A Disappointing Experience at Restaurant Hu in Vienna: A Bitter Taste in a Beautiful City
During our recent trip to Vienna—a city that enchants with its imperial elegance, majestic architecture, and cosmopolitan atmosphere—we encountered an episode that significantly soured our experience. After a day spent exploring the wonders of the city, my two travel companions and I decided to have dinner at a Chinese restaurant called Restaurant Hu, located in a central area of Vienna. Upon arrival, we noticed the restaurant was completely empty. No customers at the tables, no line at the entrance. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy something different from the local cuisine. Unfortunately, the reality was quite the opposite. As soon as we tried to enter, we were stopped at the door by a staff member who, in a cold and detached tone, informed us that the restaurant serves “only organized tourist groups.” No further explanation, no alternative offered—just a blunt refusal. What made the situation worse was the rudeness of the staff. They didn’t even look us in the eye while speaking, choosing instead to stare off into the distance with an air of indifference. This kind of behavior isn’t just disrespectful—it feels discriminatory. We were three polite individuals, dressed appropriately, ready to pay for a meal like any other customer. Yet we were turned away for no apparent reason, despite the restaurant being completely empty. This episode left us deeply disappointed. Vienna is a city that deserves to be experienced with joy and wonder, but moments like this cast a shadow over everything else. It’s hard to understand the logic behind a business that refuses customers without explanation. One can’t help but wonder if there’s something questionable going on behind the scenes. A restaurant that doesn’t welcome guests, remains empty, and only serves pre-booked tourist groups raises suspicions. Of course, we have no proof, but the impression that it might be a “front” for something else isn’t entirely unfounded. What struck us most, however, was the complete lack of respect. In the hospitality industry, welcoming guests is fundamental. Even if there were an internal policy limiting service to groups, it could have been communicated politely—perhaps with a suggestion for another place or a clear explanation. Instead, we were made to feel rejected, ignored, and treated as if we didn’t even deserve a response. I strongly advise against visiting Restaurant Hu if you’re looking for a pleasant dining experience in Vienna. It’s not just about food—it’s about respect, hospitality, and basic human decency. And in our case, this restaurant failed on all fronts. Vienna deserves restaurateurs who enhance the city’s beauty, not those who tarnish it with arrogance...
Read moreYesterday my friend and I went to Hu restaurant. 5 tables were empty, and when we ask the person in charge for a table she looked at us, and immediately she said is booked out. One couple was living and she run to the table and scream to us is reserved, another couple saw what was going on and they told us please come sit we are living.. She scream again no is not possible is all reserved... My friend even said ok we order for takeaway.... But the woman completely ignored us. We try again to talk to her but nothing.
I can understand, that there are reservations, but I also believe that without clients the restaurant will never survive. She was not even interested into find a solution for us, or offer the possibility really for takeout like my friend asked her... nothing. We have never seen such a rude behaviour, which is sad, because I am sure this lady worked hard to have her restaurant, but unfortunately she forgot how hard is to gain a name, and now she has the luxus to treat PAYING customers this way.
I am sure the food can be fine, but it is a matter of principles that this restaurant is an absolutely no go for us, and I hope for many...
Read moreThe location of this restaurant is so close to the exit from Lower Belvedere Palace and yet I was so surprised by the portions they serve and the reasonable price. I dare to say it’s one of the best Chinese food I have tasted in Europe. The restaurant ambient is like a laid-back cafe, no exaggerated decoration but so cute with some plants and paintings.
They have 3 options of vegetarian/vegan dishes on the menu and I asked the waitress for the recommendation. Stir fried aubergine turned out a great choice. My husband took Mapo tofu and it was a little spicy for him, but he likes it. The portion of dish is so big that’s we have to order an extra bowl of rice to finish the dish, that’s how good was it. The grune vetliner wine served was good too.
The service was fast and the staffs are kind....
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