Gastropubs with Pilsners straight from the tank.
Updated & republished on Nov. 12, 2019.
With all the traditional pub food and meaty goulash that Prague has to offer, we want you to enjoy it all during your trip but not cram your style with massive tourists. Here are five spots to satiate your inner foodie while peeking inside some of Praguers’ absolute favorites.
1. Restaurant Mlýnec – a fancy standout.
Neighborhood: Prague 1
Here are the wonders of Mlýnec, pronounced M-LEE-NEZ. A true gastronomic gem, this beautiful venue right in front of Charles Bridge is a modernized take on traditional Czech cuisine. The menu we tried started with Prague Ham and Freshly Smoked Veal Tartar. Followed by a fatty but perfectly prepared Traditional Czech Duck Leg Confit which required 7 hours to cook, and a Veal Fillet Mignon a la Schnitzel. But the shining jewels of the night were elaborate desserts, including: Fried Chocolate Fondant presented in a stunning haze of dry ice and a glistening golden Cream Puff.
2. Lokál – where locals & travelers meet.
Several locations throughout Prague.
With several locations throughout Prague, Lokál is where locals and travelers intersect via pints of Pilsner on tap, topped with heavy foam and a slew of traditional Czech dishes. Lokál is great for a midday stop from sightseeing since you’ll find numerous locations dotted throughout Old Town. Despite its touristic nature, the restaurant chain is frequented by locals for its consistent quality. Check out: Hungarian Goulash (beef stew with paprika), Beef Braised in Pepper, and Country-Style Roast Pork Leg with Braised Cabbage.
3. Holesovicka Sedma – a local rec.
Neighborhood: Prague 7
For really straightforward Czech food, Holesovicka Sedma is another fantastic choice especially if you find yourself in the artistic district of Prague 7. The décor is modern and clean, meanwhile the dishes are heavy but tasty. Either you get the tenderloin or the goulash, it’ll go well with a Pilsner straight from the tank. My personal fear of eating in Prague is to land in a restaurant filled with tourists then only to encounter a ridiculous bill. Since Holesovicka Sedma is located away from major landmarks, it’s reasonably priced and often recommended by locals who live in the area.
4. U Kroka – a fave from years ago.
Neighborhood: Prague 2
Want another traditional Czech meal to go along with a frosty glass of beer? U Kroka just might hit the perfect spot one more time. It’s slightly off the beaten path as you’ll find yourself walking very much away from city center and head toward a quieter residential area. But nothing beats your neighborhood gastrpub like this one. Food is fantastic and the vibe is not at all pretentious. Simply comfortable.
5. Cobra – it’s such a mood.
Neighborhood: Prague 7
We heard that Cobra is a cozy spot with great cocktails, so we thought it oozed our style. Naturally. Cobra has a cult following of Praguers since it used to be a bar with slot machines and old carpets. After a major face lift, the stylish bar/restaurant now features an ever-changing menu depending on the mood of the cook. It could move from hangover killer breakfast-style today, to Asian fusion in the same week. Since it’s such a mood, Cobra is beloved by local hipsters, artists and creatives. It’s just…really cool.
