Embark on a tantalising journey through Prague’s eclectic culinary landscape, where tradition meets innovation in a vibrant blend of flavours and aromas. The Bohemian culinary scene offers a rich tapestry of traditional Czech cuisine intertwined with contemporary twists, captivating the palates of locals and travellers alike.

Nestled within Prague’s cobblestone streets and historic squares, traditional Czech eateries beckon with hearty dishes such as goulash, svickova, and knedliky, showcasing centuries-old recipes passed down through generations. Each bite is a homage to Czech heritage, with robust flavours and wholesome ingredients evoking a sense of nostalgia.

Yet, Prague’s culinary scene transcends tradition, embracing modern fusion with open arms. Innovative chefs draw inspiration from global culinary trends, infusing traditional Czech fare with creative flair. From stylish bistros to avant-garde eateries, Prague’s food scene offers a kaleidoscope of flavours, from traditional favourites with a contemporary twist to daring culinary experiments that push the boundaries of taste.

Join us as we embark on a culinary odyssey through Prague, exploring the harmonious coexistence of tradition and innovation in the city’s gastronomic landscape. From quaint taverns to chic culinary hotspots, Prague’s Bohemian culinary scene promises a feast for the senses that will leave you spellbound and craving for more.

Traditional Czech Food to Try in Prague

1. Svickova na Smetane (Beef Sirloin in Cream Sauce): A quintessential Czech dish, svickova na smetane consists of tender beef sirloin marinated in a creamy sauce flavoured with root vegetables, spices, and a hint of lemon zest. Served with fluffy bread dumplings (knedliky) and topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of tangy cranberry sauce, this hearty meal is a must-try for anyone visiting Prague.

2. Goulash (Gulash): Originating from Hungary but embraced as a beloved Czech comfort food, goulash is a hearty stew made with tender chunks of beef, onions, paprika, and other spices. Served piping hot with bread or potatoes, this soul-warming dish is perfect for warding off the chill on a cold Prague evening.

3. Bramboraky (Potato Pancakes): Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, bramboraky are Czech-style potato pancakes that make for a delicious snack or side dish. Made from grated potatoes mixed with flour, eggs, and seasonings, these golden-brown delights are often served with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce for dipping.

4. Pecene kachni stehno (Roast Duck Leg): Duck takes centre stage in this Czech favourite, with succulent roast duck leg seasoned with herbs and spices until golden and crispy on the outside, yet tender and juicy on the inside. Served with red or white cabbage and dumplings, pecene kachni stehno offers a taste of traditional Czech cuisine at its finest.

5. Smazeny syr (Fried Cheese): A beloved Czech street food, smazeny syr features slices of cheese (typically Edam or Hermelin) coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden and crispy. Served with tartar sauce, fries, and a garnish of lemon, this indulgent treat is a must-try for cheese lovers visiting Prague.

6. Vepro knedlo zelo (Roast Pork with Dumplings and Sauerkraut): A hearty and satisfying Czech classic, vepro knedlo zelo consists of succulent roast pork served with bread dumplings (knedliky) and tangy sauerkraut. The combination of tender meat, fluffy dumplings, and tangy cabbage creates a harmony of flavours that is sure to please the palate.

7. Kulajda (Creamy Potato Soup with Mushrooms): A comforting soup that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day, kulajda features a creamy potato base infused with mushrooms, dill, and vinegar for a tangy twist. Served with a poached egg and a drizzle of cream, this soup is a staple of Czech cuisine and a favourite among locals.

8. Smazeny Kapr (Fried Carp): A traditional Czech dish typically enjoyed during the Christmas season, smazeny kapr consists of breaded and fried carp served with potato salad. Despite its association with Christmas, fried carp is enjoyed throughout the year in Prague, particularly during the summer months when it’s often served at outdoor beer gardens and festivals.

9. Trdelnik (Czech Chimney Cake): A sweet treat that’s become synonymous with Prague’s culinary scene, trdelnik is a spiral-shaped pastry made from rolled dough that’s wrapped around a cylindrical spit, grilled until golden and crispy, and then dusted with sugar and cinnamon. Served hot and fresh from street stalls throughout the city, trdelnik is a delightful indulgence that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

10. Kolace (Czech Fruit Pastries): These delightful pastries consist of a sweet dough filled with fruit jam, poppy seeds, or a sweet cheese filling, then topped with streusel or powdered sugar. Kolace come in various shapes and sizes, with popular fillings including plum, apricot, and cherry. Enjoyed as a breakfast pastry or a midday snack, kolace are a delicious way to experience Czech baking traditions.

11. Medovnik (Honey Cake): A decadent dessert made from layers of honey-spiced cake filled with creamy frosting, medovnik is a beloved Czech sweet treat that’s perfect for indulging your sweet tooth. Each layer of cake is soaked in honey syrup, giving it a moist and rich flavour that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.

12. Klobasa (Czech Sausages): No visit to Prague is complete without sampling klobasa, traditional Czech sausages grilled to perfection and served with mustard and fresh bread. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack from a street vendor or as part of a hearty meal at a local tavern, klobasa is a staple of Czech cuisine that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

13. Utopenci (Pickled Sausages): A popular Czech beer snack, utopenci consists of sausages pickled in a tangy brine flavoured with onions, garlic, and spices. Served cold with slices of fresh bread, utopenci are the perfect accompaniment to a pint of Czech beer and a lively evening in Prague’s bustling pubs and beer halls.

14. Strudl (Strudel): A legacy of Austria-Hungarian influence on Czech cuisine, strudl is a beloved dessert consisting of thin layers of pastry filled with sweet fillings such as apples, cherries, or poppy seeds. Served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream, Strudl is a comforting treat that’s sure to please your taste buds.

15. Palacinky (Czech Pancakes): Thin and delicate, palacinky are Czech-style pancakes that can be enjoyed sweet or savoury, depending on the filling. Popular sweet fillings include fruit jam, Nutella, or whipped cream, while savoury options may include ham, cheese, or mushrooms. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a dessert, palacinky are a versatile and delicious addition to any meal in Prague.

From savoury stews and hearty roasts to sweet pastries and indulgent desserts, Prague offers a diverse array of traditional Czech foods to tantalise your taste buds and satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re exploring the city’s historic taverns and street food stalls or dining in its upscale restaurants like Lokal, known for its freshly made traditional dishes, or U Kroka, a favorite for modern takes on Czech classics, you’ll find an array of options to suit every palate. For a more upscale experience, try Field with its Michelin-starred contemporary Czech cuisine, or visit Café Louvre for a delightful blend of history and gastronomy. Be sure to sample these iconic dishes for an authentic taste of Czech cuisine.

Best Restaurants to Try Traditional Czech Food

1. Lokal Dlouhaaa (Dlouhaaa Street): This bustling tavern is renowned for its lively atmosphere and authentic Czech cuisine. Located in the heart of Prague’s Old Town, Lokal Dlouhaaa serves up classic dishes such as goulash, svickova, and vepro knedlo zelo in a casual setting reminiscent of a traditional Czech beer hall. Pair your meal with a pint of Pilsner Urquell straight from the tap for the ultimate Czech dining experience.

2. U Modre kachnicky (The Blue Duckling): Nestled in a historic building near Prague Castle, U Modre kachnicky is famous for its roast duck and other traditional Czech delicacies. The restaurant’s elegant dining room exudes old-world charm, making it the perfect setting for a special meal. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample their signature dish, pecene kachni stehno (roast duck leg), served with red cabbage and dumplings.

3. Restaurace Mlejnice (The Watermill Restaurant): Situated in a 14th-century watermill in Prague’s Lesser Town, Restaurace Mlejnice offers a unique dining experience steeped in history. Specialising in rustic Czech cuisine, the restaurant serves up hearty dishes such as bramboraky (potato pancakes), kulajda (cream of potato soup), and smazeny kapr (fried carp). Enjoy your meal in the cosy interior adorned with wooden beams and mill wheels or dine al fresco in the charming courtyard during the warmer months.

4. U Fleku: Founded in 1499, U Fleku is one of Prague’s oldest breweries and a beloved institution among locals and visitors alike. The brewery’s historic beer hall exudes old-world charm, with vaulted ceilings, wooden benches, and traditional Czech decor. While beer is the main attraction, U Fleku also offers a menu of hearty Czech dishes, including roast pork, sausages, and sauerkraut, all served with a side of their famous dark lager.

5. Cafe Louvre: Steeped in history, Cafe Louvre has been a cultural hub in Prague since it first opened its doors in 1902. This iconic café-restaurant has hosted many famous figures over the years, including Franz Kafka and Albert Einstein. While Cafe Louvre is known for its elegant Art Nouveau interior and Viennese-style coffee, it also serves a selection of classic Czech dishes, including beef sirloin in cream sauce, schnitzel, and traditional Czech pastries.

6. U Zlateho Tygra (The Golden Tiger): Tucked away down a narrow alley in Prague’s Old Town, U Zlateho Tygra is a legendary beer hall frequented by locals and celebrities alike. With its no-nonsense atmosphere and no-frills approach to dining, this historic tavern is the perfect place to sample authentic Czech cuisine and wash it down with a pint of the house beer. Be sure to try their famous pickled sausages (utopenci) and hearty beef stew (hovezi gulas).

7. Restaurace U Pinkasu: Located near Wenceslas Square, Restaurace U Pinkasu is a charming restaurant known for its traditional Czech fare and warm hospitality. Housed in a historic building dating back to the 15th century, the restaurant exudes old-world charm with its rustic interior and cosy atmosphere. Indulge in classic Czech dishes such as roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut, washed down with a refreshing Czech beer or a glass of Moravian wine.

8. U Kroka: Situated in the vibrant district of Zizkov, U Kroka is a family-run restaurant that specialises in traditional Czech cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features a range of classic dishes, from roast duck and pork knuckle to homemade sausages and hearty stews. With its welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, U Kroka offers a taste of Czech hospitality in the heart of Prague.

9. Cestr: For a contemporary take on Czech cuisine, head to Cestr, a stylish restaurant located in the city centre. Combining traditional recipes with modern techniques, Cestr offers a menu of innovative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include their signature beef tartare, slow-roasted pork belly, and homemade sausages, all served in a sleek and sophisticated setting.

10. Lavicka: Tucked away in the picturesque neighbourhood of Vinohrady, Lavicka is a hidden gem known for its refined Czech cuisine and elegant ambience. The restaurant’s seasonal menu showcases the best of Czech ingredients, with dishes such as wild boar stew, venison schnitzel, and trout fillet with almond crust. Pair your meal with a glass of Czech wine or a craft beer from a local brewery for the perfect dining experience.

From historic beer halls and cosy taverns to elegant restaurants and hidden gems, Prague offers a wealth of options for sampling traditional Czech cuisine. Whether you’re craving hearty stews and roast meats or indulgent pastries and sweet treats, these top restaurants are sure to satisfy your appetite and leave you with a taste of Prague’s rich culinary heritage.