Demel, Vienna

Demel is a renowned Viennese pastry shop and chocolaterie, founded in 1786, which has held the prestigious title of Purveyor to the Imperial and Royal Court since 1874. Steeped in a Neo-baroque aesthetic, this shop is famous for its traditional service, with waitresses, known as Demelinerinnen, addressing customers in a formal third-person style.

Originally established on Saint Michael's Square (Michaelerplatz) by Ludwig Dehne, a confectioner from Württemberg, the business passed through family hands until 1857 when it was sold to Christoph Demel, an employee. Under the management of Demel's sons, Joseph and Karl, the shop was relocated to Kohlmarkt following the demolition of the old Burgtheater and subsequent refurbishment of Saint Michael's Square in 1888. Demel flourished during the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, attracting notable patrons like Empress Elisabeth (Sisi), Princess Pauline von Metternich, and actress Katharina Schratt.

The 20th century saw Demel engaged in a legal battle with the Hotel Sacher over the rights to the "Original Sacher Torte," a famous Viennese delicacy, which concluded in 1963 with a compromise allowing Demel to use a distinctive triangular seal for its version of the torte.

Today, Demel also houses a museum showcasing its imperial past and the art of chocolate making. This historic establishment continues to be a symbol of Vienna's rich culinary heritage and is a must-visit location for those wishing to enjoy an authentic Austrian delectable treat.