Quick Decision: Which Prague Cafe Fits Your Morning?

If you are short on time, here is the fast answer. Both cafes offer high-quality service and historic surroundings. However, the vibe in each is quite different. Use these quick rules to make your choice today.

• Pick Cafe Imperial if: You love Art Deco style and a bustling, energetic atmosphere.
• Pick Cafe Savoy if: You prefer a romantic, slightly quieter setting with French-inspired pastries.
• Pick Cafe Imperial if: You want to see the famous ceramic tiles and a celebrity-chef menu.
• Pick Cafe Savoy if: You are staying near Malá Strana or the Petřín Hill area.

Both locations are popular with locals and tourists alike. You should always book a table at least 48 hours in advance. For weekends in 2026, booking a week early is even better. This ensures you won't miss out on these authentic experiences in Prague.

Atmosphere and Historic Charm in Prague

Cafe Imperial is a masterpiece of Art Deco design. Its walls are covered in intricate ceramic tiles and mosaics from 1914. The pillars feature floral and animal motifs that feel exotic and grand. It feels like a lively, high-end brasserie. The space is bright and often filled with the sound of happy diners.

Cafe Savoy offers a more classical, elegant feel. Its crowning glory is the Neo-Renaissance wooden ceiling from 1893. The large windows look out onto the charming streets of the West Bank. It feels more like a traditional European salon. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet cozy for a long breakfast.

While both are historic literary cafes in Prague, they serve different moods. Imperial is about the 'wow' factor of the architecture. Savoy is about the quiet luxury of the late 19th century. Both have been carefully restored to their former glory for modern visitors.

Breakfast Menus and Signature Dishes Compared

The food at both cafes is excellent, but the styles vary slightly. Cafe Imperial offers a range of breakfast sets. You can choose a classic English breakfast or a lighter French version. Their eggs Benedict are often cited as some of the best in the city. The menu focuses on high-quality ingredients and perfect execution.

Cafe Savoy is famous for its namesake "Savoy Breakfast." This set includes soft-boiled eggs, Prague ham, and local cheese. It also comes with their legendary bread and cake. Their in-house bakery produces incredible croissants and pastries every morning. It is a great place to try authentic traditional Czech food with a modern twist.

Pricing and Practical Booking Tips

In terms of cost, both cafes are priced higher than average Prague coffee shops. However, they remain affordable compared to similar spots in London or Paris. A full breakfast set usually costs between 350 and 500 CZK. This often includes a hot drink and fresh juice. For the quality and setting, most travelers find this a great value.

Booking is the most important part of your plan. Both cafes use easy online reservation systems. If you walk in without a booking, you may wait over an hour. This is especially true during the peak summer months and December. Aim for an early slot around 8:00 AM for the quietest experience.

The service at both locations is professional and fast. Staff usually speak excellent English and are used to international guests. For more travel tips, check the Visit Czechia website. It provides great context on local dining etiquette and tipping customs.

Location and Neighborhood Exploration

Cafe Imperial is located in the New Town (Nové Město). It is very close to the Namesti Republiky transport hub. This makes it a perfect start if you plan to shop or visit the Powder Tower. The surrounding area is busy and full of energy. It is easy to reach from almost anywhere in central Prague.

Cafe Savoy sits on the Vltava River's west bank in Malá Strana. This area is known for its beautiful parks and historic embassies. After breakfast, you can easily walk to Kampa Park or the Charles Bridge. It is a more scenic and relaxed part of the city. The Prague.eu portal has maps of these historic districts.

Choosing based on location can save you a lot of travel time. If you want to explore the Castle side, Savoy is your best bet. If you are staying near the main railway station, Imperial is closer. Both are well-connected by the efficient Prague tram system.