What to Eat When Visiting Krakow, Poland?
When people visit a new city, one of the key questions is of course, what to eat? Poland is known for its wide variety of delicious food, and Krakow is no different! From traditional dishes like pierogi and goulash, to a multitude of desserts, it can be hard to choose what to eat when visiting the area. But never fear! Here is a helpful guide of the best dishes to eat when visiting Krakow, along with recommendations on where to eat them.
Pierogi
When it comes to Krakow, pierogi are a must-try dish. These dumplings – either sweet or savory –are filled with a variety of ingredients. Traditionally, they’re filled with potatoes, cheese, and onions or fruit. You can buy them in most Polish restaurants and cafes, with two of the best places for pierogi being Zapiecek and Smaki Edo.1
Bigos
Another traditional dish which is often seen in Krakow is bigos. This is a stew made from sauerkraut and shredded cabbage, combined with pieces of meat, bacon, mushrooms and herbs such as marjoram and bay leaves. Bigos can be served hot, as a main course with boiled potatoes, or cold as a side dish. The best place to try bigos is at the Codziennik Krakow restaurant.2
Goulash
Another classic Polish dish is goulash, which is a heart stew cooked with meat, vegetables and spices such as paprika, marjoram, garlic, bay leaf and caraway seeds. Goulash is usually served with boiled potatoes and a garnish of freshly chopped parsley and sour cream. The best place for goulash in Krakow is at Zygmunt Restaurant.3
White Borscht
This is another traditional Polish soup which is served in the Krakow region. White borscht is made from a stock of chicken or veal, combined with boiled potatoes, carrots, celery and onion. It is finished with pickled mushrooms, fresh dill, hard-boiled eggs and sour cream. The best place for white borscht in Krakow is at Gonciarz Restaurant.4
Krack II Pieczarki
This dish consists of fried mushrooms filled with various vegetables and spices. Krack II Pieczarki originated in Krakow and is often served as an appetizer or side dish. It is also served with a side of jam or pickled vegetables. The best place for Krack II Pieczarki in Krakow is at Misto Italiano.5
Gorki Zakatek
This is an unique Polish dessert which was first developed in Krakow. It consists of layers of meringue filled with jam and nuts. Most Gorki Zakatek desserts also include layers of whipped cream or custard between the meringue layers. The best place to try Gorki Zakatek in Krakow is at Wloszinana.6
Krakow has so much delicious food to offer that it can be hard to choose what to eat when visiting the area. But this guide should steer you in the right direction when it comes to trying out some traditional Polish dishes while getting to experience the unique tastes of Krakow!
Footnotes:
1 https://www.zapiecek.pl/pl/
2 http://www.codziennik-krakow.pl/en
3 https://zygmuntrestauracja.pl/en/
4 http://gonciarzrestauracja.pl/en/
5 http://www.mistoitaliano.pl/en
6 http://www.wloszinana.pl/en
An Insider’s Guide to Eating in Krakow, Poland
Krakow, the second-largest city in Poland, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and charming Old Town. It has a growing food scene that is just as exciting as its cultural attractions. Visitors can expect to find traditional Polish fare, as well as international cuisine, modern cafes, and trendy bars. This insider’s guide will introduce you to some of Krakow’s best dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.
Discover Traditional Polish Fare
When in Krakow, experiencing traditional Polish cuisine is a must. Pierogi, a type of dumpling, is a beloved staple of Polish cuisine. The pierogi at Restauracja Zapiecek is a must-try. Here, you’ll find pierogi filled with cheese, potato, and onion or sauerkraut and mushroom – all served hot and fresh.
Another traditional Polish dish is bigos, a stew made from sauerkraut, meat, and vegetables. At the historic Pod Aniolami restaurant, you can experience the best bigos in the city.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, pay a visit to Stara Pączkarnia. The bakery serves traditional Polish sweets, including pączki (Polish donuts) and sernik (Polish cheesecake).
International Cuisine and Modern Cafes
Krakow also has a vibrant international food scene. Located within the historic Kazimierz district, Camelot is a popular destination for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. The menu offers Indian, Middle Eastern, and vegetarian options.
Looking for an excellent cup of coffee? Look no further than Karma Coffee. This modern cafe offers an extensive range of coffee blends and brewing methods, as well as a variety of pastries and sandwiches.
If you’re looking for a trendy, upscale restaurant, try Szara Gęś. Located in the city’s main square, the restaurant offers modern Polish cuisine with a twist. The menu features dishes such as roasted quail and duck breast, and the restaurant’s wine list is extensive.
Explore Krakow’s Cultural Attractions
Krakow has a rich cultural history that is reflected in its museums and galleries. The Wawel Royal Castle is a must-visit. The castle was once the residence of Polish kings and queens and now houses a museum and art gallery.
For a unique cultural experience, visit the Krakow Ethnographic Museum. Here, you can learn about the customs and traditions of Poland’s various regions and ethnic minorities.
If you’re interested in modern art, visit the Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow (MOCAK). The museum displays a range of contemporary Polish and international art, and also has a bookstore and cafe.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
If you’re looking for some off-the-beaten-path suggestions, check out Kleparz Market. The outdoor market sells fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and bread – perfect for putting together a picnic or trying something new.
For a unique dining experience, pay a visit to Wierzynek Restaurant. The historic restaurant was established in the 14th century and has hosted many important figures, including kings and presidents. The menu features classic European dishes and the decor reflects its rich history.
Finally, if you’re looking for some outdoor adventures, head to the Tatra Mountains. Located just outside of Krakow, the mountains offer hiking trails, skiing, and breathtaking views.
Conclusion
Krakow, Poland, is a city that has something to offer everyone. In addition to its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural attractions, its food scene is not to be missed. Whether you’re looking for traditional Polish cuisine or international fare, Krakow has it all.
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