Gościniec w ogrodzie

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.

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.

Gdańsk’s famous brewer and astronomer Johannes Hevelius lends a variant of his surname to this trendy spot situated in, appropriately enough, a former brewery. The stylish interior includes a vaulted brick ceiling, exposed steel support columns and the odd flash of neon. The dishes adopt influences from around the globe and, seeing as this operates as both a bakery and a restaurant, it's no surprise that the fresh bread and the desserts are highlights. In a nod to Hevelius, the cocktails are named after planets.

The clue’s in the name: wine takes centre stage at this simply styled and bang on-trend bar-cum-restaurant. On-sale bottles can be glimpsed around the room, while the 400-strong list contains over 60 great options by the glass. The menu is filled with good value dishes which both deliver bags of flavour and show a wise restraint from the kitchen team. They focus on a clean, balanced style of cooking, with a signature dish of aubergine, Greek yoghurt and seasonal accompaniments.

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.

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.