A walk through Prague is an unforgettable experience. The city’s historical and architectural gems, charming museums, grand theaters, and mesmerizing operas make it a paradise for culture lovers. But beyond the breathtaking sights, Prague has another treasure to offer—its street food. Exploring Prague’s vibrant markets and sampling local street delicacies is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the city’s culture. Plus, let’s be honest—it’s simply delicious.
What to Eat in Prague
Prague is a magnificent city, and you could spend days admiring its beauty. However, even the most exciting tour can lose its charm if you’re walking around on an empty stomach. Fortunately, there’s no need to go hungry, nor do you have to spend a fortune dining in fancy restaurants. While visiting Prague’s renowned eateries is a treat, make sure to also explore the incredible variety of street food available. Here are some must-try dishes:
1. Prague Ham (Prazska Sunka)
This boneless ham is first cured in brine, then slow-cooked and lightly smoked over beechwood. The result? A tender, flavorful ham with a slightly smoky aroma. Since it’s prepared over an open wood fire, it’s especially comforting in winter—you can warm up while watching the meat sizzle. Expect the smoky scent to linger on you afterward! Typically sold by weight, the ham is served with slices of bread and a choice of spices and condiments to customize your experience.
2. Prague-Style Hot Dog
While hot dogs may seem ordinary, Prague’s take on this classic snack is anything but! You have two options: a Western-style hot dog with a long bun enclosing a sausage or a Czech-style version where the sausage is served separately with slices of bread. The real highlight, though, is the sausage selection. Choose from:
Dark-red sausage with a rich, smoky taste (best with horseradish)
Light-red “Paprika” sausage with a hint of spiciness
White Bavarian-style sausage infused with herbs
Pair your choice with mustard or ketchup, or if you opt for the Western-style hot dog, enjoy it with sweet sauerkraut.
3. Langos
Resembling a pizza at first glance, langos is a deep-fried flatbread rather than a baked dish. Vendors will often ask if you want garlic on it—say yes! The crispy bread is topped with garlic sauce, shredded cheese, and a touch of ketchup. Served whole, it’s easy to eat on the go but can also be cut into smaller pieces. Langos pairs wonderfully with Prague ham for a hearty meal.
4. Bramborák
A simple yet irresistible dish, bramborák is a thick potato pancake made from grated potatoes, eggs, flour, garlic, and marjoram. The batter is fried until golden brown, resulting in a crispy, flavorful treat. You can enjoy it hot or cold, though if served fresh, be careful not to burn yourself! For an extra indulgence, try it with different sauces, such as ketchup or mayonnaise.
5. Halušky (Czech Gnocchi)
Often found alongside Prague ham stalls, these dumplings are served with sweet cabbage and smoked pork. The standard portion is about 150 grams—small but filling. If you’re still hungry, you can always order more. Halušky is usually sold by weight, making it easy to customize your serving size.
By Gregory finster - Originally uploaded on en.wikipedia (Transferred by Gyrobo), CC0, Link
6. Roasted Chestnuts
A cozy, versatile snack, roasted chestnuts are sold in paper cones, typically containing seven to eight nuts. Not only are they delicious, but they also double as a convenient hand warmer during colder months—an ideal street snack for chilly Prague days.
By Achromatic - Own work, CC BY 3.0, Link
7. Czech-Style Chips (Granolky)
Unlike traditional potato chips, Czech granolky are deep-fried and typically served with mayonnaise or ketchup rather than salt or vinegar. You’ll find them in market stalls that also sell langos and bramborák.
8. Trdelník (Chimney Cake)
If you have a sweet tooth, don’t leave Prague without trying trdelník. This spiral-shaped pastry is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It comes in two versions: a summer variant filled with ice cream and a winter version, often dusted with cinnamon sugar. For an extra treat, dip pieces of trdelník into hot chocolate or spread some jam on top.
Mix and Match: The Ultimate Prague Street Food Experience
One of the best things about Prague’s street food is how well different dishes complement each other. Feel free to experiment with combinations! Pair Prague ham with langos, swap a hot dog sausage for a skewer of grilled chicken, or mix sausage slices into your halušky. By trying various combinations, you’ll expand your flavor experience and discover new favorites.
Exploring Prague’s street food scene is not just about satisfying hunger—it’s a journey into the city’s rich culinary traditions. Whether you’re enjoying a crispy bramborák, indulging in a warm trdelník, or savoring a hearty Prague ham, every bite tells a story of the city’s vibrant culture. Bon appétit, and enjoy your time in Prague!
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