In the heart of the capital, among the narrow cobbled streets of Warsaw’s Old Town, some of the city’s true culinary gems are hidden away. From cozy little restaurants serving homemade pierogi to refined fine dining spots, we have put together an honest ranking of places where even the pickiest food lovers are likely to leave satisfied.
And for those ready to explore all of Warsaw, check out our guide to 50+ of the best restaurants in the city.
1. Podwale 25 Kompania Piwna
Podwale 25 Kompania Piwna, located by the fortified walls of Warsaw’s Old Town, embodies the best culinary traditions of Central Europe.
The menu is ruled by the famous pork knuckle, accompanied by Wiener schnitzel and traditional Polish pierogi. Every dish is served with pickled cucumbers and cabbage, and the meal ends with the restaurant’s signature shot of cherry liqueur.
The interior is designed in a classic style, with wooden paneling and antique paintings, while live music creates a distinctive atmosphere. Waiters in traditional costumes offer guests Czech Kozel and Pilsner beer – both light and dark.
For dessert, I would recommend the apple pie, which resembles German strudel. Despite its central location and popularity with tourists, the prices remain reasonable and the portions are generous.
2. Gospoda pod Zygmuntem
Wild mushroom soup served in a bread bowl has become the signature dish of Gospoda pod Zygmuntem. The restaurant attracts guests with its classic Polish and Central European dishes: juicy pork knuckle, homemade pierogi with a variety of fillings, and rich goulash.
In the dining room, decorated with old photographs of the city, guests are welcomed by friendly staff and pleasant background music.
Affordable prices combined with a location right in the heart of the Old Town make Gospoda pod Zygmuntem an ideal place to get acquainted with Polish cuisine.
3. STOLICA
In a quiet corner of Old Warsaw, you will find the restaurant Stolica. Here, traditional recipes are intertwined with modern Polish cuisine under the direction of chef Piotr Augustyńczyk.
The interior features a restored piano from Legnica, and on weekends a Warsaw music group performs live. In the warmer months, these musical evenings move to the cozy garden on Szeroki Dunaj.
The signature dishes deserve special attention. Be sure to try the beef tartare, pork ribs, żurek, and the house specialty – goose gizzard served as an appetizer.
Despite prices being above the Warsaw average, the generous portions and impeccable presentation live up to expectations. I recommend booking a table in advance, especially on days with live performances.
4. Sambal Restauracja Indonezyjska
It may sound a little unexpected, but one of the best Indonesian restaurants in the city is located in Warsaw’s historic center. Sambal serves traditional dishes ranging from hearty nasi goreng to spicy rendang and grilled satay. A friend of mine from Singapore especially praised the authentic level of heat – something still rare in European restaurants.
The small dining room is styled without unnecessary pretension, and the waiters help guests navigate the menu even if it is their first time trying Indonesian cuisine.
5. Bar and Books Podwale
Bar and Books Podwale is an elegant New York-style bar located in the historic “White House” building on Wąski Dunaj Street. The two-level space includes the main bar on the ground floor and a cigar lounge upstairs, while in summer a cozy terrace opens as well.
The bar is known for its impressive whiskey collection – from Scottish to Japanese varieties – as well as its premium cocktails. The cigar selection deserves special attention too, featuring both world-famous brands and exclusive Bar and Books cigars handmade in a family workshop in New York.
From Wednesday to Saturday evenings, live music is performed here, and once a month the venue hosts burlesque shows. Themed nights are held regularly: Ladies’ Nights with complimentary cigars for women, and Whisky Nights with special whiskey prices.
One important thing to keep in mind is that the venue accepts cash only, and the food selection is mostly limited to snacks. For non-smoking guests, the cigar smoke on the second floor may be a serious drawback, although the ground floor remains smoke-free.
6. Restauracja Kamienne Schodki s.c.
The Kamienne Schodki restaurant has been operating since the 1960s, and its tables have hosted the ambassadors of Japan and France, as well as many ministers and figures from the arts.
The restaurant’s signature dish is duck with apples, large enough for two people. Guests also praise the traditional Polish dishes: bigos, pierogi, and potato pancakes with salmon. For dessert, the house cheesecake served with ice cream is worth trying.
In summer, the restaurant opens a terrace overlooking the Market Square, while in winter the interior is decorated with festive decorations.
7. Restauracja U Wieniawy
U Wieniawy is a restaurant with a rich history, named after the legendary General Bolesław Wieniawa-Długoszowski. It is located in a historic building and requires advance reservation.
The menu features traditional Polish cuisine in a modern interpretation. In the evenings, live music is played here, and the trumpeter not only performs but also happily chats with guests. The interior transports visitors to the atmosphere of pre-war Warsaw in the 1930s.
Prices are above average, but they match the standard of the venue. It is a popular place for special occasions, where classic Polish cuisine is paired with impeccable service.
8. Ciao Napoli
Ciao Napoli is an authentic pizzeria where the pizza stands up well against Italian originals. The dough is exceptionally fresh, with a crisp crust. The carbonara pizza and the chorizo pizza are especially successful.
The small, cozy space is looked after by attentive waiters. The place is known not only for its pizza – the homemade lemonade and pistachio tiramisu deserve a separate mention.
Affordable prices and a location in the tourist center make Ciao Napoli an excellent alternative to traditional Polish cuisine.
