Hotel Tadeusz

A younger sibling to the acclaimed Bottiglieria 1881, this buzzing modern brasserie feels distinctly of-the-moment. From the pared-back yet well-appointed décor to the open kitchen and counter seating, it’s no wonder the place is so packed. The cooking resurrects and reinvents Polish classics – such as homemade kaszkanka (black pudding) – while offering a selection of high-quality meats cooked over the grill. Assured, personable service suits the vibe of the place well.

Located in the trendy Plac Nowy square in the city’s historic Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz, this busy and buoyant restaurant adopts a chic brasserie-style aesthetic with high-top tables and a terrace that’s ideal for the summertime. The menu showcases appealing variety, with the globally influenced dishes ranging from oysters to arancini and tempura to ceviche. Whatever you choose, there’s a unifying theme of sensible pricing and quality execution from the kitchen team.

It’s easy to miss this likeable little wine bar tucked away in the Old Town, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled, lest you lose out on all the joys it has to offer. There’s a comforting, rustic feel to both the look and the cooking, with a semi-vaulted ceiling and whitewashed brick walls providing the perfect setting for the generous and full-flavoured dishes. A wonderful risotto with Polish porcini mushrooms is a prime example. The fun, trendy wine list focuses on orange and natural options, hence the ‘Nat’ in the name.

As soon as you enter this slick restaurant in vibrant Kazimierz, you know you’re in good hands. The smart interior with its high-top seating and marble-topped tables has a stylish, wine bar feel, while the superbly friendly and attentive service team keep things running smoothly. The menu offers a delicious taste of Israel, with excellent pitta and some of the best lamb kebabs you will find. That it all comes at affordable prices is an added bonus – as is the selection of Israeli and Polish wines.

Located in the up-and-coming Zabłocie neighbourhood, this sister restaurant to Hana Sushi is located on the ground floor of a modern apartment block. Inside, it’s bright and stylish, with an abundance of blonde wood furnishings. Despite bento boxes for lunch and a selection of nigiri, there’s more of a Korean slant to the menu here, with hearty, soul-warming options like red jjamppong. Don’t miss the signature popcorn chicken too!

Close to the city’s famous cathedral, you’ll find this charming neighbourhood restaurant with a distinctly Mediterranean vibe. From the bright, airy décor to cooking that is fresh, pared-back and abundant in olive oil, the pleasant warmth of the Greek and Italian coasts will feel within touching distance. The well-priced sharing dishes range from delicious, just-baked pitta with salt and herbs to a generous helping of cannoli. Chatty, welcoming service adds to the cheery atmosphere.

Named after the Basque language word for the Basque Country, this tucked-away little spot specialises in that region’s roster of mouthwatering dishes. Look out for the selection of pintxos alongside larger dishes, such as herb-fed Iberian pork tenderloin. For dessert, the torrija with superbly rich, smooth mint ice cream is not to be missed. The mostly Spanish wine list adds to the authentic feel and provides plenty of options by the glass.