As the cultural and culinary center of Poland, Warsaw has a rich and diverse traditional cuisine. From classic Polish dumplings (Pierogi), sour and fragrant borscht (Barszcz), to rich and crispy roast pork knee (Golonka), each dish contains the unique history and flavor of this country.
Whether you are looking for authentic family restaurants in the alleys of the old town or want to experience the warmth and generosity of the Polish people in a retro pub, Warsaw can present you with an unforgettable feast for your taste buds.
It is recommended to book a seat in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to ensure that you can experience this authentic food journey smoothly. Get ready for a journey of exploration with the flavor of Poland!
1. U Fukiera: The classic historical taste of Poland
Restaurant history
Founded in the 16th century, U Fukiera is one of the oldest restaurants in Warsaw, located in the heart of the Old Town of Warsaw. The name of the restaurant “Fukiera” comes from the founder of the restaurant, the Fukier family, who have run the restaurant for generations and are deeply loved by locals. The decoration of the restaurant continues the traditional Polish style, and the wooden furniture and retro decorations make every customer seem to travel through time and return to ancient Poland.
Food characteristics and taste
U Fukiera’s signature dish is the traditional Polish “borscht” (Barszcz), whose unique hot and sour taste makes many people salivate. This borscht is usually made with beets and sauerkraut, and is rich and layered, often served with a large piece of dumplings or stewed meat. In addition, the restaurant’s “Polish dumplings” (Pierogi) are also a classic delicacy that cannot be missed. Whether it is fried dumplings or boiled dumplings, they have thick skins and rich fillings, giving people a feeling of full mouthful of happiness.
Location and transportation
U Fukiera is located in the Old Town of Warsaw, the specific address is Rynek Starego Miasta 27. You can take the subway or bus to the Old Town and then walk to the restaurant. The area where the restaurant is located is the tourist center of Warsaw, so transportation is very convenient.
Booking platform and cost
Because the restaurant is very popular, especially during the peak tourist season, it is strongly recommended to book a seat in advance through a third-party booking platform such as GetYourGuide or OpenTable. In terms of price, the cost of the main course is about 40-80 Polish zloty (PLN), and the price of borscht and dumplings is about 20-30 Polish zloty.
Recommended crowd
If you are a food lover, a history and culture enthusiast, or a tourist who wants to taste authentic Polish flavor, this is undoubtedly an ideal choice.
2. Zapiecek: The pinnacle of Polish dumplings
Restaurant history
Since its opening in 1992, Zapiecek restaurant has been famous for its classic Polish dumplings. The design style of the restaurant retains the traditional Polish rural atmosphere, and the warm lighting and wooden tables and chairs make people feel the strong homely flavor. The Zapiecek chain has branches in many locations in Warsaw and is one of the preferred restaurants for locals and tourists.
Food characteristics and taste
Zapiecek’s Polish dumplings (Pierogi) are the restaurant’s signature dishes, with a wide variety of flavors, including meat, vegetables, cheese and fruits. The most popular are “meat dumplings” and “cheese dumplings”, with thin and tough dumpling skins, rich and juicy fillings, and every bite is full of authentic Polish flavor. In addition, the restaurant’s sauerkraut soup and traditional Polish barbecue (Kielbasa) are also very popular, with a strong taste and very Polish local characteristics.
Location and Transportation
Zapiecek has branches all over Warsaw, with the most famous one located at ul. Krucza 16/22 in the Old Town of Warsaw. You can take the metro to Ratusz Arsenał station and then walk to the restaurant.
Booking Platform and Fees
Zapiecek is relatively affordable, with pierogi costing about 25-40 PLN per serving, and sauerkraut soup and barbecue costing about 30-50 PLN. Reservations can be made through TripAdvisor, especially during weekends and holidays, when it is necessary to book a seat in advance.
Recommended Crowd
Whether it is a family dinner, a couple’s date or a gathering of friends, Zapiecek is a very suitable choice. The Polish cuisine served here is both local and warm and comfortable.
3. Kuchnia Warszawska: A perfect fusion of modernity and tradition
History of the restaurant
Located in the center of Warsaw, Kuchnia Warszawska is a restaurant that interprets traditional Polish cuisine in a modern way. The design of the restaurant combines elements of Polish history and modern art, with both traditional Polish woodcarving decorations and modern minimalist style, giving people a unique visual experience.
Food Features and Taste
Kuchnia Warszawska’s specialty is the “Polski Trio”, a combination of classic Polish cuisine, including dumplings, barbecue and sauerkraut. The restaurant pays special attention to the freshness and authenticity of the ingredients. The traditional dumplings are given modern innovative elements, with a softer skin and more delicate fillings. At the same time, the restaurant’s “Polish Borscht” (Barszcz) adds modern cooking techniques, retaining the traditional taste but more refreshing, suitable for customers with all tastes.
Location and Transportation
Kuchnia Warszawska is located at ul. Bracka 25, very close to Warsaw Central Station. You can take the subway to Centrum Station and walk to the restaurant.
Booking platform and fees
The prices at Kuchnia Warszawska are slightly higher than those of ordinary Polish restaurants, with main dishes ranging from 50-100 Polish zlotys (PLN). You can make reservations in advance through GetYourGuide or OpenTable platforms, especially during weekends when the restaurant will be busy.
Recommended crowd
If you like modern Polish cuisine, or want to experience some innovation while tasting classic Polish flavors, this is your best choice.
4. Podwale Kompania Piwna: The flavor of a traditional Polish tavern
Restaurant history
Podwale Kompania Piwna is a traditional Polish tavern founded in 1989. The tavern is located in the Old Town of Warsaw and has a strong local flavor. The restaurant’s decoration style retains the ancient style of Polish taverns and is a good place to experience the traditional Polish food culture.
Food Features and Taste
Podwale Kompania Piwna’s signature dish is “Grilled Pork Knee” (Golonka), which is very popular in Poland. The restaurant slow-cooks the pork knee until it is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, served with sauerkraut and Polish mashed potatoes, which is rich in flavor and tastes great. In addition, the restaurant’s “Polish Platter” is also highly recommended, which contains a variety of traditional Polish meats and is suitable for sharing with friends.
Location and Transportation
Podwale Kompania Piwna is located in the Old Town of Warsaw, at ul. Podwale 25, within walking distance of major attractions. You can choose to take public transportation to the Old Town and easily find this restaurant on foot.
Booking Platform and Fees
The restaurant’s prices are moderate, with grilled pork knees ranging from about 40-60 Polish zlotys (PLN), and platter packages costing about 50-80 Polish zlotys. Reservations can be made through TripAdvisor, especially during the busy dinner hours.
Recommended Crowd
If you like the traditional Polish pub atmosphere and want to taste classic Polish meat cuisine, this is the best choice.
5. Polka Restaurant: Exquisite Polish Flavor
Restaurant History
Polka Restaurant is a restaurant that serves exquisite Polish dishes, located in the center of Warsaw. The restaurant’s design is modern and elegant, giving people a comfortable dining environment. Since its opening, Polka has become the first choice for local food lovers with its high-quality dishes and first-class service.
Food Features and Taste
Polka’s specialties include “Polish Goulash” (Bigos) and “Polish Fruit Dumplings” (Pierogi z owocami). The goulash has a rich taste, and the perfect combination of sauerkraut and meat makes every bite memorable. Fruit dumplings are part of the dessert, using fresh fruit as filling, sweet but not greasy, paired with a glass of traditional Polish honey wine (Miód pitny), it is a perfect dessert after the meal.
Location and Transportation
Polka Restaurant is located at ul. Nowy Świat 64, in the city center, within walking distance of many tourist attractions. You can choose to arrive by subway or bus, and the transportation is very convenient.
Booking Platform and Fees
Polka Restaurant is on the high end, with main courses ranging from 60-100 PLN. It is recommended to book a table in advance through OpenTable or TripAdvisor, especially on weekends.
Recommended for People
If you are looking for a high-quality dining experience, especially for couples or business banquets, Polka is an ideal choice.
As the cultural and culinary center of Poland, Warsaw has a rich and diverse traditional cuisine. Whether you want to taste authentic Polish dumplings or want to experience the unique Polish pub culture, Warsaw’s restaurants can provide you with an unforgettable culinary experience. Book a table in advance and get ready for a Polish-style food journey!
