Take a break from the movies: Where to eat and drink during Karlovy Vary Film Festival?
KVIFF is kicking off! In early July, Karlovy Vary transforms into the beating heart of cultural life, but the local food scene struggles to keep up with this frenetic pace. Pop-up projects — often from renowned Prague establishments — are helping it catch its breath. Here's what shouldn’t you miss this year.
Republica Coffee
If your morning rituals include a good cup of coffee, you shouldn’t miss Republica Coffee. Just a five-minute walk from the Thermal Hotel, you can treat yourself to specialty coffee that they roast right here. You can sit inside, on the patio, or in the courtyard, and the menu features a selection of croissants, bagels, and sandwiches.
Le Marché
If you’d like to enjoy a multi-course meal for lunch or dinner, we recommend Karlovy Vary’s long-standing favourite, Le Marché. Chef Jan Krajč prepares dishes daily based on what he’s just bought fresh and what brings him joy. His specialty is foie gras with a chocolate brioche, caramelised apple, and white wine.
Lékárna Coffee Roasters
Anyone who’s been to at least one party at the film festival knows that access to coffee is a matter of life and death here. Even even the worst hangover can be cured with specialty coffee at Lékárna. If your blood sugar is low, they’ll also prescribe dessert.
Pinkiez Espresso Bar
This stylish espresso bar with a playful pink interior is a favourite stop for film festival-goers during KVIFF. In addition to carefully prepared specialty coffee, you’ll also find a breakfast menu, homemade desserts, and a relaxed atmosphere. If you want to take a break from the festival hustle and bustle with a cappuccino or a pour-over, Pinkiez is a sure bet.
Pinkiez x Myšák
The Prague pastry shop Myšák and Karlovy Vary espresso bar Pinkiez will jointly open a stand on the colonnade behind Vřídlo during KVIFF.
From July 2 to 11, they’ll be serving specialty coffee and other beverages from Pinkiez, complemented by pastries and desserts from Myšák.
If you want to treat yourself to a great breakfast, something sweet, or just a good cup of coffee with a view of the festival action between movies, this is one of the spots you won’t want to miss.
Zámecká věž (Castle Tower)
The tower draws visitors with its unique interior, interesting exhibits on the history of spa towns, a view of the entire city of Karlovy Vary, and premium coffee from the local roastery City Roasters. Enjoy it on the terrace and take in the beauty of Karlovy Vary.
Limetka v Meandru
This unassuming café, tucked away in the Meandr Ohře complex, offers a pleasant escape from the centre of Karlovy Vary. On hot days, the outdoor seating by the river is especially inviting, alongside quality coffee, homemade desserts, and light snacks. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet breakfast or an afternoon break between festival screenings.
La Hospoda
La Hospoda is one of those restaurants that combine authentic Czech cuisine with a modern approach and an emphasis on high-quality ingredients. Here you can enjoy both traditional Czech classics with a contemporary twist, and seasonal specialties inspired by local ingredients. Thanks to its location in the centre of Karlovy Vary, it’s the perfect spot for lunch or dinner between festival screenings.
Café Pohovka
You’ll find Café Pohovka just a few steps from the colonnade, yet you can still enjoy an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. It specialises in specialty coffee, which you can enjoy on the terrace overlooking the city. The café also serves as a small gallery, so in addition to coffee, you can enjoy a dose of local culture here.
To Eat
Do Pusy
Little white stands with homemade fruit popsicles can be found in Karlovy Vary at several locations. They offer so many flavours that you can try a different one every day of the festival!
Prague in Karlovy Vary
Bokovka
Where to go with the friends you’ll meet along the colonnade? Head to Bokovka for a drink! As has become tradition, this Prague wine bar has moved to the Husovka Theatre building for the duration of the festival. The wine list was curated by sommelier Roman Novotný and includes natural wines. In this casual setting, far from the noisy crowds, you’ll find interesting and well-known personalities gathering. You can also treat your taste buds to burgers, sausages, and other grilled delicacies from the team from Naše maso, who will gladly pack your order to go if you’re in a hurry to catch a movie.
Aromi
Chef Richard Bielik and his team are also heading to Karlovy Vary for a few days. From July 3 to 12, they’ll be serving lunch and dinner every day at Aromi, in the heart of the colonnade. The menu will feature fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and other specialties that are inextricably linked to Aromi. On Friday and Saturday evenings, you can also look forward to DJ sets and signature drinks in collaboration with Jägermeister.
Alma
The popular Alma bar is another must-see at KVIFF. Led by Pavel Sochor, the bar has even created a special festival drink. Starting July 6, you’ll find it at the Mattoni Life Bar tent.
