What to Eat & Drink at the Poolbar Festival, Feldkirch
A summer of music, art, and design in Feldkirch wouldn't be complete without a taste of the local food scene. The Poolbar Festival is known for its eclectic program, but the gastronomic offerings are a key part of the experience, blending quick bites with regional flavors.
Whether you're catching a concert at the historic Altes Hallenbad or lounging in the Reichenfeld open-air area, you'll find food stalls and bars tucked into the festival grounds. This guide helps you navigate what to eat, where to find it, and how to make the most of your culinary breaks between sets.
Where to Find Food and Drink Stalls
The festival unfolds across two main venues: the Altes Hallenbad, a former indoor pool that now hosts concerts and club nights, and the Reichenfeld open-air area. While both sites offer food and drink options, the stall density is generally lower than at large commercial festivals, reflecting the event's community-oriented vibe.
Expect food stalls and bars to be set up near the main stages and lounges, making it easy to grab a bite between performances. The official festival website and on-site signage provide the most accurate layout, as the exact positions can change from year to year.
Types of Food Typically Available
The culinary lineup usually covers a spectrum from fast snacks like burgers, fries, and wraps to more regional Austrian specialties. You might find local favorites such as schnitzel in a bun or Käsespätzle, a hearty cheese noodle dish, alongside international options like pizza or Asian-inspired bowls.
A festival profile on FestivalFinder describes the food offerings as 'Fast snack' and 'Veggie/vegan,' giving you a clear idea of what to expect. This means you'll have no trouble finding a quick bite, and plant-based eaters are also well catered for.
Since the exact menu and vendors change annually, it's wise to check the official festival program in advance if you have specific dietary needs or are keen to try a particular local dish.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, the Poolbar Festival has you covered. The festival listing on FestivalFinder explicitly lists 'Veggie/vegan' as one of its food categories, indicating that plant-based options are a standard part of the lineup.
Look for food stalls that label their dishes clearly, or ask the vendors directly about what's vegan—many are happy to adapt. From veggie burgers to falafel wraps, you're likely to find a satisfying meal that fits your preferences
Drinks at the Festival
To wash down your meal, the festival bars offer a range of beverages, including local beers, wines from the Vorarlberg region, and non-alcoholic options like soft drinks and water. The emphasis on regional products is a nod to the festival's setting near the Austrian, German, Liechtenstein, and Swiss border.
There are usually multiple bars scattered across the venues, so you won't have to walk far to find a drink. If you're planning to stay hydrated, look for water refill stations—some festivals offer free tap water, but if not, be prepared to buy bottled water.
How Ordering Works
Ordering at the Poolbar Festival is straightforward: you queue at the stall or bar you want, place your order, and pay on the spot. While some festivals use cashless wristband systems, there's no public information suggesting Poolbar has adopted one, so bring cash and a card to be on the safe side.
Peak times, such as right before a headline act or during the dinner hour, can result in longer queues. To beat the rush, try eating earlier or later than the typical meal times, or head to stalls that are slightly off the main thoroughfare.
While you're planning your day, it's also helpful to know that the festival layout can change each year—check the official map on site or on the festival's website to find all the dining spots.
Eating in the City Centre
If you crave a sit-down meal or want to explore beyond the festival stalls, Feldkirch's historic center is just steps away from the venues. The festival's central location means you're never more than a short walk from cafes, bakeries, and restaurants serving both Austrian classics and international fare.
Popular culinary haunts near the festival include the Braugaststätte Rössle Park and Dogana as suggested by Trip.com, but we recommend checking current reviews and opening hours before heading out, as the restaurant scene can evolve and availability varies.
Practical Tips for Festival Goers
Arriving with a bit of planning can make your food experience smoother. Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months when the festival runs from early July to mid-August.
Plan Your Visit
Eating and drinking at the Poolbar Festival is part of the fun, with options ranging from quick snacks to veggie-friendly dishes and regional drinks. While the exact lineup of vendors changes each year, you can count on a welcoming, low-key atmosphere where the food complements the music and art.
For a worry-free visit, plan your meals around the festival schedule, keep cash and card handy, and don't hesitate to explore the city center for a more substantial bite. For more on getting there and where to stay, check our guides on how to get to poolbar festival and where to stay for poolbar festival.
Frequently Asked Questions
What food is served at the Poolbar Festival?
The Poolbar Festival offers a mix of fast snacks like burgers, fries, and wraps, as well as regional Austrian specialties such as schnitzel or Käsespätzle. The festival listings indicate both 'fast snack' and 'veggie/vegan' options are available, but the exact menu changes each year, so check the official program for specific vendors.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options at Poolbar?
Yes, the festival explicitly lists 'veggie/vegan' as a food category, so you can expect plant-based choices like veggie burgers, falafel, or salads. Vendors are usually happy to indicate what's vegan or adapt dishes on request.
How do you order food at the festival?
Ordering is straightforward: go to the stall or bar, order, and pay on the spot. There's no public information about a cashless system, so bring both cash and card. To avoid long queues, try eating at off-peak times, such as before the dinner rush.
What are the best restaurants near the Poolbar Festival?
Feldkirch's old town is full of dining options within walking distance of the festival sites. Some suggestions include Braugaststätte Rössle Park and Dogana, but we recommend checking current reviews and hours online, as restaurant availability and quality can change.