The Essential U Zlateho Tygra Reservation and Etiquette Guide

U Zlatého Tygra is a place of legend where Bill Clinton once shared a beer. This pub does not operate like a modern restaurant. You cannot simply book a table online or via a quick phone call. Most tables are permanently reserved for decades-long regulars who arrive every evening. To get a seat, you must arrive exactly when they open at 3:00 PM. Even then, you might be asked to move when the regulars show up later.

The atmosphere is loud, communal, and intensely traditional. Do not wait for a host to seat you if you see an empty chair. Ask the people at the table if the seat is free. Once you sit down, a beer will appear almost instantly. You do not need to ask for a menu or a drink list. The tapsters focus on speed and quality above all else. Respect the staff and they will keep your glass full.

Before you go, learn how to order beer in a Czech pub properly. This will make your visit much smoother. Never try to move chairs or tables on your own. Keep your voice at a moderate level despite the surrounding noise. If you follow these simple steps, you will experience the soul of Prague. It is an unforgettable experience for any beer lover visiting the city.

12 Authentic Czech Pubs in Prague for Locals

Prague offers a wide variety of drinking spots beyond the famous Golden Tiger. These locations provide a window into the daily life of residents. From historic halls to neighborhood haunts, each has a unique character. Here are the best authentic Czech pubs in Prague for locals.

1. Name: U Zlatého Tygra Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the most famous Pilsner Urquell pub in the world. Best for: History buffs and beer purists. Where: Old Town (Husova street). Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Low (beer is cheap). Getting there: Walk from Staroměstská metro. Tip: Arrive at 2:45 PM to stand in line before they open.
3. Name: U Černého Vola Type: Historic experience Why go: A preserved 16th-century pub that supports a local school. Best for: A quiet afternoon drink. Where: Loretto Square near the Castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Very affordable. Getting there: Take Tram 22 to Pohořelec. Tip: Look at the beautiful heraldic paintings on the walls.
5. Name: Lokál Dlouhááá Type: Modern local haunt Why go: They serve the freshest tank beer and high-quality traditional snacks. Best for: Large groups and foodies. Where: Old Town. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from Náměstí Republiky. Tip: Try the authentic traditional Czech food like fried cheese.
7. Name: U Hrocha Type: Hidden gem Why go: It feels like a village pub in the heart of the tourist district. Best for: Escaping the crowds of Malá Strana. Where: Malá Strana. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Walk up from Charles Bridge. Tip: Be prepared to stand if all the benches are full.
9. Name: U Jelínků Type: Historic pub Why go: Known for having the best-poured Pilsner in the New Town. Best for: A quick, standing beer at the bar. Where: New Town. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Near Národní třída metro. Tip: This place has been family-run for over a century.
11. Name: Hostinec U Vodoucha Type: Neighborhood experience Why go: It offers a massive selection of beers from small regional breweries. Best for: Trying something other than Pilsner. Where: Vinohrady/Žižkov. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take the metro to Jiřího z Poděbrad. Tip: This is one of the best local hospoda in Zizkov district.
13. Name: U Pinkasů Type: Iconic sight Why go: The first place in Prague to serve Pilsner Urquell in 1843. Best for: Drinking in a historic outdoor garden. Where: New Town. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Right next to Můstek metro. Tip: Sit in the garden next to the Church of Our Lady of the Snows.
15. Name: Pivnice U Sadu Type: Unique local experience Why go: Eclectic decor with old farm tools hanging from the ceiling. Best for: Late-night drinks as it stays open very late. Where: Žižkov. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from the TV Tower. Tip: They have a very diverse bottled beer list.
17. Name: Letná Beer Garden Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: Unbeatable views of the Vltava River and city bridges. Best for: Sunny afternoons and families. Where: Letná Park. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Tram to Letenské náměstí. Tip: Bring cash as the outdoor kiosks often do not take cards.
19. Name: U Medvídků Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: A massive historic complex with its own tiny brewery. Best for: Trying the strongest beer in the world, X-Beer 33. Where: Old Town. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from Narodni Trida. Tip: Visit the shop to buy beer-themed souvenirs.
21. Name: Výčep Type: Modern experience Why go: A trendy take on the traditional pub with gourmet food. Best for: A fancy night out that still feels Czech. Where: Vinohrady. Time: 2 hours. Cost: High. Getting there: Tram to Korunní. Tip: Make a reservation here as it is very popular.
23. Name: Karlínská Pivnice Type: Neighborhood experience Why go: Excellent tank beer in the hip Karlín district. Best for: A relaxed evening away from tourists. Where: Karlín. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Metro to Křižíkova. Tip: Explore the nearby cafes after your beer.

Mastering the Art of the Czech Pub Experience

Visiting a traditional pub in Prague requires knowing a few social customs. When you sit down, place a beer coaster in front of you. This signals to the waiter that you want a beer. They will often bring a drink without even asking. Each beer is marked as a stroke on a small slip of paper. Do not lose this paper, as it is your bill.

Tipping is expected but should be kept simple. Round up the bill to the nearest ten or twenty crowns. For example, if the bill is 184 CZK, give the waiter 200 CZK. You should tell the waiter the total amount you want to pay. Do not leave money on the table and walk away. This is considered impolite in many traditional establishments.

Food in these pubs is designed to pair perfectly with beer. Look for items like pickled cheese (nakládaný hermelín) or spicy sausages. Most pubs stop serving heavy food around 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. If you want a full meal, plan to eat earlier in the evening. For more travel ideas, check the Prague.eu tourism portal. Understanding these small details will make you feel like a local.