Prague Cuisine is a culinary journey of discovery.
Transcription
Prague Cuisine is a culinary journey of discovery.
Prague Cuisine is a culinary journey of discovery. From urban chic to fine dining, Dominic James shares his culinary experiences and discoveries, revealing a diverse selection of restaurants, cafés, bistros and confectioners in and around a city rich in history and tradition. With its beautiful collection of photographs and descriptive legends, this treasure trove of culinary destinations will create for gourmets and urban foodies alike a desire to explore and sample the atmosphere of these gastronomical experiences. Featuring introductions from award winning chefs, Prague Cuisine showcases the capital’s finest offerings, the history of places and people and illustrates how the gastronomy scene has developed and evolved over the past few years. BUY ONLINE INFO@PRAGUE-CUISINE.COM WWW.PRAGUE-CUISINE.COM CONTENT 5 FOR THE GOURMET 12 LOCAL FLAVOUR 20 LIGHT BITES 27 FOREIGN INFLUENCE 43 SWEET TOOTH FOR THE GOURMET TERASA U ZLATÉ STUDNĚ EVERY DAY U Zlaté studně 166/4, 118 00 Prague 1, Malá Strana P. +420 257 533 322 – www.terasauzlatestudne.cz Many consider Terasa U Zlaté studně one of the finest restaurants in the country, and it’s easy to see why. The views of Malá Strana are stunning, but the real attraction is Executive Chef Pavel Sapík’s world-class cuisine. Chef Sapík’s speciality is a mouth-watering Royal Steak from Argentinean Angus served with Foie Gras Rougié, potato purée with Piedmont truffle, and an incredible sauce from Sauternes Baron Philippe de Rothschild. But dinner isn’t the only reason to visit U Zlaté studně. It’s also a great place for an elegant afternoon. There’s a fantastic wine list and a knowledgeable Sommelier who’s happy to suggest the perfect glass. Before leaving, don’t miss the private entrance to the beautiful Prague Castle gardens! DIVINIS SUNDAY CLOSED Týnská 21, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré město P. +420 222 325 440 – www.divinis.cz The name Divinis comes from the Latin word meaning ‘divine’. It’s an appropriate name for this gem of Italian restaurants in the heart of Old Town, co-owned by Zdeněk Pohlreich and Lukáš Koubek, two stars of Czech gastronomy. Classic Italian dishes like Panzanella, Vitello Tonnato, and Ossobuco are prepared with all the love you’d expect from an Italian grandmother. Chef Jan Kratochvíl has adopted a traditional approach to modern diners. Using only the freshest ingredients, he creates dishes that will impress even the most demanding gourmands. His attention to detail, combined with the restaurant’s cosy atmosphere, attentive service, and firstclass Italian cuisine, have earned Divinis the coveted Bib Gourmand. FOR THE GOURMET CODA RESTAURANT KALINA CUISINE & VINS EVERY DAY Tržiště 368/9, 118 00 Prague 1, Malá Strana P. +420 225 334 761 – www.codarestaurant.cz SUNDAY CLOSED Dlouhá 12, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 317 715 – www.kalinarestaurant.cz With some of Prague’s most succulent sous vide dishes perfectly prepared by Chef David Šašek, along with a delightful musical theme, Coda is very well composed. Try anything on the menu, and you’ll be singing this restaurant’s praises. Coda is housed within the stunning Aria hotel in Malá Strana. The restaurant, like the hotel, was designed by Italian architects Rocco Magnoli and Lorenzo Carmellini, famous for their long-term collaboration with Gianni Versace. Every detail here is connected with music. You’ll find sublime gourmet meals served to the accompaniment of live piano in a beautiful dining room complete with artworks by Picasso and Dali. In summer, don’t miss the breath-taking views from the terrace. Cuisine and wine. These two words, the pillars of European gastronomy, express the focus of bistro-restaurant Kalina. The pure interior of the dining room creates an atmosphere of simple luxury without a hint of pretension. Perfection awaits here, on your plate, and in your wine glass. The creation of Chef Miroslav Kalina, the restaurant specialises in sophisticated dishes that show his belief that one should buy the freshest ingredients and do as little to them as possible. There is a sense of cooperation between the chef and the sommeliers, and Kalina’s wine collection focuses on champagne and French wines, though the wine list also features wines from around Europe selected by the sommeliers, led by Vít Hepnar. AROMI YAMATO EVERY DAY Mánesova 742/2, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 222 713 222 – www.aromi.cz SUNDAY CLOSED U Kanálky 14, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 222 212 617 – www.yamato.cz Known throughout the city for their fresh daily seafood specials and rich Italian cuisine, Aromi is a gourmet venue with style to spare. Taking the classic Italian taverna to new heights of sophistication, this is one restaurant that might just make you forget you’re in Prague. The menu is constantly being updated to correspond with the finest market-fresh ingredients, and the staff have been expertly trained to provide a welcoming, elegant dining experience. A meal here is always a special occasion; a pleasurably drawn out affair in true Italian style, with antipasti, hand-made pastas, succulent meat and seafood dishes, decadent desserts, and plenty of good wine. The land of the Rising Sun has an honoured gastronomic tradition of precision, perfection, and clarity. That’s what you’ll find at Yamato, where co-owners Zdeněk Pohlreich and Lukáš Koubek say you’ll only taste what they would give to friends. Japanese customs inform every element of this restaurant, from the tasteful interior of clean lines, to the menu, which evokes the flavours of Japan through elegant simplicity and fresh flavours. It’s a pleasure to watch Chef and co-owner Marek Hora skilfully prepare dishes as eclectic as sushi, roast duck with orange miso, and beef with Japanese peppers. Complete your Far East experience with a glass of sake or Japanese whisky, and you’ll be on a tasty journey to Asia. FOR THE GOURMET CHAGALL´S K THE TWO BROTHERS EVERY DAY Kozí 5, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 739 002 347 – www.chagalls.cz EVERY DAY Petrská 1136/12, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 273 134 430 – www.indian-restaurant-prague.com Exquisite is the word that comes to mind when describing Chagall’s Club Restaurant. With artful cuisine, impeccable service and a lovely atmosphere, this place is a gem. Few Prague restaurants capture the genius loci of modern European dining like Chagall’s. Chef de Cuisine Martin Jiskra, who’s also the manager of the Czech National Culinary Team, prepares each dish to showcase exquisite flavours, and his creative approach to timeless gastronomy. His seafood is some of Prague’s best, like yellowfin tuna with sautéed spinach, fennel, and saffron sauce with tapioca. He’s also a master of meat dishes, like lamb chops with pea purée, roasted carrots, and jus of garlic confit. He cooks to impress, and always does. “K” stands for Kapurthala, a famous kingdom in Punjab with an incredible past. Kapurthala was known for sophistication, luxury and extremely refined cuisine and service, which is exactly what you’ll find here. K The Two Brothers descends from an era when celebrating life, culture, luxury, open mindedness, hospitality and happiness was a must. The two brothers who own the restaurant designed it in the spirit of Kapurthala. The kingdom’s modernity is expressed through its ambience, music and fashionable spirit. K The Two Brothers offers authentic Indian cuisine, charming staff, discrete service, and tantalising food that few other restaurants in Prague can compete with. This is royal dining. SALABKA SPICES RESTAURANT AND BAR MONDAY CLOSED K Bohnicím 2, 171 00 Prague 7, Troja P. +420 778 019 002 – www.salabka.cz EVERY DAY Nebovidská 459/1, 118 00 Prague 1, Malá Strana P. +420 233 088 777 – www.mandarinoriental.cz/prague/ fine-dining/spices-restaurant-and-bar/ If restaurants had their own weather, it would always be sunny at Salabka. They are proud to say they specialise in “Cuisine du Soleil” that will certainly get your tastebuds going with their excellent food and wines, as well as the unique atmosphere of gourmet leisure. Each dish at Salabka is like a brilliant work of art, with vibrant colours and a real “Joie de vivre” from fresh ingredients prepared with love. From satisfying starters to sublime main dishes, the cuisine here is unforgettable. However, Salabka is not just a fantastic place for lunch or dinner. Salabka also have their own vineyards, so you can taste excellent local vintages along with fantastic Pinot Noirs or the luxurious Pinot Blanc Barrique, Rheinriesling or Neronet. You are welcome to come and see for yourself. The newest creation from famed Czech chef Jiří Štift, Spices Restaurant and Bar brings gourmet Asian street food and regional specialities to Prague. You’ll delight in their traditional recipes, creative cocktails, and unusual teas. You can‘t go wrong when you bring together one of the city’s top chefs who has traveled throughout Asia, with authentic recipes and modern, interactive techniques. Indeed, Spices Restaurant and Bar does not falter. Regional curries and Tandoori specialities are at home here, tweaked to be more tantalising to a modern palate, and complimented by signature Asian cocktails. You can enter the restaurant from Nebovidská, as it‘s in the luxurious Mandarin Oriental hotel in Malá Strana. FOR THE GOURMET VINODIVINO CHATEAU HERÁLEC EVERY DAY Štupartská 769/18, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 311 791 – www.vinodivino.cz EVERY DAY Herálec 1, 582 55 Herálec P. +420 734 822 640 – www.chateauheralec.com The first thing you’ll notice when you step inside VinoDiVino is the stripped-down elegance, which puts your focus on the cuisine, rather than the decor. You’ll also notice the wine, lots of wine. Part gourmet eatery, part wine bar, part fine food shop, VinoDiVino specialises in all things Italian. Chef Matteo L’Altrelli delights in creating fresh, flavourful, and traditional Italian cuisine with creative and refined dishes such as savoury smoked buffalo mozzarella scented with lemon and sprinkled with delicious bottarga roe. But you can’t ignore the wine. They have over 500 labels here, as well as top-shelf spirits from all over Italy. For Prague dining, VinoDiVino is nothing short of a renaissance. “Dinner in a medieval fortress” has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it? That’s what you’ll experience at Chateau Herálec in the pristine Vysočina region. This truly is dining from another time, with historic decor and antique elegance. Every detail has been considered, down to the hand-blown Venetian Murano glass goblets. The menu is all about seasonal slow food and creating new interpretations of classic Czech dishes with fresh local ingredients. From the degustation menu ‘Trčků Lords of Lípa’ you can taste the restaurant’s favourite seasonal dishes. Don’t forget to sample from their unique collection of wines from Bordeaux. COTTOCRUDO GRAND CRU RESTAURANT & BAR EVERY DAY Veleslavínova 1098/2a, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 221 426 880 – www.cottocrudo.cz SUNDAY CLOSED Lodecká 1181/4, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 775 044 076 – www.grand-cru.cz The name CottoCrudo means “cooked and raw”. It’s a simple phrase that captures the essence of this chic Italian restaurant in the Four Seasons. Executive Chef Luca De Astis is passionate about fine food, and each dish here is heightened by his modern touch. You can feast at CottoCrudo, but it’s also a fantastic place for a cocktail, or a glass of wine and some gourmet antipasti. The lunch and dinner menus change seasonally, and the drink list is always impressive. If you come for a tipple, try the 50 Special, with Stolichnaya, limoncello, lychee and fresh ginger. For dinner, start with a plate of mouth-watering charcuterie, then let the chef suggest a fresh seafood or pasta dish. Confident in the skills of their talented chef and sommelier, Grand Cru serves up stunning modern cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere without a hint of pretension. This is a grand restaurant indeed. Chef Jan Punčochář’s modern cuisine is incomparable. His signature dish is Pigeon of Anjou, featuring pigeon breast served with almond ravioli, cherry sauce and smoked thyme, along with consommé of pigeon, armagnac and ginger, and ice cream of pigeon liver and foie gras. And that’s just one choice from the menu! There’s also a full bar here, but Grand Cru is all about wine. There are over 1,500 varieties, and the masterful sommelier Jakub Přibyl always knows the perfect vintage for your meal. Gourmands will love it here. FOR THE GOURMET CHATEAU ST. HAVEL AQUARIUS RESTAURANT EVERY DAY Před nádražím 1/6, 140 00 Prague 4, Krč P. +420 601 577 484 – www.chateauhotel.cz EVERY DAY Tržiště 19, 118 00 Prague 1, Malá Strana P. +420 257 286 019 – www.aquarius-prague.com Dining at a chateau is not something you do every day. But in Prague you could, at Chateau St. Havel, which offers masterful gourmet cuisine seven days a week. Dining here will make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time to another age of elegance and luxury. There’s a delightful daily menu, but groups should try one of the sumptuous degustation menus, which can turn any gathering into a memorable feast. Here you’ll find the likes of thinly sliced dried duck breast fillet with fresh figs marinated in cognac and orange sauce. And that’s just a taste of their impressive cuisine. So, you could eat here every day, but you’re probably better off reserving it for your most important occasions. Housed in the sumptuous Alchymist Grand Hotel and Spa in one of the most picturesque spots in Malá Strana, Aquarius Restaurant offers a magical fairytale ambience, glorious cuisine, and impeccable old world service. It is one of the most outstanding restaurants in Prague. Executive Chef Tomáš Sysel specialises in fresh Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, including home-made pasta, fresh seafood and excellent meat. Highlights from the menu include baked wild pheasant breast, and baked calamari and prawns with venere black rice. The restaurant’s interior is exquisite, with Venetian stucco, hand-painted murals and antique furniture. In the summer, the inner courtyard is absolutely enchanting. This is one royal restaurant. CHATEAU MCELY REST. RESTAURANT EVERY DAY Mcely 61, 289 36 Mcely P. +420 325 600 000 – www.chateaumcely.cz EVERY DAY Podolské náměstí 34/6, 147 00 Prague 4, Podolí P. +420 273 130 230 – www.restrest.cz A beautifully idyllic location boasting a world-class restaurant, Chateau Mcely is unlike any other place in the Czech Republic. This five-star chateau is the ideal destination for a gastronomic getaway. Chef Jan Štěrba’s Piano Nobile was recognised as the best restaurant in the country in 2014. He creates a seasonal menu using the highest quality ingredients from local suppliers. You’ll find famous dishes including “Label Rouge” salmon smoked in the chateau’s own smoker, as well as fresh, light dishes like tender local trout. There are also succulent meat specialities, high tea sweets, and more. Whether you sit in the restaurant or on the gorgeous terrace, you can expect countryside calm and iconic elegance. Need a rest from the usual Prague restaurant? Rest has an eclectic selection of international fare, offered with a welcoming ambience in a scenic locale. Just through the Vyšehrad tunnel, nestled on the riverbank across from The Czech Yacht Club, you’ll find a quaint restaurant that puts a modern spin on classic flavours. There’s a great selection of tapas, but Rest also specialises in Mediterranean-style seafood as well as meaty Czech dishes. The team here is always keen to host events, so you’ll often find special menus, like a holiday truffle dinner, or a jamon-slicing evening hosted by a Spanish gourmand. With a talented chef, a laid-back atmosphere, and creativity above all, you can expect the unexpected. FOR THE GOURMET HANIL SUNDAY CLOSED Slavíkova 1581/24, 130 00 Prague 3, Žižkov P. +420 222 715 867 – www.hanil.cz Great Korean-Japanese cuisine is a Zenlike experience, with pure flavours and the simple textures of fresh ingredients combined with artful precision. Hanil has Japanese and Korean recipes down to a menu of masterpieces. The restaurant has recently undergone a reconstruction, so its interior – modelled on a traditional Japanese sushi bar – is more elegant than ever, with a stripped-down naturalism that puts the focus on the cuisine. The main attraction is the sushi, with white tuna maki and salmon roe being notable favourites. But the menu also includes hot dishes from Japan and Korea, including classics like Bibimbap, and Beef Teriyaki. Complement your meal with a Japanese beer, or a glass of sake for a total Asian indulgence. FOR THE GOURMET RESTAURANT LIHOVAR FARMA ČAPÍ HNÍZDO U EMY DESTINNOVÉ EVERY DAY Dvůr Semtín 1, 259 01 Olbramovice P. +420 317 716 211 – www.capihnizdo.cz SUNDAY CLOSED Kateřinská 1526/7, 120 00 Prague 2, Nové Město P. +420 224 918 425 – www.uemydestinnove.cz If you’re looking for a peaceful oasis in the countryside with unique worldclass gastronomy, here it is. Restaurant Lihovar on Stork’s Nest Farm will delight even the most demanding diners. This restaurant is focused on the highest achievements of international cuisine. The talented chef Pavel Vokoun has built his menu upon the quality of carefully selected seasonal ingredients. Delicacies like succulent grilled St. Jacob’s mussels served with carrot purée and pancetta foam are just the beginning of the impressive menu. After dinner you can settle next to the fireplace and enjoy an indulgent dessert, such as caramel chimney with pistachio, mascarpone, mango and chilli, or the perfect glass of cognac. An intimate one-chef affair where every diner is a special guest, U Emy Destinnové is an exceptional restaurant, with gourmet cuisine, and fantastic wines. It’s one of Prague’s best-kept secrets. Named for a famous Czech opera singer, U Emy Destinnové is led by Head Chef Steven Trumpfheller, who personally ensures that every lunch or dinner here includes delectable cuisine, impeccable service, and timeless elegance. From the fresh seafood to the succulent American Black Angus steaks, everything on the menu is remarkable. And you always get special treatment, from table-side cooking to rum and whiskey tastings, live piano music, and chef’s degustation menus. Each visit is an occasion, no matter how often you return. GEORGE PRIME STEAK HOUSE OF CHURCHILL EVERY DAY Platnéřská 19, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 226 202 599 – www.georgeprimesteak.com EVERY DAY Široká 117/22, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré město P. +420 774 130 113 – www.house-of-churchill.cz George Prime Steak is the quintessential American-style steakhouse in Prague. Their mission is to serve the perfect prime steak every time, and they’re doing a very good job. You’ll find another level of style and elegance here. From their selection of the highest quality, naturally raised Black Angus USDA prime beef to the artful presentation, every aspect of dining here tends toward perfection. George Prime Steak is the first restaurant in Prague to use the Montague Legend Broiler, which sears the steak at 650 degrees Celsius, sealing in the natural juices and creating a tender, buttery texture. They also boast fresh seafood, an extensive collection of California wines, craft cocktails and two private rooms. House of Churchill is your one-stop shop in the centre of Prague to fulfil all your most indulgent needs. From fine Cuban cigars to quality cognacs, they specialise in the finer things in life. The shop is small, but don’t be fooled, every item they carry is the finest of its kind, so there’s nothing out of place. Whether you’re a smoker or just picking up something special for a friend, you’ll find the highest quality cigars here, from Cohiba to Vegafina. They also have aromatic pipe tobacco, and a selection of fine spirits, including the top cognacs and rums in the world, as well as champagnes, single malt scotches, and even absinthe. This isn’t a shop you visit every day, even though you might like to. FOR THE GOURMET LOCAL FLAVOUR VELKÁ KLÁŠTERNÍ RESTAURACE EVERY DAY Strahovské nádvoří 302, 118 00 Prague 1, Hradčany P. +420 242 451 188 – www.klasternirestaurace.cz Centuries ago monks made their home in the Strahov monastery, and today diners can recall this ancient time at Velká klášterní restaurace. The restaurant is located on the premises of the Premonstratensian monastery from 1140, located at the beginning of Prague’s Royal Route. The speciality here is the preparation of traditional Czech cuisine in front of guests. You can taste grilled pork or lamb, steaks, and cakes from the original stone oven. And, since excellent food needs equally excellent beer, you can sample awardwinning draughts from the microbrewery Matuška, as well as Special Edition Monastery wine, not available elsewhere. There’s an historic atmosphere here, complemented by charming live dulcimer music. U SCHNELLŮ EVERY DAY Tomášská 27/2, 118 00 Prague 1, Staré město P. +420 257 531 037 – www.uschnellu.com Classic Czech fare served in a cosy pub in the centre of historic Malá Strana; U Schnellů is in many ways a quintessential Prague restaurant. But that doesn’t mean they can’t serve up a few surprises. You’ll find all you’d expect from a traditional Czech restaurant here, including Bohemian favourites like goulash, succulent roast duck, and good beers on tap. But U Schnellů also has a menu of tasty speciality burgers you won’t find at other Czech pubs. The Detroit burger has blue cheese, Worcester sauce, mayo, and parsley. It’s just one highlight from nearly a dozen burgers, including a vegetarian variety. This is a conveniently l ocated p ub with a surprising selection of food, where a cold beer is always waiting. LOCAL FLAVOUR U FLEKŮ EVERY DAY Křemencova 1651, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 224 934 019–20 – www.ufleku.cz Don’t be surprised to find at least one tour bus parked in front of U Fleků at any time of day or night. The tables here are always jammed, and the rollicking accordion music can be heard halfway down the block. Most people come for the dark U Fleků lager, and the bar pours more than 800 litres every day. The only brewery in Central Europe to brew without interruption for the past 500 years, U Fleků is a place of pilgrimage for beer drinkers, and they serve the hearty Czech cuisine that goes perfectly with pints. This is one of the truly original Czech pubs. THE PUB WHITE HORSE EVERY DAY Veleslavínova 59/3, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 312 296 – www.thepub.cz EVERY DAY Staroměstské nám. 548/20, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 221 421 160 – www.whitehorseprague.cz Have you ever wanted to pour yourself the perfect pint of cold Pilsner? The PUB gives you the unique chance to play the role of bartender at the table. The whole ritual of pouring your own beer is a big part of the fun. Make it however you like, with as much or as little head as you want. The PUB serves unpasteurized Pilsner, so the beer is always as fresh as can be. With selfservice taps and a tally onscreen, you can turn your evening into an international online beer game, challenging branches of The PUB throughout Europe. And since delicious, hearty food goes with great beer, you can choose one of the popular home-made burgers, or Czech classics such as svíčková, or their delicious Pilsner beer goulash. Restaurant White Horse is one of just a few Prague venues that can rightly be called magical. This jazz club and restaurant is located on Old Town Square, in an impressive Romanesque cellar from the 12th century. Need we say more? Unlike some of the restaurants on the square, White Horse is anything but a tourist trap. In this UNESCO-protected building you’ll find musical performances every night of the week, as well as Chef Martin Opršál’s satisfying Czech cuisine. Using seasonal ingredients sourced locally, he and his team specialise in perfectly prepared Bohemian favourites like savoury pork knuckle, duck confit or Prague goulash. Delightful live jazz is sure to enrich your dining experience. LOCAL FLAVOUR CAFE IMPERIAL EVERY DAY Na Poříčí 1072/15, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 246 011 440 – www.cafeimperial.cz If there’s one place in Prague that still maintains all the charm and traditions of the glamorous First Republic, Cafe Imperial is it. But the atmosphere is only the first thing that will impress you. The menu has an allure all its own, showcasing a compendium of the best of Czech cuisine, created by renowned chef Zdeněk Pohlreich. Among the dishes which are recommended as favourites by co-owner Lukáš Koubek are braised pig cheeks in red wine jus, and succulent lamb shank slow-roasted with marjoram. Inconspicuous from the outside, the restaurant’s interior features a stunning vista of Art Nouveau decorative tiles and mosaics, creating an environment that’s truly reminiscent of the classic Grand Café style. AMOS RESTAURANT POTREFENÁ HUSA EVERY DAY Masná 17, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 323 933 – www.amosrestaurant.cz EVERY DAY Národní třída 364/39, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré město P. +420 734 756 900 – www.potrefenahusa.net Amos is something that’s increasingly difficult to find in Prague: a restaurant in the city centre not catering strictly to tourists. There’s a mouth-watering selection of Czech and international specialities here, all served at local prices in a neighbourhood atmosphere. This is Czech pub dining at its best. The Argentine steaks, which are always succulent and grilled to perfection, are definitely a highlight. All of the Czech classics are delectable, from goulash and svíčková to roast pork and duck confit. You’ll also find everything from fresh salads to classic risottos and pasta dishes on the menu. And of course, the Pilsner Urquell on tap is always cold and crisp, as befits any selfrespecting Czech pub. When a Czech brewery creates a new brand of gastropub, it’s got to be good. Potrefená husa from Staropramen brings the Czech pub into the 21st century. It’s hard to decide what’s better here, the beer or the food. You’ll enjoy both. There’s crisp light and dark Staropramen on tap, as well as a half-dozen other varieties, including Stella Artois, Hoegaarden, and Leffe Bruin. The menu features lunch specials that change daily, as well as everything from light bites like goose liver with fried onions and apples, which goes perfectly with beer, to unique meat dishes like pork ribs braised in Leffe. It’s all served in an ultra-modern dining room of wood and chrome. Potrefená husa is like your local pub, but better. LOCAL FLAVOUR RESTAURACE MINCOVNA CAFÉ LOUVRE EVERY DAY Staroměstské nám. 930/7, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 727 955 669 – www.restauracemincovna.cz EVERY DAY Národní 1987/22, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 224 930 949 – www.cafelouvre.cz Mincovna is a restaurant for locals. Sure, it’s on Old Town Square, in an historic building where coins were minted in the 18th century, but unlike most restaurants in the neighbourhood, it isn’t intended only for tourists. The decor here is understated, which lets the cuisine shine. And unlike most pubs, they serve classic Czech recipes in a modern style, with healthier ingredients and artful presentation. Roulade from fresh local trout with light stuffing and dill remoulade is just one of the outstanding dishes. You’ll also find succulent lamb chops served with black lentils, pumpkin purée, and roasted garlic. Alongside the local cuisine, they have the finest Czech and Moravian wines, and Pilsner from the tank. With a grand café atmosphere, delicious coffees and drinks, a fantastic seasonal dining menu, and even antique pool tables, Café Louvre is a Prague institution. This is the place to go when you want a little timeless elegance. Since 1902, Café Louvre has held a central place in Prague’s social life. Its famous customers include Franz Kafka and Albert Einstein, among many others. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely afternoon coffee, a glass of wine, a meal, or even a game of pool, this is an elegant café where the ambience is a large part of the charm. The delightfully eclectic menu, which includes seasonal dishes and Continental specialities from breakfast to dinner, make it a place you’ll love coming back to. GRILL RESTAURANT ZA VĚTREM KRÁSNÁ PRAHA EVERY DAY U Michelského lesa 1157, 141 00 Prague 4, Chodov P. +420 272 657 192 – www.restaurantzavetrem.cz EVERY DAY Masarykovo nábřeží 246/12, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové město P. +420 222 516 922 – www.restauracekrasnapraha.cz Although Grill Restaurant Za Větrem is just a short walk from the city centre, it feels like you’re far away in the countryside. The place has been a local favourite for leisurely meals since 1909, and one visit will tell you why. Situated at the edge of the Krč forest, this is a restaurant where everything revolves around the grill. Meat is the speciality, cooked with natural charcoal on an open grill. Mainly, Grill Restaurant Za Větrem serves aged meat from North and South America, along with Czech pork, New Zealand lamb, and seafood. This is a great place to relax with friends or family in the summer garden, where you can let the stresses of city life go on the gentle rural breezes of a long afternoon. Comfortable and unassuming, Krásná Praha is a classic Czech pub-restaurant. It’s the perfect place to unwind with friends when you need some hearty food and a cold beer... or three. Most pub menus are meat-heavy, and in this regard Krásná Praha doesn’t disappoint. You’ll find succulent steaks, mouthwatering wings, a bacon burger and a chilli burger, as well as traditional Czech dishes like goulash. But there’s also lighter fare, including fresh salads, excellent grilled salmon, flavourful pastas, and vegetarian dishes. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Czech pub if there weren’t great beers and excellent Moravian wines to wash down the food. The name Krásná Praha means “beautiful Prague”, and that nicely sums it up. LOCAL FLAVOUR GUSTON ROYAL EVERY DAY Prokopovo náměstí 3, 130 00 Prague 3, Žižkov P. +420 774 744 407 – www.guston.cz EVERY DAY Vinohradská 48, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 224 211 444 – www.leroyal.cz With its loft-style industrial atmosphere, Guston is unique among restaurants in Prague. Among the metal furniture and stark brick walls, you’ll find a relaxed atmosphere, with retro accessories that make it feel like you’re visiting friends. The entrance to the kitchen is in the middle of the dining room, so you’ll always feel like you’re in the centre of the action. Once you see what the talented chefs can do, you’ll want to taste it all. The ingredients here come from regional farms, so everything is fresh. Thanks to this, the menu changes regularly, and you can sample dishes like venison pâté with apple and berry chutney, beef ribs marinated in beer, or home-made ravioli stuffed with duck meat and fried oyster. A theatre, bar, and lounge, Royal harkens back to the First Republic, a time of innocence and high style in the newly formed Czechoslovakia. It’s a throwback that feels fresh and relevant. Royal is lavishly stylish, with 1920s-era seats, Oriental rugs, and chandeliers. But there’s substance here, with a selection of unique Champagnes, and great wines. It’s a unique place also for a signature cocktail, and there is a lively programme of performances in the adjacent theatre, many of which include catered dinners. RESTAURACE NA KRÁSNÉ VYHLÍDCE U DĚDKA EVERY DAY Na Dlážděnce 35, 182 00 Prague 8, Troja P. +420 603 865 100 – www.nakrasnevyhlidce.com EVERY DAY Na Kozačce 12, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 222 522 784 – www.udedka.cz At Restaurace Na Krásné vyhlídce, the atmosphere is as important as the food. North of the city centre, it offers a gourmet retreat that’s perfect for the whole family. In the lovely Troja neighbourhood, Restaurace Na krásné vyhlídce is the ideal destination after a walk or an afternoon outing. Here you’ll find a tree-lined garden with a sandbox for the kids, and a lovely dining room decorated in a classic Czech style. The menu features local and international dishes, from steaks to salad and fresh fish, as well as crisp Krušovice beer from the tank. They also serve special Columbian coffee which is roasted in Prague. This is a restaurant you want to save for days when you have time to relax and enjoy the ambience. On a quiet, tree-lined street in the Vinohrady neighbourhood, Café restaurant U Dědka has a welcoming family atmosphere, whether you’re tucked inside the cosy dining room, or seated at the pavement tables. Their menu features a surprising variety of mouth-watering dishes, with something to please every member of the family. From salads to pork ribs, confit duck to veggie couscous, there’s more than enough to choose from. Especially notable is the signature spicy goulash, which packs a tasty kick that’s often missing from other recipes. The great beers, cocktails, and fine wines are the perfect accompaniments to the food, and the service makes you feel at home. You’ll want to come here with close friends and family. LOCAL FLAVOUR VINOGRAF WINE BAR KULAŤÁK PILSNER URQUELL ORIGINAL RESTAURANT SUNDAY CLOSED Senovážné nám. 23, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 214 214 681 – www.vinograf.cz EVERY DAY Vítězné náměstí 820/12, 160 00 Prague 6, Bubeneč P. +420 773 973 037 – www.kulatak.cz Vinograf is revolutionising Prague wine bars. Guests come regularly for the great Czech and foreign wines, delicious food, relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff who know as much about wine as anyone. The focus is on lesser-known Czech and Moravian winemakers, but the menu includes many varietals, along with fantastic cheeses and hot and cold dishes. The team at Vinograf puts each of its wines through a selection process before they stock them, holding tastings among all the employees. That’s why the team knows their wines so well. They regularly host events, seminars, and tastings with winemakers, and they also have an excellent weekend brunch. Don’t miss the other Vinografs on Míšeňská in Malá Strana and Radlická, Anděl. Kulaťák is changing the way locals think about the Czech pub experience, one tasty dish at a time. One of the Czech Republic’s first gastropubs, serving amazing wines, and fresh Pilsner Urquell from the tank, Kulaťák also has an impressive menu of Czechinspired cuisine. This place is packed every night of the week, but there’s always room for one more. No wonder it’s popular: they have a lively pub atmosphere, and gourmet food. Some of the mouth-watering meals you can look forward to include confit of pork belly served with sausage, traditional beef tartare, savoury confit of goose leg, the perfect Pilsner goulash, incredibly succulent fish, and other specialities. The ambience will charm you, and the food will amaze you. MALEŠICKÝ MIKROPIVOVAR RESTAURACE NA KŘIŽOVATCE EVERY DAY Malešická 126/50, 108 00 Prague 10, Malešice P. +420 727 803 872 – www.malesickymikropivovar.cz EVERY DAY Vinohradská 1612/149, 130 00 Prague 3, Žižkov P. +420 722 673 154 – www.nakrizovatce.com Malešický mikropivovar is 15 minutes outside the centre and well worth the trip to its village setting. For excellent craft beers, classic Czech cuisine and a familyfriendly atmosphere it can’t be beat. Although this brew-pub features modern equipment like shiny golden brewing vats, the ambience harkens back to another time when beer and meals were enjoyed with friends and family. Malešický mikropivovar has two of its own delicious microbrews on tap as well as offerings from Czech and foreign breweries. You’ll find a menu of Czech dishes that go great with beer, including some on the lighter side. The pub also has regular events, like pig roasts, that give a taste of homely traditional Czech gastronomic culture. On a bustling intersection in Vinohrady, Restaurace Na Křižovatce is a classic Czech pub with a few interesting twists. It’s a great place to unwind with friends and family. In fact, you’ll always feel like family when you stop in. The service is friendly and the atmosphere is relaxed. Sit on the terrace, which is perfect for people watching, and heated year-round. Or, you can watch sports inside. The Pilsner Urquell is served from the tank, so it’s always crisp, but there are seven other Czech beers as well. The food goes great with beer, like the pepper steak with poached egg, or their special potato pancake, with a 25-year tradition. It’s rare to find a Czech restaurant with so much soul. LOCAL FLAVOUR HOSPŮDKA U ŠTĚPÁNA WED–SUN Vojetice 9, 342 01 Sušice P. +420 376 588 196 – www.ustepana.eu For the best Bohemian food, sometimes you’ve got to leave Prague. That’s the case with Hospůdka U Štěpána, where you can taste incredible Czech specialities, including beef directly from local pastures. Hospůdka U Štěpána specialises in Charolais beef, mostly from their own herds. Look forward to specialities like flank steak with barley ragout in veal marrow sauce. Other must-taste dishes include slow-roasted beef ribs in Merlin dark beer, beef shin braised in red wine, and bison from nearby farms. But you won’t only find great beef here. There’s also crisp mountain air, a rustic ambiance, and welcoming staff. Don‘t miss their home-grown herbal lemonade. You’ll be planning your next visit as soon as you leave. LOCAL FLAVOUR VIDLIČKY A NOŽE RESTAURANT HAJNOVKA EVERY DAY Vodní 11, 150 00 Prague 5, Smíchov P. +420 725 760 125 – www.vidlickyanoze.com EVERY DAY Vinohradská 35/25, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 224 218 386 – www.hajnovka.cz Strangely enough, a top-quality Czech restaurant in Prague isn’t always easy to find. But in Smíchov, you’ll find just that at Vidličky a Nože. The bright and simple interior gives an immediate feeling of relaxation. The regular menu is complemented by a constantly updated selection of chef’s specialities, so in addition to beef cheek, burgers and roasted ribs, you can taste delicacies like steak from American red hogs with creamed spinach. Besides the delicious cuisine, you’ll find Pilsner beer, the local Staropramen, brewed just around the corner, and a selection from the excellent microbrewery Matuška. On top of all that, the inviting staff give the place a real neighbourhood feel that will keep you coming back. Restaurant Hajnovka is a classic Czech pub restaurant with a modern feel. They specialise in what they call “honest food,” which means delicious recipes with real ingredients served without gimmicks. You’ll find all the Czech classics here, from goulash soup to roasted duck, but there’s also a menu of lighter dishes like home-made gnocchi with mushrooms. Their daily menu always surprises, and they have succulent specialities you won’t find elsewhere, like their 600-gram potato “super dumpling” filled with roasted duck meat and cabbage, and served with a tangy sauce. It’s worth going out of your way for. They serve Pilsner from the tank, and they also have a wine list of vintages from around the world. NUANCE RESTAURANT METAMORPHOSIS EVERY DAY Malé náměstí 138/4, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 224 247 400 – www.nuancerestaurant.cz EVERY DAY Haštalská 796/3, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 224 817 087 – www.metamorphosis.cz Nuanced is the perfect way to describe the cuisine at Nuance Restaurant. It’s subtly flavoured, surprising, and always satisfying. Chef Michal Paulík has created a menu of innovative dishes using mostly local ingredients in recipes inspired by a combination of Czech cuisine with modern European gastronomy. The incredibly succulent beef flap steak with truffle purée, kale, and truffle sauce; and the lamb confit with sweet potato purée, fava beans and rosemary sauce are just two examples of his excellent culinary imagination. The wine list here is almost as impressive as the cuisine, and there’s also a seasonal sculpture exhibition in the restaurant, which means that dining here is always an artistic affair. Many will wonder why a florist is appearing in a book about culinary experiences. The reason is simple; flowers are an integral part of the hospitality industry providing colour and character to dining venues and catering events. Benjamin Classen opened the doors to Metamorphosis fifteen years ago and has since firmly established himself as one of the leading florists in Prague. Today a team of sixteen floral specialists create arrangements for every instance, including some of the city’s most prestigious events. In the past they have provided displays for royal receptions, state visits and gala dinners. Whether for an event, a restaurant, a wedding or just because you care for someone, each occasion is treated uniquely and with personal attention. LOCAL FLAVOUR LIGHT BITES CAFÉ PARISIENNE EVERY DAY Králodvorská 664/11, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 774 210 904 – www.facebook.com/parisiennecoffee Café Parisienne is the closest you’ll get to The City of Lights without leaving Prague. French elegance comes through in everything they do. All of the dishes here, from the macarons to the hearty soups, escargot, and savoury foie gras, are prepared with the finest and freshest ingredients. A focus on quality and an insistence on perfection, down to the smallest details, are noticeable in the food, drinks, decor and personal service at this classy, cosy café. The excellent teas and coffees make Café Parisienne an easy place to while away the afternoon, inside or in the picturesque garden. There’s also a great selection of cocktails and bubbly, and in the evenings the café is a low-key French-inspired nightspot. BOMBAY EXPRESS EVERY DAY Vodičkova 680/16, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 222 221 396 – www.bombayexpress.cz Bombay Express is one of the tastiest signs that Prague’s dining scene is changing to embrace vibrant cuisine from around the world. This take-out restaurant in the centre specialises in fine Indian food that’s very good, and very fast. You’ll find all the authentic Indian favourites you’d expect, like Butter Chicken, Palak Paneer, and Lachha Paratha, without the extravagance of a sit-down restaurant. The main dishes are served with rice or nan, and soup or salad can be added on for a slight price upgrade. Of course, there are plenty of tasty sides, including some of the best samosas in the city. This is mouthwatering, expertly prepared Indian cuisine that will be ready faster than you can say “Gobhi Aloo”. LIGHT BITES BAKESHOP CAFÉ BISTRO EVERY DAY Kozí 918/1, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 316 823 – www.bakeshop.cz For leisurely light bites, great coffee, and homemade sweets in the centre of Old Town, Bakeshop is a Prague institution. They must be doing something right, because they‘ve been baking and brewing for over 15 years. This is the kind of place you hope to find in every city you visit. Bakeshop has the relaxing atmosphere of a modern New York or London bistro, and a menu full of sumptuous simplicity, from savoury sandwiches and hot quiches to chunky chocolate chip cookies and, of course, the legendary carrot cake. You‘ll want to get comfortable and linger here all afternoon, with a latte or a big mug of tea, an indulgent slice of cake and a really good book. It’s no wonder this place is a local favourite. CP1 CAFÉ & WINE BAR POLÉVKÁRNA EVERY DAY Konviktská 291/24, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 607 079 121 – www.cp1cafe.cz MON–FRI Sokolovská 86/97, 186 00 Prague 8, Karlín P. +420 775 114 050 – www.polevkarna.cz CP1 Café is a modern design café in the shadow of a gorgeous historic church. That unique combination of contemporary style and timeless elegance extends to every aspect of this eatery. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick espresso, a glass of one of the 200 excellent wines from around the world, or a hearty dinner, CP1 Café caters to any occasion. From breakfast to dinner and dessert, they’ve got an impressive variety of international cuisine that helps them blur the boundary between café and restaurant. The grilled Prague ham and kielbasa are classic dishes, but the salads and paninis are definitely worth trying as well. And all that in a stylishly designed interior that’s both comfortable and cutting-edge. Polévkárna is a reminder that simple, wholesome recipes made with care are often better than food fads and eclectic experimentation. You could argue this cosy bistro has a limited range of soups and light bites, but when the food’s this good, nothing is missing. The main attraction here is the soup, of course, which changes daily and ranges from carrot cream soup to fish soup. But there’s always an array of tasty multicultural specialities on offer as well. The beef roulade with egg in puff pastry is tasty comfort food. Khachapuri are Georgian meat and cheese pies. They’re simple, yet sublime, like much of what you’ll find at Polévkárna. You’ll want to while away the afternoon here, trying one dish after another. LIGHT BITES MyRaw café DISH EVERY DAY Gourmet passage Dlouhá Dlouhá 727/39, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 603 889 016 – www.myraw.cz EVERY DAY Římská 1196/29, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 222 511 032 – www.dish.cz There aren’t many restaurants in Prague where you can enjoy food that’s good and good for you. But the times are changing, and with delicious results at MyRaw Café. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it’s all served raw here. That doesn’t just mean uncooked. The raw English breakfast, for example, has avocado, pine nuts, Brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds, aubergine, sun-dried tomatoes, and more. There’s also a tasty selection of tapas, and even specialities like raw pizza. But MyRaw Café really stands out with their raw cakes and juices. Think Milky Way Cake, or Chocolate-hazelnut Cake. They’re decadent, and delicious. Add a vacuum-pot coffee, or a pineapplelemongrass and mint juice, and healthy eating never tasted so good. The city’s best burger is one of the most contested categories in Prague dining. There will never be a unanimous vote, but Dish Burger Bistro is one of the most distinguished contenders. From the retro interior to the Únětický microbrew, every detail at Dish has been thought through. Nowhere is that more evident than on the menu. The most traditional Dish Burger is with cheddar, bacon, homemade ketchup, garlic aioli, pickles and lettuce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Kahuna burger with serrano ham, manchego cheese, salad and pineapple salsa with cilantro and chilli. Cloth napkins wouldn’t feel out of place with these burgers, but Dish’s gourmet approach doesn’t sacrifice the flavour, or the fun. CAFÉ LEVEL & BAR MONOLOK EVERY DAY Vladislavova 2121, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 777 757 883 – www.cafelevel.cz/cafe-quadrio EVERY DAY Moravská 1540/18, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 739 018 195 – www.monolok.cz Café Level boasts a truly unique view, next to the rotating Franz Kafka statue by sculptor David Černý. You can start your day with breakfast here, or wind it down with a glass of fine champagne. The first thing you’ll notice is the generous assortment of Veuve Clicquot bottles arranged throughout the dining room. Indeed, there is a range of champagnes you can enjoy indoors or on the charming terrace. There’s also an Italian-style lunch and dinner menu, with dishes like spinach and chicken lasagne, as well as numerous tasty home-made pastas and salads. Café Level also has plenty of morning options, from healthy to hearty. Elegant, refined, and centrally located, it brings the classic European café to a new level. Monolok takes coffee very seriously. And not just coffee; all aspects of the café experience, from design and atmosphere to service, and their impressive menu including sweets and savouries, espresso and wine. On a quiet street in trendy Vinohrady, Monolok has an ultra-modern look, all wood and chrome and streamlined angles. This is the grand café of the 21st century, though you’re more likely to find young bloggers and Prague’s international crowd than old men in top hats smoking cigars. The menu is hip and eclectic, from classic American-style filter coffee to fine teas, and the incredibly mild and flavourful vacuum pot brew, as well as homemade breakfasts, healthy salads and burgers, and fresh-baked desserts. LIGHT BITES PEPE TAPAS THE WINE BAR TUE–SAT Bílkova 132, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 315 467 – www.pepenerogroup.cz SUNDAY CLOSED Arbesovo náměstí 257/7, 150 00 Prague 5, Smíchov P. +420 608 823 432 – www.thewinebar.cz Pepenero makes some of the best Italian pizza in the city, so local foodies were very curious to see what they could do with tapas. Pepe Tapas has all the authenticity of this beloved pizza restaurant, reinvented with classic Spanish cuisine. It’s hard not to have a great time feasting with friends on delightful bite-sized tapas that are made to be shared, especially in a restaurant as welcoming as Pepe Tapas. The menu is full of Spanish delicacies like Jamon Iberico, crispy fried calamari, and plump marinated octopus, as well as rich paella. Coupled with their excellent wine list and friendly staff who are always eager to please, this is a vibrant destination for a social Spanish meal in the centre of Prague. Few wine bars in Prague can transport you to the world’s most respected wine regions like The Wine Bar. Famous wines from renowned appellations complement a careful selection of lesser-known wines, as well as those that offer incredible quality at excellent prices. There are so many stories hiding in these wines. And since nothing goes better with wine than excellent cuisine, there is a variety of fine French cheeses, as well as traditional dishes like French tartare, homemade pâtés, and other hot and cold cuisine. Pleasant, perfectly informed staff who are passionate about wine, beautiful design, and a unique atmosphere will ensure that you’ll always feel welcome when you come in, and satisfied when you leave. PURO ICHNUSA BOTEGA BISTRO PURE VEGAN & RAW FOOD EVERY DAY Vinohradská 2030/44, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 775 999 025 – www.veganz.cz EVERY DAY Plaská 5, 150 00 Prague 5, Újezd P. +420 605 375 012 – www.ichnusabotegabistro.cz Five years ago, if you said that vegan food would become a trend in Prague dining, laughter would have been the response. But hip bistros like PURO are catering to a younger generation of open-minded diners, and changing Prague’s restaurant scene. Unlike the city’s strictly raw restaurants, PURO offers cooked and raw dishes, catering to vegetarians, raw foodists, and vegans. Whether you’re keeping to a diet or just looking to try something new, your curiosity will be rewarded. There’s a weekly menu with the likes of raw pizza, the PURO XXL Burger, and quinoa with cabbage and chilli pesto. The smoothies and desserts are also inspiring. It’s all so good you’ll forget it’s healthy. Ichnusa Botega Bistro is a little island of Sardinian delight in Smíchov, across the river from the National Theatre. With a constantly evolving selection of specials, this is the kind of place you come to when you want to be surprised and delighted by a truly unique dining experience. Combining an authentic Sardinian bistro with a speciality shop selling wines, cheeses, olive oils and more, Ichnusa specialises in fresh, flavoursome cuisine served in a welcoming, intimate environment. There’s incredible seafood, homemade pastas, hearty meat dishes, and an impressive Sardinian wine list to complement every succulent bite. With their friendly expert service you’ll feel like a regular even if it’s your first visit. LIGHT BITES ART CAFÉ NA BŘEHU RHÔNY EVERY DAY Karlova 189/2, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 776 143 432 EVERY DAY Na Hrobci 1, 128 00 Prague 2, Nové Město P. +420 733 785 377 – www.pasapas.cz Any restaurant or café near the Charles Bridge is usually swarming with tourists. But make no mistake, Art Café is the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle in style. Just around the corner from the tourist attractions, Art Café is located in the Colloredo-Mansfeld Palace, where you will be greeted by a bubbling fountain with a statue of Neptune. The staff here are always smiling, and it’s clear they give their hearts to the café. That shows in everything they do, from paninis and salads to the carefully brewed coffee and homemade cakes you can’t find anywhere else. This is a café you’ll want to return to, whenever you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere where you’ll feel right at home in the city centre. The riverbank known as Náplavka is constantly alive with activity. And just a short walk from the riverbank is the wine bar Na břehu RhÔny, a place that’s even more lively. All the wines here are personally tasted, selected and imported directly from the winemaker. The name means “on the banks of the Rhone”, and their speciality is traditionally produced wines from family wineries known for low production and high quality. The true flavour of France is in every sip, and every day you can enjoy a fresh French meal, as well as plenty of home-made treats to go along with the wine, and even fresh oysters. An easy neighbourhood vibe, with excellent wines and light bites, make this a place you’ll want to visit regularly. BIO ZAHRADA DOBRÁ ČAJOVNA SUNDAY CLOSED Belgická 33, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 222 518 698 – www.bio-zahrada.cz EVERY DAY Václavské náměstí 14, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 224 231 480 – www.tea.cz A café and shop specialising in all sorts of organic and local goodies, Bio Zahrada is naturally delicious. It combines a love of good food and drink with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, and there’s a magical garden for the warmer months. The menu has a surprising variety, with wholesome specialities for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You could start your day with gluten-free pancakes with raspberries, or an omelette from freerange eggs. Every day there’s a fresh soup, main dish, and salads for lunch. Don’t miss the home-made cakes and the excellent coffees. Dinner is served by candlelight, and unlike many other organic bistros in the city, Bio Zahrada also has Bernard beer, as well as natural spirits and wines. In June 2015, the oldest Dobrá čajovna in the country celebrated its 22nd anniversary. When the founders of the Company of Tea Devotees opened their first tea shop in the centre of Prague, they had no idea it would set off a wave of tearooms in the Czech Republic and abroad. There are more than 30 Dobrá čajovnas in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Poland and the US where you can taste and purchase over 100 teas from the world’s major tea regions. Settle in the intimate lounge or relax on the terrace, hidden behind bamboo, as a friendly server helps you pick the perfect brew. The menu is complemented by cold drinks, desserts and snacks inspired by Oriental cuisine. This is an oasis of calm and friendly gatherings. LIGHT BITES HOFFA BAR BAKESHOP LITTLE BAKERY EVERY DAY Senovážné náměstí 22, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 601 359 659 – www.hoffa.cz EVERY DAY U Lužického Semináře 22, 118 00 Prague 1, Malá Strana P. +420 222 316 823 – www.bakeshop.cz Just off Wenceslas Square, Hoffa Bar is a unique spot for a great cocktail or a glass of wine along with a plate of tapas. With a wide window looking onto a scenic intersection, it’s a great spot to sit back, sip, and watch the trams go by. There’s a serious cocktail menu here, with only the finest mixers and top-shelf spirits. The wine list is equally impressive, with excellent vintages from around the world. Don’t miss their delicious tapas, fine cheeses, charcuterie, homemade marinated olives, and their tasty sandwiches, burgers, and quesadillas. A love of the little details is evident in everything they do here, and you’ll find everything you need for after-work unwinding, or a get-together with friends. When the folks from Bakeshop, one of the best spots for sweets and light bites in the city, start a new venture, you know it’s going to be good. And indeed, Bakeshop Little Bakery is fresh, fun, and absolutely delicious. This place is something special. Almost directly below Charles Bridge in the heart of Malá Strana, they serve up fresh bread, smoothies, and sweets of all shapes and sizes. It’s the perfect place to pop in for an espresso and something a little indulgent. But you don’t have to feel guilty, because everything here is made from the freshest and most wholesome ingredients, just like you’d get at Bakeshop. This is like the little sister of that beloved bakery, on the even more scenic side of the river. LA CAVE D´ADRIEN OLIVE POINT SUNDAY CLOSED Americká 649/18, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 246 030 284 – www.lacavedadrien.cz SUNDAY CLOSED Americká 29, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 607 161 672 – www.olivepoint.cz La Cave d’Adrien is a boutique of French wines and delicacies you can indulge in without emptying your pockets. They specialise in unique food and drink served with passion. This little French treasure is located in a picturesque square in Vinohrady. The interior has been thoughtfully laid out, to the last detail. You’ll see bottles on display from all the major French wine regions. Among other grand tipples here, you can taste the fine champagne Marc Lemoine. They can also order any type of French wine and get it in the shop within ten days. To accompany the wine, there are delicious French foods including charcuterie, terrines, rillettes, foie gras, and others, which La Cave d’Adrien have imported from France. Olive Point is a bistro that would flourish in Italy. Amazing Mediterranean food and wine, desserts, and coffee served in a vibrant atmosphere make it a popular meeting point in Vinohrady. It’s hard to find a restaurant with a character of its own that makes you want to return regularly for a drink or dinner. Olive Point is that kind of place, and they’re always coming up with new ways to surprise diners. The menu is simple and delectable, including favourites like roasted peppers stuffed with feta, succulent grilled octopus, and a wonderful selection of fresh bruschetta. You’ll also find indulgent desserts like Sicilian cannoli. This place is a Mediterranean treasure in one of Prague’s most scenic neighbourhoods. LIGHT BITES VELTLIN CAFÉ AMANDINE SUNDAY CLOSED Křižíkova 488/115, 186 00 Prague 8, Karlín P. +420 777 082 316 – www.veltlin.cz EVERY DAY Na Moráni 17, 120 00 Prague 2, Nové Město P. +420 222 524 305 – www.cafeamandine.cz Veltlin is an exceptional wine bar. It‘s the only place in the city where you can find authentic wines without chemical embellishments. Most of the wines here come from organic vineyards and contain no unnecessary additives. A selection of Czech and Moravian wines complements the natural and biodynamic wines from neighbouring countries, which together once formed the Hapsburg monarchy. Each wine in Veltlin is honest and sincere, and reflects its place of origin, and the personality of its creator. They have regular tastings, which are hosted by winemakers and are some of the most popular wine events in the city. Of course, there‘s a wide selection of lovingly prepared Central European delicacies to go with the wine. Just two blocks up from the scenic Náplavka riverside promenade, the coffee shop and brasserie Café Amandine brings a classy Parisian-café-style elegance to the city’s dining scene. It’s the perfect place to start your weekday, or to stretch out a long weekend brunch. You’ll find classic café specialities served with panache here, from breakfast to dinner, and even evening drinks. There’s an impressive brunch menu on the weekends, with champagne, freshly squeezed juice, and breakfast dishes like eggs Benedict, scrambled eggs or an onion and herb omelette. They also bake their own breads and desserts that will make you think you’re in Paris. You can sit outside if it’s warm, but the interior has a charm all its own. FLAVOURS WINE&DELI NÁRODNÍ KAVÁRNA EVERY DAY Záhřebská 29, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 777 691 887 – www.flavours.cz EVERY DAY Národní 339/11, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 262 291 – www.narodnikavarna.cz Wine shops and wine bars of all types are quite popular in Prague. But only one can boast more than 450 excellent vintages in stock, and that’s Flavours wine & deli. In the heart of Vinohrady, this is a place you’ll fall in love with at first sip. The interior showcases hundreds of bottles from the best vineyards of the Old and New World. The knowledgeable staff will guide you toward the right wine for your tastes and there’s a quiet private tasting room, if you want to relax. Of course, they have the perfect cheeses and delicacies to accompany your wine. Flavours is also the largest Czech trader of rare wines, all of which can be ordered in the wine cellar. This is one wine bar where flavours come first. To put it simply, Národní kavárna is legendary. For more than 100 years it has been one of the centres of Czech cultural life, and it’s still a classy café with a grand atmosphere. Some of the greatest Czech writers and artists, including Nobel-Prizewinning poet Jaroslav Seifert, called Národní kavárna their home from home, and it’s not hard to see why. Its wide windows look out onto Národní třída, just a few doors down from the National Theatre. Whether you’re enjoying an introspective espresso or a rollicking bottle of wine, the staff here cater to all occasions. They have a daily selection of tasty dishes, and specialities like spicy salmon steak with potato purée and basil pesto, or even gluten-free pasta. LIGHT BITES FOREIGN INFLUENCE ESTRELLA EVERY DAY Opatovická 159/17, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 777 431 344 – www.estrellarestaurant.cz Not long ago, ordering a vegetarian dinner in Prague would get you a plate of beige fried cheese and bland boiled potatoes at best, and chicken salad at worst. Those days are over, thanks to restaurants like Estrella, which takes an eclectic, flavourful approach to innovative vegetarian and vegan cuisine. From hearty veggie burgers to comforting soups, vegetarian sushi and everything in between, Estrella changes its menu seasonally, so a lunch or dinner here is always full of scrumptious surprises. Whilst you’re poring over the menu, enjoy a crisp local microbrew or a glass from their impressive wine list. “Estrella” is Spanish for “star”, and this restaurant has quickly become one of the stars of vegetarian dining in the Golden City. JAMES DEAN EVERY DAY V Kolkovně 922/1, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 606 979 797 – www.jamesdean.cz If you’re a fan of all things retro, including diner-style hamburgers and milk shakes, James Dean is the place for you. It’s a little haven of classic American cool just steps from Old Town Square. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be enveloped in a lively ambience of retro chic. From the blackand-white floor tiles to the jukebox and the Marilyn Monroe mosaic, this place really goes for it. And they’ve got the menu to match. The burgers and steaks are favourites, and so are the Club Sandwich and the BLT. James Dean has all the traditional diner fare, and a few modern surprises. Settle into one of the cushy booths and enjoy a fun, relaxed meal at any time of day. You can even get a banana split! FOREIGN INFLUENCE LA BOTTEGA DI FINESTRA EVERY DAY Platnéřská 89/11, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré město P. +420 222 233 094 – lafinestra.labottega.cz If you‘ve ever been so impressed by a dish in a restaurant that you wanted to learn to make it yourself, then you‘ll love La Bottega di Finestra, a bistro and gastronomic shop in the centre of Prague. This is the perfect place for any dining occasion, from a glass of wine and antipasti after work, to an Italian feast. Whenever you visit, you‘ll soak up the warmth of the upscale Old World ambience. Then you can pick up your favourite ingredients or bottle of wine and head home to recreate the authentic Italian experience yourself. At La Bottega di Finestra you‘ll find sumptuous breakfasts, a seasonal lunch and dinner menu including hand-made pastas, a constantly updated cold buffet, and a formidable wine list. INDIAN JEWEL EVERY DAY Týn 642/6, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 310 156 – www.indianjewel.cz Even in New Dehli, Indian Jewel would be a prized restaurant. In Prague, it‘s home to the finest Indian chefs in the city, and an exceptionally elegant place to taste authentic flavours, from tikka to tandoori. Tucked behind Týn Church, this restaurant really is a jewel of Prague‘s Indian dining. The walls are adorned with paintings of enchanting princesses, and woodwork depicting religious icons that would be at home in any Indian temple. Dining here is a feast for all the senses, from the vibrant interior to the aromas of the delectable recipes that have been passed down for generations. With banquet menus as well as daily specials, Indian Jewel is the perfect host for business lunches and bustling dinner parties. FOREIGN INFLUENCE CAFÉ 22 LEHKÁ HLAVA EVERY DAY Malostranské náměstí 4/27, 118 00 Prague 1, Malá Strana P. +420 778 039 322 – www.cafe22prague.com EVERY DAY Boršov 280/2, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 220 665 – www.lehkahlava.cz Café 22 is a European café par excellence. Located on one of Prague’s most beautiful squares, with indoor and outdoor seating and a menu of delightful food and drinks, this is the kind of place tourists envision when imagining the Continent. The interior of the café is all about clean lines. The modern minimalist decor compliments the tasty, simply presented international fare, from salads and sandwiches to steaks. This is also a great place to pop in for an Illy espresso, or a cold Budvar beer. You can’t beat the location, on Malostranské Square in the heart of Malá Strana, just steps from Charles Bridge. If the weather is warm, take a seat outside to people-watch and check out the city’s iconic trams as they pass. For years, the few vegetarian restaurants in Prague served up 1,001 recipes for stodgy lentils. Lehká Hlava has helped change all that, with good taste and panache. The first thing you’ll notice when you step inside is the unique interior. Hidden nooks and crannies abound, and each room has a different theme. If you’re coming for dinner, try to get a seat in the back dining room, where tiny lights stud the ceiling, offering a relaxing, romantic ambience. But the vegetarian food here is equally alluring, with a seasonal menu of creative specialities ranging from veggie and tofu stir fry to hearty vegan goulash. There’s also a selection of fresh juices, teas, and organic wine. A great spot for a relaxing light meal. MODRÝ ZUB EVERY DAY Jindřišská 901/5, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město Spálená 29, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 222 540 064 – www.modryzub.com For delicious Thai food it doesn‘t get better than Modrý Zub on Jindřišská. Their Thai head chef will transport your taste buds to Bangkok. At this renowned noodle bar you‘ll find fast food as well as quieter sit-down dining. Noodles are of course their speciality, from plain rice noodles to a blue variety as well as curries, gourmet chilli and popular wok stir-fries. In addition to the regular menu they‘re always mixing it up with special weekly offers. Honest Asian recipes using fresh ingredients and Thai herbs have made Modrý Zub the best noodle bar in Prague since 2006. Their popularity is ever-growing, and you‘ll now find two new branches on Spálená, close to the National Theatre and Stroupežnického in Anděl. FOREIGN INFLUENCE MAITREA MEZE RESTAURANT EVERY DAY Týnská ulička 1064/6, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 221 711 631 – www.restaurace-maitrea.cz EVERY DAY Karlínské náměstí 238, 186 00 Prague 8, Karlín P. +420 223 000 665 – www.mezerestaurant.cz In the dark, serpentine streets off Old Town Square, you’ll find a calm oasis of tantalising cuisine. All of the recipes at Maitrea are vegetarian or vegan, but don’t let that put you off — the Chefs here specialise in dishes that are so satisfying and full of flavour, even hardcore carnivores might order seconds. Maitrea refers to a future Buddhist who will achieve, and then teach, enlightenment. That won’t be far from your mind whilst you dig into a plate of meatless Kung Pao chicken or mouthwatering vegetarian paella, alongside a glass of organic wine or a guarana cocktail. The excellent healthy food here goes well with the artistic hand-carved wooden tables and panelling, not to mention the serene staff. Don’t let the gorgeous, airy ambience of the dining room deceive you; MEZE Restaurant keeps it deliciously simple. Focusing on the Mediterranean tradition of dining meze-style, they serve up artful selections of incredibly tasty dishes made to be shared. You can order single dishes here such as buttery entrecôte steak or tender grilled octopus, but the real fun is in the meze platters which are ideal for groups. These Mediterranean dishes allow you to enjoy a variety of delectable flavours and textures because you don’t have to choose only one main course. They also carry wines from Malta, which you won’t find anywhere else in Prague. On weekends, this is the perfect place to unwind with a leisurely Mediterranean brunch. EPOPEY RESTAURANT LAS ADELITAS MON–FRI Panská 1308/9, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 226 222 989 – www.epopey.cz EVERY DAY Malé náměstí 457/13, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 233 247– www.lasadelitas.cz In the hip fusion hotel off Wenceslas Square, Epopey is nothing if not versatile. From business lunches to late night dance parties, it’s all happening here. Every day at Epopey starts with a rich breakfast that has all the dishes you‘d expect, plus a few you wouldn‘t. At lunch, you can choose from an eclectic menu that will satisfy even the most demanding diners. Some of the dishes include beef tartare with quail egg, duck breast with cherry chutney, and green salad with roasted pumpkin. They have Staropramen on tap, and a variety of wines that pair well with the unique cuisine. Epopey is an ideal spot for business lunches, romantic candle-lit dinners, or friendly get-togthers. This is a restaurant with energy. Las Adelitas is owned and managed by Mexicans who realised, after many years of living in Prague, that authentic Mexican food was missing here. From their incredible cuisine, to their huge selection of tequilas and mezcals, this place is the real, spicy deal. Tucked into a cosy cellar space just off Old Town Square, the restaurant is decked out in true Mexican style. From succulent carne asada to potent, tasty margaritas, Las Adelitas makes every meal feel like a fiesta, and packs the real flavours of Mexico into every bite. You won’t find watereddown salsa here, only traditional recipes made with ingredients imported from Mexico and prepared by staff with firsthand knowledge of this deliciously spicy cuisine. FOREIGN INFLUENCE LOS V OSLU RESTAURANT JELICA EVERY DAY Perunova 804/17, 130 00 Prague 3, Vinohrady P. +420 222 513 295 – www.losvoslu.cz EVERY DAY Na Zlíchově 260/35, 152 00 Prague 5, Hlubočepy P. +420 251 555 536 – www.jelica.cz In the last few years, Prague has seen an influx of restaurants inspired by Belgium and the Netherlands, but Los v Oslu sets itself apart with a delicious attention to detail, an impressive array of authentic cuisine (beyond the ubiquitous mussels), and a selection of incredible Czech and Belgian beers. With wood panelling and warm lighting, Los v Oslu is the kind of place you’ll want to get lost in. And considering the beers, from the 13-degree Czech Merlin to Belgian classics like Kasteel Rouge and Kwak, you’ll have plenty of ways to kick back and relax. Couple your brews with a melt-in-your-mouth beef tartare, or plump grilled shrimp with garlic and wine sauce, and you’ll have yourself a feel-good feast. If you’re not familiar with Serbian food, you’re in for a real treat at Jelica. If you do know this delicious national cuisine, you know the fabulous meals that await at this unique restaurant just south of the city centre. This is the kind of place that makes you feel as if time has stopped. The rustic interior of the restaurant is matched by a gorgeous garden that’s perfect for leisurely dining. Most of the dishes are meaty, and all of them are very tasty. There’s rolled veal with mashed potatoes, cabbage stuffed with six kinds of meat, and plenty of sizzling grilled specialities. Jelica also offers organic, seasonal vegetarian dishes, including an excellent pumpkin soup. This is a unique spot for a casual feast. PLEVEL RESTAURANT U BÍLÉ KRÁVY EVERY DAY Krymská 126/2, 101 00 Prague 10, Vršovice P. +420 273 160 041 – www.restauraceplevel.cz SUNDAY CLOSED Rubešova 83/10, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 224 239 570 – www.bilakrava.cz A rustic-chic eatery with surprisingly satisfying vegan specialities, great drinks and a comfy vibe, Plevel brings a taste of Brooklyn to Prague. This is health food with soul. Plevel is on Krymská in Vršovice, and also in the Jindřišská passage off Wenceslas Square. In both locations you‘ll leave the tourists behind. The dishes on the menu are vegan, but you won‘t find anything uninspiring here. They create seasonal recipes with local ingredients. The vegan burger and avocado tartare taste as rich as the originals. There’s a selection of raw food, and vegetarian takes on classic Czech favourites like Svíčková. With Herold and Polička beer, a variety of juices, and even single malts, you won‘t miss the meat. For meat lovers, there’s no mistaking great beef. It has to be perfectly prepared, but above all, it must be sourced from a fine breed. That’s exactly what you’ll find at U Bílé krávy. The name of the restaurant means “at the white cows”, referring to cows from the French town of Charolais, which produce some of the world’s best beef. Don’t let the laid-back atmosphere fool you; the Chefs here are very serious about beef. They’ll provide all the information about your meal, from the name of the breeder to the cow’s age. Following traditional methods of breeding, ageing and butchering ensures that every dish at U Bílé krávy is delicious, from Entrecôte to a Beef Bourguignon that will have you licking your plate. FOREIGN INFLUENCE EL EMIR RADOST FX EVERY DAY Václavské Náměstí 1, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové město P. +420 224 281 099 – www.elemir.cz EVERY DAY Bělehradská 234/120, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 603 193 711 – www.radostfx.cz The best restaurants make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world, where your wish is the staff’s command, and feasting is your only responsibility. That’s El Emir, Prague’s most elegant Lebanese restaurant. In the gorgeous Koruna building on Wenceslas Square, El Emir brings the best of Lebanese dining to Prague, with grand Oriental design and sumptuous cuisine. Dining in Lebanon is a social affair, with mouth-watering mezze dishes served sharing style. At El Emir you’ll find more than 80 authentic Lebanese specialities, from hummus and falafel to succulent grilled lamb cutlets. There’s a selection of shisha water pipes too, if you care for a smoke. This is a paradise for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Part vegetarian restaurant, part late night club, Radost FX is Prague’s original hipster hangout. When you want healthy food with indulgent flavour and a little attitude, plus the important ingredient of love, it will hit the spot. From the hot and rich White Trash Artichoke Dip to the organic, vegan and gluten free dishes, everything here is unique. Radost FX has five veggie burgers — some of the best in Prague. But the menu packs surprises too, like handthrown pizza, tasty salads (yes, you read that right), and indulgent nachos. The lengthy cocktail sets this place apart, as does the decor, with touches of steampunk chic and ironic opulence. Radost FX has been going strong since the ‘90s. It’s a Prague original. ZELENÁ ZAHRADA TRAT TORIA PIZZERIA ITALIANA EVERY DAY Šmilovského 1427/12, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 222 518 159 – www.zelena-zahrada.eu EVERY DAY Klimentská 1214/40, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 224 815 192 – www.klimentska.rugantino.cz The moment you enter Zelená Zahrada, which means “green garden”, you’ll be immersed in a peaceful atmosphere. It feels like a vacation to sit on the year round terrace, with a fireplace for winter and umbrellas in summer. Of course, the setting wouldn’t be complete without an excellent meal to enjoy. Zelená Zahrada presents a novel combination of lush Mediterranean fusion and modern Chinese cuisine. Side by side on the menu you’ll find St. Jacob scallops, black risotto with grilled octopus, spicy Kung Pao chicken, and traditional Chinese duck. Just sit back and take a culinary journey in the pleasant ambience of this family restaurant. You’ll want to linger awhile to savour this unique dining experience. Let’s keep it simple. Rugantino has some of the best pizza in Prague, with fresh ingredients from flour to toppings, making every bite pure pleasure. The main attractions here are the delectable varieties of classic pizzas from the wood-fired oven, and the chefs are happy to let you pick and choose your toppings. It’s the little details that make all the difference at Rugantino, like the garlic and chilli-infused olive oil for drizzling on the crust, and the impressive Italian wine list. Besides pizza, you’ll find a menu packed with classic Mediterranean specialities. The restaurant is definitely family-friendly, so don’t be afraid to bring the kids. For an Italian pizzeria experience, this place is the real deal. RUGANTINO II FOREIGN INFLUENCE BLACKDOG BAR & GRILL PEPENERO EVERY DAY Česká 140, 266 01 Beroun P. +420 773 380 280 – www.blackdogs.cz EVERY DAY Bílkova 132/4, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré město P. +420 222 315 543 – www.pepenerogroup.cz We all know the best things come to those who wait. Where restaurants are concerned, sometimes the best things come to those who drive. At least, that’s the case with Black Dog Bar & Grill. Just outside of Prague, this low-key eatery has earned a reputation as a worthy excursion for anyone looking for burgers that rival what you’ll find in the city. But that’s not all. Black Dog is also well known for their incredible selection of tapas, and their delicious seasonal dishes. With beer on tap from microbreweries from around the Czech Republic, every detail has been attended to. The motto at Black Dog is “Life is too short to eat bad food”. Your first bite will convince you that they’ve taken these words to heart. Just about everyone loves pizza. It’s hard to believe, but until recently great pizza was hard to find in Prague. These days Pepenero is leading the way, with a restaurant where you can find real Italian delicacies you’ll love. The atmosphere here is relaxed, like a proper Italian restaurant. Chef Antonio Zannotti and his team of renowned chefs create amazing Neapolitan pizza in a traditional wood-burning oven, using only the freshest ingredients. You’ll also find homemade pastas, antipastas, and classic recipes that would please even the most demanding Italian. Add the friendly service, great wine, Italian coffee, grappa, and fabulous desserts, and you’ll feel like you’ve found your new Mediterranean home. LA CASA TRATTORIA JAMES JOYCE EVERY DAY Kostnické náměstí 635/3, 130 00 Prague 3, Žižkov P. +420 776 082 228 – www.lacasalacasa.cz EVERY DAY U Obecního dvora 794/4, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 224 818 851 – www.jamesjoyceprague.cz La Casa Trattoria is Italian dining as it should be. You’ll find mouth-watering authenticity in every dish on the menu, but more importantly, you’ll find a very cosy restaurant with attentive staff who are happy to please. This Italian eatery is known best for fresh seafood. Their savoury Trentino fish soup with mussels might be the best in the city. But don’t let that stop you from sampling widely from the menu. You can eat in classic Italian style here, starting with antipasti, then going for a hand-made pasta course, followed by tasty seafood or meat. And don’t forget dessert; you’ll find all the indulgent Italian favourites here, including traditional tiramisu, and creamy panna cotta topped with fresh berries. Named one of the Top Ten Irish pubs in the world outside Ireland by The Irish Times, James Joyce is the oldest Irish Pub in Prague, serving great food and beer since 1993. The Joyce transports you to Ireland as soon as you walk in the door and cosy up around the fireplace. This is a home from home with a neighbourhood atmosphere. Locals say it’s the best Guinness outside Ireland, there’s a selection of over 50 Irish whiskeys and the food speaks for itself. Whether you want simple pub food or gastro dishes, the quality is evident. Hidden away in the basement is an excellent Asian kitchen. The Joyce is an Irish pub as it should be. Your only difficulty will be deciding which delicious offering you want to enjoy. FOREIGN INFLUENCE AGAVE EVERY DAY Masná 620/2, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 607 057 354 – www.agaverestaurant.cz Chicharrones, chorizo-tequila mussels, carnitas tacos... just reading the menu at Agave is enough to make your mouth water. This restaurant in the city centre might just spell the end of mediocre Mexican in Prague. Agave combines authentic flavours with atmospheric decor. Stepping inside is like leaving Prague altogether. With stylish south-of-the-border elegance and a central bar with glittering bottles stacked into a pyramid, the design is the first thing you’ll notice about Agave, but they’ve got the deliciously exotic Mexican flavours to back it up. American Chef Christian Dolias has searched high and low for incredible Mexican cuisine, gathering recipes from all over the country. The results are delicious. CAFFREY’S IRISH BAR THE SEXY CURRY CO. EVERY DAY Staroměstské nám. 608/10, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 224 828 031 – www.caffreys.cz SUNDAY CLOSED U Obecního dvora 794/4, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 314 405 – www.thesexycurrycompany.com Caffreys is a genuine Irish bar situated in Prague’s famous Old Town Square. This charming pub with staff from the emerald isle is the perfect meeting place and should appear on everyone’s must see list whilst they are in town. From the moment you walk through the door, take the first sip of your drink and taste the first bite of your food you will know you have made the right decision to call in. Whether you stop for lunch, dinner of just to watch a game you will always be made to feel at home. And if it’s something lively you are looking for, then stay after dinner and enjoy the live music played every night. All at Caffreys wish you a pleasant stay in Prague and will be only to happy to be your personal tourist advisor should you need any advise. When Frank Haughton, owner of James Joyce, learned that renowned chef Sofia Smith was available, he couldn’t resist the temptation to set up the Sexy Curry Company. Now they serve some of the best pan-Asian cuisine you’ll ever enjoy. Everything is made from scratch with only the best ingredients, so you can indulge in familiar dishes like jalfrezi, madras, and green and red curries, or surprise your palate with some of the many dishes you’ve never heard of before. All are available to enjoy at the James Joyce or for delivery and take away. FOREIGN INFLUENCE LA CASA ARGENTINA LA BODEGUITA DEL MEDIO EVERY DAY Dlouhá 730/35, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 311 512 – www.lacasaargentina.cz EVERY DAY Kaprova 19/5, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré město P. +420 224 813 922 – www.labodeguitadelmedio.cz Argentineans eat more beef per person than anybody else in the world, and it is said their country annually produces enough beef to provide everyone on the planet with two 240gram steaks.You’ll find this passionate meat expertise on full display at La Casa Argentina. Long a favourite among local steak lovers in-the-know, La Casa Argentina has several colourful themed rooms, populated with a menagerie of live animals and each evoking a particular area of Argentina. It’s a unique setting for some of the city’s best steaks, served to a lively tango soundtrack alongside rich South American wines. From succulent strip loin to rump steak, ribeye to buttery tenderloin, La Casa Argentina is a meatlover’s dream come true. For tasty Cuban food and tropical cocktails at any time of day or night, La Bodeguita Del Medio is the destination for a constant party. With live band, salsa dancing, and Cuban cigars, there’s always something happening here. There’s really no other restaurant or bar in Prague quite like La Bodeguita Del Medio. The highlights of the menu are Cuban classics you won’t find anywhere else, like “Cayo Largo” tiger prawns, which are prepared with spicy veggies and white wine, or salmon baked in banana leaf with congri and fried yuca. But besides the food, La Bodeguita Del Medio is all about having a good time. It’s no wonder this place is a favourite for celebrities. The menu here is only part of the attraction. THE DUTCH PUB MIYABI EVERY DAY Vladislavova 1390/17, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 727 969 818 – www.dutchpub.cz EVERY DAY Navrátilova 664/10, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 296 233 102 – www.miyabi.cz When you’re looking for authentic hospitality along with the inimitable flavours of Dutch food and drinks in the centre of Prague, there’s only one real option: The Dutch Pub. Here the atmosphere of tulips, clogs, Vincent Van Gogh, and windmills meets gourmet cuisine, great beers, and excellent service. There’s an open kitchen here, so the fragrances of the incredible cooking are always wafting through the restaurant. You can find everything from mouth-watering breakfasts to tasty lunches, and special weekly offers based on seasonal ingredients for dinner. The 50 kinds of hard-to-find Dutch and Belgian beers are the perfect accompaniments to all the dishes, especially the classic Dutch mussels and seafood. Miyabi is off-the-beaten-path in more ways than one. On a side street in the centre, it presents an authentic Japanese dining experience that’s impossible to find elsewhere in Prague. Dining at Miyabi is immersive. The chefs prepare the freshest fish in the city for perfect bites of sushi heaven and the owner, who’s a tea master, performs the sublime tea ceremony on request. The interior is tasteful Japanese minimalism which matches the delicious precision of the cuisine. The front room is modern but in the back you’ll find a stone path, rice paper panelling and low tables for sitting on the tatami. They also have a selection of sakes and delectable wagashi - artful japanese cakes - to compliment your meal. FOREIGN INFLUENCE MÁNESKA CHEZ MARCEL EVERY DAY Mánesova 1391/59, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 222 212 052 – www.maneska.com EVERY DAY Haštalská 12, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 315 676 – www.chezmarcel.cz Máneska is all about meat. You won’t find gimmicks or silly decorations on the wall, just a serious selection of succulent meat specialities, focused primarily on Aberdeen Angus steaks. Máneska sits in an unassuming basement space, with a sidewalk patio for warm months. The brick and dark wood interior puts the focus on the mouth watering meat dishes. And the staff really know what they’re serving, from burgers and steaks to New Zealand lamb cutlets. There’s a great wine list, so you can pair your steak with a vintage from the region where the bulls are bread. The owners say they want to surprise and indeed they do, with masterful meat, and a rich dining experience that’s long on flavour and short on pretension. Since 1995, Chez Marcel has been serving up “la France profonde” just down the street from Old Town Square. Dining here will transport you from the Golden City to the City of Light. Escargot, French onion soup, terrine of foie gras with homemade marmalade, and of course entrecôte steak: this is French cooking at its finest. There’s a subtly flavoured dish for everyone here, from the crisp Nicoise salad to hearty meat specialities, and fresh seafood. For a real French dining experience, peruse the wine list, which has a variety of excellent vintages. With high-backed booths, a summer garden, and a basement club, Chez Marcel is one restaurant where every meal becomes a celebration of the finer things in life. EL ASADOR UMAMI EVERY DAY Osvětová 991, 149 00 Prague 4, Šeberov P. +420 246 067 600 – www.elasador.cz EVERY DAY Na Příkopě 1096, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 725 605 217 – www.umamisushi.cz With supremely juicy steaks, homemade specialities, a meaty “Parrillada” lunch buffet, and a fun Sunday barbecue brunch, El Asador brings a taste of Argentina to Prague. It’s a little off the beaten path, but well worth the trip. The mosaic stonework decorating the dining room tells you El Asador isn’t your average Prague restaurant. Far from it. In Spanish, “El Asador” means both the grill and the chef preparing the meat. That’s the speciality here, and the restaurant’s method of cooking over an open fire on a grill built in Buenos Aires makes El Asador’s meat some of the tenderest and most flavourful in the city. A bottle of one of their heady Argentinean red wines will complete your South American meat feast. Umami is a restaurant with a philosophy. Its name comes from the special Japanese conception of “the fifth flavour”, and every dish here – from soup to sushi – has a little something that makes it stand out. Umami offers a taste of the true Japan and modern fusion cuisine. They have an array of the finest and freshest sushi and sashimi, as well as excellent grilled specialities, like tuna umeboshi, which is tuna steak with sauce from Japanese plums with red pepper, and their famous Umami burger, a juicy beef burger in a sesame bun with shiitake mushroom, rucola, and sweet-ginger sauce. Umami is a great spot to pick up a simple bento box for a picnic lunch, or to sit down with friends for an extended feast. FOREIGN INFLUENCE BONATO HOTEL EVERY DAY Lázeňská 102, 547 01 Náchod P. +420 491 424 540 – www.bonato.cz Just two hours from Prague, Bonato in Náchod is a boutique hotel with a unique character and vibrant history. A visit here, whether overnight or for lunch or dinner at the incredibly charming restaurant, always feels like a special occasion. The land where Bonato Hotel is situated was first settled in the 18th century and today the whole hotel maintains an air of classic elegance. The cosy restaurant is an ideal place to enjoy famous gastronomic gems. The specialities include tender pork neck cooked sous-vide style served with creamed potatoes, morels and spinach chips. You can taste delightful local varieties of dishes, from classic Czech cuisine to modern seafood and vegetable recipes. LITTLE WHALE LA BOTTEGA BISTROTEKA EVERY DAY Maltézské náměstí 15, 118 00 Prague 1, Malá Strana P. +420 257 214 703 – www.umalevelryby.cz EVERY DAY Gourmet passage Dlouhá Dlouhá 39, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 311 372 – bistroteka.labottega.cz They say big things come in small packages. That’s certainly true for Little Whale, a romantic little restaurant serving up big flavours in the gorgeous heart of Malá Strana. Chef-owned and operated, Little Whale has a casual feel that makes the menu seem even more impressive. You’ll find a range of specialities, from the likes of char-grilled swordfish with wok-fried sesame vegetables and grilled mango salsa, to slow-roast Angus short rib with a red wine and star anise glaze. No gimmicks, loud music, or ostentatious decorations here; this restaurant is all about serving incredible food in a relaxed environment that makes it work for every occasion, from a romantic dinner to a casual get-together with friends. When the renowned Italian Chef Riccardo Lucque opens a bistro in the centre of Prague, you know it’s got to be good. And indeed, from breakfast to fine wines, Bistroteka does not disappoint. This is your one-stop shop for all fine things Italian. They have an array of pastas, as well as Italian breads, cheeses, olive oils, and rich espressos from Gianni Frasi, all of which you can take home to make in your own kitchen. But Bistroteka is also a bistro, so they’re always cooking up gourmet Italian delicacies, from morning until night. What isn’t delivered fresh from Italy is cooked on the spot. The menu changes each month, and there are regular theme evenings, often based on different regions of Italian cuisine. FOREIGN INFLUENCE U TEMPLÁŘŮ VEGGIE POINT EVERY DAY Celetná 589/27, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 222 316 382 – www.utemplaru.cz EVERY DAY Drtinova 358, 150 00 Prague 5, Smíchov P. +420 257 222 491 – www.veggiepoint.cz Combining medieval decor with a modern kitchen, U Templářů brings together cuisines of the Old and the New Worlds. The results are delicious. Located in the cellar of an historic building from the 12th century, U Templářů is much more forward thinking than it appears. Yes, there’s armour and swords adorning the walls, but you’ll also find very friendly service, and an eclectic menu combining classic Czech specialities with pizza and fresh pasta. The steaks and grilled meats are always succulent, and the pizza is some of the best in the centre of Prague. Combine that with the atmospheric ambience, the cold beer and the excellent wine selection, and you’ve got a unique restaurant you’ll love coming back to. Until recently anyone in Prague looking for healthy food, which was tasty too had very little choice. That’s what makes Veggie Point so special. Taking a quick look at the menu you might not realise every dish is vegan. You’ll find the likes of burgers with bacon or cheese, Mexican wraps, tuna sandwiches and spring rolls, but none of them contain meat or cheese. Everything on the menu comes from the finest ingredients without additives or preservatives. Not only the sauces and dips but also the hearty burgers and tortillas are all home made. Delicious house baked desserts are here too, including their special cupcake from 100% herbal ingredients. At Veggie Point you’ll find all the flavour without the guilt. TŘI KNÍŽATA RESTAURANT NENASYTA SUNDAY CLOSED Masarykovo náměstí 1189/44, 586 01 Jihlava P. +420 567 210 933 – www.triknizata.cz TUE–SAT Eliášova 16, 160 00 Prague 6, Dejvice P. +420 721 099 781 – www.foodadventure.eu Few would expect to encounter fine modern cuisine in Jihlava, a small city over an hour from Prague. But Tři Knížata restaurant will convince you that dining here is a worthy culinary excursion. The bright interior is simple yet elegant, and the open kitchen lets you watch the team of Chefs led by Pavel Mareš in action. It’s a fascinating spectacle to see them crafting their imaginative menu. Each dish here involves some interesting or unusual feature. Start with goat cheese served with spicy pineapple chutney, then continue with something hearty like rabbit leg confit with truffled gnocchi. And don’t miss the menu of scrumptious seasonal specialities. Narrowing down your selection will be a delicious challenge. Nenasyta is a Slovenian and Mediterranean restaurant and deli offering rustic cuisine. With ingredients from Slovenian farms, producers of Alpine cheese and charcuterie, and fish from Croatian fishermen, theirs is a different dining experience. The ambience is relaxed, so you’ll feel at home. There’s a long table for large groups, an intimate table upstairs, and seating outside in the garden. The recipes are traditional, with organic ingredients: wild asparagus and artichokes in spring, white truffles in autumn and salads in winter. Slovenian wines complement the home-made cuisine. The chef’s specialities include gnocchi described as clouds of potato goodness that melt in your mouth. At Nenasyta friends and flavour come first. FOREIGN INFLUENCE ARGUMENT RESTAURANT THE FARM EVERY DAY Bubenečská 352/19, 160 00 Prague 6, Bubeneč P. +420 220 510 427 – www.argument-restaurant.cz EVERY DAY Korunovační 17, 170 00 Prague 7, Bubeneč P. +420 773 626 177 – www.facebook.com/Farmletna Don’t let the name fool you; everyone will agree that a visit to Argument Restaurant is time well-spent. There can be no debate about the lava-grilled meats and fresh fish, because they’re all delectable. The dining room has a classic feel, with 1930s-style upholstery and hardwood floors. The elegance goes well with the creative menu. The incredible coq au vin is one of the standouts, as is the wonderfully succulent octopus cooked sous vide-style with tangy lemon purée and red couscous. And don’t miss the creamy baked celery soup with pesto au persil and pumpkin seeds. Excellent beer from the Únětický brewery, international wines, and a serious cocktail list provide the perfect accompaniments to your cuisine. The Farm is a bistro that would be perfectly comfortable in Brooklyn or Berlin. The hip atmosphere and farm-fresh specials like eggs Benedict and French toast make it easy to spend a morning or afternoon here. Whether it‘s the delicious coffee, or any of the dishes on the daily seasonal menu, everything is as fresh as it can get. The menu is created every week, so you’ll always find surprises to feast on. Tasty soups like chick pea cream with coriander, sweet specialities like home-made pancakes with fresh strawberries, the hearty lamb burger with carrot chips; you’ll want to taste everything. There’s also great coffee, from Czech speciality roasters Doubleshot, as well as gluten-free cakes and seasonal lemonades. CASA DE CARLI RYBY & CHIPS EVERY DAY Vězeňská 116/5, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 224 816 688 – www.casadecarli.cz EVERY DAY Myslíkova 1698/18, 120 00 Prague 2, Nové Město P. +420 222 519 986 – www.rybyandchips.cz Casa De Carli is an Italian restaurant combining authentic, gourmet recipes full of fresh seasonal ingredients with the personal, creative touch of a master chef in a relaxed atmosphere. This is traditional Italian cuisine for the modern world. Founded by Lenka and Matteo, a husband and wife team, Casa De Carli is the realisation of a dream to bring traditional Italian cuisine together with gastronomy inspired by their international travels. Succulent roast breast of pigeon served with a potato-leek terrine, beetroot and a Guanaja chocolate jus is just one example of Matteo’s heavenly cooking. Specialising in mouth-watering Italian recipes, he prepares each dish with care and devotion, which you will appreciate after tasting your first bite. If you’ve ever tasted authentic British fish and chips, you know it’s a real treat. There’s one place in Prague to have this classic street food experience, and that’s Ryby & Chips. You’ll find all the traditional favourites here, from fried cod to the perfect fish cakes. But you can also get a great burger, fried cheese, roasted chicken, daily menus, soups and mouth-watering salads. The fish is served with crispy chips and mushy peas, just like they do it in London, and there’s a variety of delicious sauces, too. This is a simple bistro-style restaurant, with inside and outside tables, and plenty of places to stand. They keep everything fresh and very tasty, as it should be. FOREIGN INFLUENCE IL CAPITANO RISTORANTE EVERY DAY Slavíkova 1571/6, 130 00 Prague 3, Vinohrady P. +420 222 939 434 – www.ilcapitano.cz If you imagine a port restaurant in Italy, offering that indelible Mediterranean atmosphere and wonderful home-made food, you’ll have a good idea of what il capitano is like. It’s an Italian homecoming in Vinohrady. With antipasti, homemade pasta, risotto, fish, meat, desserts, and pizza, the cuisine focuses mainly on the region of Calabria. Each dish here highlights the rich flavours of fresh ingredients, many of which are imported directly from Italy. Gnocchi with wild prawns, beef tagliata, and grilled octopus are a few of the specialities. The restaurant regularly hosts live music, so the only thing that’s missing is the sea. Just like every sailor wants to return home, you’ll want to return to il capitano. KAFE RESTAURANT SOKOLOVNA PRŮHONICE LA FORMAGGERIA GRAN MORAVIA EVERY DAY Říčanská 118, 252 43 Průhonice P. +420 267 310 506 – www.sokolovnapruhonice.cz EVERY DAY Václavské náměstí 56, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 222 233 508 – www.laformaggeria.com Here’s an unusual gym, where you’ll not only get some exercise, but also high gastronomy. That’s the setting of the excellent Kafe Restaurant in Sokolovna Průhonice. You can start your day here with eggs Benedict or sweet French toast, and if you do, you’ll want to come back for lunch and dinner. Head Chef Ladislav Douša has created a menu that’s full of seasonal ingredients, and hearty enough to cater to athletes. There are new dishes every day, as well as a surprising selection of Czech and international cuisine. The beefsteak with truffle sauce topped with caramelised spring onions is just one of the incredible dishes. There are also fine wines from the Old and New world, which complement everything on the menu. La Formaggeria Gran Moravia are retail outlets operated by the largest Czech producer of fine Italian cheeses and dairy products. The company, owned by the Brazzale family, represents the oldest dairy company in Italy. Whatever you’re looking for, if it’s fresh, delicious, and Italian, you’ll find it here. There’s such a rich selection of Italian goodies here, you’ll want to take your time browsing. Don’t miss the products they produce themselves, like yoghurt, mozzarella, ricotta and especially the most famous, the Parmesan-type cheese, Gran Moravia. Their prosciutto, bacon powder and other tasty Italian delicacies are all delicious. With great food, and a pleasant, friendly staff, you’ll be in good hands at La Formaggeria. FOREIGN INFLUENCE DOCK HOUSE GÓVINDA EVERY DAY Michelská 59, 141 00 Prague 4, Michle P. +420 261 211 590 – www.dockhouse.cz EVERY DAY Na hrázi 216/5, 180 00 Prague 8, Libeň P. +420 605 301 383 – www.govinda-vegclub.cz One of Prague’s stand-out steakhouses, Dock House is a great spot for a laid-back lunch or dinner. With an incredible selection of steaks and international wines, the staff at Dock House, headed by owner Jaroslav Zatloukal, are always happy to meat you. Whether you’re looking for Uruguayan rib eye or veal from the foothills of the Jeseníky mountains in Northern Moravia, juicy specialities abound. While you’re perusing the menu you can watch the chefs preparing meat on hot stones in the open kitchen. But they don’t only have steaks here. You can also taste typical American bistro dishes, fish and seafood, salads, and great desserts. The sommelier is always on hand to ensure you’ve have the perfect tipple. Govinda is a wonderful vegetarian restaurant with over twenty years of tradition. Food here is prepared with fresh vegetables and grains, many of which come directly from their own farm. The interior is of Indian influence and as with its sister restaurant Govinda Delicious is simple in style. Specialties include traditional sub continent sweet and savoury pancakes; among the most popular is La Peña a corn flour pancake filled with cheese, chilli and cranberries. Other hits are the vegan Tofueno and Verdini with spinach and cottage cheese. As for the sweets both restaurants offer a choice of healthy desserts, so there is no need to feel guilty. And if you can’t make it to the restaurants both provide an office and a home delivery service. OLIVA BY AMANDINE KIINDI SUNDAY CLOSED Plavecká 4, 128 00 Prague 2, Nové Město P. +420 222 520 288 – www.olivarestaurant.cz EVERY DAY Michelská 1552/58, 140 00 Prague 4, Michle P. +420 721 588 888 – www.kiin.cz The moment you step into the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Oliva you’ll be dreaming of Mediterranean shores. Head Chef Stanislav Kladiva has created a menu that takes cues from French, Italian, Greek, Spanish, Moroccan, and Lebanese cuisine. It’s a scrumptious combination, to say the least. The attention to detail and the emphasis on freshness, along with a liberal use of olive oil, really makes the food here stand out. There’s also an excellent wine list, from Italian reds to French whites, so you’ll find the perfect tipple to go with your meal. This is a relaxed restaurant where flavours and friendship go hand-in-hand. Authentic, modern Thai cuisine with fresh ingredients in a chic and stylish dining room — Kiindi has a lot going for it. If you like the spicy succulence of Thai food, they’ll really keep you coming back. In Thai, “Kiindi” means to eat well. That’s something you’ll always do here. They use only the freshest ingredients, including Thai herbs and spices like lemongrass and galangal, and they specialise in creative interpretations of modern Thai and continental cuisine. Their curries are amazing, as are the tangy wok noodles, and their soups. On weekdays Kiindi offers different dishes for lunch and seasonal specials for dinner. They can also arrange a sumptuous Thai feast for private parties of up to 100 guests. FOREIGN INFLUENCE KOFEIN RESTAURANT JOE´S AMERICAN GRILL EVERY DAY Nitranská 9, 130 00 Prague 3, Vinohrady P. +420 273 132 145 – www.ikofein.cz EVERY DAY Mánesova 52, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 222 233 971 – www.joesgrill.cz Kofein remains one of Vinohrady’s hidden treasures. Tapas, burgers, great wines and beers: they’ve got it all, with style to spare. This is the perfect place to unwind with friends, snacks and drinks. The steak tartare, beef burger and veggie burger are great, but tapas is the real attraction. It’s not unusual to see Spanish expats enjoying the tapas here, which should tell you it’s the real thing. There’s a dish for every taste, from home-made pâté to thinly sliced eggplant tempura. The pork fillet medallion with cognac sauce, and the roasted prawns in white wine are always a hit. The tasty beer from Ježek, homemade sodas and the rich selection of international wines are the perfect accompaniments. Joe’s American Grill is a taste of classic Americana in the heart of Vinohrady. With great burgers, buffalo wings, beer and much more, they really do it right. Traditional American grilled specialities are served with home-made sauces and fresh vegetables, so everything on the menu is amazing every time, from the gooey, tasty mozzarella sticks to the spicy Cajun chicken steak and the succulent pork ribs. But the burgers are the real stars here. There are seven varieties including a Jack Daniel’s burger and a mind-blowing Hawaiian pineapple burger that’s topped with a fresh slice of pineapple along with cheese, bacon, onions, mayo and a pineapple glaze. Even the classic dishes here are never cliche. SWEET PRAGUE BRUXX BOAT LUŽNICE EVERY DAY Dock at Čechův Most, pier no. 5, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 724 202 505 – www.prague-boats.cz EVERY DAY Náměstí Míru 9, 120 00 Prague 2, Vinohrady P. +420 224 250 404 – www.bruxx.cz There are many beautiful views of Prague but none as special as from the river Vltava. When sailing aboard Sweet Praha from the Charles Bridge to Vyšehrad you‘ll enjoy unique views of Prague Castle, romantic Kampa and other monuments in the twilight atmosphere. Sip a glass of Prosecco on deck as you take in the view, then settle down at a table to feast on a delicious three course menu which includes Prague ham, succulent swordfish steak with tomatoes, olives and potatoes grenaille and entrecôte with creamed potatoes and pepper sauce. Such a combination of scenery and fine dining can‘t be found anywhere else in the city. Authentic Belgian gastronomy, hard-to-find Belgian beer, and a lively atmosphere — that’s Bruxx. It’s renowned for its Belgian perfection. You’ll feel at home the moment you step into this temple of beer and delicious food. There are eight imported Belgian beers on tap, and that’s only the beginning. The kitchen, which is shared with the neighbouring Vinohradský Parliament, showcases the delicious Belgian cuisine of the experienced chef and co-owner Jan Pipal. Based on his experience in Belgium, he’s created a menu of traditional dishes according to original recipes using unique ingredients. Don’t miss the seafood, like the Beligian mussels and sizzling steak fries, which are among the specialities. FOREIGN INFLUENCE SWEET TOOTH CAFÉ ANDALOUS EVERY DAY Betlémské náměstí 251/2, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 731 477 772 – www.andalous.cz Café Andalous isn‘t the kind of place you just pop into. Sure, the vibe is welcoming, but that‘s the thing; it‘s so relaxed here, you‘ll want to set aside a few hours to savour it. You’ll find a tempting assortment of sweets, coffees, fine teas and fresh juices, but the real attraction is the shisha, o r t raditional w ater p ipes. A daily practise in Arabic society, these tall, elegant pipes are packed with nakhla, or flavoured, slow-burning tobacco. You can choose from fruity flavours like apple and pineapple, or even a variety without nicotine, and enjoy a relaxing smoke over a drink and a slice of cake. Café Andalous is a laid-back oasis of Andalusian Moorish and Spanish traditions, right in the heart of Old Town. ERHARTOVA CUKRÁRNA EVERY DAY Vinohradská 125, 130 00 Prague 3, Vinohrady P. +420 273 130 574 – www.erhartovacukrarna.cz With a sweet history stretching back more than 70 years, Erhart Café is one of the best destinations for desserts in Prague. Stylish and traditional, with fresh-baked cakes and desserts at any time of day, it’s the place for instant indulgence. With two locations in the city, one of which is officially recognised as a cultural heritage site, Erhart is a Prague institution. Their in-house bakery creates large cakes for catering, and they also whip up a range of decadent sweets, with up to 20 original cakes, chocolate bonbons, classic and modern desserts available every day. The bakers use all-natural ingredients and time-tested techniques. You never know what you’ll find here, but you can bet it will be delectable. SWEET TOOTH GOLD PRALINES EVERY DAY Rybná 668/2, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město V Jámě 5, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 222 316 227 / 224 162 141 – www.goldpralines.cz Not all chocolates are created equal, as the team at Gold Pralines know well. For more than ten years they’ve been at the forefront of quality chocolate in Prague. They don’t take chocolate lightly. Excellent hand-made chocolates from the highest quality Belgian chocolates, truffles, chocolate bars and pieces, and broken chocolate can all be found in Gold Pralines. There are so many tempting sweets that you’ll need advice from the staff, who are always willing to be lost in the flood of chocolate. They’ll guide you toward the perfect chocolate treasure. Whether you‘re buying a sweet gift for a loved one, or just treating yourself to something indulgent, there’s no better place to buy the best chocolate in Prague. CACAO VIA DEL VINO EVERY DAY V celnici 1031, 110 00 Prague 1, Nové Město P. +420 777 511 677 – www.cacaoprague.cz MON–FRI Gourmet passage Dlouhá Dlouhá 37, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré město P. +420 774 963 115 – www.viadelvino.cz Who hasn’t found themselves in the centre of Prague, in need of a cool café with a welcoming vibe, great coffee, and tasty sweets. Impossible? No, Cacao. Keeping up with modern culinary trends, Cacao makes their own desserts from the finest and freshest ingredients. Their ice creams are especially tasty, with unique flavours including cheese cake and green tea. There’s also an impressive selection of cakes, making it difficult to choose just one. Don’t miss the raw cakes with orange or chocolate, which are packed with vitamins and nutrients. Besides fine coffees, Cacao also specialises in fruit and superfood smoothies. This is the perfect spot to start your morning right, or to stop for an afternoon pick-me-up. Via del Vino offers incredible sweets, delicacies and artisanal wines of uncompromising quality from most regions in Italy as well as Riesling from the Mosel valley. It’s a place where you can really indulge your senses. Besides the amazing wine, you’ll also find chocolates from Claudio Corallo, probably the greatest chocolate producer in the world. Other specialities include olive oils and peppers. Via del Vino is the passion project of three of Prague’s most respected purveyors of wine and food excellence, wine expert Flemming Teilgaard Laugesen, chef Riccardo Lucque and restaurateur Ondřej Rákosník. Their highly passionate assistance will serve your every need. This gourmet shop is an epicurean’s dream. SWEET TOOTH SIMPLY GOOD MARTIN POKORNÝ CHOCOLATIER MON–FRI Sokolovská 70, 180 00 Prague 8, Karlín P. +420 776 789 635 – www.simplygood.cz sevcikova@martinchocolatier.cz P. +420 773 482 600 – www.martinchocolatier.cz Simply good lives up to its name in every last detail. From home-made Czech cakes to popular foreign desserts, everything here is simply good. Everyone associates the smell of baking cake with the feeling of home, and that’s what you’ll think of as you walk into Simply good. It’s deliciously fragrant here every day. Don’t expect elaborate desserts, but look forward to classic cakes and pies with fresh apples, pears, and poppy seeds, as well as cheesecakes and muffins all made from owner Hanka Šemíková’s time-tested recipes. You’ll want to savour these delectable desserts again and again. And why not? We all deserve a sweet treat or two, and when the ingredients are this wholesome, there’s nothing to feel guilty about. Martin Pokorný is perhaps the most talented chocolatier in the Czech Republic. He has worked for years to develop his distinct style, and now his hand-made chocolate truffles are instantly recognisable, and sinfully good. These are handmade truffles that look as great as they taste. Martin likes to say that fine chocolate is like music. Light and heavy, hot and soft, there’s always a chocolate to fit your mood. Martin is always working to innovate new chocolates for his customers by searching for the best ingredients and happily combining them. From tempting truffles to pralines with unique colours and shapes, he’ll change your ideas about how chocolate can look and taste. His confections are little works of art. SWEETLIFE BAKERY PERNÍČKŮV SEN MON–FRI Karlínské náměstí 4, 180 00 Prague 8, Karlín P. +420 605 073 501 – www.sweetlife.cz EVERY DAY Haštalská 757/21, 110 00 Prague 1, Staré Město P. +420 607 773 350 – www.pernickuvsen.cz The Karlín neighbourhood has recently become a popular location for gourmands with new bistros opening weekly. Sweetlife Bakery is no newcomer to the scene; their sweet, intoxicating scent has been enticing passers-by for some time. This small family bakery honours tradition but also combines modern confectionery techniques with their influences and experiences from abroad. The most important principle is to use only the freshest ingredients which you’ll taste in every bite of their pies, cakes, cupcakes and other traditional specialities which you can enjoy also in their child friendly Vinohrady café or at home. They also offer catering for special events including birthday and wedding cakes, mini desserts, sandwiches and canapés. A quaint sweet shop tucked into the winding streets of Old Town, Perníčkův sen, which means “gingerbread dream”, is aptly named, as gingerbread is among the most traditional Czech cookies. The craft of making this treat reaches far back into history. You’ll find gingerbread here in all forms, topped with almonds, chocolate, lemon icing, or the traditional jam from Pardubice. This is a perfectly prepared Czech sweet with fine ingredients. The only difficulty is that these cookies are so beautiful you might not want to eat them. But one bite of these tasty, unique desserts will help you get over your hesitation. Whether you’re getting a sweet gift or a treat for yourself, Perníčkův sen is always worth a visit. SWEET TOOTH GUIDEBOOK AUTHOR Dominic James Holcombe PHOTOGRAPHY Ondřej Kodras GRAPHIC DESIGN Lenka Molková CO-AUTHORS Stephan Delbos, Kateřina Hýlová PRODUCTION Lada Langerová PUBLISHED BY Sand dune s. r. o. Kubelíkova 1224/42, 130 00 Praha 3 www.prague-cuisine.com Sand dune s. r. o. © 2015 – All rights reserved.