Where to Find the Best Restaurants Serving Olomouc Cheese Specials
Is trying Olomoucké tvarůžky worth the effort? Absolutely. This pungent, ripened soft cheese is a culinary icon of the Czech Republic. It offers a unique salty flavor that you cannot find anywhere else in the world.
If you want to experience it properly, you must visit the best restaurants serving Olomouc cheese specials in the city center. This review covers the top spots to enjoy this delicacy in 2026. We look at everything from fine dining to casual pubs.
Verdict: It is a must-try for adventurous eaters who enjoy strong, fermented flavors. It pairs perfectly with local Moravian beer.
Alternative: If the smell is too strong for you, try traditional fried Edam cheese instead. It is much milder and widely available.
What to Expect from Olomouc Cheese Specials
Olomoucké tvarůžky is the only original Czech cheese. It has a protected geographical status in the European Union. The cheese is famous for its very strong, translucent yellow appearance and pungent smell.
Do not let the aroma scare you away. The taste is actually quite mild and pleasantly salty. It is also very healthy because it contains almost zero fat. You will find it served raw, fried, or baked into various dishes.
- Pros: Low fat, high protein, and a unique cultural experience.
- Cons: Very strong smell and a polarizing flavor for some.
Best for: People who love strong cheeses like Limburger or Epoisses. You should read more about eating Olomoucké tvarůžky in Olomouc before your first bite.
Best Restaurants Serving Olomouc Cheese Specials Reviewed
Moravská Restaurace is one of the top choices for a refined meal. They serve a famous appetizer of tvarůžky wrapped in puff pastry. This preparation mellows the smell and creates a creamy texture. It is an excellent entry point for beginners.
Hanácká Hospoda offers a more traditional atmosphere. This pub is located right on the Lower Square. They serve the cheese in its simplest form with fresh bread, butter, and onions. It is the most authentic way to enjoy the snack with a cold pilsner.
Restaurant Drápal is another local favorite. They often feature seasonal specials like tvarůžky-stuffed pork schnitzel. The portions are large and the prices are very reasonable. It is a great spot for a hearty lunch during your city tour.
Skip if: You are looking for a romantic, scent-free environment. These restaurants embrace the local heritage fully.
The Tvarůžková Cukrárna: A Unique Cheese Dessert Shop
The Tvarůžková Cukrárna is a truly unique establishment. It looks like a traditional cake shop, but everything is savory. They create beautiful pastries that use the cheese as a primary ingredient. You can see their full range on the Tvarůžková cukrárna menu.
Their 'cheese cakes' are shaped like donuts or cream puffs. Instead of sugar, they use garlic, paprika, and caraway seeds. It is a brilliant way to see the versatility of this local product. The shop is small, so it is better for a quick snack than a long sit-down meal.
Verdict: Highly recommended for the novelty factor. It is one of the most Instagrammable food spots in the city. You can find more details on the Olomouc Tourism Portal for directions.
Crowds and Timing: When to Go
Most restaurants in Olomouc are busiest between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. This is when locals go out for their daily lunch menus. If you want a quiet experience, aim for an early dinner around 5:30 PM. Most kitchens stay open until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM.
Weekends can be crowded with domestic tourists. It is always wise to book a table at Moravská Restaurace in advance. During the summer months, many places offer outdoor seating. This is a great way to enjoy the cheese without the smell lingering indoors.
Best time to go: Late spring or early autumn. The weather is perfect for walking between different tasting spots. You can also check the Visit Czechia page for local festival dates.
Practical Details for Your Cheese Tour
A standard cheese dish will cost between 150 and 300 CZK. This makes it a very affordable dining option. Most restaurants accept credit cards, but smaller pubs might prefer cash. It is polite to tip around 10% for good service.
If you want to take some home, visit a local grocery store. However, make sure you pack it in an airtight container. The smell can easily take over your entire suitcase. Look for specialized shops listed in our guide on where to buy authentic Olomoucké tvarůžky souvenirs.
Common Pitfall: Do not eat the cheese if it has turned white and fuzzy. It should be yellow and translucent. If you are unsure, stick to the professional restaurants mentioned in this review.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best restaurants serving Olomouc cheese specials for first-timers?
Moravská Restaurace and Hanácká Hospoda are the top choices. Moravská offers a more refined experience with baked versions. Hanácká Hospoda provides a traditional, rustic setting that is perfect for trying the cheese with bread and beer.
Is Olomoucké tvarůžky safe to eat for everyone?
Yes, it is a safe, pasteurized cheese. However, it is very high in salt. People on low-sodium diets should eat it in moderation. It is naturally gluten-free and very low in fat, making it a healthy choice for most travelers.
Does the cheese taste as bad as it smells?
No, the flavor is much milder than the aroma suggests. It has a sharp, salty, and slightly tangy taste. Most people find that the smell is the most challenging part, while the flavor is quite enjoyable.
Finding the best restaurants serving Olomouc cheese specials is a highlight of any trip to Moravia. Whether you prefer fine dining or a quick snack at a cheese confectionery, there is something for everyone. Start your journey at the main square and let your nose guide you to these local delicacies. For more tips on exploring the city, check out our alternative guide to Olomouc.
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Olomouc Tourism Portal — unverified: Official DMO site.
- Statutory City of Olomouc — unverified: Municipal government portal.
- Visit Czechia - Olomouc — unverified: National tourism board page.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — unverified: Official UNESCO designation page.
- Lonely Planet Olomouc — unverified: Major international travel editorial.
