TOP 5 MUST-TRY DISHES IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC
TOP 5 MUST-TRY DISHES IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC
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As a non-Czech living in Prague for around five years, I like to think I’ve become an objective judge of the local cuisine. Having traveled to more than 40 Czech towns and tried countless dishes, I want to share my personal experiences and highlight what I found delicious and worth trying. Czech culinary culture is as diverse as the country’s history, and the unique locations—between west and east, north and south—have created a true blend of flavors, showcasing not only tradition but also the creativity of the Czech people.
As a non-Czech living in Prague for around five years, I like to think I’ve become an objective judge of the local cuisine. Having traveled to more than 40 Czech towns and tried countless dishes, I want to share my personal experiences and highlight what I found delicious and worth trying. Czech culinary culture is as diverse as the country’s history, and the unique locations—between west and east, north and south—have created a true blend of flavors, showcasing not only tradition but also the creativity of the Czech people.
“Zlaté České Ručičky” is a Czech idiom that literally means “Golden Little Czech Hands.” And if it’s these hands that made the food you’re about to try… consider yourself lucky! Of course, like anywhere, there’s always a bit of luck involved—getting the right service, the perfect atmosphere, or a fair price. But when it comes to taste, you can trust these golden hands know exactly what they’re doing. Every bite is a little masterpiece.
“Zlaté České Ručičky” is a Czech idiom that literally means “Golden Little Czech Hands.” And if it’s these hands that made the food you’re about to try… consider yourself lucky! Of course, like anywhere, there’s always a bit of luck involved—getting the right service, the perfect atmosphere, or a fair price. But when it comes to taste, you can trust these golden hands know exactly what they’re doing. Every bite is a little masterpiece.
1. Pork ribs - Vepřová žebra
1. Pork ribs - Vepřová žebra
Traditional Czech cuisine tends to focus on plain roasted or braised meats, hearty sides like sauerkraut and dumplings, and rich but simple sauces. But in modern restaurants, you’ll often find pork ribs fried or grilled with barbecue-style sauces, usually served with potatoes and pickles. It’s one of my favorite dishes, and I can honestly say it has rarely disappointed me.
Each bite is a perfect balance of tender meat, flavorful glaze, and those classic Czech accompaniments that make it so comforting.
2. Svíčková
2. Svíčková
More than 90% of similar articles start with svíčková, because it’s a classic. And to be honest, it is one of the main classics of Czech cuisine. But since this list is based on personal taste—and I’m not particularly fond of svíčková—it takes second place here. Still, there’s no denying that it’s a source of pride for Czech culinary tradition.
Svíčková is a slow-cooked beef dish, typically served with a creamy, slightly tangy sauce made from root vegetables like carrots, celery, and parsley, finished with cream and a touch of lemon.
It’s almost always accompanied by soft bread dumplings that soak up every bit of the sauce, and often garnished with cranberries and a dollop of whipped cream, adding a subtle sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
Every bite is a reminder of why svíčková has earned its status: the beef is tender and flavorful, the sauce is rich yet balanced, and the dumplings make it a true comfort meal. Even if it’s not my personal favorite, I can appreciate why this dish holds a special place in the hearts of Czechs and continues to be a must-try for anyone exploring Czech cuisine.
3. Czech Beef Goulash - Hovězí guláš
3. Czech Beef Goulash - Hovězí guláš
Czech Goulash is a rich and hearty traditional dish, slow-cooked to perfection with tender beef, onions, paprika, and aromatic spices. What makes it truly Czech is the use of dark beer, which gives the sauce a deep, slightly bitter richness and incredible depth of flavor. Thick, warming, and full-bodied, this goulash is the ultimate comfort food — and perfectly paired with a cold Czech beer, both in the pot and in the glass.
In the Czech lands, goulash is a traditional winter dish, enjoyed especially during the cold months. Slow-cooked, rich, and warming, it brings comfort on frosty days and pairs perfectly with a good Czech beer — a true taste of winter tradition. In the Czech lands, goulash is a traditional winter dish, enjoyed especially during the cold months. Slow-cooked with beer and spices, it is served with soft knedlíky — traditional Czech bread dumplings made from yeast dough. Light yet filling, knedlíky are designed to absorb the rich sauce, making every bite warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying. Paired with a Czech beer, it is a true taste of winter tradition.
4. Fried cheese - Smažený sýr
4. Fried cheese - Smažený sýr
And finally, something vegetarian. Fried cheese is one of the most beloved classics of Czech cuisine. A thick slice of cheese is carefully breaded and fried until golden and crisp, with a soft, melted center. Traditionally served with crispy fries and creamy tartar sauce, this iconic dish has been enjoyed for generations in Czech pubs and restaurants — a simple yet deeply satisfying vegetarian comfort food.
5. Schnitzel - Řízek
5. Schnitzel - Řízek
Řízek, originally inspired by the Austrian Schnitzel, has become one of the most popular and beloved dishes in the Czech Republic. A thin slice of pork or chicken is breaded and fried until perfectly golden and crispy, with a juicy, tender inside. Traditionally served with potatoes, potato salad, or fresh salad, řízek is a true comfort classic — enjoyed at family lunches, celebrations, and everyday meals alike. Simple, satisfying, and deeply rooted in Central European food culture, it remains a timeless favorite across Czech tables.
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