What to Eat Your First Time in Prague
If you’re planning a trip to Prague, you’ve got to try some of the local delicacies.From traditional hearty stews to sweet pastries, the food in Prague is sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters. So, let’s dive in and explore some of the top foods to try during your first trip to this amazing city.
Let’s start with dessert, shall we? Because you have to try trdelník. This pastry is made by wrapping a strip of dough around a cylinder and roasting it over an open flame until it’s golden brown. The pastry is then rolled in cinnamon sugar and topped with chopped nuts or a dollop of Nutella. You’ll find trdelník stands all over the city, and I guarantee you won’t be able to resist the smell of warm cinnamon wafting through the air.
Smažený sýr, also known as “Czech fried cheese,” is a must-try for anyone visiting Prague. It is not only a popular snack, but also a mainstay of pub menus throughout the country. While you can find smažený sýr made with different types of cheese, including Hermelín and Gouda, the most common variety is made with Edam. The cheese is coated in breadcrumbs or flour and deep-fried until it is crispy and golden brown on the outside, and gooey and melted on the inside.
Czech bread, or chleba, is a staple in the Czech diet and is often served with meals. Traditional Czech bread is known for its dark, dense texture and is made with rye flour, which gives it a distinct flavor. It is typically baked in long loaves, and you can find it at bakeries throughout the country. Be sure to try it with butter or spread with a slice of salty hermelín cheese for a classic Czech snack.
If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying snack or appetizer in Prague, you can’t go wrong with chlebíčky, or Czech-style open-faced sandwiches. One of the most popular variations is topinky, toasted bread brushed with garlic and topped with ingredients like pickles, ham, cheese, or egg salad. The garlicky aroma and crunchy texture of the bread make it a perfect base for a variety of toppings, and it’s a staple in Czech cuisine.
Ever heard of a babovka? This traditional bundt cake is typically made with eggs, flour, sugar, and baking powder, and often flavored with lemon, vanilla, or chocolate. Some variations also include nuts, raisins, or poppy seeds. The cake’s distinctive ring shape is achieved by baking it in a fluted tube pan, and it is often served with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar. Babovka is a beloved treat in the Czech Republic, and you can find it in many cafes and bakeries throughout Prague.
Everybody loves palačinky, or Czech crepes. These thin pancakes are typically filled with jam, chocolate, or fresh fruit and topped with whipped cream. They make the perfect dessert after a big meal, or a sweet snack to enjoy while wandering through the city. You’ll find palačinky stands all over Prague, but my personal favorite is the ones served at Mlsnej Kocour, a cozy cafe in the heart of the city.
Halusky is a traditional Slovak dish that has become popular in Prague. This hearty meal consists of small potato dumplings topped with tangy sheep’s cheese, bacon, and caramelized onions. It’s the perfect comfort food on a chilly day and is often enjoyed with a cold beer. You can find Halusky at many local restaurants in Prague, but for an authentic experience, head to one of the traditional Slovak eateries in the city.
Prague is known for its fantastic beer, and no visit to the city would be complete without trying a few. One popular local beer is Pilsner Urquell, a light and refreshing lager that originated in the nearby city of Pilsen. Another must-try beer is Staropramen, a slightly sweet and malty lager that’s been brewed in Prague since 1869. Whether you prefer light or dark beer, hoppy or malty, Prague has something to offer every beer lover. And if you really want to indulge, be sure to check out one of the city’s beer spas, where you can relax in a tub of warm beer while sipping on a cold one.
Czech dumplings, or knedlíky, are a staple in Czech cuisine and are often served alongside meat dishes or in traditional soups. These bread-based dumplings are light and fluffy, and come in a variety of flavors and textures. Some are made with potato flour, others with bread crumbs, and some even include bits of bacon or herbs for added flavor. They can be served as a side dish or the main event, and are perfect for soaking up all the delicious sauces and gravies that accompany many Czech dishes.
For something truly unique, try some utopenci, a pickled sausage that’s often served as a bar snack in Prague. These sausages are typically made with pork and are pickled in vinegar, onion, and spices, giving them a tangy and savory flavor. They’re the perfect accompaniment to a cold beer and are a great way to experience a truly Czech culinary tradition.
One lesser-known but equally delicious dish to try during your first trip to Prague is boiled eggs with dill gravy. This traditional Czech dish consists of soft-boiled eggs covered in a creamy dill sauce made from sour cream, butter, flour, and fresh dill. The combination of the creamy, tangy sauce with the tender, perfectly cooked eggs creates a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s often served with bread dumplings or potatoes to soak up the flavorful gravy. Give it a try for a taste of Czech comfort food at its finest.
Last but never least, the ultimate comfort food of Prague: Goulash. This rich stew is made with beef, onions, and paprika, and is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day. You’ll find goulash on most restaurant menus, and each chef has their own take on the classic recipe. My personal favorite is the beef cheek goulash at Lokál, a popular restaurant in the city center. The meat is so tender, it practically melts in your mouth.
Prague is filled with delicious surprises, and I promise you won’t regret trying any of these delicious dishes. From savory stews to sweet pastries, the food in Prague is sure to satisfy any craving. So, get out there and explore the city’s culinary scene — your taste buds will thank you!
Don’t miss my article on Making the Most of Your First Trip to Prague.
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