10 Places Where to Eat Traditional Czech Food in Karlovy Vary

Exploring the food scene in this spa town is a delight for the senses. Many restaurants use recipes passed down through generations. You will find cozy cellars and grand dining halls throughout the city. Here are the top picks for a truly local meal.

• Best overall: Restaurace Karel IV
• Best for atmosphere: Restaurace U Švejka
• Best for families: Smíchovský pavilon
• Best for budget: Velkopopovická Kozlovna

1. Name: Restaurace Karel IV Type: Brewery Restaurant Why go: It offers fresh beer and amazing roasted meats. The pork knee is a local favorite. Best for: Beer lovers and large groups. Where: Becherplatz, near the Becherovka Museum. Time: 1.5 to 2 hours. Cost: 300–550 CZK per person. Getting there: A short walk from the main bus station. Tip: Try the beer brewed directly on the premises.
2. Name: Restaurace U Švejka Type: Themed Restaurant Why go: This spot celebrates the famous Czech literary character, the Good Soldier Švejk. It serves classic goulash and dumplings. Best for: First-time visitors looking for a traditional vibe. Where: Stará Louka, near the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 350–600 CZK per person. Getting there: Walk along the river toward the southern end of the spa zone. Tip: The outdoor seating is perfect for people-watching in summer.
3. Name: Smíchovský pavilon Type: Traditional Dining Hall Why go: It is famous for high-quality "svíčková" (beef in cream sauce). The interior is elegant and historic. Best for: Families and fans of classic sauces. Where: Lidická street, slightly above the main center. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 400–700 CZK per person. Getting there: Take bus number 2 or 7 from the center. Tip: Reservations are highly recommended on weekends.
4. Name: Velkopopovická Kozlovna Type: Modern Czech Pub Why go: This is one of the top local favorites in Karlovy Vary for tank beer. The food is simple, fresh, and very filling. Best for: Casual dinner and budget-conscious travelers. Where: Near the Main Post Office. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 250–450 CZK per person. Getting there: Easily accessible on foot from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Order the "Kozel" dark beer for a rich taste.
5. Name: Restaurace Promenáda Type: Upscale Traditional Why go: It offers a refined take on Bohemian cuisine. The game meat dishes are exceptional here. Best for: A romantic dinner or special occasion. Where: Tržiště, near the Market Colonnade. Time: 2 to 3 hours. Cost: 600–1200 CZK per person. Getting there: Located in the heart of the pedestrian zone. Tip: Ask for the wine list to find local Moravian bottles.
6. Name: U Křížovníků Type: Medieval-style Restaurant Why go: The stone walls and wooden beams create a unique atmosphere. They serve authentic Old Bohemian platters. Best for: History buffs and meat lovers. Where: Near the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 350–550 CZK per person. Getting there: Walk uphill from the Vřídlo spring. Tip: The duck with red cabbage is a must-try dish.
7. Name: Staroslovanská kuchyně Type: Old Slavic Experience Why go: They cook in traditional stone ovens. The bread is baked fresh and the flavors are rustic. Best for: A unique, non-commercial dining experience. Where: Moskevská street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 300–500 CZK per person. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the city center. Tip: Try the "shashlik" or the traditional oven-baked pies.
8. Name: Restaurace Piknik Type: Casual Eatery Why go: It offers a relaxed setting near the Teplá River. The lunch specials are great value. Best for: Quick lunches during sightseeing. Where: Near the Park Colonnade. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 200–400 CZK per person. Getting there: Walkable from any central hotel. Tip: Check their daily menu for the best prices.
9. Name: Hrad Loket Restaurant Type: Day Trip Experience Why go: Located in a nearby medieval town. It serves food fit for a king inside a castle setting. Best for: Travelers taking a half-day trip outside the city. Where: Loket, about 12km from Karlovy Vary. Time: 3 to 4 hours (including travel). Cost: 350–600 CZK per person. Getting there: Take a local train or bus from the main station. Tip: Visit the castle museum before your meal.
10. Name: Malá Dvorana at Grandhotel Pupp Type: Elegant Café/Bistro Why go: While upscale, they serve a legendary "Pupp Goulash." The setting is incredibly grand. Best for: Experiencing luxury on a smaller budget. Where: Mírové náměstí. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 500–900 CZK per person. Getting there: Walk to the southern end of the spa district. Tip: Dress slightly nicer for this location to feel comfortable.

Planning Your Culinary Trip to Karlovy Vary

Dining in this city is generally a smooth experience for tourists. Most staff in the spa zone speak English or German. You should check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site for seasonal events. Many restaurants offer cheaper lunch menus on weekdays. These menus are a great way to save money while eating well. Most places accept credit cards, but keeping some cash is wise.

Public transport is very efficient if your restaurant is outside the center. You can use the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website to plan routes. Walking is the best way to explore the pedestrian spa zone. Wear comfortable shoes as some streets are cobbled. Always check for a service charge on your bill before tipping. A standard tip is usually around ten percent for good service.