Apartament Onyx

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.

After a striking, architect-led conversion, this historic military building now boasts a mezzanine, a feature wine wall and a cocktail bar with a communal table. This all adds up to a stylish and characterful restaurant; one which also features a wide-ranging, modern European menu that includes small plates, large dishes to share and a small pasta selection. Everything is well-priced and appealing, with sauces being a real strength of the kitchen, whether it's a madeira jus with scallops or a wonderful truffle-infused velouté with chicken.

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.

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.

Just to the side of the Poznan Congress Centre is this spacious Spanish restaurant serving up the usual tapas suspects. You’ll find Padrón peppers and patatas bravas all present and correct, alongside more filling main dishes and a selection of pintxos. Strong, satisfying flavours run throughout, while the flan is a terrific incarnation of a classic dessert. A small fridge is filled with Spanish goodies to buy and take home, including olive oil and almonds.