Tiếng ViệtWhen it comes to dining in Warsaw, as well as exploring its renowned culinary hotspots, “what to eat in Warsaw” is a question that every traveler visiting Warsaw is keen on. Alongside accommodation choices and selecting tourist destinations in Warsaw, the local delicacies and beverages stand out, leaving a lasting impression on many travelers. Exploring “what to eat in Warsaw” becomes an essential part of the experience for those seeking to immerse themselves fully in the city’s culture and flavors.
General introduction to Warsaw Cuisine
Warsaw, also known as Warszawa in Polish, is the capital and largest city of Poland. It is ranked as one of the Alpha-type cities in the world, serving as an important international tourist destination and a notable center for culture, politics, and economics. The Old Town of Warsaw is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
Warsaw was once dubbed the “Paris of the North” and was considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world until the outbreak of World War II. With three airports: Warsaw Chopin, Warsaw–Modlin Mazovia, and Warsaw Babice, the city is a crucial transportation hub.
The cuisine of Warsaw exhibits a unique diversity compared to other cities and towns in Poland, with strong influences from Jewish and French cuisines. Dishes like freshwater fish, broth, bagels, and pastries are popular. Crayfish and gelatin-soaked fish were traditional dishes in Warsaw restaurants during the 1920s and 1930s. Exploring “what to eat in Warsaw” becomes an essential part of the experience for those seeking to immerse themselves fully in the city’s culture and flavors.
Upscale restaurants are often found in the city center or in the nearby Frascati district. The Michelin Guide has rated thirteen restaurants in Warsaw, including two Michelin-starred restaurants in 2019. In 2021, National Geographic honored Warsaw as one of the top destinations for vegetarians in Europe, offering a diverse array of options for those wondering “what to eat in Warsaw”.
Read More: Warsaw Travel Guide: 10 Best Places to Visit in Warsaw
What to Eat in Warsaw
When traveling to Warsaw, there are many delicious dishes to try, which are specialties of this city such as Paczki, Pierogies, Polish Vodka, Zapiekanka, Chocolate Babka, Gołąbki, Kielbasa (Polish sausage), Placki Ziemniaczane (Potato Pancakes), Flaki, Borscht, Bigos, Wuzetka, Polish Meringue Cake, Kotlet Schabowy, and Zupa Fasolowa.
Paczki
What to eat in Warsaw – Paczki are round sweet pastries, fried to a crisp with a golden brown outer layer. The size of a Paczki is typically larger than that of a regular doughnut.
A notable feature of this pastry is its variety of fillings, while still maintaining traditional flavors. Common fillings include fruits such as plum, cherry, or apricot, along with custard, chocolate, or cream.
When traveling to Warsaw, tourists often want to try local specialties, and “what to eat in Warsaw” has become one of the common questions. In that list, Paczki is an option not to be missed, offering a unique culinary experience of the city.
Pierogies
What to eat in Warsaw – Pierogies are a must-try dish when traveling to Warsaw. These are dumplings made from unleavened dough and can contain various fillings such as potatoes, cheese, meat, mushrooms, or fruits. They are typically boiled and then either sautéed with butter or served with sour cream.
Pierogies are a culinary icon of Poland, so you can easily find them at dining establishments when visiting Warsaw. From traditional Polish restaurants to street food vendors, you can also participate in cooking classes in Warsaw to learn how to make this dish yourself. When asking “what to eat in Warsaw,” don’t overlook Pierogies on your culinary experience list.
Vodka
What to eat in Warsaw – Warsaw offers a variety of Polish vodkas, ranging from classic brands to those with unique flavors. Traditional Polish vodka is typically made from high-quality ingredients such as rye or wheat.
Polish vodka is renowned for its high purity, quality ingredients, and production methods that result in excellent flavors. Some vodkas undergo multiple distillations to achieve clarity and distinctive flavors.
When traveling to Warsaw, experiencing Polish vodka is a must. Answering the question “what to eat in Warsaw” would not be complete without trying a glass of local vodka and raising a toast with the phrase “Na zdrowie!” – meaning “To your health!” – as you raise your glass.
Zapiekanka
What to eat in Warsaw – When traveling to Warsaw, one of the most interesting dishes not to be missed is Zapiekanka – a famous Polish street food. Zapiekanka is made from a baguette cut in half as a base, then topped with mushrooms, cheese, and other ingredients before being baked until golden brown.
Usually served with tomato sauce, garlic sauce, mayo, and sprinkled with dried oregano or other herbs and spices, Zapiekanka is a culinary icon that cannot be missed when visiting Warsaw. “What to eat in Warsaw” would not be complete without trying a serving of Zapiekanka at street food stalls – a true culinary experience when you set foot in this city.
Chocolate babka
What to eat in Warsaw – Chocolate babka, a delicious and enticing sweet cake, is a specialty that you cannot miss when traveling to Warsaw. This dessert is popular, especially among those with a sweet tooth and is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.
What’s special about Chocolate babka is the visible swirls of chocolate when you slice into the loaf. Adding nuts such as walnuts or fruits like cherries to the cake also adds an extra special flavor. After baking, Chocolate babka is often coated with a layer of sugar syrup or chocolate to create shine and enhance the sweet flavor.
“What to eat in Warsaw” would not be complete without trying a slice of Chocolate babka at local pastry shops – a true culinary experience when you visit this city.
Gołąbki
What to eat in Warsaw – Gołąbki is a traditional Polish dish, consisting of cabbage rolls filled with a mixture of ground meat, often pork or beef, combined with rice or barley, then baked with tomato sauce. The tomato sauce adds delicious flavor and aroma to the dish, enhanced by ingredients like onions, garlic, and spices.
Gołąbki is typically served as the main course in a meal, adorned with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. Additionally, a dollop of sour cream may also be added to enhance the flavor. “What to eat in Warsaw” becomes even more diverse when you try Gołąbki at traditional restaurants or local eateries – a true culinary experience as you explore this city.
Kielbasa
What to eat in Warsaw – Polish sausage, or kielbasa in Polish, is a quintessential dish recognized worldwide. In Warsaw, you’ll discover countless options to suit your preferences.
- Kielbasa Krakowska: Dry, smoked sausage made from pork, beef, and various spices, imparting a smoky and savory flavor.
- Kielbasa Kabanos: A thin, dry sausage, often made from pork. This is a popular snack due to its crispiness and rich flavor.
- Kielbasa Wiejska: Ground sausage made from a mixture of pork and beef, seasoned with garlic and marjoram, offering a rich and aromatic flavor.
- Kielbasa Kiełbasa Myśliwska: Sausage made from game meats such as deer or wild boar, boasting a strong and wild flavor.
- Kielbasa Surowa: A raw sausage, typically made from pork, cooked before consumption. It is often used as an ingredient in various Polish dishes.
Placki Ziemniaczane (Bánh kếp khoai tây)
What to eat in Warsaw – Placki ziemniaczane, or simply “placki,” holds a special place in Polish cuisine as a beloved dish. These potato pancakes are celebrated for their crispy outer layer and tender, flavorful center.
Placki ziemniaczane can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Common accompaniments include sour cream, applesauce, or a sprinkle of sugar. Additionally, savory toppings such as sautéed mushrooms, goulash, or smoked salmon are popular choices. Exploring “what to eat in Warsaw” becomes even more enticing when you indulge in Placki ziemniaczane at traditional restaurants or local eateries – offering an authentic culinary experience as you navigate through this city.
Flaki
What to eat in Warsaw – Flaki is a traditional Polish dish made from beef tripe simmered in a flavorful broth, often infused with aromatic herbs. The tripe is meticulously cleaned and simmered over low heat until tender. The broth is seasoned with ingredients such as onions, carrots, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices.
Flaki boasts a rich, savory flavor with a slightly chewy texture from the beef tripe. The herbs and vegetables add depth to the dish. Common spices include bay leaves, marjoram, and black pepper. Exploring “what to eat in Warsaw” becomes more diverse when you try Flaki at traditional restaurants or local eateries – offering an authentic culinary experience as you explore this city.
Borscht
What to eat in Warsaw – Borscht, often referred to as “Barszcz” in Polish, is a classic soup that you can find in Warsaw. Borscht is primarily made from beetroots, giving the soup its distinct color and sweet flavor.
Beetroots are simmered in chicken broth or vegetable broth, along with other ingredients such as garlic, bay leaves, and vegetables including onions, carrots, and sometimes cabbage. Some recipes call for the addition of sour cream or yogurt to add a slightly tangy flavor to the soup. Exploring “what to eat in Warsaw” becomes more diverse when you try Borscht at traditional restaurants or local eateries – offering an authentic culinary experience as you explore this city.
Bigos
What to eat in Warsaw – Bigos, often called Hunter’s Stew in English, is sometimes referred to as the “Polish soul food” due to its hearty and nourishing nature. Bigos is made from fermented sauerkraut and fresh cabbage, providing the dish with a unique texture and delicious flavor. The stew also typically includes various meats, such as pork, beef, sausage, and sometimes game meats like venison.
Bigos is slow-cooked at low temperatures for an extended period, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, complex taste. When served, Bigos is often accompanied by a slice of rye bread. “What to eat in Warsaw” becomes more diverse when you try Bigos at traditional restaurants or local eateries – offering an authentic culinary experience as you explore this city.
Wuzetka
What to eat in Warsaw – Wuzetka, also known as WZ Cake, is a Polish dessert that you can find in pastry shops, cafes, and bakeries throughout Warsaw and Poland. It is a deliciously rich chocolate cake, layered with plenty of cream.
Wuzetka typically consists of two or more layers of chocolate sponge cake. The layers of sponge cake are crisp, providing a delicate contrast to the creamy chocolate filling. The entire cake is coated with a shiny layer of chocolate and topped with a fluffy whipped cream. “What to eat in Warsaw” becomes more intriguing when you try Wuzetka at traditional pastry shops or local cafes – an essential part of your culinary journey as you explore this city.
Bánh Meringue Ba Lan
What to eat in Warsaw – Polish Meringue is a delightful dessert featuring a crispy meringue shell filled with fresh cream and fruits. This dessert is popular in Poland and is often served on special occasions and holidays such as Easter.
Polish Meringue typically consists of a meringue shell, often topped with a thick layer of fresh cream. The cream is usually sweetened and sometimes flavored with vanilla extract. Sliced strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and passion fruit are commonly used to garnish the cake. Polish Meringue is often served chilled and sliced into pieces or squares.
When traveling to Warsaw, especially in Warsaw and other cities, you’ll find Polish Meringue on the menus of cafes, pastry shops, and restaurants. “What to eat in Warsaw” becomes more exciting when you try this dessert at local establishments.
Kotlet Schabowy
What to eat in Warsaw – Kotlet schabowy is a traditional Polish dish similar to the German schnitzel but with the distinctive refinement of Poland. Kotlet schabowy is primarily made from boneless pork loin. The pork loin is often pounded or flattened to an even thickness, ensuring even cooking when fried.
While the classic kotlet schabowy is made with pork, you may find variations using other meats such as chicken or beef. The key to a perfect kotlet schabowy is the breadcrumb coating made from white bread. It helps the pork loin develop a crispy, golden crust when fried while still keeping the meat tender and juicy inside.
Kotlet schabowy is typically served with mashed potatoes and salad, such as cucumber salad. “What to eat in Warsaw” becomes more intriguing when you try kotlet schabowy at traditional restaurants or local eateries.
Zupa Fasolowa
What to eat in Warsaw – Zupa Fasolowa, meaning “bean soup” in Polish, is a popular and nourishing soup, especially during the cold months. Zupa Fasolowa is typically made from white beans and gains its flavor from ingredients such as smoked sausage, bacon, and vegetables. Smoked sausage and bacon add a rich flavor, while ingredients like onions, carrots, and garlic contribute aromatic notes.
The soup can have different textures, from slightly thick and chunky to smoother, depending on personal preferences and regional variations. Zupa Fasolowa is usually served hot and accompanied by a slice of fresh bread or a roll.
“What to eat in Warsaw” becomes more intriguing when you try Zupa Fasolowa at traditional restaurants or local eateries, to experience the traditional flavors of Poland.
Read More: What to Buy in Warsaw: Best Warsaw Souvenirs
Best Places to Eat in Warsaw
Famous dining destinations that tourists should visit when traveling to Warsaw include Aïoli, Bułkę przez Bibułkę, Hala Koszyki, Barn Burger, and Der Elefant.
Aïoli
Địa chỉ: Świętokrzyska 18 – Chmielna 26
What to eat in Warsaw – Aïoli is a popular destination loved by both locals and tourists alike, known for its consistently delicious dishes over the years.
The restaurant offers a breakfast menu comprising both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. If you order coffee here on weekdays before 12:00, breakfast will only cost you 1 Polish złoty (0.25 USD). On weekends, you’ll receive a complimentary coffee with every meal.
Bułkę przez Bibułkę
Địa chỉ: Puławska 24 (Mokotów) – Zgoda 3 (Śródmieście) – Zwycięzców 32 (Saska Kępa)
What to eat in Warsaw – At Bułkę przez Bibułkę, you can enjoy breakfast all day, which is particularly convenient when traveling, offering you the freedom to eat whenever you want.
The food here is not only delicious and filling, but the staff is also friendly, and the prices are reasonable in Warsaw – you can have a hearty meal for around 20-25 Polish złoty per person (approximately $5-6).
Hala Koszyki
Địa chỉ: Koszykowa 63
What to eat in Warsaw – A particularly historic venue offering a wide array of enticing food and drinks is Hala Koszyki, a former market hall dating back to the early 20th century, transformed into a charming culinary destination.
It’s a place that blends diverse cuisines, drinks, music, and a lively atmosphere under one roof, providing a unique culinary experience. On weekends, it hosts concerts and live music events, adding to the vibrant ambiance.
Barn Burger
Địa chỉ: Złota 9 – Zgoda 5
What to eat in Warsaw – Barn Burger is renowned for serving the best burgers in Warsaw. With around 20 different varieties, each with unique names, you’re sure to satisfy your hunger here. Don’t be surprised by the unique ingredients in these burgers.
Barn Burger will provide you with an exciting experience combining traditional flavors with unique creativity. The restaurant also offers a diverse menu selection including salads, pasta, and a variety of enticing beverages. What sets Barn Burger apart is its comfortable and stylish space, perfect for both lunch and dinner.
Der Elefant
Địa chỉ: Plac Bankowy 1
What to eat in Warsaw – If you’re looking for a beautiful restaurant with large windows, a terrace, and a cozy atmosphere for lunch or dinner, look no further than Der Elefant. With a history spanning over 20 years, this restaurant offers excellent seafood and meat options. The charming terrace of the restaurant will remind you of Manhattan in New York.
Der Elefant also provides an opportunity to savor creatively crafted local dishes with sophistication. Moreover, the professional service style and elegant ambiance of the restaurant are also special highlights for travelers’ culinary experiences in Warsaw.
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