Scandal at Margaretenplatz: Café Karl uses public benches?

Scandal at Margaretenplatz: Café Karl uses public benches?

The discussion about the use of public benches for guest service has broken out in the Margaretenplatz neighborhood. Several residents report a worrying trend at the “Karl” café, which, according to one resident, uses public banks to serve customers. The allegations allege that staff regularly take orders on the benches and guests consume their food and drinks there, which is not without consequences. Active serving services on public property can be punished with administrative penalties, as provided for by the legal regulations for the use of pub gardens.

The district office has already examined the situation in the “Karl” café, most recently in July, without finding any irregularities there. However, it remains exciting to see how the discussion will develop, especially since public benches are accessible to everyone and the consumption of drinks is permitted there. The operators of the café deny the allegations mentioned and emphasize that they in no way serve guests on these benches.

What is a bar garden?

The term “Schanigarten” is particularly common in eastern and southern Austria and refers to areas in front of restaurants on public property. Tables and chairs are available here to linger, often in the immediate vicinity of the bars. Bar gardens are not traditional gardens, but are often designed with privacy walls or potted plants and are set up and dismantled seasonally. According to the Wikipedia page, there were around 3,500 pub and bar gardens in Vienna in 2019 alone, which are very popular due to their sociable atmosphere.

Traditionally, the first permits for pub gardens were granted in the 18th century, and since then they have established themselves as popular places to enjoy the sun and socialize. However, problems between residents and bar owners regarding noise pollution, parking situations and food smells are not uncommon.

New for the winter

Due to climate change, an increase in the use of pub gardens in winter has been observed in recent years. Since 2017, there has been a special winter season for these areas, during which many restaurants use additional heaters to attract guests even in colder temperatures. What is particularly informative is that after the ban on smoking in closed restaurants from November 2019, more and more guests are spending time outdoors.

The situation surrounding the “Karl” café illustrates how important the respectful use of public space is for everyone involved. The feedback from residents shows that it is not just about consuming food and drinks, but also about being together in public spaces, which is very important to many Viennese. The Vienna Tourism Association and the Chamber of Commerce actively support the pub gardens as part of the urban quality of life.