"For those who love and appreciate coffee, Julius Meinl is a name you cannot miss. If you're not familiar with Julius Meinl, you're missing out on the essence of coffee." This is how coffee enthusiasts often express their admiration for the legendary figure who created the coffee empire, Julius Meinl. The journey began with a store at Raben 19 in 1862, offering a variety of coffee, cocoa beans, spices, and tea. Julius Meinl II revolutionized the coffee roasting process in 1877, resulting in beans with a unique, natural aroma that set Julius Meinl's coffee apart. The rest, as they say, is history. Interestingly, the iconic moor with a fez logo only emerged in 1924, designed by Joseph Binder, a pioneer in 20th-century industrial design.
A leisurely stroll through the historic part of the city unfolds a tapestry of enchanting landmarks. The city park, adorned with the melodies of Strauss and Schubert, leads to the venerable city gates named after Luger and Mozart. The narrative of "Ah, My Sweet Augustine" echoes through time, while the oldest church in the city stands as a testament to bygone eras. The tales of Theodor Herzl, the anchor clocks, the Jewish quarter, the square where it all began, the longest narrow alley, the Estergazi restaurant, and Andersen's house weave together seamlessly.
Wander down Graben Street, passing by the plague column and fountains, where the stories of homes, people, words, legends, and traditions blend harmoniously. Amidst it all, relish the charm of restaurants, cafes, wines, and coziness that add an extra layer of warmth to this rich tapestry of history and culture.