Wrzos

Setting a high standard in the Poznan dining scene for many years, Muga is an elegant place with plush, understated décor and classically formal service that mirrors the surroundings. The French-based cooking shows both utmost skill and a welcome restraint; grassy white asparagus, for example, might excel in the simple company of rich pistachio and tangy bilberry. Wine plays a large role too: the list is excellent; Sommelier Łukasz is charming and generous; and their wine shop Casa de Vinos is just next door if you want to pick something up on the way home.

As the name suggests, cheese-lovers will be in heaven at this welcoming, rather unique dining spot. To one side is a smart, bustling little bistro; to the other is a cheese bar with an admirable display of global varieties. Heartily flavoured dishes provide great value for money and usually incorporate cheese in some form, such as parmesan grated onto the excellent beef tartare. Whatever you order, follow it, naturally, with a cheese course. If you’re just after a quick snack, pop in for a seasonal cheeseboard with alcohol pairings.

Located some way out of the city, ‘Knife and Fork’ is a modern, understated restaurant that’s run well by an engaging team. The small space has a relaxed atmosphere, while the menu is underpinned by modern interpretations of traditional Polish recipes. Seasonal produce informs the cooking too, with a tasting menu available at dinner. 'Podążaj za tym co Cię uszczęśliwia' written across the wall means ‘follow what makes you happy’ – and here you will be!

There’s an appealing feel to this neighbourhood restaurant nestling in a corner basement; head straight for the hidden terrace to the rear when the sun is shining. Meats and seafood from the grill form the core of the menu, sometimes with global touches from togarashi to marinara sauce. Cooked in a semi-open kitchen, the dishes are hearty and packed with flavour. Friendly, enthusiastic service completes the picture.

Stepping into this smartly dressed restaurant is like being transported directly to Italy. The Polish owners also have a farm in Tuscany and their true understanding of Italian cuisine is clear to see across dishes that are simple, ingredient-led and bursting with flavour – be sure to try the homemade pasta. The premises also operate as a wine shop, so it’s no surprise that the list is impressive, and it’s accompanied by caring, knowledgeable service from the sommelier.

The imposing former Stary Browar brewery was once filled with boiling hops and fermenting yeast, but today houses shops, an art gallery space and the sleekly modern Blow Up Hall hotel. Within the latter, arte lives up to its name with a creative streak running through dishes that take pride in Polish ingredients. Lunch is a lighter offering so come in the evening for the full experience, which culminates in imaginative desserts like their version of a crème brûlée.

It’s easy to see why this restaurant styled on Japanese izakaya is one of the city’s hotspots. Simple, fresh and fun, it boasts bright décor and a buzzing atmosphere that reverberates around the split-level dining room. The menu offers all manner of delights, from dim sum and bao buns to daily made udon noodles and standout ramen crafted using flour delivered direct from Japan. The two-course lunch menu is a steal and the sake list is worth checking out.