You are now officially on French territory—Flein is situated in the expansive garden of Clam-Gallas palace, now the French Cultural Institute. The restaurant occupies the free-standing former palace kitchen. The old wood burning ovens from aristocratic times add to its charm and the garden has a relaxed heurige-in-the-city vibe.
Flein serves consistently good food with Franco-Austro-Mediterranean touches at reasonable prices. Try the braised rabbit in dijon sauce or the dreamy crema catalana. Caveat: 1) the mosquitos on summer are vicious but repellent is on the house, 2) reservations recommended for a garden table, 3) no credit cards, and 4) no dogs.