By Soren Rivero ✔ Reviewed by travel expert Ben Braude
Visiting the Czech Republic for the first time, or returning to see the gothic buildings and glorious cobblestone paths again? For whichever reason you're heading over, you've got to make some time to sink your teeth into the flavors of Czech cuisine.
Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a light meal to fuel your adventures, you need to try these iconic Czech dishes– some of which you might not even have heard of before. Hungry? Let's get started.
Bramboráky (Potato pancakes)
A nationally-loved pub snack and street food item, bramboráky are crispy potato pancakes flavored with garlic, marjoram, and (depending on the area) caraway seeds. These little pancakes are mainly served as a side dish alongside sauerkraut, smoked meat, and vegetables. Fried to perfection, you can even enjoy these on their own, or with a pint of cold beer.
Vegetarians are also welcome to enjoy these addictive morsels, either alone or with sauerkraut or sour cream. Some spots may even accommodate vegans by making them without eggs or dairy. Found at markets, fairs, and pubs across the country, bramboráky are a warm, savory taste of Czech tradition.
Smažený sýr (Fried cheese)
Though it might seem simple, smažený sýr (fried cheese) is a treasure of the Czech Republic's cuisine. Universally loved by people for flaky outside and gooey inside, this dish is made from a thick slide of cheese (typically from Edam or Hermelin), breaded, fried until golden crispy, and served with potatoes, fries, and tartar sauce.
If you're looking for the ultimate Czech comfort food, this might be your best choice. You'll find it in pubs, diners, street food stalls, and children even enjoy it as a part of their cafeteria menu. Crispy on the outside and melty inside, it's a dish you'll crave long after you leave.
Guláš (Czech-style goulash)
If you've traveled to other Central European countries, Goulash might sound like a very familiar dish to you. With roots all across the region, this slow-cooked stew dish is enjoyed all across the area, but the Czech's take on it is unique in its richness. Featuring slow-cooked meat (usually beef but sometimes pork) smothered in a thick, paprika-sauce, served with a side of bread and dumplings.
This meal is perfect after a long day of exploring castles or hiking trails. It's ideal for meat lovers, though vegetarian versions made with lentils or mushrooms have become more common in Czech cities and countryside restaurants. Gluten-free diners can easily enjoy the stew without the bread or dumplings.
Vepřo knedlo zelo (Roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut)
Ask any Czech Republic native or someone who loves traveling there what dish says “Czech” like nothing else, and they'll likely say vepřo knedlo zelo. A trio like none other, this dish consists of pork, bread dumplings, and sauerkraut.
As the national dish of the country, you'll find this in almost every restaurant and pub serving authentic Czech cuisine, and many homes cook it year-round. Pair it with a cold Czech beer for the ultimate comforting experience.
Svíčková na smetaně (Beef in creamy vegetable sauce)
Svíčková starts with a tender cut of beef slow-cooked in a sauce made from carrots, celery root, onions, and cream. With the addition of the Czech classic of bread dumplings, this stew comes together easily and deliciously. You will often see it topped with cranberry sauce and lemon, and although that might seem odd, don't knock it until you try it! The blend of savory, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors make it an unforgettable dish.
This meal represents the more refined side of Czech cuisine, served during Sunday family lunches and holidays.
Kyselo (Sour rye and mushroom soup)
Hailing from the Krkonoše Mountains in northern Bohemia, Kyselo is a hidden gem dish that represents the earthiness of Czech's landscape. Using mushrooms and bread as the stars of the dish, this already vegetarian Czech food was originally crafted to nourish workers in cold, harsh winters. Through the centuries, it has remained a heartwarming staple that is enjoyed year-round, but more so in the colder months.
Simplistic and easily-adaptable to fit multiple dietary restrictions, kyselo has an umami flavor mostly taken from the mushrooms and spices. It's a humble but unforgettable taste of Czech countryside cooking!
Houbový kuba (Barley with mushrooms)
Take yourself way back into the earliest days of Czech cuisine with houbový kuba. This recipe calls for slow-cooked barley with mushrooms, marjoram, butter/oil, and garlic. Originally eaten as a fasting meal during Christmas Eve, it rose to popularity outside of the holiday seasons as a meatless, filling food choice.
Another earthy and aromatic dish that'll get you closer to the true taste of the Czech wilderness. This dish is also mostly vegetarian/vegan, with the only concern being the type of fat used. Check in with the staff or chefs if you're buying this at a restaurant to see if it contains oil or butter.
Borůvkový koláč (Blueberry cake)
Ready for something sweet to round your course off? Try out the fluffy, slightly-sweet borůvkový koláč (blueberry cake). A cherished pastry from the Moravian countryside, this dessert is soft and filled with wild blueberries, sometimes also including a sweet crumb topping.
You'll get the best taste of it during the summer season whenever blueberries are in their prime– even better enjoyed when you purchase it in mountain villages! Light, fruity, and slightly rustic, it's a perfect accompaniment to coffee or tea.
Ovocné knedlíky (Fruit dumplings)
This next one might be a surprise, but if you're a true foodie, you'd be delighted to hear what it is! Crossing the line between sweet and savory, ovocné knedlíky (Czech fruit dumplings) are loaded with plums, blueberries, strawberries, and apricots, then topped with melted butter and powdered sugar. One popular trend is to also top on some sweet quark cheese for a little added tanginess.
Fun fact: Some families will eat this as a main course during high harvesting months. Dessert for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, anyone?
Koblihy (Czech jam-filled donuts)
Finishing off this list is a dessert that you cannot leave the Czech Republic without trying. Koblihy are jam-filled donuts that are the perfect way to seal off any savory meal. Starting with their soft yeasty exterior, they are fried to golden perfection and filled with apricot or plum jam, then dusted with powdered sugar.
