Apartament w Komornikach

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.

Situated in a small business park in a Poznań suburb, this well-run sushi spot is flooded with natural light and has a bright, contemporary Japanese look. The chef-owner shows great passion in her work and learnt her craft from respected sushi masters. Her menu mixes traditional nigiri, sashimi and maki with more creative and international touches. The hot dishes include a choice of ramen and the strong wine list features a sake selection too.

On the edge of the Wielkopolski National Park, yet only 30 minutes from the centre of Poznań, sits this restaurant inside the thatched Elarnia Hotel & Spa. The dining room’s stylish black-and-white design mirrors the minimalist look of the hotel, while the kitchen blends the modern and the classic with a lightness of touch. Expect colourful dishes offering an array of flavours and textures, from chefs who know their craft and respect their ingredients.

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!

Housed inside a historic building that was once a military barracks, the ever-developing Cucina now forms part of the City Park Hotel. The Mediterranean-influenced menu has a particular leaning towards Italy, from focaccia and gnocchi to linguine and tiramisu. A large, on-view wine wall is an indicator of the serious list, which features some excellent vintages and is enhanced by charming, knowledgeable service. A covered terrace comes into its own in the summer.

Steaks, steaks and more steaks are the order of the day at this butcher’s shop and restaurant housed in part of the reinvented former army barracks at Stare Koszary. Thankfully, those steaks are of great quality and are cooked with an assured hand. Beef from the US, Argentina and Australia are on offer, but it’s worth going for the Polish Hereford Heifer for its flavour and value for money. Non-steak dishes include burgers, merguez sausages and fish of the day.

As you approach this restaurant via the small coffee shop in front, it’s hard to imagine that such a glitzy, dark and moody dining room awaits you. From its velvet banquettes to the baby grand piano being played in the evening, there’s a special occasion feel to the place – which is enhanced by warm, caring service that puts a smile on your face. A farm-to-table ethos runs through the food, with ingredients from the team’s nearby farm used in complex, at times creative dishes.