His innovative approach to coffeehouse culture resulted in an alternative to the sheer Gemütlichkeit of the traditional Viennese café.

Aida has also been reluctant to adapt to changing tastes and to compete with new arrivals in Vienna such as Starbucks, for example by refusing to add flavoured coffee to their list of beverages.

Some of these reports also comment on Aida, for example in the following way:[3] Coffee houses basically fall into two types, though the distinction is rather blurred nowadays.

A Kaffeehaus, which is traditionally preferred by men but enjoyed by everyone, offers games such as chess and billiards and serves wine, beer, spirits and light meals.

Aida is a particularly popular chain of Konditorei, a totally pink affair where you can discuss your latest operation or the neighbour's new driveway with the old ladies at the next table.