U Rybaka

Located way up on the 33rd floor of northern Poland’s tallest building, this restaurant affords views over Gdańsk and out to the Baltic Sea. The cooking is equally spectacular, underpinned by Polish produce, driven by Spanish flavours and incorporating a few Italian influences. The superb pumpkin risotto is a prime example, with a perfectly judged amount of melted liquorice drizzled over the top in a nod to the chef's childhood. The service is smooth and charming, while the wine list is a treasure trove for oenophiles.

As its name suggests, this classic brasserie feels like it’s been flown in from France, with its framed French posters and brass railings. The menu’s Francophone base is blended with some home-grown influences, like the traditional rabbit with mustard sauce coming in a pierogi format, or zander in champagne sauce enlivened by a Żubrówka vodka vinaigrette. For dessert, look no further than crêpes Suzette flambéed in front of the guests.

This beautifully elegant villa dates back to the turn of the 20th century and sports interior décor that mixes the traditional with the contemporary, chandeliers with modern art – while its bright orangery is the most in-demand dining area come the summer. The neatly laid tables hint at the formality of the place, with dishes arriving under cloches and the smartly aproned team occasionally donning white gloves to serve. The French-inflected cooking demonstrates sound classical skill from the kitchen.

The 33rd floor of the Olivia Centre skyscraper provides spectacular panoramic views for this buzzing restaurant where Spanish guitar music soundtracks your visit. The cooking has a similar tone, with a selection of classic tapas to begin – the Ibérico ham croquetas are terrific – before a choice of main dishes. If you’re dining with company, the eye-catching rice dishes for two might include baby octopus or pork ribs as options. A genuine warmth from the service team and a comprehensive, largely Spanish wine list complete the picture.

Housed inside a hotel but with a separate entrance and a feel all its own, this elegant restaurant is worth the short walk out from the city centre. Start with a cocktail while you study the concise à la carte, where the Polish cooking comes with a Mediterranean influence that's noticeable in the occasional pasta or risotto. Top produce is clearly a priority, with the quality of the ingredients evident across the dishes. Attractive presentation and a touch of formality in the service enhance the experience.

With a name meaning ‘sand dunes’, it’s no surprise to find this restaurant overlooking the dunes with the white sandy beach and Baltic Sea beyond. In summer, a table on the terrace is a must; if the weather keeps you inside, the views are better from the upstairs room. When you’re this close to the water, it makes sense to have seafood, so keep an eye out for some terrific skrei cod when in season. The meat options include beef Wellington to share when ordered in advance.

Italian