living reading time: 5 min publication date: 26.05.2017

WHERE TO ENJOY A KAFFEEPAUSE IN VILLACH

© RVT | LUKAS KIRCHGASSER
Coffee break at the local coffee shop Kaffeemacher

Kaffeepause is an Austrian tradition that is very similar to a British afternoon tea. “Kaffeepause” literally translates to “coffee pause” and is a midday coffee break. During Kaffeepause, it is traditional to enjoy eine Tasse Kaffee (a cup of coffee) along with a sweet treat such as Kuchen (cake).

Kaffeepause has become an Austrian custom I have quickly adopted. Why? Because Kaffeepause isn’t just a coffee break; it’s a moment to slow down and reflect on the day. Whether alone or with friends, Kaffeepause is about enjoying the moment. Compared to the fast and on-the-go coffee consumption of my native USA (um, hello Starbucks drive-thrus!), Austrian Kaffeepause represents a true break. I appreciate the opportunity to sit down, relax, and enjoy an espresso with a slice of fresh Apfelkuchen.

Walking through downtown Villach, there is no shortage of cafes. In the summer, the city center fills with tables and chairs so customers can enjoy an outdoor Kaffeepause. In the winter, cafes become meeting hubs as people come together to catch-up over hot coffee and stay out of the cold. Regardless of the time of year, there are plenty of options for coffee lovers to join together and enjoy a midday break.

LOCAL COFFEE ROASTERS

Enjoy a cup of coffee from beans roasted right in Villach at Kaffeemacher and La Mattina. Both cafes roast their beans onsite and have bags available for purchase so you can enjoy another cup (or two!) at home.


KEEP IT CASUAL

Caffé Latte Bar and Die Greißlerei Villach offer ample seating and a cozy atmosphere to meet up with friends. Both cafes offer Austrian coffee classics such as the Verlängerter (similar to an Americano) and Melange (similar to an Italian cappuccino).

© RVT | Adrian Hipp
© La Mattina
© RVT | Adrian Hipp

GREAT CAKES

Coffee and cake are a match made in heaven and at Cafe Konditorei Rainer and Cafe Konditorei Bernold there is a wide selection of Austrian cakes and cookies to choose from. Pick a slice of a decadent Torte (cake) such as Sachertorte or Linzer torte to enjoy during Kaffeepause.

 

COFFEE AND BREAKFAST TOO

Turn your Kaffeepause into a delightful brunch at Park Cafe or Cafe Bistro Bellini. Both cafes offer a full breakfast menu as well as other dining options throughout the day. There are plenty of restaurants in the Villach city center, so feel free to explore the city on foot and see where your desires lead you.

With so many cafes in Villach, it was hard to narrow it down to these few. I would love to hear your recommendations - anything I missed? I am always looking for an excuse to go out for Kaffeepause. Einen Latte Macchiato, bitte.