12 +traditional Polish Foods in Krakow You Have To Try!
Poland is so much more than the land of pierogi. If there’s one thing I learned while living in Poland—and on the many trips I’ve made back since—it’s that this country holds some of the most comforting, soulful, and genuinely delicious food in Europe.
And nowhere showcases that better than Krakow.
Krakow is one of those cities that pulls you in immediately. Between the cobblestones of the Old Town, the creative energy of Kazimierz, and the scent of freshly baked obwarzanek drifting across Rynek Główny, it’s a place where food is woven into the rhythm of everyday life.
After living in Poland — and returning what feels like dozens of times — Krakow has become my go-to city for traditional Polish food. It’s comforting, nostalgic, warm, and full of dishes that have been passed down through generations.
If you want to taste the very best of Polish cuisine, you’ve come to the right place.
This Post Pairs Well With:
- Learn More About Poland Here
- Chasing Paczki: Learn All about Tlusty Cwartek and Where to find the BEST Paczki in Krakow!
- Polish Christmas Market Food Guide: Don’t leave the Christmas Markets WITHOUT trying this food
Polish Food in Krakow at A Glance
Best Street Food: Zapiekanka, Obwarzanek
• Best Soup: Żurek
• Best Comfort Food: Pierogi, Bigos
• Best Regional Specialty: Oscypek
• Late-Night Classic: Kielbasa from the Blue Van
• Where to Eat Traditional Food: Kluska Na Placu, Staropolska Karczma, Miod Malina
Why Visit Krakow for Food?
Kraków is one of those cities that feels immediately inviting. The Old Town hums with café culture, Kazimierz buzzes with late-night eats and small neighborhood bakeries, and the Market Square is always full of warmth—whether it’s summer sunshine or the glow of Christmas stalls in winter. It’s compact, walkable, and incredibly atmospheric, which makes it the perfect place to taste your way through Poland.
If you’re here for the food, you’re in the right city. Krakow mixes tradition with creativity, but the heart of the cuisine is still the same: comforting, simple, generous dishes that come straight from Polish home cooking.
Best Traditional Polish Food in Krakow: Restaurants, Street Food Stalls, and Local Favorites
To make your food adventure easier, I’ve mapped all the places mentioned in this guide—from zapiekanka in Kazimierz to pierogi near the Market Square. Kraków is incredibly walkable, but the city’s food scene is spread across a few key districts: Old Town (Stare Miasto), Kazimierz, and the area around Wawel Castle. Use this map to plan your meals, pair dishes with nearby sights, and explore at your own pace.
How to Use This Map:
Click the icon in the top left corner to see all the places I’ve pinned around the city— from cafés and museums to scenic viewpoints. You can turn layers on or off and click any pin to learn more about each spot. Want to keep it handy for your trip? Click the star next to the map’s title to save it to your Google account.
Then, open the Google Maps app, go to “Saved” → “Maps,” and you’ll see this map ready to guide you while you explore.
Vegetarian-Friendly Traditional Polish Dishes
Poland doesn’t always get credit for being vegetarian-friendly, but Krakow is one of the easiest places in the country to enjoy traditional dishes without meat. I’ve eaten my way through the city with vegetarian friends, and they never struggled to find something comforting, hearty, and genuinely Polish.
The classics are still the best place to start—pierogi ruskie (potato and cheese) and pierogi with cabbage and mushrooms are both flavorful, filling, and show up on almost every menu. If you want something warm and crispy, potato pancakes are a staple year-round, and a classic zapiekanka (the cheese + mushroom version) is usually safe for vegetarians too. For something lighter, a cup of barszcz, Poland’s tangy beet broth, is perfect on a cold afternoon. And of course, there’s the humble obwarzanek—Krakow’s signature street bread and one of the easiest snacks to grab on the go.
Vegetarians won’t feel left out at all here. Krakow makes it unbelievably easy to enjoy traditional Polish flavors without needing to modify much.
Seasonal Foods in Poland
Traditional Polish food shifts beautifully with the seasons, and Kraków is one of the best places to taste those changes. In winter, you’ll see steaming bowls of żurek, hearty bigos, and grilled oscypek everywhere—usually paired with a cup of mulled wine to warm your hands as you wander the Christmas markets. Spring brings lighter flavors, like fresh pączki and delicate dairy pastries that feel almost celebratory after the cold months. Summer is all about fruit-filled pierogi, especially blueberry and cherry, which taste like childhood and sunshine. By autumn, mushrooms take over menus across the country. This is the season for rich mushroom sauces, earthy soups, and plenty of potato pancakes—the comfort food everyone craves as the weather turns cold again.
1. Zapiekanka: it’s a Polish pizza!
Zapiekanka (Za-Pe-Kan-Ka) is traditional 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.
12–25 PLN (≈ 2.75–5.70 EUR / 3.00–6.00 USD / 2.40–5.00 GBP)
You’ll head to Kazimierz for this one. I know you can find them all over the city, but Kazimierz has the best zapiekanka you can find. I loved the version from Zapikanki Bar Oko and you can also find great renditions at the Judah Food Market.
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, which is just sour cream, chives, paprika, and cheese. It’s delicious! You ca
GO TO: @zapiekanki.baroko
2. Kluski Śląskie
Kluski Śląskie (KLOO-skee SHLOWN-skee) is something special. It’s filled to the brim with traditional Polish food. Poland shares history with many of its surrounding countries so you may see these on the menu in Germany, Czechia, and Hungary.
Talk about 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, and this is 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, a 2021 Cabernet Cortis. The notes were light and refreshing. I normally do not go for Polish wine, but I think I may have changed my mind with this last visit!
30–45 PLN (≈ 6.90–10.35 EUR / 7.50–11.25 USD / 6.00–9.00 GBP)
Where to Go: @kluska_krakow
3. 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, Polish 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.
5–12 PLN (≈ 1.15–2.75 EUR / 1.25–3.00 USD / 1.00–2.40 GBP)
GO TO: @dobrapaczkarnia is one of the more mainstream places, but you need to stop by Cukiernia Michałek for some of the best donuts you can get your hands on! Oftentimes, the line is past the block!
4. Żurek:
THIS IS MY FAVORITE SOUP! If you aren’t following me on Tiktok, Polish folks really laid into me for bringing sachets of Zurek back to Italy with me. The comments were hilarious. Yes, the soup is that great!
This Polish soup has ties back to the Middle Ages. Zurek 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. It sits for a few days at a time and becomes sour over time.
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. For the love of all things Polish, If you do grab some sachets from the store, don’t post about it on TikTok or Instagram.
18–32 PLN (≈ 4.15–7.35 EUR / 4.50–8.00 USD / 3.60–6.40 GBP)
GO TO: Staropolska Karczma, located in the main square next to St. Mary’s Basilica, or you can find this on any menu in Krakow. However, some restaurants will have different variations depending on the region of poland you are in.
5. 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 mushrooms!
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!
18–35 PLN (≈ 4.15–8.05 EUR / 4.50–8.75 USD / 3.60–7.00 GBP)
GO TO: GO TO: Pierogarnia Krakowiacy, try their Cholpskie Pierogi! It’s quite delicious. Typically, if you go to any Polish Milk bar, you’ll be able to find the most delicious Pierogi!
6. Kielbasa
Craving a late-night snack in Krakow? There is a wonderful place just near the edge of Kazimierz that is open from 7 pm to 12 am and it serves some of the best grilled Kielbasa you can get your hands on! I am talking about Kiełbaski z Niebieskiej Nyski
This family sets up their blue van and serves Kielbasa fresh from a grill while you wait! It was some of the best Kielbasa I have had in my life, I am not kidding you!
15–20 PLN (≈ 3.45–4.60 EUR / 3.75–5.00 USD / 3.00–4.00 GBP)
| 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. Obwazarek
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—inexpensive, filling, and warm.
3–7 PLN (≈ 0.70–1.60 EUR / 0.75–1.75 USD / 0.60–1.40 GBP)
GO TO: Look for the blue carts scattered around the Main Square or Wawel Castle. They may be more expensive in the Stary Rynek and Wawel Castle, so if you see them in Nowa Huta, or outside the main areas, GRAB ONE!
8. Kotlet Schabowy
Poland’s version of a schnitzel, kotlet schabowy, is a breaded pork cutlet that’s pan-fried until golden and served with mashed potatoes and mizeria (a creamy cucumber salad). It’s comfort food done right.
35–55 PLN (≈ 8.05–12.65 EUR / 8.75–13.75 USD / 7.00–11.00 GBP)
Go To: U Babci Maliny or Pod Wawelem Kompania Kuflowa
9. Maczanka, the kebab-style sandwich
Often described as Krakow’s take on pulled pork, maczanka is slow-cooked pork shoulder soaked in caraway-spiced gravy and stuffed into a crusty bun. It’s savory, juicy, and wonderfully messy.
18–28 PLN (≈ 4.15–6.45 EUR / 4.50–7.00 USD / 3.60–5.60 GBP)
Go To: Judah Food Market
10. Oscypek, Polish smoked cheese
This smoked sheep’s cheese comes from the Tatra Mountains but is a beloved addition to Kraków’s culinary scene. It’s usually grilled and served with cranberry sauce—salty, smoky, and sweet in one perfect bite. It’s quite delicious, and I highly recommend trying it if it’s on any menu!
Check out my Blog Post: Christmas Market Foods in Poland, here
8–15 PLN (≈ 1.85–3.45 EUR / 2.00–3.75 USD / 1.60–3.00 GBP)
Christmas Market stalls or Pod Wawelem restaurant year-round.
11. Ziemniaczane, the potato pancakes
These golden-brown potato pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft inside. They’re often served with sour cream or mushroom sauce, and in some homes, with a dusting of sugar.
My friend Aleksandra taught me this as we were sitting in a restaurant in Krakow and she opened up the canister of sugar and told me to try! It was SO DAMN GOOD!
20–35 PLN (≈ 4.60–8.05 EUR / 5.00–8.75 USD / 4.00–7.00 GBP)
Go To: Krakowska Koliba right near the Maly Rynek
12. Smalec
Smalec is a traditional pork lard spread, usually mixed with crispy bacon bits, onion, garlic, and sometimes apple. Served cold on slices of thick rye bread and topped with pickles, it’s an old-school starter that’s packed with flavor. It might sound unusual, but it’s hearty, rustic, and one of the most Polish things you can eat.
To be honest with you, I hated this at first, but then I grew to love it!
12–20 PLN (≈ 2.75–4.60 EUR / 3.00–5.00 USD / 2.40–4.00 GBP)
Go To: Restauracja Sukiennice , This is at the Sukiennice near the Stary Rynek
13. Barszcz (Borscht)
Barszcz is a beet-based soup that’s tangy, earthy, and beautifully red. The clear version is often served in a cup with mushroom-filled dumplings (called uszka), especially around the holidays. There’s also a heartier version with beans and cabbage known as barszcz ukraiński.
10–20 PLN (≈ 2.30–4.60 EUR / 2.50–5.00 USD / 2.00–4.00 GBP)
Go To: Restauracja Sukiennice , This is at the Sukiennice near the Stary Rynek
14. Bigos (Hunter’s Stew)
No picture included because it doesn’t photograph well. This Stew is known as Poland’s national dish. Bigos is a rich stew made from sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, various meats, and sometimes mushrooms and prunes. It’s slow-cooked for hours and tastes even better the next day. It’s hearty, tangy, and perfect on a cold day. This is a stew I would eat when I was feeling homesick or just down and out, it has a warmth I cannot describe!
25–40 PLN (≈ 5.75–9.20 EUR / 6.25–10.00 USD / 5.00–8.00 GBP)
Go To: Miod Malina
15. Gołąbki (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)
This is such a treasured dish; the first time I tried this at Krakus in Krakow, I was floored. Gołąbki (pronounced goh-WOMP-kee) are tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory mix of ground pork, rice, and seasonings, then baked in a tangy tomato sauce. This is Polish comfort food at its finest—simple, filling, and made with love. You’ll find gołąbki on many traditional menus in Kraków, and each restaurant tends to add its own spin. It’s often a sign of different regions as well.
20–35 PLN (≈ 4.60–8.05 EUR / 5.00–8.75 USD / 4.00–7.00 GBP)
Go To: Krakus
Quick Tips for Visiting Krakow
Kraków is incredibly easy to navigate, especially for first-time visitors. Here are a few things that will make your trip smoother.
Krakow Card:
If you plan to visit several museums or use public transport often, the Kraków Card can be worth it. It gives you unlimited tram and bus travel plus free entry to more than 40 attractions, including Schindler’s Factory and the Barbican. If you’re mostly eating and wandering on foot, you might not need it.
Getting Around:
Krakow is walkable, but when you need a lift, Bolt is the easiest app to use and usually cheaper than taxis. Trams and buses run frequently and are reliable — especially for reaching places like Kazimierz or Podgórze.
Currency & Money Tips:
Poland uses the Polish złoty (PLN). Skip the exchange kiosks in the Old Town; the rates are terrible. Use an ATM or a reputable kantor (currency exchange office) instead. Most places take card, but having a little cash is helpful for markets and street food stalls.
Useful Polish Phrases:
Poles appreciate it when visitors try—even a little. Here are the phrases I used most:
• Dzień dobry — Hello
• Dziękuję — Thank you
• Przepraszam — Excuse me / Sorry
• Ile to kosztuje? — How much is it?
• Gdzie jest najbliższy przystanek tramwajowy? — Where’s the nearest tram stop?
• Proszę menu po angielsku — Could I have the menu in English?
Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, people will meet you halfway.
FAQ: First-Time Visitor to Krakow
How many days should I spend in Krakow?
A 3-day stay is ideal for exploring Krakow’s historic Old Town, Wawel Castle, Kazimierz (the Jewish quarter), and nearby attractions like Auschwitz-Birkenau or the Wieliczka Salt Mine. For a more relaxed pace, extend your visit to 4-5 days.
Do I need to know Polish to visit Krakow?
No, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. However, learning a few basic phrases like “Dzień dobry” (Good day) and “Dziękuję” (Thank you) can enhance your experience.
Is Krakow walkable?
Yes, Krakow is pedestrian-friendly, especially around the Main Market Square and Old Town. Most major attractions are within walking distance, though trams and buses are available for longer trips.
Is Krakow solo traveler-friendly?
Absolutely. Krakow is a safe and welcoming city with plenty of guided tours, communal dining options, and cozy cafes for solo travelers.
Which airport is closest to Krakow?
John Paul II International Airport Kraków-Balice (KRK) is the main airport, located 11 km (7 miles) from the city center. The airport is well connected by train, bus, and taxi.
Is Krakow accessible by train?
Yes, Kraków Główny is the main train station with direct connections to major Polish cities like Warsaw, Wrocław, and Gdańsk, as well as international routes to the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Austria. Check PKP Intercity for train schedules.
What is the currency of Poland?
The Polish złoty (PLN). Withdraw cash from ATMs or exchange currency at reliable exchange offices.
Conclusion
Now that you know where to find the best food in Krakow, it’s time to plan your culinary adventure. If you try any of these dishes, let me know! Follow me on Instagram @kimberlykepharttravels and share your favorite bites with me.
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Have you checked out my other blog posts about Krakow and Poland?
- Top Places to Stay in Krakow for First-timers
- Best Tours to Take in Krakow for First Timers
- Top Places to see in Krakow
- Nowa Huta: A Soviet-Era District in Kraków You Can’t Miss
- Chasing Pączki in Kraków: A Tłusty Czwartek Adventure
- All Saints’ Day in Poland: A Tradition of Remembrance
- Malbork Castle Visitor’s Guide: Tickets, Tours, and What to See
