SŁONECZNA MORENA

Chef Janek Wojtalik and sommelier Maciek Łyko, who worked together at Kontakt in Warsaw, have brought their knack for full-flavoured cooking and passionately curated wine lists to Gdańsk. Their simply styled bistro has a proper neighbourhood feel, which is reflected in the generous pricing and friendly service. The menu blends a Polish heart with international influences, such as pork chop cooked over wood then served with ponzu and an Asian-style slaw. Smaller, natural producers are favoured in the interesting wine selection.

An ideal spot for cocktail lovers, Eliksir reputedly has the longest bar in the region and holds over 400 bottles ready and waiting to be used in a mixture of classic and bespoke drinks. A cocktail pairing is also offered with the tasting menu, as an alternative to the usual wine flight. Both the tasting option and the à la carte showcase quality local produce like Masurian beef, which is given the platform to shine in an excellent tartare. Smooth, friendly service adds to the appeal.

An unpretentious, friendly vibe is key to the charms of this Old Town brasserie, which is found down a cobbled street in the shadow of the impressive St. Mary's Basilica. The bright conservatory extension makes a great spot for lunch, while the more rustic upstairs room allows you to create a contrasting experience at dinner. Hearty, generous cooking is inspired by the culinary heritage of the Pomeranian region, with locally sourced seasonal produce given centre stage. Time-honoured dishes come with an appealing modern touch, as well as the occasional Mediterranean influence.

There’s a mysterious, secretive feel to this restaurant tucked away inside a historic house, which sits surrounded by amber jewellers in the heart of the Old Town. Its ground floor has long high-topped tables that lend themselves to communal dining, while the first floor offers a bit more privacy. A concise menu uses excellent daily produce, with a distinct South American influence running through the dishes – from classic ceviche to delicious corn husk ice cream and meringue for dessert.

The city’s Old Town plays host to this understated restaurant surrounded by attractive period buildings. The elegant interior benefits from modern art for sale on the walls and floral arrangements adding a pop of colour. An overtly seasonal menu means you might be treated to superb, full-flavoured deer when the time is right; but there’s a luxury edge to the offering all year round, with ingredients like Oscietra caviar utilised with skill by the chefs. The friendly service stands out for the enthusiasm and knowledge of the team.

Quality primary ingredients and skilled treatment of them form the basis of the cooking at this stylishly understated restaurant. Although multiple cuts of beef form a chunk of the menu, this is far more than a steakhouse. Seafood plays a big role too, with surf and turf platters catching the eye, while the quality of the kitchen shines through even in the smaller details – like a terrific side dish of girolles. The wine list contains some hidden gems and the service team will be happy to recommend a glass or two.

Located on one of the city’s busiest waterside boulevards, Tygle is made all the more appealing by its enthusiastic service team and enclosed terrace that’s ideal for al fresco dining. Inside, you'll find a minimalist-meets-industrial style, with exposed pipes and Edison bulbs. The satisfying and well-executed dishes come in hearty portions and might include options like beef tenderloin with asparagus. For dessert, the cheesecake will prove a fitting end to the meal for sweet-toothed diners.