Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic, is a culinary destination that seamlessly blends traditional Czech gastronomy with innovative international cuisine. From Michelin-starred establishments to hidden local gems, the city’s restaurant scene offers a diverse array of dining experiences that cater to every palate and preference. Whether you’re seeking authentic Czech flavours, cutting-edge culinary concepts, or panoramic views of the city’s stunning architecture, Prague’s vibrant food landscape has something extraordinary to offer.
Michelin-starred culinary excellence in prague
For those in pursuit of gastronomic perfection, Prague boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants that showcase the pinnacle of culinary artistry. These establishments combine innovative techniques with locally-sourced ingredients to create unforgettable dining experiences.
La degustation bohême bourgeoise: innovative czech tasting menus
La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise stands as a beacon of modern Czech cuisine, offering a tasting menu that pays homage to traditional recipes while embracing contemporary culinary techniques. The restaurant’s intimate setting provides the perfect backdrop for their meticulously crafted dishes, each telling a story of Czech culinary heritage reimagined for the 21st century.
Chef Oldřich Sahajdák’s innovative approach to Czech gastronomy has earned La Degustation its coveted Michelin star. The tasting menu, which changes seasonally, might include dishes such as beef tongue with horseradish and apple, or pike perch with fermented cucumber and dill. Each course is a testament to the chef’s creativity and dedication to showcasing the best of Czech ingredients.
Field: modern european cuisine with local ingredients
Field, under the guidance of Chef Radek Kašpárek, has quickly become one of Prague’s most exciting culinary destinations. The restaurant’s philosophy centres on the creative use of local, seasonal ingredients to craft dishes that are both visually stunning and gastronomically complex.
The minimalist décor of Field allows the food to take centre stage. Diners can expect innovative dishes such as pigeon with beetroot and blackberry, or turbot with celery and caviar. The restaurant’s commitment to sourcing the finest local ingredients is evident in every bite, making it a true celebration of Czech terroir.
Alcron: seafood specialties in art deco ambiance
While Alcron may have recently lost its Michelin star, it remains one of Prague’s most respected fine dining establishments. Specialising in seafood dishes, Alcron offers an intimate dining experience with only seven tables, ensuring personalised service and attention to detail.
The restaurant’s Art Deco interior, complete with a striking mural by Tamara de Lempicka, provides a sophisticated backdrop for Chef Roman Paulus’s culinary creations. Signature dishes might include butter-poached lobster or sea bass with truffle risotto, each expertly prepared and beautifully presented.
Traditional czech gastronomy reimagined
While Michelin-starred restaurants offer exquisite dining experiences, Prague’s culinary scene also excels in reimagining traditional Czech cuisine. These establishments pay homage to the country’s rich culinary heritage while infusing modern techniques and presentations.
Lokál dlouhááá: authentic pilsner urquell and czech classics
Lokál Dlouhááá has become a beloved institution among locals and tourists alike, offering a true taste of Czech pub culture. The restaurant takes pride in serving perfectly poured Pilsner Urquell beer, drawn directly from tanks to ensure optimal freshness and flavour.
The menu at Lokál Dlouhááá features Czech classics prepared with a focus on quality ingredients and traditional techniques. Diners can savour dishes such as svíčková na smetaně (beef sirloin in cream sauce) or smažený sýr (fried cheese), all made with locally-sourced produce. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity extends to its interior, which captures the essence of a traditional Czech pub.
Café imperial: art nouveau splendor and svíčková na smetaně
Housed in the stunning Art Nouveau Imperial Hotel, Café Imperial offers a dining experience that is as visually impressive as it is gastronomically satisfying. The café’s ornate interior, with its intricate tiled walls and ceiling, provides a glimpse into Prague’s golden age of architecture and design.
Under the guidance of celebrity chef Zdeněk Pohlreich, Café Imperial serves up refined versions of Czech classics. The svíčková na smetaně here is particularly noteworthy, perfectly balancing the rich cream sauce with tender beef and tart cranberries. The café also offers an extensive breakfast menu, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely morning meal.
La bottega linka: Italian-Czech fusion in josefov
La Bottega Linka represents a unique fusion of Italian and Czech culinary traditions. Located in the historic Josefov district, this restaurant combines the warmth of an Italian trattoria with the robust flavours of Czech cuisine.
The open kitchen allows diners to watch as chefs prepare dishes using a custom-built Josper oven, which imparts a subtle smokiness to meats and vegetables. Standout dishes include the Prague ham carbonara, a clever twist on the Italian classic using local Prague ham, and the slow-roasted pork knee, a Czech favourite given an Italian-inspired treatment.
International flavours in prague’s culinary landscape
Prague’s restaurant scene is not limited to Czech cuisine; the city boasts an impressive array of international eateries that bring global flavours to the heart of Central Europe. These establishments showcase the culinary diversity that has become a hallmark of Prague’s dining landscape.
Sasazu: Pan-Asian cuisine and vibrant nightlife
SaSazu has established itself as a go-to destination for Pan-Asian cuisine in Prague. The restaurant’s sleek, modern interior sets the stage for an exciting culinary journey through the flavours of Southeast Asia.
Chef Shahaf Shabtay draws inspiration from his travels across Asia to create a menu that spans multiple cuisines. Diners can indulge in dishes such as Vietnamese pho, Thai green curry, and Japanese sushi, all prepared with authenticity and flair. As the evening progresses, SaSazu transforms into one of Prague’s hottest nightlife spots, with DJs and live performances adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Sansho: asian fusion with czech ingredients
Sansho, helmed by British chef Paul Day, offers a unique take on Asian fusion cuisine using locally-sourced Czech ingredients. The restaurant’s small, ever-changing menu reflects Day’s commitment to sustainability and seasonal cooking.
Dishes at Sansho might include soft shell crab sliders with wasabi mayonnaise or beef rendang made with Czech beef. The restaurant’s communal seating and relaxed atmosphere encourage diners to share plates and explore a variety of flavours. Sansho’s innovative approach to combining Asian techniques with Czech produce has earned it a loyal following among Prague’s food enthusiasts.
Divinis: mediterranean delights in staré město
Nestled in the heart of Prague’s Old Town, Divinis brings the flavours of the Mediterranean to the Czech capital. This intimate restaurant offers a menu inspired by Italian, Spanish, and Greek cuisines, all served in a charming, rustic setting.
Chef Zdeněk Pohlreich (of Café Imperial fame) oversees a menu that includes dishes such as beef carpaccio with truffle oil, seafood risotto, and grilled octopus. The restaurant’s extensive wine list features selections from across the Mediterranean region, perfectly complementing the cuisine. Divinis’ warm ambiance and attentive service make it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a leisurely lunch away from the bustle of the Old Town Square.
Riverside dining with panoramic views
Prague’s picturesque setting along the Vltava River provides the perfect backdrop for memorable dining experiences. Several restaurants take full advantage of these stunning views, offering guests the opportunity to savour excellent cuisine while enjoying panoramic vistas of the city’s iconic landmarks.
Mlýnec: contemporary czech cuisine overlooking charles bridge
Mlýnec boasts one of the most enviable locations in Prague, with its terrace offering unparalleled views of the Charles Bridge. This prime position is matched by the restaurant’s commitment to showcasing modern Czech cuisine at its finest.
The menu at Mlýnec strikes a balance between traditional Czech flavours and contemporary culinary techniques. Standout dishes include the duck breast with red cabbage and potato dumplings, and the trout with almond butter and capers. The restaurant’s extensive wine list features both Czech and international selections, allowing diners to perfectly pair their meals with the breathtaking views.
Marina ristorante: italian fare with vltava river vistas
For those seeking Italian cuisine with a side of stunning river views, Marina Ristorante is an excellent choice. Located on a boat moored on the Vltava River, this floating restaurant offers panoramic views of Prague Castle and the surrounding cityscape.
The menu at Marina Ristorante features classic Italian dishes prepared with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. From handmade pasta to wood-fired pizzas and fresh seafood, the restaurant offers a taste of Italy in the heart of Prague. The restaurant’s unique setting, combined with its delicious cuisine, makes it a popular choice for both romantic dinners and special occasions.
Hergetova cihelna: global menu with prague castle backdrop
Hergetova Cihelna, situated in a beautifully restored brick building on the banks of the Vltava, offers diners a globally-inspired menu alongside spectacular views of Prague Castle. The restaurant’s spacious terrace is particularly popular during the warmer months, providing an idyllic setting for al fresco dining.
The menu at Hergetova Cihelna reflects a diverse range of international influences, from Asian-inspired dishes to European classics. Highlights include the beef tartare prepared tableside, the Thai coconut soup, and the slow-cooked lamb shank. The restaurant’s extensive cocktail list and well-curated wine selection further enhance the dining experience, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
Hidden gems and local favourites
While Prague’s high-end restaurants and tourist hotspots often steal the spotlight, the city is also home to numerous hidden gems and local favourites that offer authentic experiences and exceptional cuisine. These establishments, often tucked away in residential neighbourhoods or housed in unexpected locations, provide a glimpse into the true culinary heart of Prague.
Eska: Industrial-Chic setting in karlín district
Located in the trendy Karlín district, Eska has quickly become a favourite among Prague’s food enthusiasts. Housed in a former factory, the restaurant’s industrial-chic interior sets the stage for an innovative dining experience that focuses on traditional Czech ingredients prepared with modern techniques.
Eska’s open kitchen allows diners to watch as chefs prepare dishes using methods such as fermentation, pickling, and smoking. The menu changes regularly based on seasonal availability, but might include dishes like smoked beef tongue with horseradish or potatoes baked in ash with cultured cream. The restaurant also houses a bakery, producing some of the best sourdough bread in the city.
Café savoy: Viennese-Style café with czech pastries
Café Savoy, with its ornate Neo-Renaissance ceiling and elegant interior, offers a glimpse into Prague’s café culture of the early 20th century. While the café serves excellent breakfast and lunch options, it’s particularly renowned for its pastries and desserts.
The café’s vitrine displays an tempting array of Czech and Viennese pastries, from traditional větrník (caramel choux pastry) to sachertorte. The hot chocolate, served in a small pot with a side of whipped cream, is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. Café Savoy’s combination of historical ambiance and delectable treats makes it a beloved institution among locals and visitors alike.
Kantýna: butcher shop concept with prime czech meats
Kantýna offers a unique dining concept that combines a butcher shop with a restaurant, allowing diners to select their cuts of meat before having them prepared to order. The restaurant’s focus on high-quality Czech beef and pork, along with its bustling, convivial atmosphere, has made it a hit with meat lovers.
The menu at Kantýna features a range of meat-centric dishes, from perfectly grilled steaks to traditional Czech roasts. The restaurant’s commitment to using every part of the animal is evident in dishes like beef tongue with chive sauce or pork head cheese. The self-service beer taps add to the casual, interactive dining experience, making Kantýna a true celebration of Czech meat and beer culture.
Prague’s culinary landscape offers a rich tapestry of dining experiences, from Michelin-starred establishments to hidden local gems. Whether you’re seeking innovative tasting menus, traditional Czech fare, international flavours, or stunning riverside views, the city’s diverse restaurant scene has something to satisfy every palate. By exploring these culinary destinations, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for Prague’s gastronomic heritage and its exciting culinary future.