10 Traditional Czech Republic Dishes You Need To Try

The Czech Republic is a beautiful country in Central Europe, known for its rich history, stunning castles, and vibrant cities. But there's another reason why people love visiting: THE FOOD! Czech food is a big part of the country's culture, and it's something you must try when you visit. The Czech cuisine is hearty and comforting, with many flavours that tell the story of the country's past. The dishes are often simple but packed with taste, making them perfect for everyone to enjoy. The food in the Czech Republic also reflects the influence of neighbouring countries like Germany, Austria, and Hungary. This mix of flavours makes Czech food unique and delicious. Whether you're in a small village or a big city, you'll find amazing dishes everywhere. So, let's explore the best Czech food you should try on your trip!

Also Read More: Places To Visit in Czech Republic

list of Top 10 Most Authentic Traditional Czech Republic Dishes

Get ready to taste the best food of the Czech Republic! These famous dishes are full of taste and perfect for any food lover.

Pork with Sauerkraut & Bread Dumplings (Vepřo Knedlo Zelo)
Fried Cheese (Smažený Sýr)
Svíčková na Smetaně (Beef with Cream Sauce)
Carp (Kapr)
Olomouc Cheese (Olomoucké Tvarůžky)
Goulash (Guláš)
Fruit Dumplings (Ovocné Knedlíky)
Open-Faced Sandwiches (Obložené Chlebíčky)
Koláče
Bramboráky (Potato Pancakes)

1. Pork with Sauerkraut & Bread Dumplings (Vep?o Knedlo Zelo)

Pork with Sauerkraut & Bread Dumplings

Vep?o knedlo zelo is the famous traditional Czech dish which consists of roasted pork, sauerkraut and bread dumplings. The pork is juicy, and the dumplings are ideal for mopping up the juices. This dish is very famous and you will find it in almost all restaurants. It's truly a must-try when you're in the Czech Republic.

Pairing Tip: This dish is best served with a pint of Czech Pilsner. There is a crispness to the beer which helps to cut through the fattiness of the pork.
Cultural Insight: Vep?o knedlo zelo is traditionally consumed in families and on festive days as a sign of Czech hospitality.
Where to Try: For the best experience, try this dish at a traditional pub like U Flek? in Prague, known for its historical charm and authentic meals.

2. Fried Cheese (Smažený Sýr)

Fried Cheese

One of the most popular among the inhabitants of the Czech Republic is smažený sýr. It is a slice of cheese, most often Edam, which is coated in breadcrumbs and then deep fried until it's crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. This dish is accompanied by French fries and tartar sauce, so it is quite filling. Fried cheese is also suitable for vegetarian visitors of the Czech Republic. If you have any idea where to eat in the Czech Republic, you will come across this dish in many restaurants, particularly in Prague.

Serving Suggestion: Enjoy smažený sýr with a side of fresh vegetables to balance out the richness of the fried cheese.
Cultural Insight: This dish was widely served during the period of the so-called ‘Communism’ when meat was a luxury, and fried cheese was a type of comfort food.
Where to Try: Lokál in Prague offers one of the best versions of smažený sýr, served with homemade tartar sauce.

3. Sví?ková na Smetan? (Beef with Cream Sauce)

Sví?ková na smetan? is a Czech dish consisting of beef, root vegetables and cream sauce. The beef is marinated and grilled for a long time and this makes the beef very tasty. The sauce is prepared from carrots, celery, and parsnips, giving it a sweet and a savoury taste. This dish is usually made with bread dumplings and accompanied by cranberry sauce. It's a favourite in Czech cuisine and a perfect choice for a cosy dinner.

Garnish Tip: Sví?ková is traditionally garnished with a slice of lemon, whipped cream, and cranberry sauce for a mix of sweet and savoury flavours.
Preparation Insight: The beef in sví?ková is marinated for several hours, sometimes overnight, to achieve its tender texture.
Where to Try: Visit Café Louvre in Prague, a historic café where this dish is a popular choice among both locals and tourists.

4. Carp (Kapr)

Carp is another fish delicacy which is commonly associated with Christmas. A live carp is purchased by the families in the Czech Republic and prepared for a special holiday meal. The fish is normally deep fried and best taken with potato salad. Even if you visit outside of Christmas, you can still enjoy carp in restaurants. The T?ebo? region is known for its carp and you can even go fishing for it to experience the food of the Czech Republic in a unique way!

Seasonal Availability: Carp is most commonly served during Christmas, but the T?ebo? region offers it year-round.
Sustainability Note: Carp farming in the Czech Republic is environmentally sustainable, with a focus on traditional fishing methods.
Where to Try: For the freshest carp, dine at Šupina a Šupinka in T?ebo?, a restaurant renowned for its fish dishes.

5. Olomouc Cheese (Olomoucké Tvar?žky)

Olomouc cheese is for those who love strong zest. This cheese is known for its pungent smell and earthy taste. It's a soft, ripened cheese that's low in fat, making it a healthier option. The cheese is named after the city of Olomouc and is a true Czech food speciality. You can find it in most markets and delis, but for a unique experience, try it in sweet pastries in Loštice.

Serving Suggestion: Pair this cheese with a slice of dark rye bread and a glass of Czech beer to balance its strong tang.
Cultural Insight: Olomouc cheese has been produced for over 600 years, making it one of the oldest cheeses in Europe.
Where to Try: For a unique experience, visit the Tvar?žky Museum in Loštice, where you can learn about the cheese's history and enjoy tastings.

6. Goulash (Guláš)

Goulash is a warm and hearty stew perfect for cold weather. It's made with tender beef, onions, peppers, and paprika, giving it a rich and spicy taste. The Czech version of goulash is thicker than the Hungarian original, and it's often served with bread dumplings. Goulash is one of the most common dishes in the food of the Czech Republic, especially in traditional pubs.

Accompaniment: Goulash is best enjoyed with bread dumplings or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
Spice Level: Czech goulash is milder than its Hungarian counterpart, making it accessible to those who prefer less spicy food.
Where to Try: Head to Mincovna in Prague's Old Town Square for a hearty bowl of goulash that's rich in flavour.

7. Fruit Dumplings (Ovocné Knedlíky)

Fruit dumplings are a sweet treat loved by everyone. They are made with soft dough and filled with seasonal fruits like strawberries, plums, or apricots. They are boiled or steamed and then topped with sugar, butter, and sometimes sweet cheese. Ovocné knedlíky are often eaten as a main course, especially during the summer when fresh fruits are abundant.

Seasonal Twist: Depending on the season, you might find fruit dumplings filled with strawberries in summer or plums in autumn.
Serving Tip: Sprinkle the dumplings with poppy seeds and powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Where to Try: Café Savoy in Prague is famous for its fruit dumplings, offering a sophisticated twist on this traditional dish.

8. Open-Faced Sandwiches (Obložené Chlebí?ky)

Obložené chlebí?ky are small, open-faced sandwiches that are perfect for a quick snack or appetiser. These sandwiches are topped with a variety of ingredients like ham, cheese, pickles, and eggs. They are beautifully arranged and very popular in the Czech Republic. You can find them in cafes, bakeries, and even at parties. They are a great example of how simple ingredients can make something very delicious.

Topping Variety: Common toppings include ham, cheese, pickles, and hard-boiled eggs, but the combinations are endless, so try a few!
Serving Occasion: These sandwiches are a popular choice for parties, celebrations, or as a quick lunch option.
Where to Try: Sisters in Prague's Old Town specialises in modern takes on obložené chlebí?ky, with a focus on fresh and creative toppings.

9. Kolá?e

Kolá?e are traditional Czech pastries that are sweet and delicious. They are made from soft dough and filled with various fillings like poppy seeds, fruit jams, or sweet cheese. These pastries are a staple in Czech bakeries and are enjoyed at any time of the day. They are often served with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and are best enjoyed fresh from the oven.

Filling Options: Popular fillings for kolá?e include poppy seed, plum jam, and sweet cheese, each offering a different taste experience.
Cultural Significance: Kolá?e is often made for special occasions like weddings, holidays, and festivals, symbolising celebration.
Where to Try: Visit a local bakery like Peka?ství Jan Mašek in Prague to enjoy freshly baked kolá?e with a cup of coffee.

10. Bramboráky (Potato Pancakes)

Bramboráky are crispy, golden potato pancakes that are a must-try in the Czech Republic. Made from grated potatoes mixed with flour, eggs, and spices, these pancakes are fried to perfection. They are often served with sauerkraut or as a side dish with meat. Bramboráky is a popular street food and can be found at markets and festivals throughout the country.

Dipping Sauce: For an added layer of flavour, enjoy bramboráky with a side of sour cream or garlic dip.
Street Food: Bramboráky is a popular street food, especially during markets and festivals, making it easy to find and enjoy on the go.
Where to Try: For a traditional experience, try bramboráky at U Pinkas? in Prague, a pub known for its classic Czech dishes.

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Food of the Czech Republic

Q1. What classic Czech dishes should I try in the Czech Republic?
A: Czech cuisine is hearty and satisfying, emphasising meat, dumplings, and rich sauces. Some must-try dishes include:

Sví?ková: This is considered the national dish. It features marinated beef sirloin in a creamy sauce, served with dumplings and cranberries.
Vep?o-knedlo-zelo: A classic trio of roast pork, dumplings, and sauerkraut.
Goulash: A flavorful stew made with beef or pork, often served with bread dumplings.
?ízek: A breaded and fried schnitzel, typically made with pork but also available with chicken or beef.
Knedlíky: These versatile dumplings can be made from bread, potato, or fruit. They are a staple in Czech cuisine.

Q2. Are there any unique regional specialities within Czech cuisine?
A: While Czech cuisine has a strong national identity, there are regional variations:

Bohemia: Known for its game dishes and hearty soups.
Moravia: Offers a richer cuisine with influences from Austrian and Slovakian cooking, featuring dishes like Moravian cabbage rolls (holubky).
Silesia: Known for its smoked meats and dumplings, which are made with potato and cheese.

Q3. Where can I find the best places to savour Czech food in different cities?
A: Czech Republic, Prague offers a wide range of options, from traditional pubs to upscale restaurants. Some popular areas for dining out are Old Town Square, Josefov, and Letná.

For a more authentic experience, venture beyond Prague to smaller towns and villages.
Local family-run restaurants often serve the best traditional Czech food.

Q4. What are some popular Czech desserts and pastries?
A: Czech desserts are incredibly tempting:

Trdelník: A sweet pastry covered in cinnamon and sugar.
Kola?e: Filled pastries with various sweet fillings.
Ovocné knedlíky: Fruit dumplings, often served with melted butter and powdered sugar.
Pala?inky: Crepes, often filled with sweet or savoury ingredients.

Q5. Are there any dietary considerations or food options for vegetarians and vegans in the Czech Republic?
A: While Czech cuisine is traditionally meat-heavy, there are options for vegetarians and vegans. Look for restaurants specialising in vegetarian food or those offering dishes like: