Quick Picks for Duck Lovers

If you are in a hurry, here are our top recommendations. These spots offer the most consistent quality for this traditional dish. You can find options for every budget and style.

• Best Overall: Restaurant Karel IV (Great beer and atmosphere)
• Best for Families: Malé Versailles (Spacious with a park view)
• Best Luxury: Restaurant Embassy (Historic and elegant)
• Best Budget: Velkopopovická archa (Local favorite prices)

Before you head out, check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site for seasonal events. Many restaurants offer special duck menus during the autumn months.

9 Best Spots Where to Eat Roasted Duck in Karlovy Vary

Finding the perfect crispy skin and tender meat requires local knowledge. These nine locations are famous for their traditional recipes. Most serve duck with traditional Czech dumplings and cabbage.

1. Name: Restaurant Karel IV Type: Brewery restaurant Why go: They serve a massive quarter duck that is perfectly seasoned. Best for: People who love traditional brewery vibes. Where: Becherplatz, near the city center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 350-500 CZK. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the Jan Becher Museum. Tip: Try the duck with their own Charles IV dark beer.
2. Name: U Švejka Type: Themed restaurant Why go: It offers a fun, historic atmosphere based on a famous Czech novel. Best for: First-time visitors looking for a classic experience. Where: Near the Stará Louka promenade. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 300-450 CZK. Getting there: Walk along the river toward the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: The portions are very large, so come hungry.
3. Name: Restaurant Embassy Type: Upscale dining Why go: This is one of the oldest and most famous restaurants in the city. Best for: A romantic dinner or special celebration. Where: Near the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 500-800 CZK. Getting there: Take a taxi or walk to the south end of the spa zone. Tip: Ask for a table in the historic wood-paneled room.
4. Name: Velkopopovická archa Type: Local tavern Why go: It is one of the best affordable local pubs in Karlovy Vary for duck. Best for: Travelers on a budget who want quality food. Where: Near the main bus station. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 250-400 CZK. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes from the Tržnice bus stop. Tip: This spot is popular with locals, so arrive early for lunch.
5. Name: Malé Versailles Type: Garden restaurant Why go: The setting is peaceful and surrounded by nature. Best for: Families with children who need space to move. Where: Westend district, near the forest paths. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 400-600 CZK. Getting there: A 15-minute walk uphill from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Sit on the terrace if the weather is nice.
6. Name: Promenáda Type: Classic European restaurant Why go: They focus on high-quality ingredients and refined presentation. Best for: Foodies who appreciate gourmet touches on traditional dishes. Where: Directly on the main promenade. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 450-700 CZK. Getting there: Central location, easy to reach by foot. Tip: Their red cabbage is known for being exceptionally sweet and flavorful.
7. Name: Smíchovský pavilon Type: Historic pavilion Why go: It offers a grand dining hall experience from the 19th century. Best for: History buffs and large travel groups. Where: Located on the edge of the spa forest. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 350-550 CZK. Getting there: Take bus number 2 to the Richmond stop. Tip: Check their website for live music nights.
8. Name: Restaurace Sklipek Type: Cozy cellar Why go: The underground stone walls create a very intimate dining space. Best for: Escaping the crowds on a busy weekend. Where: Hidden in a side street near the Thermal Hotel. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 300-450 CZK. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes from the Dvořák Park. Tip: Try the potato pancakes as an alternative side dish.
9. Name: Hrad Loket Restaurant Type: Castle day trip Why go: Eating duck in a medieval castle setting is a unique experience. Best for: A half-day trip outside the city. Where: Loket town, 15 km from Karlovy Vary. Time: 3-4 hours (including travel). Cost: 350-500 CZK. Getting there: Take a 20-minute train or bus from the main station. Tip: Visit the castle torture museum before your meal to work up an appetite.

What to Pair with Your Czech Roasted Duck

A traditional duck meal is not complete without the right sides. Most restaurants serve two types of dumplings: bread and potato. You will also see a pile of braised red or white cabbage. The cabbage provides a sour contrast to the rich, fatty meat.

For drinks, a cold Czech lager is the standard choice. The carbonation helps cleanse your palate between bites. If you prefer wine, a local Moravian red also works well. You can find more tips on Visit Czechia for regional drink pairings.

Always remember that duck is a heavy meal. It is best enjoyed for lunch rather than a late dinner. This gives you time to walk off the calories along the beautiful colonnades.