Krakow, a city steeped in history and charm, invites visitors and locals alike to indulge in its vibrant café culture and bustling outdoor dining scene.
As one wanders the picturesque streets, an impressive array of establishments beckons, offering a delightful fusion of traditional Polish cuisine alongside contemporary culinary delights.
In the heart of the city, establishments such as Wesola Cafe, Zarowka Cafe, and Zakatek Cafe & Wine are renowned for their al fresco dining options.
As the sun sets, the city continues to offer a pleasing variety of eateries, from Forum Przestrzenie to Przystanek Pierogarnia and the vegan-friendly Hamsa. Each locale offers its unique twist on the outdoor dining experience, immersing patrons in Krakow’s rich culinary tapestry.
The historic Polish city has something for everyone, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.
With a blend of popular local spots and international cuisine, these outdoor cafés and restaurants provide a perfect opportunity for travellers and residents to connect with the vibrant heart of Krakow while enjoying the picturesque surroundings and lively atmosphere throughout the day and into the night.
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Krakow’s Outdoor Cafés and Restaurants Scene
Old Town
The Old Town of Kraków boasts a vibrant outdoor café and restaurant culture, where visitors can enjoy a range of traditional Polish dishes and international cuisine.
The cafés are often situated around the picturesque Market Square and the Planty park, a green belt surrounding the Old Town.
One noteworthy spot is Wesola Cafe on Świętego Sebastiana Street, praised for its excellent breakfasts and great coffee. Read also The Best Coffee Shops and Cafes in Krakow
Additionally, travellers can explore Zarowka Cafe on Wiślna Street, which offers bagels and refreshing lemonades amidst a cosy ambience.
Kazimierz
The historic district of Kazimierz, known for its rich Jewish heritage, is another hub for outdoor cafés and restaurants in Kraków.
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A perfect place to begin is Cheder Café, an elegant coffee house located in the heart of the district, offering Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine along with a wide range of teas and coffees.
Proximity to Plac Nowy adds to the appeal, with numerous food options, including the famous Zapiekanki – a local Polish open-faced sandwich.
Finally, travellers seeking to sample unique regional wines should visit Zakatek Cafe & Wine on Krakusa Street, where they can appreciate an eclectic menu complemented by exquisite wine selections.
Traditional Polish Cuisine
Pierogi Hotspots
When it comes to traditional Polish cuisine, pierogi are a must-try dish. These delicious dumplings can be savoury or sweet, and are filled with various ingredients such as potatoes, cheese, mushrooms, fruits, and even chocolate. Read also Where to eat the best pierogi in Krakow
One of the well-known spots for sampling pierogi is Kluska Na Placu which offers a wide range of flavours to choose from.
The restaurant is known for its excellent atmosphere and has received positive reviews for its delicious sour mushroom soup and pierogi.
Another notable pierogi hotspot is Old Town Restaurant Wine & Bar. Located in the heart of the city, this restaurant serves a variety of Polish and European dishes, including an extensive pierogi selection to suit any taste.
Zapiekanka Experiences
While in Krakow, it’s essential to try the popular street food dish known as zapiekanka. This half-baguette creation is topped with a rich assortment of toppings such as feta cheese, Polish sausage, and vegetables.
To relish the best zapiekankas in the city, head to the stalls around Plac Nowy. Known for serving the finest zapiekanka in Krakow, this vibrant area is located in the centre of the Jewish Quarter and serves as a hub for both locals and visitors alike.
In addition to sampling the delicious pierogi and zapiekankas, travellers can also enjoy various other traditional Polish dishes at the numerous outdoor cafes and restaurants throughout Krakow.
Cultural Connections
Jewish Culture in Cafés
Kraków’s Jewish District, called Kazimierz, has a rich history and offers visitors several distinct cafés where they can soak up its lively atmosphere and delve into Jewish culture.
The cafés here not only serve delectable meals but also provide customers with an insight into Jewish traditions and history. In these establishments, you can enjoy Kosher food, learn about Jewish customs, and immerse yourself in the distinctive ambience present in the Jewish District of Poland.
Amongst the cafés in Kazimierz, one standout location is Barka. Moored along the river, Barka is both a restaurant and a bar, providing open-air seating with excellent views of the river and part of the Podgórze district.
Vintage Vibes at Bars
Kraków boasts numerous vintage-inspired bars that showcase an intriguing blend of history and nostalgia.
The city’s hip and cosy bars offer a fascinating peek into the bygone era, complete with retro décor and antique furnishings. Patrons can revel in the vintage vibes, all the while enjoying a hearty selection of both local and international beverages at these stylish establishments.
One such bar worth visiting is Weźże Krafta. This popular spot features over 30 local craft beers on tap, including classic Polish IPAs priced at around £2.50.
Another excellent choice is Lastriko, a vintage-inspired bar that specialises in creative cocktails crafted with top-notch ingredients.
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Unique Finds
Creative Terrace Spaces
Krakow’s outdoor cafes and restaurants are known for their innovative terrace spaces, making them perfect spots to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
One such location is Forum Przestrzenie, a popular terrace boasting a unique industrial setting near the Vistula River. This cafe offers visitors a chic, urban ambience while still allowing them to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the riverfront.
Another standout example is Cafe Bar Magia. Located in the heart of Krakow, this quaint cafe offers a rustic outdoor seating area, where patrons can sip on delicious coffee amidst its idyllic surroundings.
With plenty of greenery and cosy nooks, it’s the perfect spot to relax and chat with friends or family.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Krakow’s outdoor cafes and restaurants have found success by partnering with other businesses and organisations in the area, creating unique experiences for their visitors.
One prominent collaboration is between Przystanek Pierogarnia and the local food scene. This pierogi-centric spot has become an essential part of the city’s culinary landscape, offering delectable Polish dumplings with inventive, modern twists.
By teaming up with local food suppliers and producers, Przystanek Pierogarnia ensures that its menu is fresh, authentic, and truly homegrown.
Another noteworthy partnership is that of Hamsa, a vibrant cafe that brings together art and culture within its beautiful Mediterranean-style space.
Showcasing local talents through various events and exhibitions, Hamsa has successfully cemented itself as a key cultural hub and an inviting meeting point for those eager to explore Krakow’s colourful local art scene.
In conclusion, Krakow’s outdoor cafes and restaurants showcase their uniqueness through the clever use of terrace spaces, as well as effective partnerships and collaborations with other local businesses.
Craft Beers and Local Drinks
Krakow’s vibrant beer culture has grown significantly in recent years, offering a wide variety of local craft beers and welcoming pubs to enjoy them in.
Read also – Craft beers in Krakow
Best Breweries and Pubs
From traditional pubs to modern breweries, Krakow has something for everyone.
Weźże Krafta
Weźże Krafta is a popular choice for craft beer enthusiasts, boasting over 30 local beers on tap, including affordable Polish IPAs at around £2.50.
The atmosphere is lively, making it an excellent spot to sample the local brews.
House of Beer
House of Beer is another highly recommended pub in Krakow to enjoy craft beer.
Located in the heart of the Old Town, this establishment offers a diverse selection of beers from both local and international breweries, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Omerta
Curious travellers shouldn’t miss Omerta, a well-regarded pub that focuses on Polish craft beers and imports from other countries.
The knowledgeable staff is more than happy to help you navigate their extensive beer menu and make recommendations based on your preferences.
Szeroka
For those looking to enjoy a drink in a more scenic setting, the beer gardens of Krakow are a fantastic option. The largest ones can be found in Szeroka, where you can sip beer while taking in the historic surroundings and, perhaps, even catch a live klezmer concert.
C.K. Browar
Lastly, for a unique brewery experience, you can visit C.K. Browar, a local gem established in 1996.
This historic brewery features traditional Polish cuisine alongside their signature craft beers, brewed right in-house. A visit to this establishment is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local beer culture while enjoying some delicious food.
In conclusion, Krakow’s craft beer scene offers a diverse range of breweries and pubs that cater to a variety of tastes.
Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer aficionado or just looking to explore the local drink offerings, you’re sure to find something that appeals to your taste buds in this historic city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Best outdoor cafes in Krakow?
Krakow offers numerous delightful outdoor cafes, perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee or indulging in some delicious treats.
Noworolski, located in Stare Miasto, is a popular choice among tourists and locals alike. It offers a rich selection of Polish, European and Central European cuisine, and is known for its fantastic outdoor seating area, where guests can enjoy live music.
Top outdoor restaurants?
Krakow boasts several top outdoor restaurants, with Ristorante Santa Caterina being a standout option for Italian and seafood dishes.
Another highly recommended restaurant is Pierwszy Stopien, which serves a variety of Polish and healthy menu choices, making it the perfect spot for a delicious al fresco dining experience.
Hidden gems in Krakow?
For those looking to stray from the beaten path, Cyrano de Begerac is a must-visit hidden gem.
Tucked away on Slawkowska Street in Old Town, this exquisite French eatery offers an unmatched culinary experience and an intimate atmosphere.
Pet-friendly places?
Many of Krakow’s outdoor cafes and restaurants welcome our four-legged friends.
One place to consider is Dolabella Due, which not only serves lip-smacking Italian pizza and pasta dishes but also accommodates pet owners and their furry companions.
Outdoor dining with views?
Krakow’s picturesque cityscape offers bountiful opportunities for outdoor dining with stunning views.
Choose a restaurant or cafe near the Rynek Główny, such as Szarages, to marvel at the historic architecture while eating your meal.
Al fresco spots for drinks?
During the warmer months, Krakow thrives with inviting al fresco spots for enjoying a refreshing drink or two.
Cafes and bars are scattered throughout the city, particularly in the lively Kazimierz district, where one can find a great selection of outdoor seating options and an eclectic mix of beverages to suit every taste.
