Where to Eat in Zakopane? Top Hidden Gems

Zakopane, a charming town nestled in the heart of the Tatra Mountains, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and delicious food. As a foodie’s paradise, Zakopane offers a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Polish cuisine to modern fusion restaurants, and from cozy cafes to lively bars, the town has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Zakopane, covering everything from breakfast to dinner, and providing insider tips on where to find the best local specialties.

Traditional Polish Cuisine

Zakopane is known for its hearty and flavorful traditional Polish cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Here are some must-try dishes and restaurants:

The Best Pierogi in Zakopane

Pierogi are Poland’s national dish, and Zakopane is home to some of the best pierogi in the country. These dumplings are typically filled with meat, potatoes, cheese, or fruit, and are served with a side of fried onions and sour cream. Some of the top pierogi spots in Zakopane include:

• Pierogi & Co.: This cozy restaurant serves a wide variety of pierogi, including traditional flavors like potato and cheese, as well as more modern options like apple and cinnamon.
• Kuchnia u Doroty: This family-run restaurant has been serving traditional Polish cuisine for over 20 years, including delicious pierogi and bigos (hunter’s stew).
• Pierogi Zakopiańskie: This popular restaurant has been featured on Polish food shows and serves a wide range of pierogi, including vegetarian and vegan options.

Other Traditional Polish Dishes

In addition to pierogi, Zakopane is also famous for its bigos, a hearty hunter’s stew made with meat, sauerkraut, and beans. Other traditional Polish dishes to try include:

• Zurek: A sour rye soup made with meat, vegetables, and eggs.
• Kaszanka: A blood sausage made with buckwheat groats and served with mashed potatoes and fried onions.
• Gołąbki: Stuffed cabbage rolls filled with ground meat and rice.

Modern Fusion Restaurants

Zakopane is also home to a number of modern fusion restaurants that blend traditional Polish cuisine with international flavors and ingredients. Here are some top recommendations:

Restauracja Góralska

This stylish restaurant serves modern Polish cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The menu changes regularly, but some popular dishes include: (See Also: Where to Eat in Funchal? Top Local Favorites)

• Gołąbki with apple and cinnamon
• Pierogi with truffle and mushroom
• Bigos with beef and pork

Restauracja Pod Nosem

This popular restaurant serves a range of international dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options. The menu is divided into sections, including:

• Appetizers: including pierogi, meatballs, and fried cheese
• Salads: including a delicious beetroot and goat’s cheese salad
• Main Courses: including burgers, pasta dishes, and meat and fish options

Cafes and Bakeries

Zakopane is also home to a number of charming cafes and bakeries that serve delicious pastries, cakes, and coffee. Here are some top recommendations:

Café U Mleka

This cozy cafe serves a range of delicious pastries, including croissants, muffins, and cakes. They also offer a variety of coffee drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, and latte.

Bakery Zakopiańska

This popular bakery serves a wide range of traditional Polish breads and pastries, including pierogi, bigos, and gołąbki. They also offer a variety of sweet treats, including cakes, muffins, and cookies.

Bars and Nightlife

Zakopane has a lively nightlife scene, with a range of bars and clubs to suit every taste and budget. Here are some top recommendations:

Bar U Pana Coga

This popular bar serves a range of beers, wines, and cocktails, and has a cozy atmosphere with comfortable seating and a fireplace. (See Also: Where to Eat in Oahu? Island Delights)

Club 300

This lively club plays a range of music, including rock, pop, and electronic, and has a dance floor and bar.

Recap

Zakopane is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Polish cuisine to modern fusion restaurants, and from cozy cafes to lively bars, the town has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a delicious lunch, or a romantic dinner, Zakopane has it all. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, including pierogi, bigos, and gołąbki, and don’t forget to wash it down with a glass of local wine or beer.

FAQs

What is the best way to get around Zakopane?

Zakopane is a small town, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance. However, there are also public buses and taxis available, and many restaurants and bars offer free parking.

What is the best time to visit Zakopane?

Zakopane is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. The town also hosts a number of festivals and events during this time, including the Zakopane Jazz Festival and the Tatra Mountains Music Festival.

Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in Zakopane?

Yes, many of the restaurants and cafes in Zakopane offer vegetarian and vegan options. Some popular options include: (See Also: Where to Eat Lechon in Manila? Best Filipino Favorites)

• Pierogi & Co.: Offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan pierogi options.
• Kuchnia u Doroty: Has a separate vegetarian menu.
• Bakery Zakopiańska: Offers a range of vegetarian and vegan pastries and breads.

Is Zakopane a safe destination?

Yes, Zakopane is a very safe destination. The town has a low crime rate, and visitors can feel comfortable walking around the streets at night. However, as with any destination, it’s always a good idea to take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Can I find English-speaking staff in Zakopane?

Many of the restaurants and cafes in Zakopane have English-speaking staff, but it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Polish phrases, such as “hello” (cześć), “thank you” (dziękuję), and “where is…?” (gdzie jest…?). This will help you navigate the town and communicate with locals more easily.