Popular Graz Café, Café Mitte, Listed for Sale
The Café Mitte, a well-known establishment in the heart of Graz, Austria, is currently being offered for sale on the online marketplace willhaben.at. The listing has prompted both curiosity and concern among patrons of the popular café, located directly on Freiheitsplatz.
According to the advertisement, the café boasts a substantial 183 square meters of space, divided into four rooms, and is situated on the ground floor of a renovated historic building. The property is fully accessible and partially furnished, including a built-in kitchen, easing the transition for a new owner. Additional amenities include a cellar and storage room – valuable assets in a central city location.
Perhaps the most attractive feature of the Café Mitte is its expansive outdoor area, offering approximately 100 square meters of space with capacity for up to 80 seats. This large gastgarten, positioned directly on Freiheitsplatz, is expected to be particularly popular during warmer months, effectively extending the café’s footprint.
The listing details a monthly rent of 6,900 euros, alongside a required premium (Ablöse) of 250,000 euros. A security deposit of 27,400 euros is also required, with the option of providing a bank guarantee in lieu of cash.
René Koch, Geschäftsführer (Managing Director) of Café Mitte, has sought to reassure fans that the listing does not necessarily signal the café’s imminent closure. According to a report in Kleine Zeitung, Koch explained that the listing is a proactive measure to explore options and potentially transfer ownership to a new party if a suitable offer arises.
The Café Mitte, which opened in early 2014, has a long history as a hospitality venue in Graz. Its prime location – directly opposite the Schauspielhaus (theater) and within walking distance of the Hauptplatz (main square) and Schloßberg hill – makes it a highly desirable property. The café has recently adjusted its operating hours, remaining closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
The advertisement highlights the café’s convenient location and features, including its barrier-free access and renovated building. The listing on willhaben.at has generated significant interest, as evidenced by the coverage in local news outlets like 5min.at and grazer.at.
While the future of Café Mitte remains uncertain, Koch’s statement suggests that the current owners are open to considering offers but are not actively seeking to sell unless the conditions are right. The café continues to operate, serving its clientele while exploring potential future ownership scenarios.
