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The Best Restaurants in Krakow for Cultured Dishes
11 May 2019
By Ryan Burton
When it comes to exuding dining with a difference – there’s no city on the continent that does it better than Krakow. While this food-obsessed city is still waiting for well-deserved recognition from the Michelin guide, in the meantime, Poland’s artistic epicentre has carved its own culinary path.
Crowned as the European Capital of Gastronomic Culture 2019, the first award of its kind, it’s safe to say that Krakow comes loaded with a scrumptious variety of hidden foodie gems. Whether its going a la carte or opting for something more casual, its mix of refined restaurants and delectable diners provide menus fit for any occasion.
There’s a wealth of delicacies to try – so, whatever your taste, we’re sure you’ll discover a homegrown speciality that’ll leave you satisfied. Take a look at our guide to the city’s best restaurants for local delights.
Restauracja Starka
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Set in Krakow’s iconic Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz, this authentic restaurant is a trusted favourite amongst both locals and tourists. Spread across two rooms, an endearing ambience is created by ardent red walls, intricate paintings and candle lights.
When taking your first tentative steps into the world of Polish cuisine, there’s no better place to start than this relaxing joint – where a whole host of traditional flavours can be savoured across three tantalising courses.
What’s on the menu? To kick off your mouth-watering journey, meat-filled pierogis (dumplings) or Zalewajka soup (potato broth with white sausage and smoked bacon) are the way to go.
For your main, Poland’s tomato and wild mushroom infused on cabbage wraps (Gołąbki) is a delight. And to finish, the homemade walnut cake is an absolute must. Meanwhile, the bar is packed full of different varieties of vodkas for you to try.
What to drink? Kraków Martini – Vodka, cherry liqueur, grapefruit juice, sugar and syrup
Where is it? Józefa 14, 31-056 Kraków, Poland
What are the prices like? A three-course meal for two and a bottle of wine to share will cost around 250 zloty, which is around the £50 mark.
Opening times
Sunday to Thursday: 12pm to 11pm
Friday to Saturday: 12pm to 12pm
Zielona Kuchnia
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Nestled away from the main tourist attractions, this dynamic restaurant showcases its fresh take on healthy eating. Translating as ‘Green Kitchen’, it’ll come as no great surprise that its speciality is providing tasty treats cooked with fresh produce and is good for the waistline too!
While the menu may seem underwhelming at first glance, don’t let its stripped down size fool you – the old adage of ‘quality over quantity’ reigns supreme here. Trust us, the striking colours and tangy tastes will knock your socks off!
What’s on the menu? Flavourful salads, succulent meats and seasoned fish are specialities at this establishment. Whether you choose to start with the pan-fried scallops or pumpkin and truffle cheesecake, your opening dish will soon get your taste buds flowing.
Fruit-infused sea bass and a duo of fine cut steaks are show-stoppers, while vegetarians will be blown away by the goats cheese gnocchi. And with everything from panna cotta and seasonal fruit crumble to gooey chocolate goodness all featuring on the dessert menu, you won’t be able to resist indulging your sweet tooth.
What to drink? Share a bottle of Prosecco.
Where is it? Ambrożego Grabowskiego 8, 30-126 Kraków, Poland
What are the prices like? Three-courses and your favourite tipple should come to around 150 zloty (£30).
Opening times
Monday to Friday: 1pm to 10pm
Sunday: 1pm to 8pm
Albertina Restaurant & Wine
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When it comes to a la carte dining, there’s no place that does it better than this lavish establishment. If you’re looking to go all out in Krakow and spoil your senses (particularly the taste ones!) to the life of luxury – then look no further than the city’s finest gourmet restaurant.
If its unique fusion of Polish and Mediterranean flavours wasn’t enough to entice you, then a carefully crafted wine list that boasts an option to suit every dish should do the trick. And if that wasn’t enough, the service provided by the waiting staff is simply exceptional. Sound good? Make sure you book in advance to avoid disappointment!
What’s on the menu? While this classy eatery is the wearer of many crowns, seafood is most definitely the focal point in its jewel-encrusted cap. The oysters and mackerel are equally delicious but eyes are all drawn towards the lobster – and with its very own lobster – it’s little wonder!
Foie gras and beef tenderloin provide other highlights. Make sure you save some room for dessert and try its sweet speciality – the homemade apple and fudge tart. And of course, we can’t forget the wine, with a variety of dry whites, fruity reds and everything in between all served by the glass.
What to drink? Treat yourself to a glass (or two) of the Albertina Chardonnay.
Where is it? Dominikańska 3, 31-043 Kraków, Poland
What are the prices like? Four courses and two large glasses of wine will set you back anything from 350 zloty (£70) to 500 zloty (£100).
Opening times
Monday to Sunday: 12pm to 11pm
Where to stay:
Leone Aparthotel: Situated in the Old Town district, you can’t get much closer to Krakow’s action. This historic stay dates back to 1906 with traditional furnishings throughout. However, you can still enjoy modern perks such as free Wi-Fi.
Kossak Hotel: Celebrated for its central location, this super stylish accommodation is a fantastic pick. The rooftop restaurant is the main highlight with its impressive views of the city, while your room is the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Spatz Aparthotel: This boutique hotel is a fantastic base during your time in Krakow with all of the city’s major attractions within walking distance. Start your day with a hearty buffet breakfast and end it in the comfort of your beautifully designed room where free toiletries, a mini bar and satellite TV await your arrival.
Czarna Kaczka The Black Duck
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With its mass of hearty regional dishes, this traditional restaurant comes packed full of choices to help satisfy your taste buds. Situated in the southern part of Krakow’s Old Town, you can expect a masterclass in rustic cooking served alongside a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Just in case the name wasn’t a giveaway, duck plays a huge role in its signature dishes. In the warmer months you’re invited to dine out on its outdoor terrace area, which has unsurprisingly proved to be a popular place for lunch meetups and evening festivities, so try and book ahead to bag your spot.
What’s on the menu? Whilst duck plays a starring role on the menu, with everything from old polish styles to a walnut and chicken stuffed concoction forming the chefs specials, there are other local favourites you can try.
Potato pancakes and goulash are equally delightful while the hunter’s bigos served in a bowl made of bread is another big hit. Be warned, you may feel spoilt for choice when it comes to picking out a dessert – with carrot cake, hot chocolate soufflé and homemade apple pie with ice cream making up the delectable choices.
What to drink? A local craft ale will go nicely with your complimentary shot of plum vodka.
Where is it? Poselska 22, 31-002 Kraków, Poland
What are the prices like? Very reasonable – three courses can cost as little as 60 zloty (£12) and even if you opt for the pricier duck specials, you’ll still only be paying around 125 zloty (£25).
Opening times
Monday to Sunday: 12pm to 11pm
Pod Wawelem
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Not one for the faint-hearted or half full stomachs, Pod Wawelem presents Polish fare in the form of belly busting meat boards. Set a stone’s throw from Wawel Castle, you’ll need to unleash your inner warrior to take down one of its table sized platters
While the task set before you may seem beyond the realms of possibility – fear not – there’s another hero joining you on your epic culinary quest. Waiting staff are on hand to bring you steins of ice-cold beer to help wash down your mouth-watering slab of meats. With your frothy ally in hand and the jaunty sounds of live folk music to spur you on, we’re sure that you’ll emerge victorious. Just make sure you set some time aside afterwards to recover!
What’s on the menu? An astonishing selection of meats are all vying for a place in your stomach. Melt-in-the-mouth schnitzels, flame grilled steaks and juicy kebabs make up some of the options. But for a true taste sensation, we recommend trying the restaurant’s special – crispy roasted pork knuckle served with mustard, grated horseradish and potatoes.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something lighter, there’s an equally varied choice of fresh seafood dishes and colourful salads. And for dessert, you must try the homemade apple strudel coated with walnuts and almonds.
What to drink? Pilsner Urquell – by the stein, of course!
Where is it? Świętej Gertrudy 26/29, 31-048 Kraków, Poland
What are the prices like? While three courses presents extremely good value for money, we think you might struggle to finish it all! Sticking to a meaty main and refreshing stein will cost around 70 zloty (£14). There’s daily offers, so keep your eye out for them.
Opening times
Monday to Sunday: 12pm to 11pm
Milkbar Tomasza
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Discovering a country’s food culture is not all about going gourmet, and in Krakow, there’s a wealth of cheap eat joints that serve up a true taste of Poland. Set in the heart of the Old Town, this traditional milk bar has stuck close to its culinary roots. It may not look up to much on the outside, but the true magic is reserved for when you walk through its doors – not least with its eye-popping variety of local favourites.
Choices are showcased across its wall-sized chalkboards. Imagine a cafe, but not the greasy spoon type! The decor here is simple yet modern, and with a vibrant atmosphere to soak up, you’ll soon see why this cosy eatery is a go-to spot for both locals and tourists.
What’s on the menu? It’s simple – no-frills comfort food. In the mornings you can kick start your day with a serving of pancakes, scrambled eggs or a made-to-order omelette. And with coffee, tea and fruit juices to wash it down with, you’ll be fuelled up for the day’s first adventure.
For lunch and dinner, take your pick from pierogis or potato pancakes, where creamy mushroom sauce and cottage cheese are among the filling options. Why not treat yourself to a sweet crepe for pudding?
What to drink? A cafe latte with double shot of espresso.
Where is it? Świętego Tomasza 24, 33-332 Kraków, Poland
What are the prices like? With a main meal and hot drink costing between 15-20 zloty (£3-4), this is where you want to be for a budget friendly breakfast. Meanwhile, the lunch and dinner menus are no stranger to savings, offering dishes for just 5 zloty (£1) more!
Opening times
Monday: Closed
Tuesday to Saturday: 8am to 8pm
Sunday: 9am to 8pm
These are just some of the eating establishments this amazing place has to offer. With so much to choose from, your taste buds will be in heaven. Make sure you choose Krakow for your next city break – where foodie nirvana is ready and waiting.
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