The 5 Must-Try Traditional Foods in Krakow Poland

Poland isn’t just the land of pierogi. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my time living in Poland, it’s that the food scene here is absolutely unforgettable. Krakow, in particular, is a feast for the senses. Every street corner seems to have a cozy café, a hole-in-the-wall eatery, or a vendor serving up something warm, cheesy, or fried—just the way comfort food should be.

I recently spent a weekend in Krakow with my friend Aleksandra, eating to my heart’s content and rediscovering all the incredible flavors that make Polish cuisine so special. We wandered through the bustling Main Square, stopping at local favorites and hidden gems, swapping bites, and arguing (good-naturedly) about which pierogi filling reigns supreme.

Spoiler alert: I still think cabbage and mushroom is the best.

This guide is not just about listing foods—it’s about the dishes that have stuck with me, the meals that warmed me up on a cold day, and the flavors that make Krakow feel like home. If you love food as much as I do, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

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Krakow at a Glance

Krakow is a city that wears its history proudly. Once the royal capital of Poland, it now blends medieval charm with a vibrant, modern energy. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, surrounded by gothic churches, pastel-hued townhouses, and lively street performers. But let’s talk about food—because Krakow is an absolute dream for food lovers. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite from a street vendor or settling in for a cozy meal in a family-run restaurant, every dish tells a story. From hearty, comforting flavors to delicate pastries, this city knows how to eat.

Zapiekanka

Zapiekanka (Za-Pe-Kan-Ka) is Polish street food at its finest. Imagine a crispy half-baguette, slathered in melted cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and drizzled with ketchup. Simple? Yes. But don’t underestimate it. Every bite is crunchy, savory, and completely addictive. I first had zapiekanka in Kazimierz, the old Jewish quarter, where the smell of freshly toasted bread fills the air. It was a chilly evening, and this warm, cheesy delight was exactly what I needed. There are endless variations, from barbecue chicken to jalapeños, but the classic version remains undefeated.

WHERE TO GO @zapiekanki.baroko

Kluski Śląskie

Kluski Śląskie (KLOO-skee SHLOWN-skee) is something special. Poland shares history with many of its surrounding countries so you may see these on the menu in Germany, Czechia, and Hungary. Talk about a Traditional Polish Food! Essential components include starchy potatoes (like Russet or Yukon Gold), potato starch for binding, and eggs. They have a distinctive round shape with a small depression in the center.

My friend Aleksandra took me to Kluska Na Placu in Krakow. They specialize in regional food, this being one of them. This restaurant is a treat and the atmosphere is pretty incredible. It feels like you are in someone’s house, about to have a meal that Grandma made. Kluska Na Placu has such an extensive menu full of YUMMY traditional Polish food. I tried the Silesian Dumplings with Bursztyn Cheese Sauce and Bacon (Kluski z sosem z sera Bursztyn i bekonem). Aleksandra had the Silesian Dumplings with Beef Stew ( Kluski z gulaszem wołowym).

Both dishes were incredible and such a treat on a warm winter day! I topped my meal off with a glass of wine from the region, Godyla which was a 2021 Cabernet Cortis. The notes were light and refreshing. I normally do not go for Polish wine, however I think I may have changed my mind with this last visit!

GO TO: @kluska_krakow

Pączki:

One of my favorite desserts that I have missed has been Pączki. This is a Traditional Polish Food that you need to try while in Krakow, or anywhere in Poland! Every year, on Fat Thursday Poles line up to devour these donuts and will eat dozens of them right before Lent. I always found this fascinating and yes, I partook in this tradition. Why not? You can find stand-alone stores that sell them or you can stop by your local grocer and find them in the pastry aisle. I love Rose with candied orange on top.

GO TO: @dobrapaczkarnia

Żurek:

Looking for a Polish treat with ties back to the Middle Ages? Look no further than Zurek, this is a traditional Polish soup known for its distinctive sour taste. Not only in

Polish peasants used to keep a pot that was ceramic so they could make their Zakwas, which is the sour base for soup. Pretty incredible right? Interestingly enough, the pot was not washed, so fermentation from the previous batch could act as a starter for the next. The sour flavor in żurek comes from the fermentation of rye flour, which is a key ingredient.
GO TO: Staropolska Karczma located in the main square next to St. Mary’s Basilica

Pierogi

I could write a love song about Pierogi. Pierogi was the first Polish dish I learned how to make when we were living in Poland. I know every country has its take on a dumpling, however, I love the Polish dumpling. TRY ANY KIND!! My favorite is cabbage and mushroom!

in Krakow and all over Poland, You’ll find Pierogi stuffed with mashed potatoes, fried onions, quark or farmers cheese, cabbage, sauerkraut, meat, mushrooms, spinach, cheese, or other ingredients depending on the cook’s preferences. You can even find Dessert versions often stuffed with sweetened quark or with a fresh fruit filling such as cherry, strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, apple, or plum!

GO TO: Staropolska Karczma, located in the main square next to St. Mary’s Basilica.