What to Eat in Warsaw

Warsaw has gained prominence in recent years primarily as a destination for budget shopping. I flew to Warsaw for two and a half days in winter, just moments before the onset of the pandemic. I was surprised to discover that beyond shopping, Warsaw is emerging as a culinary destination that has evolved significantly in recent years, attracting foodies from all corners of the globe. Prices here are very reasonable, and even in relatively upscale restaurants, you'll find prices that are pocket-friendly.

Breakfast

Bułkę przez Bibułkę Café is a hipster café that serves fresh pastries and excellent coffee in a trendy atmosphere. The place was bustling in the morning hours, clearly beloved by locals. The breakfast options are relatively simple but incredibly delicious.

Manekin Pancake House is a restaurant that serves pancakes with various toppings throughout the day. It's highly recommended for breakfast. The pancakes come with options like eggs and mushrooms, or you can indulge in a sweet version with jam or Nutella.

The Aioli chain is an excellent place for a breakfast infused with Middle Eastern flavors. Hummus and shakshuka are among the highlights of the menu. The menu is focused and includes 4-5 options for breakfast only.

Lunch and Dinner

Der Elefant restaurant is a huge bistro spread over three floors and includes a seafood market at the entrance. The menu is equally expansive, offering a variety of meat, fish, pasta, and more. The service was wonderful, fast, and efficient. We didn't make a reservation in advance, but it might be preferable to do so if you're arriving during peak hours, as it's a popular spot.

Gosciniec is a local restaurant chain that serves the national dish - pierogi. Pierogi are dumplings with various fillings that are very characteristic of Eastern Europe in general. We visited the branch in the Old Town. The restaurant serves pierogi filled with potatoes and cheese, mushrooms, and a sweet filling of jam. You can choose between boiled or fried pierogi. Alongside the pierogi, you can find tea spiked with vodka (or non-alcoholic) and spiced wine.

Butchery & Wine is a recommended steakhouse by the Michelin Guide. It's a popular restaurant in the city, so booking a table is required. The menu includes a variety of meat dishes, steaks, smoked meats, and burgers. The meats are smoked on-site. Alongside the meat, you can choose from a selection of rich wines from the wine menu.

Hala Koszyki is a food market inspired by the charm of a marketplace. Food stalls are spread across two floors, offering a variety of international cuisines. Prices here are relatively high compared to Warsaw. However, all the dishes we ordered were exceptionally tasty.

Veles Bar is a surprising find in the city center, stumbled upon after exploring several entertainment spots. It's a hidden bar tucked away on a side street, designed in the style of the 1920s with a grand piano and a massive chandelier hanging from the ceiling. The menu features a variety of classic cocktails alongside unique house specials.