Where to eat in Prague? A guide to Karlín's food scene
Tasting dinner at the Michelin-starred restaurant Štangl
Karlín has a long and colourful history. It used to be an industrial district full of factories, but in 2002 it was hit by massive and devastating flooding - the height of the water reached two metres. After that, the area became one of the fastest developing parts of Prague.
Architects, creatives and companies began to settle here, and the streets of Karlín gradually transformed into a modern and lively urban zone. Many houses were forced to fall to the ground due to the broken foundations, and construction and repair began on a large scale. Carefully reconstructed buildings, complemented by contemporary architecture, are a reminder of the industrial past.
It didn't take long for new shops and businesses to spring up. At that time, Czech gastronomy began to move in a more modern direction, and Karlín made its mark on the Czech gastronomic map. Among the first to open here were Bistro Proti proudu or Můj šálek kávy which are still some of the popular local hotspots today.
You'll find a wide range of businesses that offer food made from quality and local ingredients, experiment with flavours and push the Prague scene forward. However, it is not only for good food that people come to Karlin, but also for a pleasant neighbourhood atmosphere. So let's explore it!
Where to eat in Karlín?
Eska
Eska is a local icon and one of the most interesting concepts of the Prague scene. Modern Czech cuisine, honest craftsmanship, its own bakery and open kitchen create an atmosphere that guests have been coming back for for the last ten years. Whether you come here for breakfast, lunch, or for their legendary Bread 33, Eska should definitely not be missed when visiting this neighbourhood.
Štangl
Štangl boasts two Michelin stars - one red and one green for sustainability. The team of chefs is led by Martin Štangl, former head chef at Eska. The restaurant is located on the floor above Eska and builds on its concept, working with local ingredients from the fields and wilderness, with noble moulds and fermentation.
From Tuesday to Saturday, Štangl serves seasonal tasting dinners with wine pairings available. On Saturdays you can also come here for an exceptional breakfast.
Etapa
This bistro has long since gained a regular fan base, thanks to its simple but thoughtful concept. At Etapa, they offer varied vegetable dishes made from local ingredients, often with unexpected flavour combinations. In addition, they bake their own 100% wholemeal sourdough bread and delicious sweets.
Spojka Karlín
Very nice combination of good food and friendly atmosphere. The restaurant focuses on modern cuisine that combines vegetarian and meat options in one menu. A good place for lunch and dinner if you are looking for a place that is creative, modern and accessible at the same time.
Proti proudu
One of the first and also the nicest cafes in Karlín. Whether you want to have breakfast, brunch, lunch, or just a quick coffee, this is the place to be. It will delight you with its modern design, great cakes and light menu - the perfect spot for a business meeting, a weekend brunch or just a little break while exploring all of Karlin's nooks and crannies.
Lokál Hamburk
If you are a fan of honest Czech cuisine, Lokál Hamburk is the right place for you. Classic Czech dishes just like your grandmother might make, beer on tap and a relaxed atmosphere.
Sugo pasta bar
Italian cuisine also has its place in Karlín. Sugo is run by a native Italian, and it shows. We recommend accompanying your meal with a glass of natural wine and topping it all off with a great tiramisu and a strong espresso.
Karlínská HolKa
The restaurant by the footbridge connecting Karlín with Holešovice combines the energy of a bistro with quality cuisine and is the ideal destination when you're hungry for a quick lunch or a nightcap. On the menu you'll find seasonal soups, lighter starters and delicious main courses - like grilled chicken breast, pork tenderloin, roasted fish or slow-roasted beef rib. This place will quickly grow on you.
Gemüse Corner Kebab
Would you rather just have something quick that you can eat while walking or outside on a bench? Gemüse Corner Kebab recently opened another branch and there were queues right away. You can choose between a sandwich, a dürüm and a plate (or box), with chicken, falafel or halloumi cheese.
Bufet
A great choice all round, whether you want a quick, casual lunch, to enjoy a relaxed dinner with friends, or just stop in for a beer and a little something to go with it - because here they serve food on the spot, to go and to stay. On the menu they have grilled and fried chicken, burgers, fries, the popular fried cheese plus monthly specials.
📍At the Station Footbridge 81/2
Where to go in Karlín for beer, wine and drinks?
Enoteca
For wine lovers there is Enoteca - the perfect stop for a glass and light tapas. If you're wondering where to go for wine in Karlín, you'll be satisfied here. Pleasant surroundings, knowledgeable staff and a menu that will draw in beginners and satisfy the discerning.
Dva kohouti
This brewery and taproom is one of those places that are crowded pretty much every day. In the 10 hl brewhouse, brewer Lukáš Tomsa creates an honest 12-step lager of the Pilsner type that guests love to come back for. There's always a beer flowing, too, from Matuška and other microbreweries.
Revír Karlín
Head here for good mood and great drinks. The bar is just a short walk from the Vltava River and the HolKa footbridge and they'll mix you up fresh, fruity, slightly exotic and classic G&Ts. A perfect retreat for an after-work drink or a longer evening with friends, there's often a DJ playing and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Where else to go in Karlín?
- Nila for sustainable fashion and design shopping.
- For books, go to the Přístav bookstore.
- For a concert at Forum Karlín.
- Grab coffee and sweets at Miners Coffee Bakery.
- Browse designer homeware at Arkhe Studio.
- Sample baked goods at Antonín's Bakery.
- Kids will love Agatha's World.
