„All happiness depends on a leisurely breakfast.“- John Gunther; SiL
There are those places in Vienna that you mentally resign yourself to weeks in advance. Too popular, too hyped, too crowded. SiL – coffee, breakfast & more was exactly that kind of place for me. So I was genuinely surprised when we actually got a last-minute appointment. No joke – normally it’s booked solid for days. And you definitely notice that as soon as you arrive.
The location is simply perfect. So perfect, in fact, that many people just stroll by, pop in, hope for the best – and then, unfortunately, have to leave again. Without a reservation, you hardly stand a chance at SiL. It’s a bit of a shame for those who are spontaneous, but at the same time, it perfectly illustrates what makes this place so special.
New, renovated
– yet steeped in history
The restaurant itself is brand new, freshly renovated, and this first impression hits you immediately upon opening the door. SiL has managed to achieve something very difficult: the balancing act between old and new.
The space is high-ceilinged, flooded with light, featuring beautiful arches that lend the whole place a distinctly Viennese feel. Subtle stucco on the walls hints at the building’s rich history. At the same time, everything is extremely clean and uncluttered. The floor, the furniture, the color scheme – minimalist, modern, almost understated.
It’s clear that the design deliberately emphasizes clean lines. Less is more seems to be the motto. Personally, I might have liked a few minor refinements in the decor. A little more warmth, a few details to make it even cozier. But that’s really nitpicking – because the style of SiL is harmonious, calm, and very contemporary.
This atmosphere
immediately invites you to stay
What struck me most was that, despite the busy atmosphere, the room had a certain tranquility. No hectic chaos, no feeling of stress. Perhaps it’s the high ceiling, perhaps the clean design – or simply the fact that you consciously take your time at SiL.
You sit, look around, observe other guests, overhear snippets of conversation, the clinking of dishes, the quiet hum of the coffee machine. For me, this is precisely what makes a good brunch spot. A place where you don’t want to jump up after 45 minutes, but want to stay.
Drinks first
– or actually last?
Let’s get to the part that always interests me most: coffee. I ordered a salted caramel latte. I simply had to try it. SiL has a really good selection of drinks – from classic to a bit more unusual. My husband, ever the pragmatist, had a cappuccino. And because I’ve made a firm resolution this year to drink enough water, I also ordered a homemade lemonade. Fresh, not too sweet, just right.
A little fun fact about me that my husband still doesn’t understand after all these years: I always order my coffee first – but I only drink it after the meal. For me, coffee isn’t a drink to wash it down. It’s the finale. The crowning glory. That’s exactly what I did at SiL.
Food time
When heart and hunger decide
To be honest, choosing what to eat wasn’t easy. The menu is concise, but well-thought-out. I finally opted for the Royal Waffle – a classic waffle with smoked salmon, avocado, a poached egg, and hollandaise sauce. A familiar combination, but one that always works.
And I wasn’t disappointed. Everything was perfectly balanced; nothing overpowered, nothing was lost. This is exactly the kind of brunch I love at SiL: familiar, yet executed with high quality. My husband chose eggs with bacon, along with fresh bread and butter. Very down-to-earth, very him. And then came that moment I love: „Let’s share something sweet.“
French Toast
& Questions of Taste
No sooner said than done. We also ordered French toast. Rolled in cinnamon and sugar, served with fresh banana, blueberries, applesauce – and I think there was chocolate sauce too. Visually, it was definitely a highlight and absolutely Instagram-worthy, just as you’d expect from SiL. It tasted good, no question. But – and this is where my personal taste comes in – the crust wasn’t sweet enough for me. I would have liked it to be a bit more caramelized. A little more crunch, a little more sweetness.
My husband, on the other hand, loved it. And that just goes to show: tastes are simply different. What I consider a slight „I wish it had been…“ is perfect for someone else. And that’s perfectly fine – because at SiL everyone can find something that suits them.
my summary
– honest & vanivanity-like
Would I come back? I think yes. Would I make a reservation? Absolutely. Would I recommend SiL? Definitely to the right people– with the small caveat that it’s best to plan ahead.
It’s one of those brunch spots that shows just how good Vienna can be when the old is respected and the new is boldly implemented. And that’s precisely why SiL deserves a place on my personal Vienna list.
And sometimes it’s precisely those unplanned mornings that are the most beautiful. SiL was exactly such a moment for me. Calm, relaxed, without high expectations – and precisely for that reason so perfect. And when a place manages to make me consciously savor my coffee as the finale, then I know: I’ll be back. Absolutely. SiL
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