Just yesterday, I paid €9 for a goblet of pasta and tomato sauce at a fast-casual Italian spot, which left me satisfied without breaking the bank. Dinner prices can vary significantly; for instance, a nice three-course meal in a more upscale eatery can run you anywhere from €25 to €50, particularly in the neighborhood around Pleschinger See, which tends to be pricier.

A common misconception among visitors is that dining out always involves formal settings, but Linz has an extensive culture of casual eateries, cafés, and street food vendors. Many locals prefer informal dining environments for their daily meals. Also, don’t be surprised if you find that tipping isn’t as rigid here as in some other places; rounding up your bill or adding a small €1–€2 is generally appreciated but not mandatory. When paying, it's customary to pay at the table rather than at the counter, a practice that sometimes catches tourists off guard.

During peak lunch hours, especially in the downtown area, it’s wise to arrive early to avoid long waits. Conversely, if you prefer a quieter dining experience, try going a little later, around 1:30 PM. As seasons change, it’s fascinating to see locals adapt their food choices; hearty stews and warming dishes dominate autumn and winter months, while fresh salads and lighter fare take the spotlight in spring and summer.

One emerging trend I’ve noticed among younger locals is a growing interest in plant-based dining options, pushing traditional recipes into innovative, health-conscious territory. It’s reflective of a broader evolution happening within the local food culture, where traditional fare meets modern dietary preferences.