Jak se v Praze najíst jako místní za pár korun
Avoid the tourist traps in the Old Town Square by eating at neighborhood 'jídelna' (canteens) or pubs serving a 'polední menu' (lunch menu) between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. You can get a hearty, authentic Czech meal for under 200 CZK if you stick to spots away from the main historic thoroughfares.
- Target the lunch menus. Look for signs that say 'Polední menu'. These are fixed-price weekday deals offered by local pubs. You will get a soup and a main course for roughly 160–190 CZK. They are written in Czech on a chalkboard outside; if it's only in English, keep walking.
- Use neighborhood 'jídelna'. Find a local canteen-style restaurant. These are cafeteria setups where you grab a tray, point at the food, and pay at the end. They are the backbone of local lunch culture. Expect simple, heavy, classic food like goulash or svíčková.
- Skip the 'Trdelník'. The chimney cakes sold on every street corner are not traditional Czech pastries; they are a tourist invention. If you want a sweet treat, go to a local 'cukrárna' (patisserie) and order a 'větrník' or a 'koláč'.
- Drink local beer. Beer is often cheaper than bottled water in Prague. Order a 'pivo' (half-liter/půllitr) of a local brand like Kozel, Plzeň, or Gambrinus. It will set you back about 50–70 CZK in a standard pub.
- Is tipping expected?
- Yes, but it's not like the US. Rounding up the bill to the nearest 10 or 20 CZK or leaving a 5-10% tip is standard and appreciated.
- Should I pay in Euros?
- No. Always pay in Czech Koruna (CZK). Paying in Euros at restaurants will result in a terrible exchange rate set by the merchant.