Vienna's Bräunerhof coffee house reopens with subtle updates

Vienna's legendary Bräunerhof coffee house has reopened its doors, nearly a year after facing insolvency. The establishment, a favorite haunt of the late Austrian writer Thomas Bernhard, is now under the management of Peter Friese, known for "Zum Schwarzen Kameel," and Christoph Plachutta.

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I don't think that's possible, because the monument protection authority wouldn't have allowed it either.

The new owners have undertaken renovations to refresh the interior while striving to maintain the coffee house's iconic ambiance and character. While many elements remain familiar, subtle changes have been introduced, including new upholstery in a vibrant green and updated seating for improved comfort, addressing past complaints about uncomfortable benches.

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Some guests have already looked in and thought we hadn't changed anything at all – and then I had to list everything we've done.

The reopening was preceded by a peculiar protest. A day before the relaunch, a photograph of Thomas Bernhard, which had reportedly been stolen from the Bräunerhof, reappeared. It was displayed surrounded by five individuals with covered faces, described by the newspaper "Heute" as art students protesting the takeover and claiming that "not a stone had been left unturned" in the renovation.

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The famous picture of Thomas Bernhard, the predecessor was stolen.

Christoph Plachutta, representing the third generation of a prominent Viennese gastronomy family, emphasized the importance of preserving the coffee house's timeless soul, flair, and atmosphere. He believes that while behind-the-scenes improvements are beneficial for the guest experience, excessive changes are unnecessary. The focus remains on enhancing the visitor's experience without altering the fundamental character that has made Bräunerhof a beloved institution.

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It was a bit drab. And since Thomas Bernhard also complained about the poor upholstery: See how comfortable the backrest is?