Traditional Polish Food in Krakow (2025 Guide): 12+ Dishes You’ll Love
Krakow isn’t just beautiful—it’s delicious.
I’ve lived in Poland, eaten my weight in pierogi, and chased Pączki through the streets of Kraków on Fat Thursday.
If you’re planning a trip to Poland and love food that’s warm, comforting, and full of story, you’re in the right place.
This isn’t just a list of foods. It’s your taste-tested guide to the dishes that made me fall in love with Poland—and exactly where to try them in Kraków.
From smoky grilled cheese with cranberry sauce to dumplings that taste like someone’s babcia made them by hand, I’ve got you covered.
Planning your first trip? Read my Best Krakow Tours for First-Timers and Where to Stay in Krakow for First-Time Visitors guides next.
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1. Zapiekanka: Poland’s Street Food Staple
Where to Try It: @zapiekanki.baroko– Head to Kazimierz or Judah Food Market
Zapiekanka is Poland’s version of a pizza-meets-toast hybrid: a halved baguette topped with cheese, mushrooms, ketchup, and whatever else your heart desires. Grab one on a chilly evening and you’ll see why it’s a Krakow favorite.
Pro Tip: The classic version with sour cream, chives, paprika, and cheese is undefeated.
2. Kluski Śląskie: Silesian Potato Dumplings
Where to Try It: Kluska Na Placu, @kluska_krakow
Round dumplings with a dimple in the center, Kluski Śląskie are made from starchy potatoes and served with stews or cheese sauces. My go-to? The version with Bursztyn cheese and bacon.
Pro Tip: This spot is right off the Main Square. Don’t skip the local wine—it pairs beautifully.
3. Pączki: The Polish Doughnut:
Where to Try It: @dobrapaczkarnia and Cukiernia Michałek
Stuffed with rose jam or cream and topped with icing or candied orange, pączki are traditionally eaten on Fat Thursday, but you’ll find them year-round in Krakow. Expect lines—and for good reason.
Pro Tip: Go early or late in the day to avoid the crowds.
4. Żurek: Poland’s Signature Sour Soup
Where to Try It: Staropolska Karczma (near St. Mary’s Basilica)
A fermented rye soup served with sausage and boiled egg, żurek is tangy, hearty, and totally addictive. Yes, I smuggled sachets of this soup back to Italy—no regrets.
Pro Tip: Every restaurant does it slightly differently. Try a few to see your favorite version.
5. Pierogi: The Polish Dumpling
Where to Try It: Pierogarnia Krakowiacy
These boiled or fried dumplings are stuffed with everything from potatoes and cheese to mushrooms, fruit, or meat. My personal favorite? Cabbage and mushrooms.
Pro Tip: Try them boiled and pan-fried for a crispy twist.
6. Kielbasa: Polish Grilled Sausage
Where to Try It: Kiełbaski z Niebieskiej (blue van near Kazimierz)
This late-night kielbasa stand operates out of a vintage blue van and serves smoky sausages hot off the grill. It’s simple, hearty, and hits the spot every time.
Pro Tip: They’re open 7pm–3am most nights. Perfect after a night out.
| Friday | 7 pm–3 am |
| Saturday | 7 pm–3 am |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 7 pm–3 am |
| Tuesday | 7 pm–3 am |
| Wednesday | 7 pm–3 am |
| Thursday | 7 pm–3 am |
7. Obwarzanek: Krakow’s Iconic Bread Ring
Where to Try It: Blue carts around the Main Square or Wawel Castle
The twisted, chewy bread rings you’ll see on almost every street corner in Krakow? That’s obwarzanek. Kind of like a bagel-meets-pretzel, this traditional snack dates back to the 14th century. Sprinkled with poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or salt, it’s the perfect street food—cheap, filling, and warm.
8. Kotlet Schabowy: Polish Pork Schnitzel
Where to Try It: U Babci Maliny or Pod Wawelem Kompania Kuflowa
Breaded, pan-fried pork served with mashed potatoes and cucumber salad. Classic, comforting, and delicious.
9. Maczanka Krakowska: Krakow’s Pulled Pork Sandwich
Where to Try It: Judah Food Market
Caraway-spiced pork in a crusty bun, often dubbed Krakow’s version of pulled pork. Juicy, messy, unforgettable.
10. Oscypek: Smoked Sheep’s Cheese
Where to Try It: Pod Wawelem (year-round) or Christmas Markets!
Grilled and served with cranberry sauce, this smoky, salty cheese from the Tatra Mountains is one of Poland’s best flavors.
11. Placki Ziemniaczane: Potato Pancakes
Where to Try It: Krakowska Koliba, near Maly Rynek
Crispy, golden potato pancakes served with sour cream or mushroom sauce. Some locals eat them sweet, with sugar.
Pro Tip: Try both versions!
12. Smalec: Pork Lard Spread
Where to Try It: Restauracja Sukiennice
A rustic Polish spread of pork fat, onion, and spices served on rye bread with pickles. It’s old-school and surprisingly tasty.
13. Barszcz: Polish Beet Soup
Where to Try It: Restauracja Sukiennice
This bright red soup is earthy and sour, often served with mushroom-filled dumplings (uszka). A holiday favorite.
14. Bigos: Hunter’s Stew
Where to Try It: Miod Malina
A tangy, savory mix of sauerkraut, cabbage, mushrooms, and meats. It’s rich, comforting, and even better the next day.
15. Gołąbki: Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Where to Try It: Krakus
Tender cabbage leaves stuffed with pork, rice, and herbs in tomato sauce. Polish comfort food at its best.
Krakow Traditional Food Map
Find all the spots mentioned in this guide in one place!
Find all the spots mentioned in this guide in one place!
(Click the map to open it in Google Maps and save it to your trip plan.)
Quick Tips for Visiting Krakow
Kraków Card: Saves money on attractions and public transport.
Getting Around: Bolt or public trams.
Currency: Polish Złoty (PLN). Use ATMs or trusted Kantor offices.
Dzień dobry – Good day
Dziękuję – Thank you
Przepraszam – Excuse me
Ile to kosztuje? – How much does it cost?
Gdzie jest najbliższy przystanek tramwajowy? – Where’s the nearest tram stop?
Final Thoughts: What Will You Eat First?
Krakow is a culinary playground, and traditional Polish food is its soul. Whether you’re warming up with żurek, grabbing a late-night kielbasa, or indulging in holiday sweets, every dish tells a story.
Let me know what you try! Tag me on Instagram @kimberlykepharttravels and send me a DM—I’d love to hear what your favorite dish was.
📌 Pin this post for your trip to Poland and don’t forget to check out:
- Top Places to Stay in Krakow for First-Timers
- Best Tours to Take in Krakow
- Nowa Huta Guide + Chasing Pączki in Krakow + All Saints’ Day Traditions Malbork Castle Guide
