Finding the Best Traditional Czech Restaurants in Plzeň

Dining in Plzeň is about more than just food. It is about history and local pride. Many restaurants are located in buildings that are centuries old. You can expect warm wood interiors and friendly service. Most places focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes. For more information, visit the official Visit Plzeň website.

Before we dive into the full list, here are some quick picks for your trip:

• Best Overall: Na Spilce
• Best for History: U Salzmannů
• Best for Families: Potrefená Husa
• Best Value: Lokál Pod Divadlem

Most of these spots are near the city center. This makes them easy to reach after sightseeing. You should always try to book a table for dinner. Weekend evenings are very busy in the city. Now, let us look at the top choices for your next meal.

Top 9 Best Traditional Czech Restaurants in Plzeň

This list features the most authentic dining spots in the city. Each one offers a unique atmosphere and excellent food. These are the best traditional Czech restaurants in Plzeň for 2026.

1. Name: Na Spilce Type: Iconic Brewery Restaurant Why go: It is one of the largest restaurants in the country. It sits right inside the brewery gates. The atmosphere is lively and grand. Best for: Large groups and beer lovers. Where: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Yard. Time: 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: 350 - 650 CZK. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Visit after taking a Pilsner Urquell brewery tour.
2. Name: U Salzmannů Type: Historic Pub and Restaurant Why go: This is the oldest pub in Plzeň. It dates back to 1637. The wooden decor and old photos create a nostalgic vibe. Best for: History buffs. Where: Pražská Street, near the square. Time: 1 - 1.5 hours. Cost: 300 - 550 CZK. Getting there: Just steps away from Republic Square. Tip: Their beef goulash is a local favorite.
3. Name: Šenk Na Parkánu Type: Traditional Taproom Why go: It is famous for serving unfiltered Pilsner beer. The building used to be part of the city walls. It has a cozy, rustic feel. Best for: Authentic beer culture. Where: Veleslavínova Street. Time: 1 - 2 hours. Cost: 250 - 500 CZK. Getting there: Located next to the Brewery Museum. Tip: Combine your visit with the Plzeň historical underground tour.
4. Name: Restaurace a penzion U Mansfelda Type: Old Town Restaurant Why go: It offers a great view of the city parks. The menu features excellent wild game dishes. The outdoor terrace is perfect for summer. Best for: A relaxed lunch. Where: Dřevěná Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 350 - 700 CZK. Getting there: Easy walk from the main square. Tip: Try the roasted duck with red cabbage.
5. Name: Lékárna Type: Modern Traditional Why go: It is located in a former pharmacy on the main square. They use premium ingredients for classic dishes. The beer is poured with extreme care. Best for: High-quality Czech cuisine. Where: Náměstí Republiky (Republic Square). Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 400 - 850 CZK. Getting there: Right in the heart of the city. Tip: Look out the window for a view of St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral.
6. Name: Lokál Pod Divadlem Type: Classic Pub Why go: They focus on fresh, seasonal food and tank beer. The interior is simple and very social. It is a favorite for locals after work. Best for: A casual evening with friends. Where: Bezručova Street. Time: 1 - 2 hours. Cost: 200 - 450 CZK. Getting there: Near the J.K. Tyl Theater. Tip: The fried cheese here is legendary.
7. Name: Pivovarský dvůr Purkmistr Type: Microbrewery and Experience Why go: It is a short trip from the center but worth it. They have their own beer and a beer spa. The food is traditional and very filling. Best for: A unique half-day trip. Where: Černice district. Time: 2 - 3 hours. Cost: 400 - 900 CZK. Getting there: Take a trolleybus or taxi from the center. Tip: Book a beer bath before your meal.
8. Name: Uctívaný velbloud Type: Quirky Traditional Why go: The name means "The Revered Camel." It has a unique medieval atmosphere. The portions are very large and satisfying. Best for: Hungry travelers. Where: Near the Americká shopping area. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 300 - 600 CZK. Getting there: A 5-minute walk from the main train station. Tip: Try the "Camel's hump" meat specialty.
9. Name: Potrefená Husa Type: Modern Czech Chain Why go: It offers a consistent and high-quality experience. The menu is a mix of traditional and modern styles. It is very clean and professional. Best for: Families with children. Where: Near the city center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 300 - 550 CZK. Getting there: Easily accessible on foot from the square. Tip: Their chicken wings are a great alternative to heavy pork.

What to Order: Classic Czech Dishes to Try

When visiting the best traditional Czech restaurants in Plzeň, you must know what to order. The most famous dish is Svíčková. This is beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce. It is always served with bread dumplings and cranberries. It is the ultimate comfort food for locals.

Another top choice is Czech Guláš. Unlike the Hungarian version, this is a thick stew. It usually features beef and plenty of onions. It pairs perfectly with a fresh Pilsner Urquell. You can find more about the beer at the Pilsner Urquell official site.

If you want something smaller, try a "pivní sýr" (beer cheese). You mash it with onions and a splash of beer. Spread it on fresh rye bread for a salty snack. This is the best way to enjoy the local pub culture. Always ask the waiter for the daily specials as well.

Practical Tips for Dining in Plzeň

Tipping is expected but not mandatory in Plzeň. A tip of about 10% is standard for good service. You should tell the waiter the total amount you want to pay. Do not just leave the money on the table. This is the polite way to handle the bill in the Czech Republic.

Most restaurants in the city center accept credit cards. However, some smaller pubs might only take cash. It is wise to carry some Czech Koruna just in case. For more local advice, check the official city portal. You can also find great accommodation nearby in our guide to the best places to stay in Plzeň.

If you are visiting from the capital, read about traveling from Prague to Plzeň. The train is fast and very affordable. Once you arrive, most restaurants are within walking distance. Enjoy the local hospitality and the world-class beer.