25+ tips for gastronomy in Budějovice

Good restaurants have sprung up in Budějovice in recent years like mushrooms in the South Bohemian forests. And mushrooms can be found in local dishes. After all, they belong to traditional South Bohemian cuisine. Let's go through the local offer together.

České Budějovice

It does not take long to explain that the regional capital is an excellent example of historical architecture. Going to Přemysl Otakar II Square with Samson's Fountain in the middle, admiring the houses with loubis and the narrow streets of the historical centre, or the view from the Black Tower are points that no visitor should miss. But how about combining a visit to the centre with a gourmet experience. 

Directly on the banks of the Blind Branch of the Malše, in the oldest urban development,  you will find  a modern restaurant Klika Kitchen & Coffee. The chefs here prepare quality Czech cuisine using local and seasonal ingredients. You can sit in the winter garden or outside on the waterfront, where there is also a regular barbecue in the summer. In addition to classic dishes, you can also find Pikador, as the hot dog is called in Budějce. They prepare it in their own way at Klika, so don't expect any ordinary fast food from the street. By the way, did you know that the hot dog comes from Budějce?

And we'll stay on the riverbank. Also on the Budějovice gastro-scene is a restaurant and pizzeria Hoch Spalíček. You can find it on the Vltava Embankment right by the Long Bridge. You can also go here for breakfast and lunch menus and there are also rooms for family and corporate parties and events. This lounge is located on the top floor and from the terrace you have a perfect view of the river, the Long Bridge and also the breakfast Café LANNA on the opposite bank of the Vltava. If you want to go on a boat trip on the river, you've come to the right place. The boats leave from Lann's Boatyard about a hundred yards from the Spale.

Directly on Přemysl Otakar II Square, look for the stylish Bell Restaurant. Here you can taste top Czech and Viennese cuisine made from beef, veal and lamb from our own organic farm in the Novohradské hory. The restaurant is located in the historic premises of the Grand Hotel Zvon and besides the gastronomy, you can also admire the richly decorated carved ceiling from the 17th century.


The list certainly doesn't end there. If you're looking for history, Restaurant Solnice in the center of České Budějovice, is located in a former saltworks building that has its roots in the 16th century. In this unique space, guests can enjoy traditional Czech dishes prepared with local ingredients. The restaurant is also known for its wide range of beers from small Czech breweries and combines authentic gastronomy with an unforgettable historical setting, making it a great place for foodies and history buffs alike.

For romance and quiet seating, head to Restaurant U Solné brány. If you're looking for a good old classic with tradition, you shouldn't miss the Masné krámy restaurant, which is an iconic spot with a long history dating back to the 16th century, when it served as the city's meat market. Today, it offers authentic Czech cuisine with an emphasis on traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. Beer lovers will appreciate the wide selection of beers, including those from the local Budvar brewery. Meat shops are the ideal place for those who want to experience the true South Bohemian atmosphere in a historic setting right in the heart of České Budějovice. Another interesting choice is the restaurant Potrefená Husa. This modern restaurant is part of a well-known chain and offers a stylish setting with a varied menu that combines traditional Czech cuisine with international influences. Potrefená Husa is the perfect place to meet friends or family, both for lunch and dinner, with the option to enjoy a fine beer or wine. You can choose from two locations - In the IGY Centre, or on Česká Street, just off the square.

We're not done yet. České Budějovice really has a lot to offer. Another interesting choice is Brio Restaurant offering modern Czech cuisine with an emphasis on creativity and quality ingredients. Local chefs focus on seasonal produce, ensuring freshness and variety in every season. The restaurant's interior combines elegance with comfort, creating the perfect setting for a relaxed dining experience. Another interesting and quiet spot outside the centre is Bistro Magdalene, this bistro features a modern concept with light and healthy cuisine. The menu offers traditional Czech flavours as well as international ones. There is a good selection of coffee and homemade desserts that are guaranteed to please. If you are looking for a luxurious and colorful place to sit in a representative manner, Restaurant Paluba brings a relaxed atmosphere with colorful interior and flowers that refresh the environment. The menu combines local flavours with international elements and is the perfect place to meet friends or for a family lunch. The Blue Door restaurant, which has been tastefully renovated, is known for its emphasis on local and organic ingredients. The dishes here are honest and tastefully served, making the Blue Door a popular spot for lovers of fine and sustainable dining.

For a slow start to the day, a brunch menu and a quality coffee selection, visit the bistro Born in London, or its other branch Little Sister. You won't take a step wrong by visiting Prazi Café. This cosy café with a stylish interior offers delicacies made from local ingredients and traditional Italian and select coffee. You can start your day here with a French toast and a cup of fragrant filter coffee. 

Looking for more international cuisine? Then burger lovers will be pleased with Bouda Burgers, whether at the Bistro Bar Bouda location near the South Bohemian Theatre or at one of the fast food branches around town. Asian delicacies and sushi are the specialties at Vietnamese restaurant MET and you can sample authentic dishes from India at Gateway of India. If you like sushi combined with original and good drinks, you shouldn't miss the The Mist, located in the centre of České Budějovice, just a short walk from Přemysl Otakar II Square, which ensures easy access. The restaurant boasts a great atmosphere, modern design and offers a wide selection of drinks and culinary specialties. It is an ideal place for a get-together with friends or a great dinner.

Hluboká nad Vltavou

If you visit Hluboká and get hungry while exploring the romantic grounds of Hluboká Castle direct your steps right next to the castle. The Erb restaurant combines tradition with a modern approach in a unique way. Here you will enjoy fresh gastronomy in a historic setting.

If you want to taste venison specialties in all possible ways, visit the Restaurant Hubert. Roasted quail, rabbit leg, boar shoulder, boar slices and the legendary bear's foot are just a modest list from the menu.

If you like to reminisce about the old days, head to Solid Chance. You'll find the business in the heart of the city in a house where a coaching inn was established in 1692, and has been running continuously and in full respect ever since. Grilled meats, real potato pancakes and homemade cakes. The beer on tap here is local, straight from the neighbouring Hluboká Brewery.

You can also visit the Diamant Restaurant, where all the tables are set for your enjoyment. In an unusual interior with a relaxed atmosphere, you can enjoy great international cuisine, complemented by a careful selection of fine Moravian and international wines. This is complemented by excellent service to ensure an exceptional experience.

If you are looking for Czech specialties with an emphasis on traditional recipes, visit the Podhrad Hotel restaurant. It offers a selection of the best of Czech cuisine, with an emphasis on local and national specialties that draw inspiration from folk and culinary traditions.

For a cocktail at the Submarine

Don't know what to do with your loaded evening? Head to the Submarine! That is, to Poetic Cocktail Bar Yellow Submarine. The top level of bartender's craft in combination with the vibrant evening atmosphere has brought the fame of this bar to the imaginary sky.  Ponorka has become one of the most famous Czech bars and has rightfully made it into Lukáš Hejlík's Gastromap. It will also delight you with a brand new menu for all demanding gourmets!

The company is located a stone's throw from Budějovice Square. Massive wooden beams and a 13-metre-long wooden bar dominate the fantastic interior of the historic house, which was associated with the horse railway and salt trade. The local bartenders are masters of the trade, so you're in for a real treat with 15 signature cocktails, 30 classic and 5 non-alcoholic. Lovers of champagne, fine rums and gins will also find something to enjoy here. In addition, there are great dishes inspired by Scandinavian, Indian and Asian cuisine.