Reading a newspaper in a Viennese coffee shop.

Cafeterias in Vienna entice customers by offering, in addition to a remarkable variety of coffee drinks, the reading of international newspapers, and pastry creations. Typical of Viennese coffee houses are marble tables, Thonetian chairs, newspaper tables, and interior design details in the style of historicism.

Unlike traditional cafes around the world, in Vienna it is considered quite normal for a customer to stop alone for hours and read the newspaper at length. Along with the coffee, the waiter will serve an obligatory glass of cold running water and will often bring the customer additional glasses of unsolicited water during the extended stay, with the idea of serving the customer with an exemplary sense of care.