„When the sun sets, the rooftop comes alive – cheers to nights above the city.“, Chez Bernard Rooftop Bar
There are those evenings when everything just fits. When you don’t think for a second about what tomorrow will bring, because the present is so beautifully light. That was exactly the kind of evening I had with a friend at the rooftop bar of Chez Bernard – right at the top, on the eighth floor, with a view over Vienna and a glass of Aperol in hand.
If you know me, you know: I love discovering new places in my city. But I love it even more when Vienna suddenly feels a bit like a vacation. Not so loud, not so stressful – but easy, aesthetic, and with just the right amount of chic, without seeming pretentious. Chez Bernard manages this balancing act with ease.
The way up
Chez Bernard is located in the Hotel Motto, which is a small design oasis in itself. But the real highlight? Definitely the rooftop bar. The elevator takes you directly to the 8th floor – and as soon as you get out, you notice: Time ticks slower up here.
“ Stylish, but unpretentious. „
A little spoiler – the restaurant is also located here, but on the 7th floor – feel free to check out my blog post about it. -> Link
The atmosphere was relaxed, somehow intimate, yet lively at the same time. The people at the tables next to us? Stylish, but unpretentious. I love that exact mix. You immediately feel welcome, without it feeling like a trendy place that takes itself too seriously.
Aperol, but make it Sunset
We’d barely sat down when the first Aperol Spritz was in front of us – classic, no experiments, but perfectly mixed. And honestly: There are drinks that simply taste better with a view. The view over the city, the golden light of the evening sun, a touch of wind in your hair… It was one of those moments when you briefly think: How beautiful is life right now?
We raised our glasses almost in sync, clinked glasses – and just let ourselves go. Between conversations about everything and nothing, short pauses of silence that didn’t feel awkward, and an inner „Oh my God, how beautiful is it here?“
Tacos for two, please!
Eventually, a little hunger struck – and we decided on a snack combo that turned out to be a real hit: tacos for two and steak tartare.
The tacos? Designed for sharing – but so good you’d rather not give up a single bite. Fresh, light, with just the right crunch. Perfect for snacking without feeling like you need to lie down afterward.
And then came the tartare – a classic that I always order with a bit of caution. Too often it’s too bland or too rich. But here? A revelation. The finest meat, beautifully seasoned, with that balance of spice and freshness that’s simply delightful. Served with small, crispy slices of bread and a bit of green on top – beautifully done, both visually and taste-wise.
We forked our way through the plates, laughed, drank, and ordered more. It wasn’t a dinner in the traditional sense, but rather a savory meal in stages – the way it should be when you don’t want to rush.
The ambience?
Pinterest meets Côte d’Azur
Let me try to describe it this way: Imagine someone took your Pinterest board for summer evenings in the South of France and built a rooftop bar in Vienna out of it. Warm colors, soft upholstery, lots of wood, small details you only notice upon closer inspection. Plus, a soft lighting concept that makes you look like you’re wearing a glow filter in real life.
The music was subdued, just the right amount. Not that „we have to be a rooftop party“ level, but more of a „stay a little longer“ vibe. No wonder we ended up sitting there much longer than planned.
“ the heart of the city ”
I think that’s what I loved so much about Chez Bernard: this mix of elation and down-to-earthness. You feel special without it being overwhelming. You’re in the heart of the city—and yet so far away.
For me, this evening was a mini-break, a midweek reset. No dress code, no obligation, just being there, enjoying yourself, chatting with your best friend, and celebrating this summer moment together that feels like it will never end.
my summary
If you want to get out without actually having to go out – treat yourself to an evening at the Chez Bernard Rooftop. Bring someone you love, wear something you feel beautiful in, and order something good. You’ll feel like you’re on vacation – only you won’t need a plane to get home afterwards.
And who knows – maybe we’ll toast there together someday?
Cheers,
Vanessa
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