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Prague food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Prague.
What to eat in Prague
5 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Svíčková na smetaně
Braised beef sirloin in a rich, creamy vegetable sauce, typically served with bread dumplings and a dollop of cranberry sauce. It's a comforting and iconic Czech dish, often considered a national treasure.
Trdelník
A sweet pastry made from rolled dough, wrapped around a stick, grilled, and topped with sugar and walnut mixture. While increasingly touristy, a freshly made trdelník from a street vendor is a delightful warm treat.
Goulash (Guláš)
A hearty stew, usually made with beef, onions, and paprika, thicker and less soupy than its Hungarian counterpart. Best enjoyed with a side of 'houskové knedlíky' (bread dumplings) to soak up the rich sauce.
Smažený sýr
Deep-fried cheese, typically Edam or Hermelín, coated in breadcrumbs. It's a simple yet incredibly satisfying comfort food, often served with fries and tartar sauce.
Vepřo knedlo zelo
Roast pork with bread dumplings and sauerkraut. This is the quintessential Czech meal, showcasing tender pork, fluffy dumplings, and tangy sauerkraut.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Historic and bustling, with a high concentration of traditional pubs and tourist-oriented eateries.
Charming and picturesque, offering a mix of cozy traditional restaurants and more upscale dining with beautiful views.
Trendy and local, known for its excellent cafes, modern Czech restaurants, and vibrant bar scene.
Alternative and down-to-earth, with a plethora of authentic, no-frills pubs and affordable eateries popular with locals.
Dietary notes
Traditional Czech cuisine is very meat-heavy, with pork and beef featuring prominently. Vegetarian options are becoming more available, especially in tourist areas and modern restaurants, but can be limited in very traditional pubs. Vegan and gluten-free options require careful ordering and often mean sticking to simpler vegetable dishes or salads.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping: It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if satisfied with the service; you can round up the bill or state the desired total when paying.
- •Payment: While cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, it's wise to carry some Czech Koruna (CZK) cash for smaller cafes, markets, or older pubs.
- •Reservations: For popular restaurants, especially on weekends, making a reservation is highly recommended.
- •Ordering beer: In a pub, if you don't want another beer, place your coaster on top of your glass. Otherwise, the waiter will assume you want another.
- •Meal times: Lunch is typically between 11 AM and 2 PM, and dinner is usually from 6 PM onwards, with many kitchens closing around 10 PM.