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Prague, with its captivating Old Town Square and centuries of history, is a city that weaves a spell around visitors. While exploring the winding streets and iconic landmarks, you’ll undoubtedly work up an appetite. What better way to satiate your hunger than by experiencing the flavors of authentic Czech cuisine? In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of Prague and introduce you to the top five restaurants where you can savor traditional Czech dishes.
U Fleků
Our culinary journey kicks off at U Fleků, one of Prague’s oldest and most iconic beer halls. Founded in 1499, this historic brewery and restaurant have been serving traditional Czech food for over five centuries. As you step inside, you’ll feel transported to another era with its rustic interior.
Start your meal with a glass of their renowned Flekovský Tmavý Ležák, a dark lager brewed on-site. Pair it with the traditional Czech goulash, a hearty stew made with tender beef, onions, and paprika, served with dumplings. The flavors of this dish are deeply satisfying, and the dumplings are perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
Another must-try dish at U Fleků is the Svíčková na Smetaně, marinated beef sirloin served with a creamy sauce, cranberries, and bread dumplings. It’s a delightful blend of savory and sweet that captures the essence of Czech cuisine.
Lokál
For a more contemporary take on Czech classics, look no further than Lokál. With several locations throughout Prague, Lokál offers a modern twist on traditional Czech dishes while preserving an authentic atmosphere.
Start your Lokál experience with an order of nakládaný hermelín, pickled camembert cheese, and a basket of chlebíčky, open-faced sandwiches topped with various spreads and garnishes. These appetizers provide a tantalizing introduction to Czech flavors.
For the main course, try the Vepřo-knedlo-zelo, a quintessential Czech dish featuring roast pork, sauerkraut, and bread dumplings. Lokál’s version is both flavorful and satisfying. Complement your meal with a refreshing glass of Pilsner Urquell, a Czech classic.
Café Louvre
For a touch of elegance and a glimpse into Prague’s literary and intellectual history, make your way to Café Louvre. This historic café has been a gathering place for artists, writers, and thinkers for over a century.
While Café Louvre is renowned for its breakfast offerings and decadent desserts, don’t miss out on their Czech specialties. Start with a bowl of traditional garlic soup, česnečka, which will warm your soul. For the main course, sample the tender and succulent roast duck with red cabbage and potato dumplings. It’s a dish that embodies the heartiness of Czech cuisine.
Café Louvre is also famous for its traditional Czech apple strudel, štrůdl, and creamy hot chocolate. Take your time here, savoring not just the food but also the historical ambiance.
U Medvídků
U Medvídků is a historic brewery and restaurant located in the heart of Prague’s Old Town. Dating back to 1466, it’s one of the oldest breweries in the city. The interior exudes Old World charm, making it an ideal place to immerse yourself in Czech culture.
Start your meal with their legendary Budweiser Budvar beer, followed by the hearty Old Bohemian Roast Duck, served with red cabbage, potato dumplings, and a velvety duck gravy. The duck at U Medvídků is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, a perfect representation of Czech culinary expertise.
If you have room for dessert, don’t miss their traditional Czech honey cake, medovník. It’s a delightful way to end your meal on a sweet note.
Mlejnice
To complete our list of must-visit Czech restaurants in Prague, we arrive at Mlejnice, a charming eatery nestled in the Lesser Town (Malá Strana). Mlejnice has earned a reputation for its cozy atmosphere and exceptional Czech dishes.
Kickstart your Mlejnice experience with an order of smažený sýr, fried cheese served with tartar sauce. It’s a beloved Czech appetizer that’s crispy on the outside and delightfully gooey on the inside.
For the main course, try the svíčková, a marinated beef dish served with cream sauce, cranberries, and—yes, you guessed it—bread dumplings. The flavors are rich and comforting, making it a true Czech comfort food classic.
Prague’s culinary scene is as diverse as its history and architecture. Exploring the city’s traditional Czech restaurants is not just a chance to satisfy your taste buds but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and history of this enchanting city.
From the centuries-old charm of U Fleků to the modern interpretations at Lokál, the intellectual ambiance at Café Louvre, the historical allure of U Medvídků, and the coziness of Mlejnice, these five restaurants offer a diverse range of experiences while staying true to the flavors of authentic Czech cuisine.
So, when you find yourself in Prague, carve out time in your itinerary for a gastronomic adventure through these exceptional dining establishments. Your taste buds—and your soul—will thank you for the unforgettable journey into the heart of Czech culinary tradition.
