Tropicana Nov-Dec 2017 #116 Celebrating the Classics

THE COOKBOOK
THE RATHAUSPLATZ CHRISTKINDLMARKT
Occupying the spacious square in front of Vienna’s
impressive gothic town hall, the Rathausplatz
Christmas market is the largest in the city and
should be your first port of call for a flavour taste
of what the festive season has to offer. The market
boasts dozens of stalls offering traditional food,
drinks and handicraft products, all set among
atmospherically decorated trees, and gardens
with plenty of space to sit and relax. However,
be prepared for crowds in the evenings and
weekends – it’s estimated that the Rathausplatz
Christkindlmarkt attracts around 3.5 million
visitors each year.
SPITTELBERG
Spittelberg is a small area of winding streets in the
7th District of the city, well known for its collection
of vibrant bars, galleries, and craft markets. The
area’s slightly bohemian atmosphere carries over to
its Christmas market, which is spread throughout
the winding streets and courtyards. The Spittelberg
market is altogether more relaxed and cosier than
the larger, more commercial examples dotted
around the city, but be warned that its compact
location means it can get busy, and therefore
difficult to find a spot to rest up.
MUSEUMSQUARTIER
The Museumsquartier hosts an annual event called
Winter at the MQ, which is a prime example of
the wide variety of Christmas markets on offer in
Vienna. Sited on the main courtyard next to the
Leopold museum, this is a very different experience
from the more traditional markets elsewhere. You
won’t find any stalls selling kitsch mementos; just
several pavilions decked out in individual artistic
themes, most playing music of an altogether more
modern vintage than the traditional carols you
may expect. As always, however, delicious food
and drink are easily available, although perhaps,
a little more sophisticated and pricey than the
Christkindlmarkt standards of glühwein and hot
chocolate.
SCH›NBRUNN
To enjoy a genuine impression of old Vienna,
visit this market located on the grounds of the
Schönbrunn Imperial Palace. Unlike many
competing markets, there’s no shortage of space
here, and on a crisp winter’s day, the setting is truly
stunning. While you’ll find the usual refreshment
options of glühwein, sausages and roast chestnuts,
this is also the market to head for if you want a
more substantial dining experience. It’s especially
recommended to try the käsespätzle (the hearty
Austrian version of mac ‘n cheese), or the venerable
Wiener schnitzel (pork or veal steaks coated in
breadcrumbs and fried).\
TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017
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