Ibis Budget Wroclaw Poludnie

This tapas bar under a red-brick railway arch brings a little slice of Spain to Lower Silesia. It’s got all the ingredients of a good night out, from the buzz of happy diners to a drinks list including Spanish wines, sherry and sangria. The cooking marries tapas staples, like croquetas and pan con tomate, with a ‘Something Different’ section incorporating well-judged international tweaks. The Basque cheesecake will provide a fitting finale to a terrific all-round experience.

Its name translates as ‘Lips Lips’ and you will certainly be licking yours at this loveable little spot nestled, like many Wrocław restaurants, beneath a railway arch. It’s a bustling space, with the efficient team serving a steady stream of walk-in-only tables. The cooking draws on influences from Poland and beyond, in dishes that are straightforward and robustly flavoured – such as beef broth with pork dumplings. For something simpler, they have a selection of gourmet sandwiches.

For a taste of modern-day Poland, this buzzing bar and bistro ticks all the boxes. Tucked beneath a railway arch, it’s a relaxed, tightly packed spot humming with energy while the trains rumble overhead. Choose from a selection of brightly flavoured small plates that are mightily generous in size, from locally made black pudding to the popular ‘chunks of bread’. Adding to the appeal are the efficient service and wallet-friendly wines by the carafe or litre.

The surroundings are an event in themselves at this restaurant situated on the estate of the same name, which has a 14th-century castle at its heart and now hosts bedrooms, a spa and even a motor museum across its various buildings and parkland. Dining takes place across several castle rooms and focuses on carefully executed dishes with heart and soul, such as comforting homemade blood pudding or generous duck breast with a rich, full-flavoured sauce.

Operating as both a coffee shop and restaurant, this is one of those appealing something-for-everyone places. Occupying part of a former 1930s department store, its modern bistro feel is infused with subtle art deco touches that tie in with the building’s history. Brunch is served in the day, before the dinner à la carte kicks in with its clean, fresh and seasonal dishes taking inspiration from around Europe. Pastries from the café are sometimes available for dessert.

The late-Victorian Monopol Hotel, a Wrocław icon, is a fitting setting for this formal and attractive restaurant. There’s a certain grandeur to the place, thanks to its large arched windows and beautiful marble walls. The classically based cooking offers hearty portions and robust flavours, with refined techniques making the ingredients extra punchy. Accompany the cooking with a wine from the concise but well-chosen global selection.

On the sixth floor of the historic Monopol Hotel, sits this stylishly decorated restaurant. The picturesque terrace is ideal for an aperitif, affording beautiful views over the city skyline. The cooking spotlights some lovely seasonal ingredients, such as girolles and heritage tomatoes, and as you will gather from the large bank of on-view fridges, the team here take their wine seriously – the list features some notable Italian producers in particular.