In recent years, a new tradition has taken root in my life. While I used to celebrate Christmas at home with my family, I now embrace the festive season on vacation with my boyfriend. Last Christmas, we continued this tradition in the heart of Europe, exploring the enchanting city of Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. Prague not only met but surpassed my expectations with its stunning architecture, delectable cuisine, and attractions. If you’re curious about Prague itself and all it has to offer, stay tuned for an upcoming blog post by subscribing to our OTEX’S newsletter.

Czech cuisine is a delightful fusion of various influences, drawing inspiration from neighboring countries and diverse culinary traditions. It’s interesting to note that many pastries popular in Central Europe originated in the Czech Republic. And, of course, one cannot overlook Czech beer, a treat for true beer enthusiasts, though I, personally, don’t share the same enthusiasm!

In this blog, I’ll be sharing insights into the 13 best restaurants in Prague. From trendy brunch spots to must-try Prague restaurants, you won’t want to miss these Czech food gems when exploring the charming streets of Prague.

Brunch

What better way to kick off the morning than with a delightful breakfast? Personally, I consider breakfast an indispensable part of my day. Whether I’m at home or on vacation, a delicious breakfast sets the perfect tone for a day filled with exciting discoveries.

Luckily, Prague offers more then enough wonderful spots to enjoy a hearty breakfast or relaxing lunch. From indulging in Czech pastries to savoring the atmosphere of French-influenced cafes, the city provides a diverse culinary experience.

PAUL

Our culinary journey begins with PAUL, a delightful spot where we found ourselves returning for breakfast multiple times during our stay in Prague—a testament to the exceptional food they offer. The allure was so strong that even at the airport, on our way home, we couldn’t resist a quick stop at this originally French Bistro.

Interestingly, PAUL traces its roots back to 1889, starting as a humble family bakery in a village near Lille, in the north of France. Evolving into an international brand with a presence in over 20 countries, including the Czech Republic and, of course, Prague.

The menu showcases unmistakable French influences, featuring delightful treats such as stuffed croissants, filled baguettes, and an array of delectable pastries.

With several locations throughout Prague, encountering PAUL is almost inevitable during your trip. As for my personal favorite? A pistachio-filled croissant—an absolute delight that I highly recommend!

Černá Madona

Nestled in the bustling heart of Prague, Černá Madona invites you to step into a cultural gem that seamlessly blends history and gastronomy. Located in the iconic cubist house, Černé Matky Boží (The House of the Black Mother) on Celetná street, this restaurant is a true testament to Prague’s architectural heritage. Constructed between 1911 and 1912, the building remains a prominent landmark, attracting both guided tours and eager tourists capturing its unique charm.

As you step inside, the allure extends beyond the architectural marvel to the delectable offerings on the menu. Whether you opt for a choice from the extensive lunch menu or indulge in a delightful Czech pastry, your taste buds are in for a treat. During my visit, I couldn’t resist the tempting allure of the Croque Madam, and it certainly lived up to expectations. However, it’s worth noting that the pastries presented a visual feast, tempting even the most discerning palate.

Beyond being a lunch destination, Černá Madona also beckons those in search of a delightful coffee experience paired with pastries. A versatile haven catering to diverse preferences, it’s a must-visit whether you’re after a hearty meal or a relaxing coffee and pastry interlude.

Café Savoy

Café Savoy stands as a highly renowned hotspot in Prague, with a history dating back to the period between the two world wars. Boasting a traditional Czech interior and architecture, its popularity is truly well-deserved. The restaurant has gained prominence, particularly for its diverse and extensive breakfast menu. Given the deservedly high demand, I recommend making reservations in advance. This ensures you a guaranteed spot in this enchanting café.

Dinner

After a day brimming with new experiences and discoveries, the perfect way to end your adventures is with a delightful dinner. Similar to the variety found in brunch options, Prague offers many restaurants serving delicious food. Whether you crave traditional cuisine or have a taste for diverse international flavors, the choices are abundant.

V Kolkovnê

V Kolkovnê is a place we found ourselves returning to during our trip, and honestly, I could dine here every night. While the allure of discovering new places is strong, the combination of top-notch food, a cozy atmosphere, charming decor, and friendly staff makes this spot irresistible. The added bonus of traditional Czech food adds to the appeal, like bread dumplings and pork dishes. Making it not only the perfect Prague dining scene with good food and interesting dishes. 

The menu at V Kolkovê is typically Czech, making it a perfect choice for those eager to delve into Czech cuisine during their vacation. From the rich flavors of Pilsner goulash to the hearty Old Czech KOLKOVNA platter, every dish is a journey into the authentic tastes of the region. For me, the Kolkova Wings emerged as a personal favorite, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience. Staying in a different area in the city center? No problem as this restaurant group has multiple locations scattered across the city’s food scene. Some even close to the Charles bridge and the Prague Castle. A perfect way to visit Prague hotspots and eat at some of the best Prague restaurants. 

Sasy The Original

Craving a restaurant with delectable Italian influences? Look no further than Sasy The Original that offers a great tasting menu with multiple Italian dishes. Conveniently situated in the heart of one of Prague’s bustling shopping streets, Sasy’s entrance might be easy to miss, tucked away between stores. Keep a keen eye out as you make your way to this hidden gem.

Upon ascending the stairs, you’ll discover a charming and spacious restaurant specializing in traditional Neapolitan style pizza. And if you’ve managed to save room for dessert, don’t miss the chance to indulge in one of their tempting Italian treats, like the classic Tiramisu.

W Restaurant

So, for Christmas Eve, we had this long-awaited reservation at W Restaurant, a place we’d been looking forward to for quite a while. The popular restaurant is conveniently nestled near the Old Town Square, just a stroll away from our hotel. Now, W is not just your usual spot – it’s this cool mix of restaurant and bar, boasting the largest whiskey collection. Even though I’m not much of a whiskey lover, what got me excited was the menu, where whiskey played a major role in many dishes. While the elegant restaurant offers more modern cuisine like beef tartare, there are options to enjoy some Czech food and typical pilsner beer. 

As you descend the stairs from the ground floor, it feels like stepping into this massive whiskey cellar, walls lined with these beautiful bottles. And no wonder, the place flaunts over 1,000 different varieties. The interior is this modern yet cozy setup that makes you want to settle in for hours. No wonder that it belongs to the most popular Prague restaurants. 

So, whether you’re a devoted whiskey enthusiast or, like me, just a bit curious, W Restaurant is definitely a spot worth checking out.

Running Sushi

Vacation and travel are all about embracing new experiences, and that’s precisely how we found ourselves eagerly exploring one of the most unique Prague restaurants; Running Sushi. This little gem caught our attention during our initial discovery, tucked away in the expansive shopping center Palladium. Intrigued, we made a mental note to return and indulge in the experience.

So, what makes Running Sushi so special? Well, it offers a unique dining option – sushi on a conveyor belt. Yes, you read that right, literally on a conveyor belt. As you sit, a constant stream of dishes glides by, ready for you to pluck off the sushi train. While this might be a familiar scene in Japan, it’s not something I’ve encountered frequently in Europe.

Here’s the scoop: the sushi train operates on an all-you-can-eat concept, where you pay for 1.5 hours of dining (drinks not included). The concept caters not only to sushi enthusiasts but also offers a diverse array of dishes for those who appreciate Asian cuisine in general. And let’s not forget the desserts that make their tempting rounds along the conveyor belt—don’t miss out!

Cocktails

After indulging in delicious brunch and dinner, it’s now time for one of my favorites—cocktail bars. As I’ve previously mentioned in another blog, where we delve into the 13 best things to do in Madeira, discovering and crafting new cocktails is one of my cherished hobbies. Naturally, it’s only fitting that cocktails have a special place among these recommendations.

Not much of a cocktail fan? No worries, Prague has an abundance of delightful bars perfect for savoring a typical Czech beer. However, given the amount of charming bars in Prague that specialize in cocktails, allow me to share my top three favorites:

Kenton’s New York Bar

My absolute favorite and a true revelation was undoubtedly Kenton’s New York Bar. This cocktail haven draws inspiration from 1930s New York, boasting a timeless interior, stylish cocktails, and, without a doubt, exceptionally delicious and Czech version drinks.

The skilled mixologists at Kenton’s excel in crafting the bar’s own signature cocktails. Their expertise is evident in the meticulous execution of various techniques. Opting for seats at the bar itself, we found it to be the perfect vantage point to witness the artistry of cocktail creation and to take in the impressive array of ingredients lining the bar.

Bugsy’s Bar

Bugsy’s Bar stands out as a true cocktail phenomenon in Prague. It’s a spot I highly recommend booking in advance due to its immense popularity, and rightly so. With skilled mixologists and delightful drinks, Bugsy’s is a must-visit when visiting the Czech capital.

Whether you prefer selecting a cocktail from the menu or entrusting your taste buds to the bartender’s expertise, Bugsy’s offers both options.

My personal favorite was the matcha-infused cocktail. If you share my love for matcha, this cocktail is an absolute must-try that shouldn’t be overlooked!

NYX hotel

If you’re not in the mood for a bustling cocktail bar and prefer a quieter spot that still caters to your cravings, look no further than the NYX hotel. This hotel served as our accommodation during our time in the Czech capital, and I can wholeheartedly recommend it if you’re still searching for a place to stay specifically in the old town!

Beyond offering beautiful rooms, the hotel also provides a serene setting to savor a cocktail. Enjoy delightful drinks like the Bay Lips, a personal favorite of mine, all at a reasonable price. While you sip your drink, engage in a game of pool or simply relish the pleasant background music.

Specials

And now, we find ourselves at the final stretch of this blog about the 13 best restaurants in Prague. Having explored various dining options, we now delve into the Specials—culinary experiences in Prague that are simply not to be missed.

Medieval Dinner

Up for a lively night out filled with food, entertainment, dance, and a touch of history? Consider indulging in a Medieval Dinner in the center of old town! Immerse yourself in traditional Czech cuisine while being captivated by a myriad of performances, from belly dancers to skilled jugglers. It’s an all-encompassing experience that promises an evening to remember.

Entering the medieval cellar feels like a journey back in time, creating the perfect ambiance for a delightful night. The fixed price for the experience also covers your drinks, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable outing.

Popeyes

In the midst of our exploration, we’ll take a brief detour to the fast-food chain Popeyes. What sets this chain apart? Well, it’s primarily because Popeyes is relatively minimal in Europe. Thus, during your visit to Prague, it presents the perfect opportunity to savor something unique.

Popeyes offers a diverse menu, with the spotlight on their signature-style chicken—Louisiana chicken, to be precise. We decided to give it a try during our trip, and I must say, it was undeniably flavorful and well worth a stop. Additionally, the restaurant boasts a delightful decor adorned in its characteristic colors and is conveniently situated near the National Museum.

Trdelnik

Trdelnik, also known as Chimney Cake, is an absolute classic when exploring Prague—a treat not only popular in the city but also across other parts of the Czech Republic. Beyond its widespread appeal, it has become a populair item for tourists to try. Stalls offering this delectable cake are abundant, allowing you ample opportunities to savor the experience.

The art of making Trdelnik involves spinning the dough and cooking it over an open fire. In contemporary times, you’ll find this pastry filled with various options such as whipped cream, ice cream, and fruit.

Surprisingly, Trdelnik does not trace its roots back to the Czech Republic. Its origins can be traced to Moldova in the 19th century. Despite its non-Czech beginnings, it has become so beloved and distinctive to the Czech Republic that it is now considered a matter of national pride.