Schnitzel and Strudel: Shared Cooking Class

Discover the Charm of Vienna’s Authentic Cooking Class for Schnitzel and Strudel

This shared cooking class in Vienna offers an intimate and authentic experience, with a maximum of 6 participants, making it ideal for those who enjoy personalized instruction. Priced at $138.82 per person, the tour provides a hands-on introduction to some of Austria’s most beloved dishes, like crispy schnitzel and apple strudel, in a warm, home-like setting. The class lasts approximately 3 hours and includes a delicious lunch featuring 2 or 3 courses, plus coffee or tea.

The experience is suitable for beginners and intermediates alike, and the host is happy to adjust recipes for vegetarian, lactose-free, or gluten-free dietary needs (though vegan and gluten-free apple strudel are not available). Booking typically opens 32 days in advance, reflecting high demand for this highly-rated tour. Overall, it’s a chance to learn family recipes directly from a local host, in a cozy environment that feels more like cooking with friends than taking a formal class.

Key Points

• Exclusive small-group experience with a maximum of 6 participants for personalized attention
• Learn to make traditional Austrian dishes like schnitzel, apple strudel, and potato soup
• Flexible dietary options include vegetarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free modifications
• Includes lunch with coffee or tea after the cooking session
• Held in a private apartment with a warm, welcoming atmosphere
• English-speaking guide ensures clear instructions and cultural insights

The Unique Setting of a Vienna Home for Cooking

This tour takes place inside a family home in Vienna, specifically at Neumanngasse 7. The apartment, where great-grandparents once lived, offers an intimate setting that enhances the authenticity of the experience. Unlike larger cooking classes in commercial kitchens, this tour emphasizes a personal connection and the opportunity to see family recipes passed down through generations.

Knowing that the class happens at the host’s residence might surprise some, but reviews confirm that this makes for a genuine and heartfelt experience. The space is accessible near public transportation, though the building does not have an elevator, and strollers must be carried upstairs. The host welcomes kids and families, making it a flexible choice for travelers with children.

The Host and Their Passion for Austrian Cuisine

The host shares family recipes, including the secret to their crispy schnitzel and juicy apple strudel. The focus is on teaching participants how to cook dishes that can be easily recreated at home, rather than just demonstrating techniques. The host is described as welcoming and organized, creating a charming atmosphere that feels more like a gathering of friends than a formal class.

All instruction is provided in English, ensuring clarity for international visitors. Participants are encouraged to cook as much as possible during the class, helping to build confidence for recreating the dishes later.

What’s on the Menu: Traditional Austrian Comfort Food

The menu typically features 2 or 3 courses, depending on group size, including:

• Old Viennese potato soup — a comforting starter with deep, traditional flavors
• Chicken schnitzel — cooked from scratch with a crispy coating
• Cucumber and potato salad — a refreshing side dish
• Apple strudel — freshly baked, with a flaky pastry exterior and sweet apple filling

The host emphasizes the importance of hands-on participation, so each person gets to prepare and assemble the dishes. After cooking, everyone dines together, enjoying the fruits of their labor in a relaxed setting.

Flexibility and Dietary Customization

While most dishes include meat, the host offers vegetarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free options upon request. However, it is not possible to prepare vegan dishes or a gluten-free apple strudel during the class. This flexibility makes the experience accessible to a broader range of dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the meal.

Logistics and Group Size

The tour begins at Neumanngasse 7 in Vienna, with all activities centered at this location. The group size is capped at 6 people, fostering an interactive and personalized experience. Since the class is held in a private apartment, there is no public transportation involved during the activity, but the meeting point is near convenient transit options.

Participants should be aware that the building does not have an elevator, so strollers need to be carried upstairs. The tour includes kitchen equipment for cooking, and private transportation is not included. Guests are welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages to enjoy during or after the meal.

The Experience: From Cooking to Sharing a Meal

This class is designed to be interactive and educational, with the host explaining Austrian culinary traditions before diving into cooking. The focus is on learning techniques that enable participants to recreate these dishes at home. The small group size ensures everyone has ample opportunity to ask questions and participate actively.

After preparing the dishes, the group dines together, savoring the authentic flavors of Austria. The experience culminates in a satisfying meal where all the effort in the kitchen pays off.

Reviews Reveal a Warm, Authentic Atmosphere

Both reviews highlight the authenticity and intimate nature of the tour. One reviewer appreciates that the class takes place in someone’s apartment, which adds a personal touch to the experience. The other praises the welcoming environment and clear instruction, noting that the results are delicious and that they now feel confident recreating these recipes at home.

The friendly, organized approach makes this class particularly appealing for those seeking a genuine connection with Austrian cuisine and culture.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Reservations are typically made about a month in advance, reflecting strong interest. Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience, with full refunds available during that window. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior are not refundable.

This flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind, especially when planning travel around other activities.

Final Thoughts on the Schnitzel and Strudel Cooking Class

The Schnitzel and Strudel class in Vienna offers a personalized, hands-on opportunity to learn authentic Austrian dishes in a cozy home environment. Its focus on interactive participation and family recipes makes it stand out from larger, more commercial cooking classes.

Ideal for food lovers eager to master traditional recipes and enjoy a warm, intimate atmosphere, this experience delivers delicious food and valuable skills. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate local culture and want to bring a taste of Austria home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the class suitable for children?
Yes, kids and families are welcome, but keep in mind that carrying strollers upstairs is necessary as the building lacks an elevator.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the host can arrange vegetarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free options upon request. However, vegan and gluten-free apple strudel are not available.

What dishes will I learn to make?
You will prepare Old Viennese potato soup, chicken schnitzel with cucumber and potato salad, and apple strudel.

Where does the class take place?
The class is hosted at a private apartment at Neumanngasse 7, Vienna.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all cooking ingredients, kitchen equipment, and lunch with coffee or tea.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 32 days ahead, indicating good availability but early planning is recommended to secure a spot.