Prague, often referred to as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” boasts an enchanting blend of history, culture, and charm and there is plentiful advice on what to visit. However, when I went there, I struggled to find good bars (as surprising as it sounds) and good places to eat.
Here’s me sharing the bars and restaurants I really enjoyed, by not only asking about everyone I knew who had done their Erasmus in Prague or lived there for a while, as well as locals I asked in the streets.
No, I have no shame. I deserve good cocktails and good food.
So, in this post, you’ll find a few cool bars, restaurants, brunch places and a surprise at the end!
The Orange Bar: Coziness and cocktails
Our first stop is at the famous Orange Bar, which boasts an impressive legacy dating back to 2002.
This cocktail haven has been listed in the Michelin Guide, but don’t be fooled by its elite status; Orange Bar has earned the title of the “not-so-hidden gem” among its loyal customers. The sophisticated yet relaxing atmosphere, coupled with cocktails that push the boundaries of what you can put in a glass (while still maintaining drinkability), make this place a must-visit.
Tell the waitress called Soraya that Pauline sent you, she should treat you nicely.
The Orange Bar
Haštalská 755/15, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
L’Fleur: Where candles and cocktails collide
Within the heart of Prague’s Old Town, you’ll find L’Fleur, a cocktail bar that takes its libations as seriously as its ambiance.
Picture this: exposed brickwork, banquette seating, and everything bathed in a soft glow from candles and chandeliers.
Signature cocktails like “Touch of Sky” blend the finest ingredients, ensuring you’ll be sipping in style. The cocktails are honestly very interesting and surprising: I had one that was a mix of purified tomato juice and mezcal, and it was an absolute delight. And when hunger strikes, the menu offers everything from salami and cheese plates to hearty steaks and burgers.
L’Fleur
V Kolkovně 920, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
Lokal: Where beer and food unite in perfect harmony
If you want a more chilled out, local place, Lokal is the place for you. They serve beer straight from the tanks as they brew it there, ensuring every sip remains as fresh as the last. And let’s not forget about the homemade Czech dishes crafted from fresh ingredients and spices sourced from regional suppliers.
Lokal is where you go for a truly authentic Czech culinary experience.
To be fair, I am not the biggest fan of Czech dishes, but I am always very curious to try new meals when I travel, and this was a good place to do so.
Lokal
Address: Dlouhá 33, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
(There are quite a few Lokals around Prague; this is the address of the one in Old Town – it’s a 2 minute walk from Orange Bar.)
SmatanaQ Café & Bistro will satisfy your brunch craving
If you’re in need of a brunch that’s a little bit fancier, head to SmetanaQ Café & Bistro. Their daily offerings include a wide variety of cakes, tarts, tartlets, and fruit pies, along with savory delights like quiches and sourdough bread.
With a selection of quality food sourced from Czech producers, this is the place to refuel and soak in the Vltava River’s beauty. They also serve espresso tonics, which are my favourite! If you go you have to try, although you can also make one at home – thank me later baby.
SmatanaQ
Address: Smetanovo nábř. 334/4, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
Kafe Francin
For a cozy and equally mouthwatering experience, visit Kafe Francin, where everything is made from quality ingredients. The story of Marthy and Kristina, the chef and designer duo, adds a unique touch to your meal. Their passion for life, food, and people results in delicious pastries, desserts, and rich breakfast options that you can savor until late afternoon.
Kafe Fancin
Address: Dukelských Hrdinů 692/35, 170 00 Praha 7-Holešovice, Czechia
Fuchs2: Wouldn’t be a weekend in Prague without a techno night out
Last but not least, and this is not about food or cocktails, but rather what to do after drinking cocktails … a techno venue!
Fuchs2 is a sick techno club, located on a small island on the Vltava River. It was once a functionalist-styled café that transformed into a disco in the late ’80s, known as “Face2Face.” It now stands as a safe haven for alternative culture, beckoning you to dance your cares away on an island in the heart of Prague.
The music was great, the staff and club owner were lovely and super welcoming, and the DJ that night was on fire.
Fuchs2
Address: ostrov Štvanice, Holešovice, 170 00 Praha 7, Czechia
I honestly could not recommend more any of the places mentionned in this article, whether it be on the quality of the food, drinks, music, and the immaculate vibes. Prague is a beautiful city to visit. However, locals aren’t the friendliest and it is not known for its culinary delights.
So, if you’re very Western European like I am, it’s nice to sprinkle your stay there with going to places that have a friendly atmosphere.
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Read more about Prague here in Dispatches’ archives.
Read more from Charlotte here.
Charlotte Laborie grew up in England, Belgium and Switzerland. Charlotte then moved to Paris and graduated from Sciences Po Paris. She is still based in Paris, where she works in marketing.
