Kansas City may be known for its barbecue, but if you’re looking to swap smoky ribs for schnitzel and strudel, Grünauer is the place to be. Located in the historic Freight House District at 101 W. 22nd Street, Grünauer has served authentic Austrian and Central European cuisine since 2010. This family-owned gasthaus brings a slice of Vienna to the Midwest, blending old-world recipes with high-quality ingredients and a touch of Kansas City charm.
The Menu: More Than Just Schnitzel
Grünauer’s menu is a love letter to Austrian cuisine, but don’t confuse it with German food—it’s not the same thing. Sure, they share some DNA, but Austria’s culinary offerings stand proudly on their own. At Grünauer, you’ll find dishes like Wiener schnitzel, a crispy breaded veal cutlet that’s as iconic as it is delicious. Pair it with a light potato salad or cucumber salad for balance, and you’ve got a hearty and refreshing meal.
The Hungarian gulasch (spicy beef stew) is a must-try for those who like their comfort food with a kick. Or perhaps you’d prefer the schweinsbraten, a tender roast pork served with bread dumplings and tangy red cabbage. And yes, there are sausages—because what’s an Austrian meal without them?
But Grünauer isn’t just about heavy dishes. Their menu changes with the seasons, offering lighter options like cold salads, fresh fish, and soups perfect for warmer weather. Executive Chef Matthias Seyfrid, a Bavarian-born culinary maestro, ensures every dish is authentic and inventive.
Sweet Endings and Liquid Gold
No Austrian meal is complete without dessert, and Grünauer delivers in spades. The apple strudel is a crowd favorite—flaky pastry filled with spiced apples and served warm. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the kaiserschmarrn, a shredded pancake dish dusted with powdered sugar that’s as fun to eat as it is to pronounce.
On the beverage side of things, Grünauer takes its drinks seriously. The wine list leans heavily on Central European varietals like grüner veltliner, while the beer selection includes Austrian staples like Stiegl Pils. Whether you’re sipping on a crisp white wine or a cold lager, your drink will feel right at home alongside your meal.
The Space: Cozy Meets Classy
Grünauer’s interior strikes the perfect balance between cozy and sophisticated. The main dining room features warm wood accents and soft lighting that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Viennese gasthaus. Upstairs is a private dining loft with its own bar and fireplace—ideal for everything from rehearsal dinners to business meetings.
Snag a seat on the patio if you’re lucky enough to visit during nice weather. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy your schnitzel while soaking up some Kansas City sunshine.
When to Go (and What It Will Cost You)
Grünauer is open seven days a week:
- Monday–Tuesday: 4:00 PM–9:00 PM
- Wednesday–Thursday: 11:30 AM–9:00 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–11:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM–11:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
As for prices, expect to pay around $15–$30 for most entrees—a small price for a passport-free trip to Austria.
Why Grünauer Stands Out
What sets Grünauer apart is their commitment to quality and authenticity. They source humanely raised meats and buy local produce whenever possible, ensuring every bite is as fresh as it is flavorful. And while the menu stays true to its roots, it never feels stuck in the past. Chef Seyfrid keeps things interesting with seasonal specials that showcase the best ingredients of the moment.
So whether you’re craving schnitzel or just looking for something different in Kansas City’s dining scene, Grünauer offers an experience that’s equally delicious and unique.
Sources: grunauerkc.com, Grünauer Instagram Page
Header Image Source: grunauerkc.com
