Vikalinka Travels: A Culinary Journey Through Enchanting Prague

Well, this marks a significant milestone for our site – the official launch of Vikalinka Travels! For four delightful years, I, Brad, have played a supporting role on our beloved food blog, often mentioned but rarely heard. It’s high time I stepped into the spotlight and introduced myself properly. While Julia will continue to work her magic behind the camera, capturing the breathtaking visuals you’ve come to love, I’ll be taking the helm of our new travel section. Get ready to embark on a series of adventures with us, as we explore the world, one delicious destination at a time!

Though we’ve sprinkled in a few tales from our past trips, it’s now time to fully open the window to a substantial and exciting part of our lives: our passion for travel. Our wanderlust knows no bounds; our ever-growing list of places to explore includes almost every corner of the globe we haven’t yet seen, alongside a few cherished spots we’re eager to revisit. We would absolutely love for you to join us virtually on these journeys, to share in our discoveries, and perhaps, to inspire some of you to pack your bags and set off on your own unforgettable expeditions!

Our First Grand Adventure: A Surprise Birthday Escape to Prague

Our inaugural official Vikalinka Travels adventure took us to the stunning city of Prague – a special surprise for Julia on her birthday. As a devoted “Christmas Baby,” Julia has always been quite firm that her birthday gifts should adequately compensate for the holiday overshadowing her special day. A long weekend escape, brimming with new experiences and culinary delights, seemed like the perfect compensatory gesture. Prague, with its fairytale architecture and rich history, has held a coveted spot on our “must-see” list for as long as we’ve been together. Consequently, a trip there was not just desired, but truly long overdue.

Unveiling Czech Cuisine: Beyond Expectations

For many international travelers, Czech cuisine might remain largely undiscovered, perhaps because it subtly shares its culinary DNA with its Central European neighbors. The dishes and flavors you’ll encounter here will likely resonate with anyone familiar with the hearty fares of Germany, Austria, or Hungary. This culinary confluence is, I believe, a natural consequence of the Czech Republic’s long and intertwined history with various nations and cultures. If you envision robust plates of tender meat generously smothered in rich gravy, accompanied by plump dumplings or potatoes, you’ve already grasped a significant portion of the local food philosophy.

However, this shared identity by no means suggests a lack of character or an inability to enjoy truly exceptional meals. On the contrary, the food culture in Prague is absolutely worth exploring! Czech meals are wonderfully hearty, deeply satisfying, and represent comfort food executed to perfection. From slow-cooked goulash to crispy schnitzel, each dish is designed to warm the soul and fill the stomach. A delightful surprise was the affordability of dining out, especially if you venture a little off the beaten path and avoid the notoriously overpriced main tourist hubs like the Old Town Square.

Navigating the Prague Dining Scene: Service & Tips

One aspect of dining in Prague that warrants a mention is the service, which can sometimes be a bit… relaxed. Be prepared to settle in and enjoy your company for a while before a seemingly half-interested waiter makes their way to your table. If you’re not in a hurry, this slower pace can actually be quite pleasant, allowing for unhurried conversations and a deeper appreciation of the meal. However, it’s probably best to temper your expectations if you’re accustomed to swift, attentive service. Regarding tipping, a 10% gratuity is generally expected. I suspect this norm has been established more by the precedent set by previous international travelers rather than being a deeply ingrained cultural rule. Interestingly, waiters can be quite direct in asking about your intended tip, particularly when paying by card. This happened to us on more than one occasion, and I must admit, I never quite felt comfortable vocalizing the tip amount aloud. Ideally, a waiter would simply hand you the card machine, step back discreetly, and allow you to complete the transaction privately. But, truly, in the grand scheme of things, it’s a minor quirk and certainly not the worst thing in the world.

Prague’s Culinary Spectrum: From Posh to Pub

Upscale Dining: An Accessible Indulgence

While Prague is indeed awash with excellent French cuisine – which I personally enjoy – it wasn’t the primary reason I traveled to the Czech Republic. Fortunately, the city boasts an abundance of establishments that specialize in high-quality Czech food, preparing it with skill and passion. It’s crucial to note that “higher end” in Prague doesn’t necessarily translate to exorbitant prices. In fact, the cost-to-quality ratio is remarkably favorable. This makes a night out at a sophisticated establishment not only feasible but highly recommended for every visitor looking to experience the best of Czech culinary artistry without breaking the bank.

As a true history buff, I’m invariably drawn to places imbued with historical significance. This fascination led us straight to Café Louvre, a legendary haunt once frequented by intellectual giants like Franz Kafka and Albert Einstein, among countless other notable figures. Stepping into Café Louvre feels like stepping back in time to a golden age of European intellectualism. The opulent interiors, with their grand chandeliers and rich wood paneling, create an atmosphere of old-world charm and elegance. The service here was, without a doubt, the best we encountered during our entire stay in Prague – attentive, professional, and genuinely welcoming. And the food? It was a strong match for the impeccable service, offering classic Czech and international dishes prepared with finesse.

However, if there was one experience that truly topped them all, it was dining at the Art Deco Imperial Hotel. From the moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in a world of breathtaking grandeur. The towering high ceilings, adorned with intricate mosaics and stunning tile work that extends throughout the entire establishment, are simply remarkable. The culinary offerings were equally impressive. I highly recommend starting your meal with the Wild Salmon Marinated in Beetroot – a dish that perfectly blends delicate flavors with artistic presentation. Julia absolutely raved about the Rabbit with Mustard, and while I’m always one for tradition, my heart led me to the Veal Schnitzel, a decision I did not regret for a single moment. Each bite was a testament to sophisticated preparation and premium ingredients.

Budget-Friendly Bites: The Charm of Local Pubs

If living in London has taught us anything, it’s the undeniable charm of a slightly “dodgy” but incredibly authentic local pub. And fortunately, Prague offers these in spades! Don’t let a bit of chipped paint, a rickety door, or a slightly aged interior deter you. Give one a try – as we did when seeking refuge on a particularly breezy January afternoon – and you might just be wonderfully surprised. These sleepy, unassuming pubs can be found tucked away on almost any side street, offering a genuine glimpse into local life and an incredibly satisfying meal. You’ll find that stopping by one of these establishments is well worth your while, especially if you keep your food order simple and traditional.

Hearty and comforting dishes like goulash, various sausages, fluffy dumplings (knedlíky), and potatoes are almost universally available and consistently delicious. These meals are particularly satisfying when paired with a generous slice of fresh bread, perfect for soaking up every last drop of flavorful sauce. Be warned, though: Czech pub fare is exceptionally rich and filling. For the sake of your digestive comfort, it might be wise to limit these heavier meals to once a day, allowing you to explore lighter options or space out your indulgences throughout your trip.

Quenching Your Thirst: Czech Drinks

The Golden Standard: Czech Beer

When it comes to beverages in Prague, the simplest and arguably best advice is this: get yourself a beer. The Czechs brew beer with an unparalleled mastery, and they consume it with equal enthusiasm. It’s no wonder, given that Czech beer is not only incredibly cheap but also exceptionally good. I never went wrong with a simple pilsner lager, with Pilsner Urquell being a particularly ubiquitous and reliably refreshing choice available almost everywhere. For those who prefer a darker, maltier taste, dark lager is also widely available and offers a delightful alternative. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something unique, seek out a “mixed beer” – a layered concoction of dark beer on top and light beer on the bottom, creating a striking visual and interesting flavor profile. It wasn’t entirely to my personal taste, but it’s always worth saying you gave it a try!

Exploring Czech Wines

Czech wines can be found almost anywhere you dine, to the extent that in some smaller establishments, it might be the only wine option available. While I wouldn’t say it to their face, I must admit my experience with Czech wine was a tad disappointing. Many of the wines we tried felt quite young in flavor and somewhat lacking in body, especially compared to the robust wines I typically enjoy. Julia, who is the discerning wine drinker of our family, was unfortunately not particularly impressed either. However, for enthusiasts of lighter-bodied Italian wines, perhaps something akin to a Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, you might find Czech wines more to your liking. They offer a unique regional taste, even if they don’t quite match the complexity of more established wine-producing nations.

A Sweet Farewell: Prague’s Desserts

Indulgent Cakes & Coffee Culture

No culinary tour of Prague would be complete without indulging in a slice of cake. Central European countries, without a doubt, excel in the art of baking, often surpassing the rest of us in their pastry prowess. Your visit would truly be incomplete without savoring at least one exquisite slice. We highly recommend Café Café (yes, that’s the delightful name!) which boasts an incredible selection of cakes, from rich chocolate concoctions to delicate fruit tarts, all perfectly complemented by their excellent coffee. Conveniently located just off Wenceslas Square, this establishment is a popular spot, and for very good reason. Although we were too focused on the cakes to try them, their light lunch options also looked absolutely stellar.

Trdelník: A Street Food Sensation

While I hear conflicting stories about whether Trdelník genuinely originates from the Czech Republic, its undeniable popularity and presence across Prague make it a must-try street food experience. The most distinctive feature of Trdelník is its unique preparation: a sweet dough is meticulously wrapped around a wooden stick, then roasted over an open flame until golden brown. This process imparts a wonderfully earthy flavor and gives the pastry a distinctive hollow, cylindrical shape, making it eminently fillable. I personally loved it plain, simply dusted with a generous sprinkling of nuts and cinnamon, allowing its smoky sweetness to shine through. However, don’t hesitate to experiment with the various fillings and toppings on offer, from rich chocolate spreads and fresh fruits to swirls of whipped cream or even ice cream – each variation offers a delightful twist on this beloved treat.

Classic Comfort: Apple Strudel

Or perhaps a classic apple strudel is more to your speed, offering a familiar yet exquisitely prepared sweet indulgence. You can easily pick up a delicious slice at the bustling Havelské Tržiště Market, a vibrant hub where you can also find a myriad of charming souvenirs and local crafts to commemorate your trip to Prague. The market itself is an experience, offering a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells, making it the perfect place to grab a snack and soak in the local atmosphere.

Our journey through Prague was a magnificent start to Vikalinka Travels, filled with culinary delights, historic charm, and unforgettable moments. From the grandeur of the Art Deco Imperial Hotel to the cozy corners of local pubs, Prague’s food scene offered a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences. We hope our adventure inspires you to explore this enchanting city yourself and savor its unique tastes. Follow us for more travel tales and gastronomic explorations as Vikalinka Travels continues its global journey!