Crudo is the new location project by the Monte Ofelio brothers. It all started with the tiny Monte Ofelio bar across from the Augarten, followed by the same concept in another very small space in the first district. Now they have gone bigger. The first two bars are so compact that most guests spill out onto the street, very much in the Italian tradition. Crudo, however, caters more to the Austrian climate with indoor seating, while staying true to the aperitivo bar concept and offering a large standing area as well, but inside.
the former ‘If Dogs Run Free’ @Crudo
The bar features an interactive art installation in which everyone can participate. The coasters come with a QR code and, once scanned, a question pops up. Answer it and one of the many paper rolls hanging from the ceiling starts printing your response. You just do not know where. Since the rolls are mounted quite high and your answer takes a while to make its way down, it is not exactly ideal for flirting.
aperitivo bar @Crudo
We had made a reservation and therefore got one of the tables along the wall. Staying on brand with the aperitivo theme, I ordered an Americano with the bruschette. We were served three different kinds, two pieces each: Sarde in Saor, Carciofo, and Cetara. All three were excellent, with the Carciofo, an artichoke cream with pecorino, and the Cetara, anchovies with stracchino and lemon zest, being my favorites. I found the Sarde in Saor, marinated sardines, a bit difficult to eat, as there was so much topping that it easily fell apart.
Sarde in Saor @Crudo
Carciofo @Crudo
Cetara @Crudo
With the second round of drinks we ordered prosciutto di Parma, a selection of different cheeses, and beef tartare without fresh truffles. The tartare was fantastic. It was very simply seasoned, but the quality of the beef was outstanding and the taste absolutely spot on. I loved it. The prosciutto was just as impressive, melting in the mouth, while the cheese selection, though good, felt a little bland in comparison.
prosciutto, cheese, and beef tartar @Crudo
We also shared a Schiacciata, a Tuscan flatbread sandwich, with vegetables. It included more artichoke cream, two kinds of cheese, violet artichoke, and arugula. I did not take a picture of it. Unfortunately, the sandwich was the weakest part of the meal and not something I would order again.
Crudo is a welcome addition to the Viennese aperitivo bar scene. I enjoyed both the food and the art installation. It is an intriguing project that allows people to put their feelings out into the open without fully revealing them. In the end, though, it was the overall atmosphere that already made me plan my next visit. Yours, Pollybert
Crudo
1060 Wien, Gumpendorferstrasse 10
Tel: +43 664 5215573
Tue–Thu: 16:00–23:00, Fri–Sat: 16:00–24:00
https://www.instagram.com/crudo.vienna
