Eating in Prague: A Food Guide Beyond Goulash & Dumplings

I’ll be honest. I landed in Prague bracing myself for the carb coma.

I had this mental image of the week ahead: an endless, heavy parade of goulash, thick sauces, and dumplings that sit in your stomach like stones. I packed my stretchiest trousers and prepared for a week of heavy starch.

I was wrong.

My expectations were pretty uneducated. Prague’s food scene is incredibly eclectic. Yes, you’ll find the traditional Czech fare, but thanks to a long history of Vietnamese immigration (dating back to the Communist era), the city is also packed with incredible Asian cuisine, alongside French bistros and modern diners .

Visiting in mid-November, the weather was beautifully crisp. It was that specific kind of cold that feels fresh rather than punishing – so much so that we found ourselves wanting to stay outdoors.

Here are the best restaurants and food spots that stood out to me.

Kuchyn - The Castle Spot

My friend (a local) messaged me and insisted I go here. It’s right next to Prague Castle, which usually signals "tourist trap," but this was the real deal. We actually sat on the terrace, despite the November chill – the view was just too good to leave.

• The Food: Upon recommendation, I had the marinated carp. I usually associate carp with muddy river water, but this was bright, citrusy, and fresh. The roast chicken with potato dauphinoise was equally good – hearty and careful.
• The Vibe: We sat next to an English expat who gave us his life story about moving to Prague for love (and better taxes). We also had a good laugh when the outdoor heaters finally flickered on just as we were paying the bill.

The Farmer’s Market on Naplavka

This is a proper local spot on the riverbank. It’s not polished and it’s where locals actually shop on Saturday mornings.

• The Highlight: I met a mushroom farmer (not that kind of mushroom) who was basically a fungi alchemist. She sold everything from fresh picks to vegan soy sauce and tapenades made from her harvest.
• Good to Know: Cash is king here. They are adamant about it. I had to run to the Tesco Express around the corner to withdraw koruna, so come prepared.

Pho Viet Nam

This place was a standout. It’s located underground, and when we walked in, the staff and most of the diners were Vietnamese – always the best sign. It made me reflect on the resilience it takes to preserve a culture so authentically in a completely different part of the world. As an immigrant myself, I have a lot of respect for that.

Kung Fu Ramen

I spotted this place in Old Town on our very first day and immediately made a mental note. By day three, heading here was an absolute necessity or it would have filled me with regret. The spicy miso broth is wholesome, deep, and exactly what you need after walking all day in the cold.

Marthy’s Kitchen

A lovely French spot that feels very authentic. I went for the savory buckwheat galette. It’s a great option if you need a break from the hearty but heavier Central European dishes and just want a leisurely brunch.

Marina Ristorante

This is your "treat yourself" option. It’s a converted boat docked on the Vltava River. Is it a bit fancier? Yes. Is it slightly showy? Maybe.

But I had the king prawns followed by the mushroom risotto, and honestly, eating perfectly creamy risotto while floating on the river with a view of the Charles Bridge is one of those pinch-me moments. Sometimes you just have to lean into the romance of a place.

So...should you bother going to Prague if you're after good food?

Absolutely, YES!

Prague has the history, but don't let the stereotypes dictate your dinner. The city is diverse, the produce is fresh, and if you see people eating on a terrace in November, join them. Happy bellies guaranteed.

About me...I'm Lorna Rose and, by day, I work in the tech industry, but in my heart of hearts, I've always been fascinated by the story that food tells. The magic of a well-cooked meal, the way a simple dish can bring people together, spark conversation, and create lasting memories. On Happy Bellies, I set out to explore and find hidden gems, so that I can indulge in telling stories around food that will make you want to go out and create your own foodie adventures.

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Happy BelliesLorna Rose