Czech Food
What Are the Local Foods in Czechia?
Czech food is a delightful array of hearty, meat-based dishes that are typically enjoyed with warm dumplings, all perfectly complemented by a refreshing beer.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)
Czech Food Products
Czechia has seven food products with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status.
Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)
Všestary Onions
Všestary Onions (Všestarská cibule) is a special variety of onion grown in the Všestary area, prized for its large, flat bulbs, sweet mild flavor, and long shelf life. It is cultivated using traditional methods in the fertile soils of the Hradec Králové region.
Bohemian chamomile
Bohemian chamomile (Chamomilla bohemica) is a unique Czech variety of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), valued for its high essential oil content and healing properties. It is primarily cultivated in southern Moravia, where the climate and soil provide optimal growing conditions.
Czech Caraway Seeds
Czech Caraway Seeds (Český kmín) is famous for its strong aroma and high essential oil content; Czech caraway is a key ingredient in many traditional Czech dishes. The caraway is cultivated primarily in the fertile lowlands of Bohemia and Moravia.
Nošovice Pickled Cabbage
Nošovice Pickled Cabbage (Nošovické kysané zelí) is a traditional sauerkraut from Nošovice in northern Moravia, renowned for its crunchy texture, balanced sourness, and natural fermentation process without chemical additives. It is a staple of Czech cuisine.
Pohořelice Carp
Pohořelice Carp (Pohořelický kapr) is a premium freshwater fish raised in the historic fishponds around Pohořelice, South Moravia. The carp is known for its tender meat, delicate flavor, and sustainable, centuries-old breeding practices.
Žatec Hops
Žatec Hops (Žatecký chmel) is world-renowned Saaz hops from the Žatec region, essential for brewing Pilsner-style beers. These hops are prized for their mild bitterness, rich aroma, and delicate spicy-floral notes.
Chelčice-Lhenice Fruits
Chelčice-Lhenice Fruits (Chelčicko-Lhenické ovoce) are high-quality fruits (especially apples and pears) from the Chelčice and Lhenice areas in South Bohemia, renowned for their intense flavor, juiciness, and cultivation in traditional orchards with minimal chemical treatment.
Traditional Czech Dishes
Albania’s traditional dishes showcase the country’s diverse culinary traditions and offer a taste of the country’s cultural heritage.
Goulash (Guláš)
Goulash (Guláš) is a hearty stew often prepared with beef, onions, and a paprika-infused sauce.
Svíčková
Svíčková is marinated beef sirloin served with a creamy sauce, typically accompanied by bread dumplings.
Vepřo-knedlo-zelo
Vepřo-knedlo-zelo is roast pork served with bread dumplings and sauerkraut.
Trdelník
Trdelník is a sweet pastry created with a unique dough, frequently coated with sugar and nuts.
Chlebíčky
Chlebíčky are open-faced sandwiches featuring various toppings, such as ham, cheese, or pickled cheese.
Palačinky
Palačinky are thin Czech pancakes often filled with jam, chocolate, or fresh fruit.
Bramboráky
Bramboráky are potato pancakes.
Kulajda
Kulajda is a creamy soup made with dill, mushrooms, potatoes, and a poached egg.
Olomoucké tvarůžky
Olomoucké tvarůžky is a type of smelly cheese originating from Olomouc.
Moravský vrabec
Moravský vrabec is a stew commonly referred to as Moravian sparrow.arrow).
FAQs About Czech Food
What are must-try traditional Czech dishes?
Don’t miss svíčková (marinated beef with creamy sauce), guláš (hearty beef stew), řízek (breaded pork schnitzel), and knedlíky (soft bread dumplings).
Is Czech food vegetarian-friendly?
Traditional dishes tend to be quite meat-heavy, but it’s becoming easier! Seek out smažený sýr (fried cheese), bramborák (potato pancakes), and veggie-friendly modern bistros, particularly in urban areas.
What is Czech beer like, and is it really that good?
Yes, it’s that good — light, crisp, and brewed with world-famous Saaz hops. Try a pint of Pilsner Urquell or explore local microbreweries for unique flavors.
Are there any Czech desserts worth trying?
Absolutely! Try koláče (sweet pastries filled with fruit or cheese), medovník (honey cake), and trdelník (sweet pastry rolls — though more touristy than traditional).
Do you need to tip at Czech restaurants?
Yes, it’s customary to tip about 10% if service isn’t already included. Hand the cash tip directly to the waiter when paying to avoid confusion.