Bärendreck-Apotheke

Bärendreck-Apotheke (Bärendreck, a colloquial term for liquorice, translates literally to “bear muck”) is a tiny but exquisite store near Rudolfplatz that has specialised in international liquorice specialities for over a decade. Liquorice enthusiasts come here for more than 500 different varieties from around the globe, from medicinal natural liquorice and sweet and salty/sour bulk candy to rarer products – the more exotic of which, to me, include liquorice-flavoured sea salt for cooking, liquorice-infused toothpaste and liquorice pudding, which looks like a regular caramel pudding on the box.

Bärendreck’s range also extends to liquorice-based cooking ingredients and cosmetics, although my confirmed favourites are the neatly lettered compartments of bulk candy. The friendly staff know their stuff and can help if you’re looking for something specific. Because I just can’t choose, I put together a mixed bag that’s charged by weight and enjoy the delicious sweets one by one.