On average, we look at our smartphones over 80 times a day, routinely checking emails or social media. Anyone who wants to turn off this constant vibrating and flashing will now find a radical yet relaxed alternative to screens in a hidden courtyard in Wieden—a Digital Detox Café right in the heart of Vienna.
The new pop-up project at Weyringergasse 36 is certainly nota classic coffeehouse for working. The two founders, Christoph Thomann and Sebastian Müller Klasz, have created a space where laptops and smartphones are strictly prohibited. You’ll need to switch your devices to airplane mode or securely store them in small, lockable compartments at the entrance.
The name “Offline Oida” says it all for Vienna’s first digital detox café, which is currently open every weekend. Instead of asking for the Wi-Fi password, help yourself to a book from the Vienna Library’s reading corner or grab some analog board games from the Vienna-based Paradice.
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A streamlined menu to avoid decision fatigue
The concept of slowing down extends all the way to the menu. The operators have deliberately kept the selection small to avoid the typical stress of ordering. The truly delicious coffee is supplied by the neighboring Carl Ludwig Café, while tea drinkers can enjoy fine varieties from Demmers Teehaus. The authentic Viennese pastries come straight from the ovens of the 15 Süße Minuten bakery.
Take a deep breath once an hour
Those who are particularly serious about taking a mental break can participate in a guided breathing session once an hour. This brief ritual is entirely voluntary, but it noticeably helps clear your head of the constant flood of information. At the wooden bar, there are also special conversation cards with brief prompts in case you run out of things to talk about without a quick internet search.
☕️ Offline Oida (Café in the courtyard of the Alpenmilchzentrale)
📍 Address: Weyringergasse 36, 1040 Vienna
💶 Prices: Reduced menu for coffee & pastries
🕒 Opening hours: Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
