There are some things you can be fairly sure of when you’re visiting Prague; As a city and as a travel destination, it hasn’t exactly flown under the radar for the last few decades. First and most reliably, there will be crowds, concentrated around the Old Town with its towering spires and picturesque squares, the Charles Bridge where cobbled pavements are punctuated with historic statues of famous Czech figures, and the around the domineering presence of Pražský Hrad, which appears to loom over the city, no matter where you are.
There will be spires. There will be historic streets and Gothic arches and lantern-lit alleyways that seem airlifted from a Brothers Grimm tale. There will be Kafka. There will be ornate and elegant buildings from the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. There will be goulash and dumplings, heavy as bricks but infinitely more satisfying. There will be medieval towers. And, yes, there will be people – quite a lot of them – especially around Old Town Square when the Astronomical Clock starts its hourly dance.
There will also be fantastic food. While Prague’s greatest hits are still as reliably popular as they have ever been, the city’s cuisine has been undergoing a quiet revolution. Yes, the Old Town may appear to be locked in a fairy-tale freeze-frame in order to appease the tourists, still filled with postcard stands and novelty absinthe shops, where tourist-trap pubs dish out stale and overpriced versions of Czech dishes, but look beyond the city centre (or even within it) and you’ll find moody wine bars tucked into cellars, new wave coffee shops that roast their own beans, and microbreweries challenging the pilsner status quo.
Things are changing. Sure, you’ll still find an abundance of stalls flogging Trdelník on almost every corner (never mind that it’s not exactly Czech), but you’re just as likely now to stumble into a Vietnamese bistro dishing out steaming bowls of pho; a nod to one of the city’s largest immigrant communities, and a reminder that Czech food, like Czech identity, is more layered than it looks.
The city’s contemporary restaurants reflect this gastronomic transformation. It’s a movement led by ambitious chefs who aim to celebrate their heritage while boldly redefining it and adding a new twist; swapping lard for beurre blanc, adding foraged ingredients from Bohemian forests, or serving knedlíky alongside ingredients you’d normally associate with fine dining. Whether you prefer Scandinavian-like purity, a dramatic twist on classics, or sophisticated Italian interpretations, the city’s dining scene seems to offer everything.
This renewal isn’t about disregarding tradition, it’s about honouring it while making it relevant to a 21st-century palate.
At the centre of this movement is the Ambiente group, founded by Tomáš Karpíšek, and a powerhouse of restaurants that celebrate Czech traditions while adding a contemporary, forward-thinking edge. I am always quick to suggest to people that, if they want a guarantee of great Czech food, then an Ambiente venue is the place to go. The group’s portfolio, from the bustling beer hall Lokal to the Scandinavian-inspired Eska and communal butcher’s restaurant Kantýna, reflects a deep understanding of ingredients, seasonality and context.
Together, these restaurants reflect a growing movement in Prague that is a return to roots, a reverence for ingredients and a forward-thinking approach to cooking.
It has been enough for people to take notice. In June 2025, The Michelin Guide announced that Czechia would make its first-ever appearance as a country-wide destination, when previously, only Prague featured. Prague already shines with two Michelin-starred gems: La Dégustation Bohême Bourgeoise, run by Oldřich Sahajdák, and Field, led by Radek Kašpárek, but it will no longer be confined to the capital, and instead, the publications inspectors have been scouring the country for the best dining spots from West Bohemia to North Moravia, from Plzen to Ostrava, and everywhere in between.
While there is a focus on revamping centuries of tradition, Prague’s evolving culinary scene is increasingly shaped by its diverse communities. You just have to look at the arrival of thousands of Ukrainian refugees since 2022 and how it has gently altered Prague’s food Scene. Cafés and markets now stock borsch, syrniki and varenyky, while chefs integrate galushki and hearty stews into their menus.
None of these immigrant communities are more prominent than the city’s large and vibrant Vietnamese population. Their influence isn’t just found in bustling markets or steaming bowls of pho, but in the hybrid cafés and restaurants reinterpreting Czech classics through a multicultural lens.
With over 60,000 Vietnamese people living in the Czech Republic – one of the largest non-European minority groups in the country – their cultural and culinary footprint has become a distinct part of Czech life.
The origins of the Vietnamese presence here trace back, somewhat obviously, to the Cold War era. This is when Czechoslovakia, as part of the Eastern Bloc, maintained strong diplomatic ties with fellow communist countries, including North Vietnam. In the 1970s and 1980s, an official labour and education exchange programme brought thousands of young Vietnamese workers and students to Czechoslovakia. They were trained in Czech factories, technical schools, and universities.
While many returned home after their contracts ended, a significant number stayed, especially after the Velvet Revolution in 1989, when Czechoslovakia transitioned to democracy and its economy opened up. Former factory workers reinvented themselves as entrepreneurs, opening convenience stores, market stalls, and import businesses. One of the largest Vietnamese-run marketplaces in Europe, SAPA, was established in Prague’s outskirts. It’s a vibrant, sprawling commercial hub often dubbed “Little Hanoi.”
Today, second-generation Vietnamese‑Czechs are reshaping Prague’s food scene. A prime example is Taro, under chef Khanh Tran, who blends European ingredients with Southeast Asian techniques, creating rich bowls of pho layered with Czech-raised beef, or bánh mì infused with local pickles. In a way, it’s a culinary dialogue between two homelands.
With all of these changes of the past 20 to 40 years, Prague feels both familiar and newly alive. The essentials remain: the clink of beer glasses on worn wooden tables in historic beer halls, the scent of caraway and garlic drifting from a bowl of steaming goulash, the theatrical chime of the Astronomical Clock.
However, now, once-overlooked neighbourhoods like Vinohrady and Karlín are coming into their own. Here, you’ll find third-wave coffee shops tucked into Art Nouveau buildings, design-forward wine bars that champion Moravian vintages and young Czech chefs creating a buzz by reimagining traditional recipes with a deep reverence for local ingredients.
There’s a deeper current, too. Prague has long been a crossroads of empires, ideologies, and cultures. Today, that mix includes vibrant communities from Vietnam, Ukraine, and beyond, their influence now unmistakable in the food. In this evolving mosaic, tradition doesn’t disappear; it’s simply joined by new layers.
This guide to Prague’s food scene will help you navigate both the time-tested and the newly blossoming parts of the city, introducing you to some of my favourite places and essential stops, each of them easy to miss if you’re just following the crowds. Here, then, is a collection of recommendations to help you eat and drink your way through the city, with a foam-leden glass of Pilsner in hand, of course.
Where to Eat Czech Food In Prague
Prague’s culinary scene is a compelling blend of old-world flavours and modern refinement. Traditional Czech cuisine, once defined by pub grub and tourist-trap goulash, has undergone a quiet renaissance. Today, Prague’s best restaurants serve food that is more than just plates of meat and dumplings; It is about maintaining history while elevating the typical dumplings and soups to something more elevated, pairing roast meats with Moravian wines and crisp Czech lagers in lovingly restored spaces. Prague’s restaurants are redefining what it means to eat well and eat locally.
Kantýna
Where: Politických vězňů 1511/5, 110 00 Nové Město
When: Mon to Sat 11.30am – 11pm; 11.30am – 10pm
Traditional Czech cuisine can be a little heavy on the meat, and few restaurants capture and embrace this along with the spirit of modern Czech dining quite as boldly as Kantýna. Set in a beautifully opulent former bank building in Prague’s New Town, this grand, high-ceilinged canteen pays homage to the city’s enduring relationship with meat. At first glance, it feels more like a gallery than a restaurant, where marble columns and brass lighting by Rudolf Netík complement sculptures by Czech Art Nouveau sculptor Jan Štursa and elegant, custom furnishings.
Kantýna doesn’t just serve meat, it venerates it, with a focus on Czech breeds, local sourcing, and nose-to-tail cooking with cuts lovingly arranged behind counters and butchers in crisp aprons ready to advise on their offering.
The dining hall style room, with counters around the perimeter, fills quickly, so I would advise arriving early for lunch or dinner. Even when I sat down in the early afternoon, the place was buzzing with office workers tucking into steaming plates of pork neck and bread dumpling while enjoying crisp pints of unfiltered Pilsner Urquell direct from the tank.
What to order: I visited Kantýna with a stomach that was already half full of Czech meats and pickles, so I didn’t think my appetite could handle any of the larger cuts of meat, although I’m told that the dry-aged sirloin is fantastic. Instead, I had a small plate of crisp and crunchy garlic potato pancakes – a homely classic – along with some pulled beef, pickled vegetables and a couple of plump and tasty grilled sausages with mustard, all of which were delicious.
Bufet
Where: U Nádražní lávky 81/2, 186 00 Karlín
When: Daily 11am – 9pm
Sitting in a complex on Karlin’s Sokolovská that is home to some of the best spots in the neighbourhood for Czech food – Lokal is pouring perfect Pilsners alongside redefined comfort food for the modern Czech diner, Antonínovo Pekařství bakery, which bakes some of the best loafs and pastries in the city, and a modern craft brewery in the form of DVA Kohouti – Bufet is helmed by chef Filip Sajler, and takes the country’s rustic staples, reimagining them in small plates, reminiscent of larger tapas but firmly rooted in Czech cuisine.
It’s a cool, stylish spot, and the menu is ever-changing, meaning you’re unlikely to have the same choice, even if you visit on multiple occasions. It could be a simple burger and fries, or smoked trout with pickled cucumber and dill oil, beef cheeks slow-cooked to perfection, and freshly baked rye bread topped with whipped lard and sea salt. Everything is crafted with elegance, yet nothing feels overworked. This is simple, hearty food.
What to order: As the menu is constantly evolving, making specific recommendations is difficult. However, I can tell you that the two dishes I ate – perfectly seasoned beef tartar topped with a golden egg yolk and a salad of pungent Olomoucké tvarůžky – were both delicious.
Restaurace Červený jelen
Where: Hybernská 1034/5, 110 00 Nové Město
When: Mon to Fri 11.30 – 11pm; Sat 12pm – 11pm; Sun 12pm – 10pm
I wouldn’t often recommend restaurants that are in the middle of heavily touristed areas, but sitting behind a neoclassical façade just off Republic Square, Červený Jelen, The Red Stag, is a must-visit in Prague. Housed in the former Anglo-Austrian Bank building, its restored interiors blend industrial chic with Art Nouveau flair. Here, you’ll find soaring ceilings, vaulted brick arches, and a copper-clad beer tap wall that stretches over two floors. It’s also a place with a deep respect for Czech culinary heritage.
Chef Marek Fichtner has taken the time and effort to reimagine traditional dishes with contemporary precision. This isn’t the Czech food you know. Instead, you’ll find tender roast pork belly paired with a light cabbage foam, svíčková turned elegant with juniper-infused cream, and desserts like honey cake reworked with herbal syrups and forest fruits. The beer, naturally, flows freely, and the wine list draws heavily from Moravia’s best vintners.
What to order: A centre-point of the restaurant’s kitchen is their two-ton ‘Inferno’ grill, imported from Washington, and so the grilled meats are the go-to dishes at Červený Jelen. You can’t go wrong with one of their steaks, but why not go for a wild boar loin or pork neck steak from black mottled Přeštice pig?
Kuchyň
Where: Hradčanské nám. 186/1, 118 00 Praha 1-Hradčany
When: Daily 11.30am – 11pm
Perched just beside the entrance to Prague Castle, Kuchyň has somehow passed me by until my most recent visit to Prague, when Michaela, the owner of the food tour company Prague City Adventures, insisted that I must visit. I’m glad that I did.
Backed by the Ambiente group, famed for reviving Czech culinary heritage and always an indicator that you’re going to get a quality meal, Kuchyň has one of the best locations in the city, on the bottom floor of a Baroque palace with a terrace that offers sweeping views over Malá Strana. In contrast, the interior is kept simple and elegant; A couple of small, vaulted rooms with wooden tables, an open kitchen and hand-painted tiles covering the walls. It’s intimate and inviting.
However, it’s the food here that shines. The concept is simple: Head Chef Marek Janouch has created a perfectly crafted menu of home-style dishes inspired by traditional Czech kitchens, just given a slightly modern twist. You’ll find rich goulash, crispy duck, creamy dill sauce with dumplings, all made from the best ingredients and presented with a simplicity that lets the food’s flavours shine. Pair this with a glass of cold, perfectly kept tank Pilsner or a robust Moravian wine, find a spot by the window, and watch the city unfold beneath you – you’ll soon realise that there are few places in Prague where the food, view, and ambience come together in such a perfect way
What to order: While an obvious choice may be to go for the set menu and wine pairing, I was advised that there are two essential dishes that you have to try at Kuchyň; the starter of carp marinated in citrus, served with shallots, apple and dill, and the beef hanger in red wine sauce as a main. Both were delicious, and I even decided to treat myself to a venison tartare (the best tartare I ate in a city of fantastic tartares), as the food was so good.
U Fleků
Where: Křemencova 11, 110 00 Nové Město
When: Daily 10am – 11pm
Tucked away on a quiet street in Prague’s New Town, U Fleků is no ordinary pub; it’s a living monument to the Czech Republic’s brewing tradition. Founded in 1499, this historic beer hall has been pouring pints for over five centuries, making it one of Central Europe’s oldest continuously operating breweries. With its dark wood-panelled halls, stained glass windows, and centuries-old brewing vats, stepping inside feels like slipping back in time.
U Fleků’s signature dark lager, Flekovský Tmavý Ležák 13°, is brewed on-site using time-honoured techniques. It’s rich and malty, fermented in oak barrels and served unfiltered, offering a smooth, full-bodied flavour that draws in travellers from around the world.
Beyond the beer, U Fleků offers a full sensory experience: hearty Czech dishes, the brassy cheer of accordion-led folk music, and surly waiters whizzing around with trays full of pints ready to place in front of thirsty guests. This is the place to come to if you want to experience a traditional Czech beer hall.
What to order: Don’t expect anything fancy at U Fleků. They specialise in simple, hearty plates of Old Bohemian specialities and classic Czech recipes. The obvious choice would be to have a plate of svíčková, the quintessential Czech dish of tender beef sirloin with a luscious creamy sauce and accompanied by bread dumplings; however, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here.
Masna Kozí
Where: Kozí 9, 110 00 Staré Město
When: Monday to Friday 8am – 6pm
On the edge of the Jewish Quarter, Masna Kozí is part of a new generation of Prague eateries reimagining the city’s traditional delis and meat counters to bring them up to date for contemporary diners and shoppers.
Equal parts butcher shop, deli, and casual dining spot, its stripped-back appearance manages to make it modern, with a hint of Czech tradition. The glass counter is filled with meats – dry-aged sirloin, veal chops, handmade sausages – a whole host of different cheeses, and pots filled with pickles, slaws and sides such as horseradish potatoes or fermented cabbage.
Alongside these takeaway options, there’s a short, rotating daily menu that usually consists of a few different soups, classic mains such as gnocchi or egg in dill sauce, or baked chicken thighs with mash.
It’s a great place to stop for a snack while wandering the New Town or Jewish Quarter, offering an ingredient-focused dining experience that not only gives you an insight into traditional foods but also manages to feel confidently fresh.
What to order: While I could have picked an entire meal from the selection of salads and pickles that occupy the deli counter, I opted to dine from their compact permanent menu. It has two choices of breakfasts – simple dishes of scrambled eggs or a butcher’s breakfast of sausage and bacon – as well as sandwiches, burgers and hot dogs for those looking to grab a quick, lunchtime snack.
The thick and goey slab of deep-fried Gouda in a housemade bun was slathered in tartar sauce, and, despite the concern I had for the condition of my arteries after consuming it, I wolfed it down as it was so good. Washing it down with a bottle of local, craft beer certainly helped.
Sisters Bistro v Dlouhé
Where: 39, Dlouhá 727, Staré Město
When: Monday to Friday 8am – 8pm; Saturday & Sunday 9am – 6pm
People outside of Czechia may have never heard of chlebíčky, but here, they are an institution and a staple of celebrations or family gatherings. These classic Czech open-faced sandwiches, typically served on a slice of white bread or veka (a soft Czech loaf), is often topped with a variety of ingredients like ham, salami, cheese, egg, pickles, and potato or egg salad.
The origin of the chlebíček dates back to 1916 in Prague, when Jan Paukert opened an elegant deli on Národní Street. Inspired by French hors d’oeuvres and local cold platters, Paukert began serving decorative, small open sandwiches that quickly became popular with Prague’s elite, including President Masaryk and other celebrities. It soon became a beloved national dish.
At Sisters Bistro, these simple snacks are given a radical makeover. Located in the stylish Dlouhá Gourmet Passage, this tiny, light-filled space offers beautifully composed bites: beetroot tartare with goat cheese, smoked mackerel with horseradish mousse, roast beef with truffle mayonnaise.
Each chlebíček is a miniature artwork, and it’s a perfect lunch stop or snack break while exploring the Old Town, offering a light and modern counterpoint to some of Czech cuisine’s heavier dishes.
What to order: When it comes to chlebíčky, there are so many options that the best thing to do is order 3 or four different ones to experience the variety of what’s on offer. Pair with a local wine or fresh elderflower soda.
Contemporary Dining In Prague
Despite the celebration of classic Czech cuisine in the above list, a new generation of chefs is putting a fresh spin on Czech cuisine, borrowing from European and international traditions while honouring local ingredients and referencing old recipes. From sleek tasting menus to stylish bistros, here are the best contemporary restaurants in Prague.
Eska
Where: Pernerova 49, 186 00 Praha 8-Karlín
When: Daily 8am – 7pm
I had been wanting to visit Eska since my very first trip to Prague, but was always foiled by the fact that this small, former industrial space in Karlin was often too busy for me to get a seat. It’s busy for a reason; Chef Martin Šoulák is a pioneer of the ‘new Czech’ movement, playing with texture and form, employing techniques like pickling, fermenting, and slow-cooking to unveil pure, deep flavours.
Eska is a lovely spot to while away a morning over brunch, sipping coffee, smelling the freshly-baked bread from their bakery, or browsing the condiments and sauces that are on sale in their shop. It’s cool, contemporary, and they do a mean breakfast.
What to order: While I’m told that their bread is some of the best in the city (and Czech people are serious about their bread), Eska’s potatoes in ash – a combination of potato, smoked fish pieces, egg yolk, dill and kefir – is a delicate masterpiece and has quickly become their signature. It’s a perfect representation of a restaurant that is forward-thinking yet profoundly rooted in Czech traditions.
The Eatery
Where: U Uranie 18, 170 00 Praha 7-Holešovice
When: Mon to Fri 11.30am – 2.30pm & 5.30pm – 10pm; Sat 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Tucked away in Holešovice, The Eatery is a neighbourhood restaurant with a huge following. Chef Pavel Býček lets the ingredients speak for themselves, crafting menus that reflect the seasons and showcase the best produce from nearby producers.
The cooking here is simple and unfussy — a piece of freshwater trout may be simply grilled and presented alongside a creamy potato purée; a perfectly medium-rare piece of beef might come with crispy kale and a rich demi-glace. This simplicity is reflected in the restaurant’s industrial style, with an open kitchen and trendy, minimalist feel.
The Eatery highlights simplicity, purity, and texture, letting ingredients take centre stage. It’s a place where less is more, and the true artistry lies in letting a handful of components come together in perfect harmony.
What to order: Despite being awarded a Bib Gourmand, prices here are surprisingly affordable. The lunch menu is compact, while the dinner offering is varied, ranging from lamb Cordon Ble with spinach, potato terrine and roasted garlic to poached siven fillet with baked potato mousse and leek ragout. Everything is beautifully plated with an immense amount of care, and you can’t go wrong with any dish on the menu.
Manifesto Market
Where: Ostrovského 34, 150 00 Praha 5-Anděl
When: Daily 12pm – 10pm
Nowadays, it seems that every city or destination has an abundance of street food markets; a cool and stylish place, often overly quirky, dishing out an array of world cuisine from independent vendors. However, Manifesto is more than just a regular food market.
Founded in 2018, Manifesto’s aim is to transform forgotten urban spaces into dynamic social hubs, attracting creatives, tourists and locals to descend on a previously downtrodden neighbourhood and empty their wallets in return for a tasty meal. Made entirely from repurposed shipping containers, it is a modular design that can be easily uprooted and transported to a new location.
The market is a feast for the senses. The scent of slow-cooked barbecue drifts past sizzling dumplings, while artisan pizzas emerge from wood-fired ovens, and craft cocktails are mixed with precision. From traditional Czech fare to Asian fusion, Latin American bites, and plant-based delights, Manifesto is a showcase of Prague’s evolving culinary landscape.
By day, it’s a relaxed oasis where locals sip espresso and enjoy gourmet street food under strings of twinkling lights. By night, the energy shifts; live music and DJ sets turn the market into an open-air festival, where visitors gather over steaming bowls of ramen or clink glasses filled with the ubiquitous Pilsner Urquell, Moravian wine, or locally brewed craft beers.
The market is a feast for the senses. The scent of slow-cooked barbecue drifts past sizzling dumplings, while artisan pizzas emerge from wood-fired ovens, and craft cocktails are mixed with precision. From traditional Czech fare to Asian fusion, Latin American bites, and plant-based delights, Manifesto is a showcase of Prague’s evolving culinary landscape.
By day, it’s a relaxed oasis where locals sip espresso and enjoy gourmet street food under strings of twinkling lights. By night, the energy shifts; live music and DJ sets turn the market into an open-air festival, where visitors gather over steaming bowls of ramen or clink glasses filled with the ubiquitous Pilsner Urquel, Moravian wine, or locally brewed craft beers.
What to order: However, I am reliably told that the best stall is Alebrijes Cocina Mexicana, and I can confirm that, after sampling a few tacos from them, my intel was correct. They’re the only stall that was asked to follow Manifesto to their new outpost in Berlin. If you’re looking for a sweeter treat, then the sweet, fruit-filled dumplings from Barva Ukrainian Cuisine are a must.
La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise
Where: Haštalská 18, 110 00 Staré Město
When: Daily 11.30am – 1.30pm & 6pm – 12.am
On a quiet side street in Prague’s Old Town, La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise is considered to be one of the best restaurants in Czechia. It’s a destination for food lovers who want to experience Czech cuisine at its best. Holder of a Michelin star, this intimate restaurant is the perfect combination of tradition and innovation, where age-old Bohemian recipes are reborn in a contemporary form.
It’s not cheap, but the tasting menus are a rich, multi-course journey that celebrates ingredients from small Czech producers alternating to reflect the changing seasons. Expect sophisticated interpretations of classics: dumplings made with heirloom grains, freshwater fish from nearby lakes, foraged herbs, and rich game, all presented with a sense of artistry. The chef team, led by Oldřich Sahajdák, aim to blend tradition and creativity to further illuminate the best of Czech food.
What to order: You won’t get an a la carte menu at La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise. They just offer a 5-course tasting menu for 2850 CZK, with a wine pairing for an additional 1850 CZK. The more extravagant pairing of renowned terroirs will set you back 3450 CZK.
Field
Where: U Milosrdných 12, 110 00 Staré Město
When: Mon to Fri 11am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10.30pm; Sat & Sun 12pm – 3pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
Awarded a Michelin star just a year after opening, Field says that they embody a ‘back-to-the-roots’ approach to food with a distinctly contemporary twist. Chef Radek Kašpárek is a master at letting ingredients speak for themselves, while adding a sophisticated, Scandinavian-like simplicity to each plate.
The dining room is sleek and pared back, providing a calm canvas against which the food speaks for itself. Kašpárekd draws upon his deep knowledge of traditional ingredients – meat and fish, heirloom root vegetables, and wild herbs – to craft multicourse tasting menus that reflect his rich agricultural heritage while transforming them into something refined and forward-thinking.
What to order: While Field may be one of Prague’s more expensive dining spots, they do offer a set lunch menu of 2 courses for 1,250 CZK or 3 for 1,500 CZK. The degustation menus are either 10 courses or a reduced version of 6 courses (vegetarian options are available).
Sandwich Rodeo
Where: Kamenická 602/24, 170 00 Praha 7-Holešovice
When: Tues to Fri 12pm – 10pm; Sat 11am – 10pm; Sun 10am – 9pm
I have something to admit. Even though I generally stick to a mostly vegetarian diet (even vegan, the majority of the time), I have one major weakness. Fried Chicken. I can’t get enough of that crispy, spiced batter and succulent poultry. That’s how a fast food restaurant dishing out US-style diner food has made it onto this list that is mostly made up of relatively sophisticated restaurants.
I became aware of Sandwich Rodeo when it was recommended by my friend Kate from Fabric of My Life. Tucked away in Letná, it brings a slice of classic US dining culture to Prague’s food scene. Housed in a stylish corner space with a warm, 1970s-inspired interior of wood panelling, vintage tiling, and leather-upholstered booths, it’s an incredibly cool place.
The menu focuses on overstuffed, boldly-flavoured sandwiches such as crispy buttermilk chicken with chilli oil, rich burger patties melting with oozing cheddar, buttery shrimp rolls, and a messy, moreish ‘Garbage Plate’ piled high with steak, crispy fries, slaw, and pickle. The food is hearty, dirty, and delicious.
If you still haven’t had enough of fast food, you’ll find Mr. Hotdog next door. This equally trendy spot is dedicated to all things dogs and buns. Try the Chicago-style Hot Dog, a savoury all-beef frank piled high with mustard, pickle, tomato, sport peppers, diced onion, and a dash of celery salt.
What to order: If my statement above didn’t make it obvious enough, I’d highly recommend their fried chicken sandwich. It was one of the best I’ve ever eaten.
Cà phê
Where: U Průhonu 1156/9, Holešovice
When: Mon to Fri 8am – 9pm; 10am – 8pm
While Czech food remains proudly rooted in tradition, Prague’s evolving culinary scene is increasingly shaped by its diverse expat and immigrant communities. None of these are more prominent than the city’s large and vibrant Vietnamese population. While Vietnamese and Southeast Asian restaurants are a dime a dozen in Prague, one of my favourite examples is Cà Phê.
It’s a lovely space to while away a morning; all soft lighting, terrazzo tables, and pastel tones. This is a minimalist café tucked in the heart of Vinohrady’s leafy residential streets where you’ll you’ll find a menu that tells a rich story of cultural fusion. It is more of a coffee shop than a typical Vietnamese restaurant, but it is also an excellent dialogue between two cultures and a celebration of the Vietnamese-Czech identity.
On one side of the counter, you’ll find delicate filter coffees brewed from beans sourced directly from Czech roasteries, along with typical central and eastern European pastries. On the other hand, you’ll find a fantastic take on Vietnamese cuisine: hearty bánh mì with pork pâté and pickled carrot served on chewy Czech rye; bowls of congee with crispy shallots and fermented vegetables; and Czech-inspired bánh chuối; banana cake laced with rum and served warm.
The decor is as thoughtful as the menu. Local art hangs on the walls, and Vietnamese pop plays softly in the background. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the contrast and connection between both Vietnamese and Czech cultures.
What to order: While I only stopped in for a quick brunch and coffee, meaning I didn’t sample much of the menu, I found that the 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐡 𝐝ừ𝐚 𝐧𝐨𝐧 𝐬ố𝐭 𝐥𝐚 𝐝ứ𝐚, fluorescent green crepes filled with a sweet and juicy mango/pineapple puree were an absolute delight. My dining partner opted for a steaming bowl of Phở bò nhỏand seemed equally happy with the selection.
Where to Eat Vegetarian & Vegan Food in Prague
Prague’s meat-free dining scene is diverse and continually growing, offering options that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re seeking traditional Czech dishes reimagined for vegetarian and vegan palates or looking for plant-based international cuisine, the city has plenty to offer.
Lehká Hlava
Where: Boršov 280/2, 110 00 Staré Město
When: Mon to Thurs 11.30am – 10.30pm; Friday 11.30am – 11 pm; Saturday 12pm – 11pm; Sun 12pm – 10.30pm
Lehká Hlava (which translates as “Clear Head” in English) is not just one of Prague’s most beloved vegetarian restaurants, it’s also one of its most visually appealing. I had multiple recommendations for friends telling me I should visit, and I don’t think I’d have found the restaurant if I hadn’t intentionally sought it out, tucked away as it is on a quiet lane in the Old Town.
It’s a peaceful and intimate spot that defies the rustic stereotype of Czech dining. Instead, it immerses visitors in a dreamlike atmosphere that feels more like stepping into a meditative art installation than a conventional cafe.
Each room in Lehká Hlava has its own distinct personality, carefully designed to evoke a sense of calm, creativity, and gentle playfulness. The main dining area is perhaps its most iconic: the ceiling here is painted deep indigo and embedded with softly glowing stars, creating the illusion of dining beneath a quiet, starlit sky. Another room is decked out in warm earth tones, natural wood, and Buddhist-inspired accents such as stone Buddhas, lotus motifs, and flowing lines that are intended to reflect the restaurant’s philosophical embrace of balance and mindfulness.
What to order: Thankfully, the menu at Lehká Hlava is as imaginative as the decor. The globally-inspired, completely vegetarian menu features everything from mouthwatering burgers and cheesy quesadillas to spicy curries and vegan stir-fries. Alongside this, there is a set menu that changes on a daily basis, consisting of a starter, main, and dessert at a bargain price. When I visited on a lunchtime, almost every other diner in the restaurant was eating from this menu, and it seemed like the go-to choice when in Lehká Hlava.
Maitrea Restaurace
Where: Týnská ulička 1064/6, 110 00 Staré Město
When: Mon to Thurs 11.30am – 10.30pm; Fri 11.30am – 11pm; Sat 12pm – 11pm; Sun 12pm – 10pm
When travelling in big cities, I generally have the policy of avoiding restaurants near crowded squares and main sights. However, Maitrea is an exception. Despite being just steps from the chaos of Prague’s Old Town Square, Maitrea offers a refuge of calm and clarity.
Designed in accordance with Feng Shui principles, the space is warm and grounding, with cascading water features and soft golden light. The menu mirrors this mindful approach, offering vegetarian dishes inspired by global cuisines alongside plant-based versions of classic Czech dishes. You’re just as likely to find a black beer goulash as you are a steaming bowl of ramen.
What to order: Despite the Asian-inspired aesthetic of the decor, the menu here is a real mixed bag. Alongside traditional dishes such as ‘duck’ with potato pancakes and a plant-based version of Czech Svíčková, there are a jumble of international dishes ranging from Tex-Mex nachos and Thai curries to kimchi udon bowls and lasagne. My recommendation is to forgo the non-Czech dishes and go for a vegetarian plate of something local – you are in Prague, after all.
CHUTNEJ vegan kitchen & café
Where: Letohradská 755/50, 170 00 Praha 7-Holešovice
When: Tues to Sun 10am – 10pm
Modern, bold, and distinctly local, Chutnej brings a fresh edge to Prague’s plant-based scene. Located in the trendy Holešovice district, this all-vegan eatery has a menu that is a mix between a playful celebration of comfort food, think mushroom burgers and baked gnocchi, and healthier bowls of colourful salads and rotating seasonal specials. The space is industrial but inviting, often buzzing with a young, conscious crowd.
Run by Renata and Jirka, two animal-loving foodies who want to introduce plant-based food to as many people as possible, Chutnej is found just a two-minute walk from Letenský Park, which offers some of the most beautiful views of Prague. The cafe will even put together a vegan picnic for you if you plan on dining al fresco.
What to order: The compact yet varied menu changes seasonally, so it will be different depending on the time of year you visit Prague. If you’re stopping by for breakfast or brunch, make sure to sample the mungo omelette filled with burnt leek, spinach and almond blue cheez, or the Syrniki, ‘cottage cheese’ pancakes, topped with strawberries, rhubarb sauce and vanilla cream.
The burgers look like they would be fantastic at any time of day, but I would personally opt for the polenta croquettes with hot dandelion honey or the kale salad made with grilled lupine tempeh, roasted potatoes, fennel, apple, orange, pickled cucumbers, and a mustard dressing.
Střecha
Where: Křemencova 7, 110 00 Nové Město
When: Mon to Sat 11am – 12am
In Prague’s edgier Žižkov district, Střecha (or ‘the Roof’) not only serves great vegetarian cuisine, but it is also a restaurant with a mission. Operated as a social enterprise, it employs individuals who have experienced homelessness or incarceration, offering not only delicious plant-based food but a pathway to reintegration. Expect hearty, homemade, and affordable vegan versions of Czech comfort food, from creamy dill sauces to tofu schnitzels.
What to order: I recommend going for vegan versions of Czech staples; a rich goulash made with dark Budvar beer or meat-free duck served with red cabbage and bread dumplings.
The Best Cafes & Bakeries in Prague
Prague may be better known for its castles and glasses of Pilsner, but its cafés and bakeries are of a standard that can compete with any other European city. Prague’s coffee culture runs deep and has a long history, from literary salons of the First Republic to decadent Austro-Hungarian era buildings, to today’s third-wave pioneers. In recent years, the Czech capital has become awash with roasteries and speciality coffee shops, making it a must-visit for coffee connoisseurs and pastry purists alike.
VNITROBLOCK
Where: Tusarova 791/31, 170 00 Praha 7-Holešovice
When: Daily 9am – 10pm
Housed in a converted factory in Holešovice, once the industrial backbone of Prague and now its creative frontier, Vnitroblock is a sprawling, graffiti and mural-covered hybrid space favoured by remote workers with laptops, digital nomads, or anyone looking for a cool and inspiring place to while away an hour or two.
There’s a café, but also a concept store, an art gallery, a dance studio, and pop-up events ranging from vintage markets to film screenings. Yet despite its size and scope, the small coffee bar at its centre remains its beating heart.
Espresso and filter options are made with beans from Rusty Nails and other Czech roasters, and there’s always something surprising on the menu; think beetroot lattes or coconut cappuccinos. Pastries, both vegan and classic, come from local artisan bakeries, while the lunch offering changes daily, complemented by a small but well-curated wine and beer offering. The seating is eclectic: salvaged cinema chairs, old sofas, and concrete benches, all fitting perfectly with the reclaimed, industrial setting. It’s a place that wears its rough edges proudly. The kind of place that invites you to stay for a flat white and end up attending an independent design fair.
Grounds L4 cafe
Where: Lázeňská 287/4, 118 00 Malá Strana
When: Mon to Fri 8am – 5pm; Sat & Sun 10am – 5pm
It took a few visits to Prague for me to make my way to Lázeňská 4, not for any reason other than the fact that I typically try to avoid the Malá Strana, also known as Lesser Town, due to the crowds, instead aiming to spend my time in the quieter neighbourhoods that are less frequented by my fellow tourists.
If you are in the area – and there’s no doubt you will be during your time in Prague if you plan to visit some of the city’s most famous sights – then this unassuming hidden gem is worth a visit. Tucked away in a courtyard close to both Prague Castle and the overrated John Lennon Wall, this small, minimalist cafe feels like a calm retreat from the crowds.
The coffee is high-quality and slowly prepared, often using beans from local roasters like Candycane or Dos Mundos. However, it’s the cakes and baked goods here that are simple but sublime. I ate one of the best cookies that I have had in my entire life. It’s the kind of place where you should order a few drinks just to linger longer.
EMA Espresso Bar
Where: Palác Karlín vstup z ulice Křižíkova, Thámova 289 /13, 186 00 Praha 8-Karlín
When: Mon to Fri 8am – 6pm; Sat & Sun 10am – 6pm
Wander into EMA Espresso Bar, and you’ll find a hive of morning energy where concrete walls meet polished wood, and the steady hiss of the La Marzocco machine underpins a symphony of international conversation.
EMA, it seems, is both a refuelling point for commuters and a pilgrimage site for lovers of speciality coffee. After all, that’s why I made my way to their Karlin branch on a cold January morning; an attempt to seek out one of Prague’s most revered cups of coffee to both warm myself and wake myself up with the sharp jolt of caffeine. Here, beans from Nordic roasters are treated with respect, and each drink is meticulously crafted and balanced.
They have three locations across the city – in Karlín, Florenc, and Holešovice – meaning that you’re never too far from a perfectly poured coffee.
Kus Koláče
Where: Korunní 90, 101 00 Vinohrady
When: Mon to Fri 8am – 5pm; Sat 9am – 2pm
Far from the tourist trail, in the creative and up-and-coming district of Vinohrady, Kus Koláče specialises in koláče, sweet yeasted buns traditionally topped with cheese, fruit, or poppy seeds. While this small bakery has a focus on one traditional treat, it’s popular with the contemporary crowd, transforming recipes of Czech grandmothers with modern finesse.
Each koláče is handmade daily, filled with ingredients like vanilla-infused tvaroh (Czech cheese), seasonal berries, or mak (poppy seed paste), and slow-cooked with honey. The space is cosy; There’s no seating space, so you will have to get your buns to go. However, nearby parks, such as Bezručovy sady, offer a pleasant setting for enjoying these freshly baked delights. Coffee is carefully prepared with a small-batch roaster and served in vintage cups.
Such is the popularity of Kus Koláče that they have since opened a second location, Další kus, which focuses primarily on savoury pastries, and is a good alternative when the original shop’s sweet treats are sold out.
Pekárna Praktika
Where: Sokolovská 6/85, 183 00 Praha 8-Karlín
When: Mon to Fri 7.30am – 6.30pm
Just through the Žižkovský tunel, an incredibly cool 300m long pedestrian passage that connects Karlín to Žižkov, two districts in Prague situated on either side of Vítkov Hill, you’ll find one of Karlín’s coolest coffee spots and bakeries, Pekárna Praktika.
The space is spare and intimate: no branding, no bells or whistles, bare concrete, just a few counters and a wood-fired oven humming quietly in the background of the industrial-looking interior. But inside, founder Jan Mašek and his team are doing something radical with bread. They mill their own flour in-house from heritage Czech grain varieties, creating loaves with depth and density that are as good as any you will find elsewhere in the city, except maybe Eska.
Their morning pastries include buttery croissants with a touch of einkorn flour, as well as rustic galettes filled with seasonal fruit. They serve Doubleshot coffee simply and seriously; espresso, cappuccino, or filter, with no pretension, making this the perfect place to pick up your morning caffeine fix along with a little treat to start the day.
Skautský institut v Rybárně
Where: Kampa Park, U Sovových mlýnů 134/1, 118 00 Malá Strana
When: Daily 10am – 11pm
If there’s one place I always make a beeline for as soon as I arrive in Prague, it’s Skautský Institut v Rybárně. It’s always a similar routine; I’ll make my way from Hlavni Nadraz, through the Staré Mesto to the banks of the Vltava, fight my way past the crowds of the Charles Bridge before cutting through the surprisingly peaceful and picturesque Na Kampě square. From there, it’s a serene wander through the park beside the Kampa Museum and its iconic crawling babies, until I reach this cafe beside the river – My favourite place in Prague.
Nestled along the banks is an old Renaissance house that once served as a summer residence for the nearby Lesser Town palace of the Michnů z Vacínov. Over the years, the appearance and function of the house have undergone many changes, including Baroque renovations in the 17th century, but it has always remained an integral part of Kampa Island.
The Scout Institute in Rybárna has been operating within the building since June 2021. Here they have created a space for meetings, education and creation of all kinds, which is based on the Scout motto “I learn by doing”. Each month, they organise more than twenty events, with everything from film screenings to philosophical talks, live music, and storytelling nights.
However, this isn’t the reason that I love Skautský Institut v Rybárně; their ground-floor cafe is the reason I visit. Inside, wooden beams and rustic, vintage furniture create a cozy, lived-in feel, while the scent of fresh coffee drifts through the air. Artwork and historic photographs line the walls. It’s effortlessly cool, in a minimalist, insouciant kind of way.
Each day, they dish out a cheap vegan and vegetarian set menu consisting of soup and a main course, complemented by a selection of delectable pastries and cakes. To drink, you’ll find teas, beers, mulled wine and cocktails. These are best taken to the outside terrace that hugs the Vltava with views across to Staré Mesto.
It’s at its best in summer evenings when the outdoor tables are backed, forcing people to sip their drinks on the river’s edge beneath the venue’s strings of twinkling lights. Chatter and laughter fill the air, emanating an electric and welcoming atmosphere that exemplifies Prague at its finest.
Read More: My Favourite Hidden Gems in Prague
Café Savoy
Where: Kampa Park, U Sovových mlýnů 134/1, 118 00 Malá Strana
When: Daily 10am – 11pm
Café Savoy isn’t just a café, it’s a Prague institution. Situated on the edge of Malá Strana, this majestic establishment evokes the faded glamour of Prague’s First Republic. Its elaborately carved ceiling is a restored Neo-Renaissance marvel, and the menu is a loving homage to Austro-Hungarian café culture.
Both tourists and locals alike flock here to enjoy mugs of Viennese coffee layered with cream, or to tuck into a lavish breakfast spread of eggs, brioche, cured meats, and pastries. The pâtisserie counter alone is worth the visit; éclair au café, Paris-Brest, fruit tarts, and a caramel-swirled větrník that’s easily one of the city’s most beloved desserts. The coffee, while traditional in style, is high quality if not up to the standard of the city’s many 3rd wave coffee shops. However, you don’t necessarily visit for the coffee; you come for the atmosphere.
Můj šálek kávy
Where: Křižíkova 386/105
When: Monday to Friday 9am – 9pm; Saturday 9am – 8pm; Sunday 10am – 6pm
Another of the city’s best cafes, located in the once-industrial, now-buzzing neighbourhood of Karlín, Můj šálek kávy was among the first cafés to introduce Prague to the world of speciality coffee. The name translates to “My Cup of Coffee,” but what you’ll find here is more of a shrine to a fantastic cup of joe. It’s the flagship café for Doubleshot, a Czech roaster known for its ethical sourcing, small-batch roasting, and rigorous approach to brewing.
Inside, the space is bright and welcoming; blond wood, shelves lined with brewing gear, and a steady stream of customers all packed onto a long, communal table. Baristas are warm and deeply informed, ready to guide you through the day’s beans, which rotate regularly and include standout lots from Colombia, Ethiopia, and El Salvador. When I visited for lunch, the majority of people were here for the food, which is far more than an afterthought: their eggs Benedict, brioche French toast, and shakshuka are beautifully plated and generously portioned. If Prague’s café culture had a spiritual home, this would be it.
The Best Bars, Pubs & Drinking Spots in Prague
Prague, and Czechia in general, has a reputation for enjoying a good drink. Historically, this is most closely associated with the Czech capital’s rich beer tradition as it is home to breweries and beer halls that have hundreds of years of history serving some of the world’s finest lagers. Its drinking tradition runs through the city as much as the Vlata does.
Generations have raised their glasses in historic beer halls and neighbourhood hospody, where a perfectly poured Pilsner is more than just a drink, it’s a way of life. These days, Prague’s drinking scene is far more varied and sophisticated. Alongside its age-old pubs, a new wave of craft breweries, stylish cocktail bars, and bars serving spectacular Moravian wines are reshaping the bar nights. Whether you want to sip a classic Czech beer in a wooden booth or explore a cutting-edge microbrewery’s latest creation, Prague seamlessly merges tradition with modernity.
Vinohradský Pivovar
Where: 106, Korunní Praha 10
When: Monday to Saturday 11am – 12am; Sunday 11am – 10pm
Vinohradský Pivovar is making quite a name for itself across Europe and is quickly becoming one of Prague’s most well-known breweries. I’ve even seen their cans occupying fridge shelves in a few bars around my home city of Leeds.
As the name suggests, you’ll find them in the residential enclave of Vinohrady, where pastel townhouses and leafy avenues showcase a quieter Prague. Here, this beloved neighbourhood brewery revives a local beer-making tradition dating back to 1893. Vinohradský Pivovar combines traditional Czech brewing techniques with modern craft brewing, with their classic 11° and 12° lagers being their most popular offerings. These crisp, unfiltered lagers are beloved by locals and widely regarded as among the best in the country, showcasing a balance of bitterness and honeyed depth with a clean hop finish.
There’s also a great rotating lineup of seasonal brews: NEIPAs, stouts, weissbier and gose, which are bound to go well with the elevated pub fare being dished out by Vinohradský’s excellent kitchen.
Read More: Where to drink beer in Prague
Dva Kohouti
Where: Sokolovská 81/55, 186 00 Praha 8-Karlín
When: Mon to Fri 3pm – 1am; Sat 12pm – 1am; Sun 12pm – 10pm
With its exposed pipework, graffiti-strewn walls and stripped-back decor, Dva Kohouti is a far cry from many of the more traditional brewpubs that are dotted around Prague, instead skewing towards the modern taproom style that is so common outside of the Czech Republic.
Co-founded by brewmaster Adam Matuška and master bartender Lukáš Svoboda, this hybrid bar-brewery has a raw, industrial feel; It’s all steel, glass, and unfinished concrete, punctuated by long communal tables where you can sit and sample the house výčepní (session lager).T he beer is brewed right on-site, and there’s usually a few taps reserved for experimental batches and experimental beers.
Alongside the brewery and taproom, the large outdoor courtyard often hosts food trucks and pop-up kitchens. In summer, this is the place to be as drinkers fill the buzzing patio with upbeat vibes, drinking and dancing. It’s a space that is put to good use as Dva Kohouti is also one of the few beer places in Prague that host events that go beyond beer, intending to create a more flexible and diverse space.
Automat Matuška
Where: Dejvická 184/4, 160 00 Praha 6
When: Monday to Friday 110.30am – 12am; Saturday 12pm – 12am; Sunday 11am – 10pm
If you’re willing to trudge (or catch a tram) out to Praha 6 in search of great beer, there’s no doubt that you’ll find yourself at Automat Matuška, the first taproom from Matuška Brewery, one of the Czech Republic’s most trailblazing craft brewers. Opened in 2019, this space showcases the brewery’s bold, hop-forward creations
For craft beer aficionados, it’s a must-visit. Their flagship Raptor IPA delivers a punch of grapefruit, pine, and bitterness that surprises the unsuspecting palate, and it’s the perfect complement to the incredible range of barbecue food on offer.
Bad Flash Bar
Where: Dejvická 184/4, 160 00 Praha 6
When: Monday to Friday 110.30am – 12am; Saturday 12pm – 12am; Sunday 11am – 10pm
On the eclectic, graffiti-splashed Březinova street in Karlín, Bad Flash Bar is a must-visit for beer lovers. Founded by two local craft brewers, this dark, dingy and intimate bar rotates through 12 taps of indie beers from both Czechia and abroad; there is everything from your standard, crisp Czech Pilsners and Baltic porters to saisons from Brno, wild ales from Berlin, and stouts from Slovakia, all served with genuine enthusiasm by bartenders who truly love beer
The décor is an eclectic mishmash: reclaimed wood, thrifted artwork, and a chalkboard scribbled with obscure beer names and ABV percentages. It’s a great place to hang out and while away an evening, especially in the summer months when the bar spills out onto the pavement.
Veltlin
Where: Křižíkova 488/115, Karlín
When: Monday to Saturday 5pm – 11pm
Karlín isn’t short of cool places to hang out and have a drink. It’s a neighbourhood where former factories now house organic bakeries and art studios, and where old industrial buildings are now home to forward-thinking craft breweries. However, Veltlin is the spot in Karlín to visit if you love natural wine.
Focused on small producers from the former Austro-Hungarian Empire, the wine list is an education in Central Europe’s complex terroir. Expect Austrian grüner veltliner, Hungarian Furmint, and Czech skin-contact whites served by the knowledgeable and passionate staff. The minimalist yet refined interior keeps the focus firmly on what’s in the glass.
Anonymous Bar
Where: Michalská 432, 110 00 Staré Město
When: Daily 5pm – 2am
Concealed behind a cryptic, nearly invisible entrance in Old Town, Anonymous Bar trades on secrecy and spectacle. Inspired by the cyber-activist collective and the V for Vendetta graphic novel, this bar is more immersive theatre than drinking spot.
You order from an encrypted menu via UV light and receive drinks that are as spectacular and mysterious as they are delicious; think smoking flasks, hidden messages, and masked bartenders delivering cryptic riddles with your drink. Despite the high-concept theatrics, the cocktails are genuinely excellent. Some may find the concept a little corny, but it’s a quirky antidote to Prague’s more traditional beer halls and pubs.
Letná Beer Garden
Where: Letenské sady, Holešovice
When: Open 24hrs
Not quite a bar, but rather an open-air drinking spot perched high above the city, in the leafy expanse of Letná Park, Prague’s most beloved beer garden offers panoramic views that are some of the best in the city.
It isn’t anything particularly fancy; long wooden picnic benches are laid out so that travellers and locals alike can gather over frosty mugs of Pilsner Urquell or Kozel, while the scent of grilled sausages drifts through the air from small kiosks.
It’s at its best on warm days or late summer evenings, when you can enjoy your beer with meandering views of the Vltava flowing below or out across the towers and spires of the Old Town.
Bar Cobra
Where:M. Horákové 688/8, Holešovice
When: Monday 11.30am – 12am; Tuesday to Thursday 11.30 – 1am; Friday 11.30am – 2am; Saturday 10am – 2am
With its industrial chic interiors, moody lighting, and rotating cocktail menu, Bar Cobra perfectly captures the cool and creative spirit of the surrounding Letná district. Equal parts café, restaurant, and bar, it shifts effortlessly from brunch spot to evening lounge. The cocktails are seasonal and inventive, while the playlist is as curated as the drinks.
Ye's kafe | wine & Brunch
Where: Za Karlínským přístavem 699/18, 186 00 Karlín
When: Mon to Fri 8am – 7pm; Sat & Sun 10am – 7pm
Just a short walk from the Vltava, the modern, glass-fronted Ye’s Café | Wine & Brunch is a gentle, elegant retreat for lovers of natural wine. Founded by Ye Qian, a wine educator and one of Prague’s leading voices in the city’s growing low-intervention wine scene, this airy café feels like stepping into someone’s sunlit atelier. The shelves are lined with carefully curated bottles from small Czech and European producers. The space doubles as a wine shop and intimate tasting room, with soft music, thoughtful design, and a rotating blackboard of wines by the glass.
Although Ye’s Café | Wine & Brunch does an excellent coffee to go alongside some fantastic brunch options, they also operate Ye’s Kafe Studio in Holešovice, which is a wonderfully compelling hybrid space that feels part espresso bar, but equal parts art gallery and community space. A rotating calendar of art shows and speaking events adds to its bohemian charm.
Food Tours in Prague
Embarking on a food tour is the perfect way to cut through the overwhelming number of dining options and connect directly with the spirit of Prague through its cuisine. Led by passionate locals who live and breathe their food scene, going on a guided tour not only lifts the lid on stories and history behind Czechia’s most beloved dishes, they also give an insight into the rich traditions that have defined Czech cooking for generations, from intimate cafés, independent restaurants and market stalls that keep those traditions alive today. It’s a chance to taste authentic dishes alongside locals, appreciate what that underpins them, and learn how food plays a key role in shaping the nation’s character.
I took a foodie stroll around the incredibly cool Karlin neighbourhood with Prague City Adventures, who stand out as one of the most insightful and authentic companies offering to unveil Prague’s hidden stories and flavours. Over four hours, we gorged on chlebíčky, Olomoucké tvarůžky, Koprová omáčka and countless other national delicacies while not only learning their origin, but hearing about the modern transformation of the neighbourhood itself.
The team comprises true insiders; locals who love their city profoundly and are eager to unveil their favourite dining spots. They take you off the well-trodden tourist path and into charming neighbourhood eateries, food markets, and beer cellars that tourists typically miss. Each tour is carefully curated to illuminate not just what you taste, but the traditions, ingredients, and techniques that bring those flavours to life.
Here are a few more recommended tours:
Prague Food Map
In the map below, you’ll find a colour-coded guide to all of the restaurants, cafes and bars mentioned in the above article that will hopefully help you to navigate Prague’s vibrant food scene.
Using this map: This map shows the city’s Czech restaurants (black icons), contemporary restaurants (red icons), vegetarian restaurants (green icons) and drinking spots (orange icons). The list can be seen and filtered by toggling the icon on the top left-hand side of the map, and each location can be explored further by clicking it. Expand the map by clicking the icon on the top right-hand side.
Getting to Prague
There are regular flights to Prague’s Vaclav Havel airport, 17km northwest of the city centre, from most major UK airports. As well as being the only airport serving the metropolitan area of Prague, it is also Czechia’s main hub for international flights.
For information on how to get to the centre of Prague from the airport, check out my useful guide.
Where to Stay in Prague
While most people may be drawn to Prague by the allure of its Old Town, some of the best foodie spots in the Czech capital are found in its mosaic of characterful neighbourhoods, each with its own unique vibe. In Holešovice, art spaces bloom inside old factories; Karlín offers trendy bars, modern cuisine and cool cafés; Vinohrady charms with leafy parks and Art Nouveau façades. Whether you’re drawn to medieval spires or modern design, here are the best places to stay in Prague, each offering a distinct way to experience the city.
Botanique Hotel Prague
Where: Sokolovská 11, 186 00 Karlín
Best for: The perfect blend of sustainable values and urban comfort
Ideally situated opposite the Florenc Metro station on the edge of the trendy Karlín neighbourhood, the Botanique blends contemporary design with a deep commitment to sustainability. The Interiors are in a clean and calming Scandi style – a mix of pale wood, living plant walls, and neutral-coloured fabrics – and everything from water filtration to cleaning practices is designed with the environment in mind.
The onsite bistro serves up healthy, locally sourced meals, including Czech-inspired vegetarian dishes and natural wines. It’s the perfect base for exploring both the Old Town and the newly buzzing Karlín district.
Miss Sophie's Downtown
Where: Opletalova 39, Nové Město
Best for: Budget conscious travellers looking for a cool, centrally located hangout
Cool, affordable, and filled with character, Miss Sophie’s Downtown is proof that budget needn’t mean basic. The rooms are a stylish mix of industrial design with homely touches, and the location, on the fringes of the New Town just a minute’s walk from the main train station, means that you don’t have to wander far to check out Prague’s main highlights.
Mama Shelter Prague
Where: Veletržní 1502/20, Holešovice
Best for: The reliability of a chain hotel, but with a sense of fun
Despite being a chain hotel, Mama Shelter’s properties tend to have a ton of character, and their Prague outpost brings a riot of colour to Prague’s art-centric Holešovice district. Eclectic interiors – think neon signs, velvet armchairs, hand-drawn ceiling murals – along with a lively rooftop bar, and proximity to Prague’s art galleries make it a stylish base for exploring the city’s alternative edge.
