What I Ate in Prague (and What I'd Skip)

It's easy to get Prague wrong. I learned that the hard way on my first morning, when I tried to order a klobása at a café near Wenceslas Square, only to be handed a cold cut sandwich instead. The waiter, with a patient smile, explained that klobása is a sausage, not a sandwich, and that I should head to U Modré Kachničky, a tiny spot tucked away on Ulička street. I followed his advice, and it was worth the detour.

U Modré Kachničky, which translates to "The Blue Duck," is a family-run restaurant that’s been serving traditional Czech fare since 1952. I ordered the svíčková na smetaně, a slow-braised beef dish served with creamy sauce, dumplings, and a side of cranberry sauce. It cost 320 CZK (about $14), and it was the most tender, flavorful beef I’d had in months. The restaurant is open from 11 AM to 10 PM, and I’d recommend going early to avoid the lunch rush. The owner, a woman in her 60s with a warm smile, even shared a story about how her grandfather started the restaurant after WWII. It’s not just a meal—it’s a piece of history.

Another spot I discovered by accident was a hidden gem called U Modré Kachničky's neighbor, a tiny bakery called Kavárna U Modré Kachničky, which is actually a café and bakery attached to the restaurant. I stopped in for a mid-morning coffee and a kremrole, a Czech cream-filled pastry. The kremrole was 55 CZK ($2.50) and was the perfect balance of sweet and light. The coffee, a simple espresso, was 45 CZK ($2). It’s open from 7 AM to 8 PM, and it’s the perfect spot to grab a quick bite before exploring the city. The owner, a young woman with a tattoo of a duck on her arm, told me she’s been working there since she was 18. She’s a local, and she knows the best way to eat in Prague.

Most visitors get the food wrong. They assume Prague is all about beer and dumplings, but it’s so much more. The city has a vibrant food scene that blends traditional dishes with modern twists. For example, I tried a dish called "kyselo" at a small restaurant near Charles Bridge, which is a sourdough bread soup that’s surprisingly delicious. It’s not something you’ll find in guidebooks, but it’s a staple for locals. Another common mistake is thinking that all Czech food is heavy and greasy. While some dishes are hearty, there are plenty of lighter options, like fresh salads and seafood. The key is to ask for recommendations, not just order the first thing you see on the menu.

When I was researching dining in Prague, I found a great resource that helped me navigate the city’s food scene. dining in Prague has a detailed guide to the best places to eat, including hidden gems like U Modré Kachničky. It’s not just a list of restaurants—it’s a guide to understanding the culture behind the food. The article also mentions that many locals prefer to eat at lunchtime, so if you’re planning a dinner, be prepared for a wait. I found this tip invaluable, as I avoided the crowds by eating lunch at U Modré Kachničky.

My final tip for anyone planning a trip to Prague: don’t be afraid to wander. The city is full of hidden gems, and the best meals often come from the most unexpected places. I stumbled upon U Modré Kachničky because I was lost, and it turned out to be one of the best meals of my trip. The key is to keep an open mind and be willing to try new things. You might just find your new favorite dish, like I did with the svíčková.

Prague isn’t just about the castles and the bridges—it’s about the food, the people, and the stories behind every meal. So next time you’re in Prague, skip the tourist traps and head to a local spot. You’ll be glad you did.