History of the Schönbichler Tea Shop since 1870
Since 1870, the Theehandlung Schönbichler on Vienna's Wollzeile has stood for tea, select spirits, and special gourmet products. What began as a specialized "Thee" (tea) shop has remained an establishment where tradition, quality, and the joy of discovery go hand in hand.
A traditional Viennese shop for tea, spirits, and fine delicacies – since 1870 in the first district.
Johann Schönbichler, founder of Theehandlung Schönbichler
The "Thee" Specialty Shop
In 1870, merchant Johann Schönbichler opened a "Thee" specialty shop in the Zwettelhof at Wollzeile 4 in Vienna's first district. That is how the word was spelled at the time – and the establishment still upholds this tradition today.
Johann Schönbichler preferred to turn down tempting offers from London to work as a highly paid tea taster, choosing instead to turn his knowledge and experience regarding tea into his profession in Vienna.
Spirits, Jamaican rum from the Caribbean islands, Batavia arrack, and other gourmet goods were soon added to the tea selection. Ever since, the Theehandlung Schönbichler has stood for high-end indulgence and ranks among the leading tea and spirits shops in Europe's premium segment.
The spelling "Theehandlung" serves as a deliberate reminder of the company's origins and remains part of Schönbichler's identity to this day.
Hans Schönbichler led the company in the second generation
Initiative and Obligation
Hans Schönbichler joined the company in the second generation in 1908 and guided it dynamically through difficult times of war and crisis.
Initiative has always been a defining trait of the Schönbichler family – from grandfather to grandson. After the war, Carl Hans Schönbichler, grandson of the founder, joined the company as a junior partner, successfully rebuilt the business, and led it to economic prosperity.
In 1970, on the occasion of the company's 100th anniversary, the Schönbichler shop was completely renovated and remodeled according to old plans. However, it retained its old style and its beloved, familiar appearance. For Carl Hans Schönbichler, this was a "natural obligation in the interest of preserving the old town."
Carl Hans Schönbichler led the Theehandlung Schönbichler in the third generation
Tradition and Variety
One of Schönbichler's guiding principles was: "A modern company must adapt to the circumstances." In this spirit, the existing range is continuously expanded with new product lines and supplemented by partnerships with regional and seasonal small businesses.
Today, the diverse product range extends from tea, spirits, and fine gourmet products to exotic spices, chocolate and fruit delicacies, and handcrafted tea sets from all over the world.
Even though the product range has always adapted to the changing times since the shop was founded, the establishment has remained true to one principle: "We always try to offer things that others do not have."
For over 150 years, the Theehandlung Schönbichler has combined the new with the old in a pleasant and delightful way. Regionality, seasonality, and sustainability have always been close to our hearts and are reflected in our assortment.
A piece of Viennese culinary history
Tradition and innovation under one roof – at a time when the unique and unmistakable has become a value in itself. To this day, the Theehandlung Schönbichler is a place for people who seek special products, appreciate personal advice, and enjoy discovering something new.
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Useful information about tea, its origin, preparation, and special moments of enjoyment.
Tea Knowledge & Viennese Culinary Culture
Discover the diverse world of tea: from traditional growing regions and select tea varieties to proper preparation and current recommendations from our Viennese tea shop. In our blog, we share expertise, stories, and inspiration for even more enjoyment in every cup.
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