Must-try Dishes
Slovenský piroh - Slovak Dumpling - These soft, hand-rolled dumplings, typically filled with potatoes or sauerkraut, are boiled to perfection and often served with crispy bacon bits. Locals usually enjoy them for lunch with a hearty side of sour cream.
Trdelník - Sweet Pastry - This rolled dough, coated in sugar and cinnamon, is grilled on a spit until golden brown, creating a crispy outer shell with a soft inside. You’ll find this popular street food snack throughout the city, best enjoyed while wandering the charming streets post-lunch.
Vepřo knedlo zelo - Pork with Sauerkraut - A traditional plate featuring roasted pork served over fluffy bread dumplings with a side of tangy sauerkraut, often accompanied by rich gravy. This dish is commonly ordered for dinner, especially in local Czech restaurants, and it's a filling option after a day of exploring.
Karlovarský knedlík - Karlovy Vary Dumplings - Made from a mixture of bread, flour, and milk, these dense dumplings are boiled and sliced, perfect for soaking up sauces. Locals enjoy them alongside hearty meat dishes during family gatherings, especially in winter.
Svickova - Creamy Beef Sauce - Tender beef simmered in a rich vegetable-and-cream sauce, served with flavorful knedlíky (dumplings) and often garnished with cranberries. You’ll typically see this on festive tables, but it’s also a weekday comfort food option.
Bramboráky - Potato Pancakes - Crispy, golden-brown pancakes made from grated potatoes, garlic, and spices, often served with a side of sour cream. You’ll see locals munching on these delectable snacks during fairs and markets, especially in the fall.
Rybí polévka - Fish Soup - A hearty blend of fresh local fish, vegetables, and spices, this savory soup is a common starter for special occasions. It’s best enjoyed in winter, when warming dishes are a must, and each family claims their own secret recipe.
Perníkový kroužek - Gingerbread Rings - Soft, spiced gingerbread rings often served with a hearty side of fresh butter. This surprising combo is a local breakfast favorite, especially during the holidays, but don't make the mistake of expecting it to be sweet!
Desserts & Drinks
Becherovka - Becherovka (herbal liqueur) - A fragrant herbal liqueur made from a secret blend of herbs and spices, traditionally enjoyed as a digestif. Locals often sip it chilled in small glasses after a hearty meal, especially during the colder months when the drink is particularly warming.
Karlovarská káva - Karlovy Vary Coffee (spiced coffee) - This unique coffee is infused with a blend of spices, often including cinnamon and sometimes cocoa, giving it a delightful twist. You’ll see locals enjoying it at cozy cafes, especially during afternoon breaks when the steam from the cup warms your hands (By the way, watch out for the sugar—it might already be added!).
Rybízový džus - Ribisový Juice (redcurrant juice) - A tart and refreshing drink made from locally sourced redcurrants, this juice is typically served chilled. Perfect during hot summer months, you'll find it at picnics or outdoor gatherings; it’s a great way to cool down and enjoy a taste of home.
Trdelník - Trdelník (sweet pastry) - This is a delicious cylindrical pastry covered in sugar and nuts, often filled with sweet cream or ice cream. While it's popular year-round, it's especially cherished at local festivals where vendors make them fresh, creating a delightful aroma you can't resist!
Zmrzlina - Zmrzlina (soft-serve ice cream) - Locals adore this creamy, soft-serve ice cream, often served in a cone topped with seasonal fruit. It's a common treat during summer evenings while strolling along the Teplá River; the joy is in savoring every delightful, cold bite as the sun sets.
