Where to Eat (and Drink) in Kraków: Local Favorites You Can’t Miss
- Magdalena Motor
- Sep 24
- 4 min read
Kraków is a city with soul. In today’s post we’ll focus on a few spots mainly in the city center, but remember that the whole city is a true European gem, full of culture and history. One of the reasons Kraków feels so special is that much of its historic charm survived the war intact, allowing visitors to experience centuries-old streets and architecture. Of course, no trip is complete without seeing Wawel Castle or the fire-breathing dragon, but the real magic is found in the backstreets and in the places where locals love to gather.
Here are five must-visit stops to taste Kraków like a local:
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Okrąglak – Zapiekanka Central
If you wander around Plac Nowy in Kazimierz, you’ll spot the famous Okrąglak (literally “the round one”). This small rotunda is a legendary snack hub, with places serving zapiekanki. Crispy, cheesy, and loaded with toppings, they’re the ultimate comfort food, especially after a night out. A toasted baguette topped with butter, mushrooms, and cheese as the base; simple, filling, and cheap. But that’s just the beginning. Over the years, zapiekanki have become a canvas for all kinds of toppings. You’ll find versions with ham, bacon, fresh veggies, or even regional twists like one topped with oscypek - a smoky, salty cheese from the Polish mountains. Always served piping hot and usually finished with a drizzle of ketchup or garlic sauce, zapiekanki are the ultimate late-night fuel for tired (or tipsy) students.
Dobra Pączkarnia – Donut Heaven
Polish donuts (pączki) aren’t just a once-a-year treat for Fat Thursday - in Kraków, you can enjoy them year-round. Dobra Pączkarnia is the go-to spot for these fluffy, golden pastries, generously filled with classics like fruit jams like rose or redcurrant, dusted with powdered sugar or glazed. But modern versions take things up a notch: you’ll find pączki with creamy Rafaello-style filling, or Nutella. Sweet tooth guaranteed, but worth every bite.
Kiełbasa from the Nysa Van
For a truly old-school Kraków experience, check out the Nysa van - a retro blue van where vendors grill fresh sausages on the spot. These vans, originally produced in Poland between the 1950s and 1990s, were used for everything from ambulances to delivery vehicles. Today, they’ve become an iconic part of street food culture, especially for selling kiełbasa.
Served simply with bread, mustard, and often accompanied by a small glass of orangeade, the sausages are smoky, hearty, and the drink adds a nostalgic touch that reminds many locals of childhood. Eating from a Nysa van isn’t just about food - it’s a taste of Polish history on wheels, a connection to the past that locals and visitors alike love.
Shots and Beer Across Kraków 🥂🍺
Poland is famous for its wide range of flavored vodkas, and Kraków is the perfect place to explore them. Make sure to try orzechówka (walnut), cytrynówka (lemon), malinówka (raspberry), wiśniówka (cherry), and many more - each bar offers its own selection. One of the city’s highlights is sampling cheesecake shots, like those at the Ulica Krokodyli pub. While exploring, don’t miss draft beer with raspberry syrup, a classic combination where the sweetness of the syrup balances the bitterness of the beer. This refreshing drink can be found in bars throughout Poland and is a must-try for anyone wanting to experience the local flavors.
Kazimierz is particularly notable for its historic, atmospheric bars, but you’ll find exciting drink options all over the city. It’s the perfect way to toast with friends and explore the local taste palette while hopping between bars.
Wedel Chocolate Lounge
Pijalnia Czekolady Wedel, an iconic Polish chocolate brand with a history dating back to 1851, when Karol Wedel opened his first confectionery in Warsaw. The Kraków lounge, located in the heart of the city at ul. Szewska 12, continues this legacy, offering visitors a chance to experience over a century of chocolate craftsmanship. Here, you can indulge in velvety hot chocolate, available in classic or flavored versions like mint, chili, or orange. Pair it with pralines, cakes, or their signature chocolate desserts for a decadent experience. The cozy, stylish interior makes it a perfect spot to relax after a day of sightseeing, and every sip is a reminder of why Wedel has become a symbol of Polish chocolate excellence.
Obwarzanki – Kraków’s Street Snack
As you wander through the Old Town, you’ll notice small street stalls selling round, braided bread rings sprinkled with poppy or sesame seeds. These are obwarzanki krakowskie - a local specialty with centuries of tradition. Light, chewy, and perfect as a quick snack, they’re an everyday bite for locals. Fun fact: many believe the recipe for obwarzanki traveled with Polish immigrants to New York, where it eventually evolved into the bagel. So yes, you could say Kraków is the true homeland of your Sunday brunch favorite!
If food were a personality, Kraków would be the friend who never sleeps. Grab a zapiekanka, chase it with a pączek, sip hot chocolate at Wedel, try a shot or two, and don’t miss the Nysa van sausages with orangeade. Throw in a beer with raspberry syrup and you’ve got yourself a culinary adventure with zero regrets.
If you’re planning any trips, be sure to check out our previous blogs for more tips on where to eat, drink, and explore. Or continue discovering more hidden gems and captivating destinations. Stay tuned for more articles on our website. Follow us on our instagram @thewalkingparrot to be continuously updated on new releases and join us as we embark on new adventures. We will be back soon with a new article! If you're visiting Lisbon, make sure to try our Fado, Food, and Wine tour.
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