What & Where to Eat in Prague

Prague wasn’t a place I ever really thought of visiting. Most Euro-trip first timers might hit up Amsterdam, Paris, Barcelona, or Rome, but I hadn’t considered the Czech Republic. But somehow I found myself scheduling a few days in this historic, relatively unknown (to me) city during my summer trip to Europe.

Let me tell you – I was SO happy I went. I think going into Prague with essentially no expectations allowed this charming place to sweep me off my feet. The weather was beautiful, the architecture was unreal, the city was a tourist's dream with how walkable it was, but most importantly – the food was to die for. Whether I was indulging in street food or iconic dishes or modern plates, I was blown away at the foodie paradise Prague was.

Today I’m sharing some of my top foodie finds from Prague! From top restaurants to standout dishes, you’ll want to check out these yummy must-tries for your trip to the Czech Republic! Warning: do not read if you are hungry. I will not be held responsible for any drooling over laptops.

Trdelníks at GOOD FOOD

My love for this traditional dessert knows no bounds - in fact, in ranks in the best desserts I've ever had abroad. The best way I know how to describe a trdelník is a donut-inspired cone. Dough is roasted over a spit until it's golden and crisp on the outside, soft and warm on the inside, and dusted in sugar. While the OG style is delicious, GOOD FOOD serves up cones filled with chocolate and ice cream. You read that right - a donut ice cream cone smothered in chocolate. You'll find tons of shops serving up this treat - and I feel like I tried most of them - but GOOD FOOD definitely had the freshest and tastiest of them all.

Eat Where Einstein Did What if I told you that you could go to Prague and dine where the most famous scientist of all time once frequented? Makes for quite a traveling story if you ask me. Einstein spent a little over a year in Prague teaching at a university and often stopped at Café Louvre, an airy, 100+ year old restaurant. This elegant little stop is perfect for any meal and you'll find endless dishes no matter your tastes. Come for the ambiance, stay for any of the pastries (with a generous serving of whipped cream)!

Absinthe!

Let it be known that indulging in this licorice-flavored green alcohol will brand you as a tourist. While this drink, called the "green fairy", is all over Prague, it's aimed at tourists and travelers. Nevertheless, blending in isn't always fun! The Absinetherie in the center of Prague is a good stop to try out this drink with 100+ varieties on offer. If you're looking for a show, go with the fire ritual. If you want to try a quality version of this alcohol, try a "real" option on the menu (that's literally what they're called on the menu). Not into straight booze? I hear you - don't worry, they have cocktails!

Upscale Dining at Bellevue One of the huge perks of traveling to Prague is how much cheaper it can be compared to other major European cities. A nice dinner out in Iceland or Paris can set you back - make it an upscale, gourmet meal and it adds up even quicker. Bellevue is a Michelin-recognized modern European restaurant right along the Charles Bridge. With ample outdoor seating, you have a chance to dine next to the river under the Prague Castle. Indulge in some seriously good food in a swanky atmosphere without spending nearly as much as you would if this gem was elsewhere. We were able to enjoy lunch without reservations - consider making a booking for dinner though!

U Fleků Beer Garden Despite coming from the US land of beer (Wisconsin), I really can't stand it. I'd much rather enjoy a good vino or cocktail. However, U Fleku was a beer garden worth visiting. As one of the most popular beer halls in Prague, this sweeping venue feels like a step back in time with all the traditional décor and snacks. This hall has been brewing nonstop for over 500 years - and even beer-hating me managed to gulp down a pint without much protest. Come and enjoy the lively atmosphere and drinkable brew - just know that the seemingly free shots are NOT actually free.

Veggies Eats at MAITREA Prague is a mecca for smoked meats - pork and beef stalls seem to line the streets. As someone who does not eat red meat, the appeal is lost on me. Regardless of your carnivore status, MAITREA is a vegetarian restaurant that will seriously impress. The space has a cozy feel and the menu is expansive, fresh, and even accommodating to other dietary restrictions (honey-free vegans, GF folk, etc.) They do offer a daily menu based on what's fresh and in-season, but the veg-forward meals will be welcomed after indulging in heavy, traditional Prague dishes. The most memorable part of the meal? The fresh hot ginger tea!

Chips ON A STICK

Potatoes have never let me down - fried, baked, smothered in cheese, roasted - potatoes are the vegetable we truly don't deserve. Imagine my sheer amazement at discovering that it's a thing in Prague to fry thin potatoes into crispy chips ON A STICK. What is it about food on a stick that instantly makes it 10000% better? Anyways, you'll find these spiralized spuds at food carts and stalls across the town, but I really enjoyed the crisps from a little vendor near the river by Bellevue.

Carnivore Stops Some of Prague’s top foodie dishes are, in fact, hearty, meaty dishes. My husband (who is very much NOT a vegetarian) has given his seal of approval on the smoked meats and sausages you’ll find from street vendors all over Prague. Nosh on some goulash, a meaty stew-like dish filled with Czech bread dumplings. Pork knuckle is another traditional dish for those willing to be a bit more adventurous. Naše maso is a can't-miss butcher shop that also serves up some of the best meat dishes in town.

There are loads of reason to visit Prague - the history, the buildings and famous Charles Bridge, its affordability, the castle, the river...I could go on and on. But truthfully, I think of the amazing food when I think of Prague. Whether you're trying to scout out Euro-stop destinations or just want to find the best foodie gems out there, you can't go wrong with Prague!

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