Ośrodek wypoczynkowy Kozioł

Nestled at the foot of a glass-fronted building, ‘Artisan Bread and Wine’ beckons you in with the promise of a simply lovely time. By day, it’s a bakery, café and wine shop, before transforming into a bistro and bar in the evening, where the modern industrial vibe gives way to intimate candlelit tables and dimmed lighting. Most notable amongst the regularly changing, affordably priced menu are the quality of the ingredients and the impressive sauces – such as a standout Pedro Ximénez reduction with the signature octopus. The wine list focuses on natural options.

Sitting within a residential district, but in walking distance from the city centre, this cosy bistro is tied together with a nod to nature and the vast forests of Podlaskie. The dining room is decorated in earthy shades from brown to terracotta, while branches and wood elements complete the effect. Flatbreads are a feature on the sensibly priced menu, which also includes the likes of saffron milk-cap mushrooms with an intense consommé or tender, subtly gamey roe deer – the overarching principle is quality ingredients treated with the care they deserve.

A true taste of Italy awaits you in this large brick townhouse in the Olsztyn Old Town. Its owner is from Valdobbiadene, the home of prosecco, so starting your meal with a glass of the famous sparkling wine is a must. Sit either on the veranda overlooking the river or in the cosier upstairs dining room, then choose from a menu of authentic Italian dishes that keep the focus on the natural flavours of the best local produce, such as super-fresh trout. The seasonal pasta selection is a real highlight, as is the fabulous tiramisu for dessert.

The team from nearby Sztuka Chleba i Wina run this meat-focused restaurant where cuts come from their own in-house butcher. In the case of beef, it’s dry-aged here too, while the burgers also use buns from their own bakery just up the road. All of this house-crafted produce carries plenty of flavour and the chefs know how to let the ingredients shine. Look out for dishes with a dash of originality, such as the black pudding croquette with romesco sauce.

Located in the Villa Tradycja hotel, just outside the town centre, this bistro hosts guests across three distinct spaces: the front room with a grand piano played on Fridays and Saturdays; a more intimate dining room with blue panelling, red banquettes and shelves adorned with wine; and a terrace that’s ideal for sunny days. Throughout, the charming team serve nourishing dishes rooted in tradition, such as comforting chicken broth with dumplings.

With its plush neo-Baroque design featuring chequered flooring, golden chandeliers and pleated curtains, this restaurant inside the Hotel Traugutta3 feels perfect for a celebration. Attentive, professional service adds to the sense of occasion, while the cooking mixes a roster of classic Polish fare with a concise selection of seasonal dishes. Options such as grilled duck with an original orange, honey and cinnamon sauce are colourful and carefully crafted.

Nestled within the Olsztyn Old Town, you climb a few stairs from the high street to reach this modern brasserie decked out in light neutral colours. There’s a traditional heart to the generous, rustic yet carefully executed dishes. Dishes like pork cheeks with mashed potatoes, beetroot and cider-braised cabbage have clean, distinct flavours courtesy of quality ingredients, judicious seasoning and well-timed cooking. Look out for the pistachio fondant to finish.