8 Best Restaurants in Carinthia and Graz, Austria

Located in Mehlplatz, one of the oldest squares of Graz, Die Herzl restaurant opened in 1934 and is known for both its tavernlike atmosphere and its traditional Austrian cuisine. Seasonal entrées are mixed with typical Austrian dishes such as gemischter salat (a mix of cucumber, potato, and sauerkraut on lettuce) or the gebackener Camembert (fried Camembert cheese served with tart berry chutney). Drink local Austrian wines such as Grüner Veltliner and Welschriesling (white), or Zweigelt and Blauburger (red).

This rustic brewery is in one of the oldest buildings in Klagenfurt and attracts a mixed and lively clientele. The excellent beer produced here pairs perfectly with the local cuisine. If the weather permits, try to get a place in the lovely courtyard. Its convenient location in the city center makes it a popular meeting place; be prepared for a crowd.

When nothing but a hearty goulash will do, the Gasthaus Pumpe is the top Klagenfurt choice. Fresh Puntingammer beer on tap is just one of the highlights of this humble spot which is popular with locals looking to hang out with friends; enjoy a few beers; and savor large plates of sausage, schnitzel, and other Austrian delights. Typical pub atmosphere and service means occasional shared tables and casual staff. The inner courtyard is lovely when the weather is nice.

Warm wooden parlors, romantic corners, and authentic Austrian cuisine define this rustic spot. Products are mainly local and seasonal, in keeping with the restaurant's slow-food philosophy. Pumpkin and dark-green pumpkinseed oil are prominent ingredients. Try the schnitzel in a coat of pumpkinseeds with potatoes and field salad or homemade pasta with pumpkinseed pesto. Leave space for desserts such as parfait with plum jam. The daily lunch menus are popular with locals, and the restaurant can get packed quickly.

This sprawling tavern is the place to go for a good pint and a hearty meal. Eight types of beer are available and the kitchen cooks up satisfying traditional and international dishes. Try a plate of goulash or the Gösser Bräu schnitzel plate. Operated by the Grossauer family since 2005, the staff is warm and efficient.

The magnificent centuries-old Landhaus complex also includes this popular traditional restaurant. Styrian beef is the main event here, but there are lots of other tasty dishes to choose from. The place contains a labyrinth of charming old-world dining rooms set within the ancient arcaded Landhaus itself. Weather permitting, try to get a table in the historic courtyard.

Joining the expanding enterprise of Sacher cafés in Austria's most prominent cities, Graz's Sacher is everything you would expect—lots of gilt, crimson upholstery, sparkling chandeliers, and Viennese dessert, including the rich chocolate Sacher torte. If you're hungry for a meal, there are breakfast, lunch, and dinner specialties. Try the Frank Sacher potato soup or their original truffle ham. In the adjoining Sacher Wein-Snackbar, you can choose tasty snacks to blend with a full-bodied Austrian white wine or champagne.

Pause your medieval wanderings to indulge in classic Carinthian dishes, homemade noodles, and of course a selection of fish dishes at the restaurant in Friesach's most popular hotel. The interior is simple and classy, but the best spot is perched on the terrace with a view of the square.