Pałacyk w Pakości Hotel

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.

‘Scoria’ refers to a type of volcanic rock, one which inspires some of the interior design at this chic modern restaurant on the banks of the Brda river. A window into the kitchen allows you to watch the chefs as they craft classic European dishes such as lobster tail with saffron risotto, alongside more Polish creations like duck leg with potato dumplings. Many of the dishes can be made extra luxurious by adding black truffle or Antonius caviar.

On the outskirts of the Old Town, this vast restaurant offers a slick, buzzy dining experience in an industrial-style building arranged around a u-shaped courtyard. Diners are spread across two rooms: one with a bar and semi-open kitchen, the other large and airy with two mezzanines and floor-to-ceiling windows. The regularly changing menu is guided by the seasons and includes bright, generous dishes like beetroot carpaccio with goat’s cheese and pickled turnips.

With its classical mouldings, comfortable armchairs and attentive service, Meluzyna feels like a place you come to celebrate. Situated in the basement of a grand villa in a 19th-century neighbourhood, it counts a theatre and the Pomeranian Philharmonic as its neighbours. The cooking’s success is rooted in strong classical techniques and standout sauces, such as a deeply flavoured red wine sauce scented with rosemary, the ideal companion to slow-cooked beef cheeks.

Located on the edge of the Old Town, this charming little bistro is decorated with vintage French posters and photographs of famous actors. It’s a resolutely classic setting for an unashamedly traditional and proudly French restaurant, where the menu offers the likes of frog’s legs, duck confit, cordon bleu and crêpes Suzette to finish. This hearty cooking combines perfectly with friendly service to create a warm and comforting experience.

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.

A former barn, this warm and welcoming spot in the dynamic neighbourhood of Jeżyce has been renovated in a chic style that feels elegant, yet still with a rustic touch. The cooking is all about the French classics, from pâté en croute to decadent chocolate ganache with sour cherries cooked in red wine. There’s a wonderful generosity to the food that chimes with the enthusiastic service; the prices are sensible and the added extras include a drink on arrival and freshly baked madeleines with your coffee.