PRAGUE
Svíčková served with knedliky dumplings
S POTLIGHT SVÍČKOVÁ
Don’t leave Prague without trying svíčková, the meaty sauce-covered heart and soul of Czech food, and arguably the country’s most beloved dish. Most Czechs have an opinion on what (and who) makes the best svíčková and, in almost all cases, this comprises tender roasted beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce that’s a sweet-savoury blend of roasted carrot, parsley root, celery, onion and spices. Classic iterations are finished with a dollop of cranberry compote or cream. A must-try version of svíčková can be found at the
modern pub-like Lokál Dlouhááá in central Prague, where the menu focuses on traditional Czech meals done well.
Its svíčková highlights the vegetables in the sauce (rather than swamps them in cream, as variations of this dish often do), with pull-apart tender beef. Havelská Koruna near the Old Town has a no-frills
take on the classic. This self-service spot draws in both locals and visitors with its creamy sauce and generously plump dumplings. Or wander up to Prague Castle for one of the best restaurants in the city, Kuchyň. Chef Marek Janouch serves elevated svíčková with the fluffiest dumplings. As Kuchyň’s menu is seasonal, the dish is most often found in autumn or winter, and pairs well with the venue’s tank beer.
ESSENTIALS
GETTING THERE British Airways, EasyJet, Ryanair and Wizz Air fly nonstop from London. EasyJet, Jet2 and Ryanair fly nonstop from Manchester. EasyJet flies between Bristol and Prague, too.
CZECH KOLÁČE
Kavarna Tvoje Máma This small cafe serving home-baked style koláče is a favourite spot for the beloved fruit-filled pastries. Its Moravian version, stuffed with quark and topped with jammy fruits and buttery crumble, is true to the southern Czech tradition.
instagram.com/kavarna_tvojemama
Kus Koláče This venue in Vinohrady sees queues out the door at weekends, with both tourists and locals waiting for Kus Koláče’s hand-sized buttery delights, with red- or forest-berry fillings. Devour them at nearby Jiřího z Poděbrad park.
facebook.com/kuskolace
Letec Espresso Bar This coffee shop in up-and-coming Holešovice serves outstanding bakes: indulgent, traditional koláče, made with local ingredients. The blueberry pastry at this quaint minimalist spot is particularly popular.
instagram.com/ letecespressobar
WHERE TO STAY The Augustine Hotel offers doubles from 4,700 CZK (£165), room only.
augustinehotel.cz
HOW TO DO IT British Airways Holidays offers two nights at the art deco Imperial Hotel from £149 per person, room only, including flights.
ba.com
MORE INFO
prague.eu czechtourism.com
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IMAGE: ALAMY
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