Looking for the soul of Krakow? Then Kazimierz is the place to be. Over the past few years, this former Jewish Quarter has transformed into the city’s most creative and vibrant neighborhood. During the day, you can still feel the weight of history while wandering past impressive synagogues and monuments, but in the evening the district turns into a paradise for food lovers and nightlife enthusiasts. We’ve been amazed time and time again by the unique atmosphere here: slightly raw, artistic, and incredibly welcoming. During our many walks through Kazimierz, we discovered one hidden gem after another. From tucked-away courtyards serving some of the best cappuccinos in Krakow to stylish fine dining restaurants with a modern twist. Curious about the best places to eat and drink in Kazimierz? In this article, we’re sharing our personal favorite hotspots in Krakow’s trendiest neighborhood.
Discover the magic of Kazimierz and the rest of Krakow
Before settling in at one of the trendy restaurants, we highly recommend exploring the cultural side of the neighborhood as well. Kazimierz is filled with fascinating places and historic landmarks that you simply shouldn’t miss.
Top sights nearby: Want to know which places in this neighborhood are truly worth visiting? Read our complete guide to the most beautiful and impressive sights in the Jewish districts of Kazimierz and Podgórze.
Striking history in the area: Kazimierz and Krakow are inseparably linked to Jewish history and the Second World War. One of the most powerful and moving places in the region is the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, which can be visited from Krakow. Read more about our experience and what you need to know about visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.
What to do in Krakow: Looking for more inspiration for your city trip to Krakow? Check out this article with our personal travel tips and the best things to do in Krakow for the most beautiful spots across the city.
1. Eszeweria: cozy café in Kazimierz with a courtyard garden
If you ask us, “Where’s the best place in Kazimierz to sit down for a coffee?”, our answer would without hesitation be: Eszeweria. Located right in the heart of the neighborhood, this café perfectly captures the typical Kazimierz vibe: bohemian, slightly raw, and full of character. Inside, the atmosphere is incredible. The different rooms are filled with vintage furniture, antiques, old photographs on the walls, and mirrors that have beautifully faded over the years. It’s a self-service café, so you order your drinks directly at the bar. During the warmer months, Eszeweria opens up its hidden courtyard garden, making this spot even more special. Besides being a great place for coffee, it’s also the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine or a cold beer in the sun.
2. Noah: fine dining in Kazimierz inspired by Israeli cuisine
Looking for a fine dining restaurant in Krakow? Then head to Noah, an Israeli restaurant in the middle of the Kazimierz district. The concept here is shared dining. So you order several dishes from the menu to share (recommended 2-3 dishes per person). This allows you to taste so many different and surprising flavors in one evening. The cuisine is Eastern Mediterranean using fresh, local, and seasonal produce. With each dish served on the table, you will smell vibrant aromas and taste fresh flavors characteristic of Israeli markets. Of course, the best way to kick off your dinner at Noah is with a plate full of hummus and freshly baked pitas. What we especially loved? The fried feta with dried tomatoes and rosemary, as well as the mouhallabieh with pistachios!
Good to know: Noah was featured in the Michelin Guide 2025, which honestly didn’t surprise us at all. The quality of the food and the level of service are truly outstanding. On top of that, the restaurant has a warm and relaxed atmosphere that immediately makes you feel at home.
3. Bazaar Bistro: trendy restaurant on Plac Nowy in Kazimierz
Located at Plac Nowy, Bazaar Bistro is a true hotspot with an industrial yet warm interior. The French influences the restaurant is known for are reflected in both the design and the dishes, but at the same time it still feels very much like a modern Polish bistro. That might be thanks to the many local dishes on the menu. The menu changes seasonally, but Polish classics are always available, such as maczanka (a kind of pulled pork with a Polish twist) and steak tartare. We opted for the baked aubergine with tomato frito, and ended the evening with the dessert “Kogel Mogel”, which was an absolute flavour explosion.
4. Folga: refined cuisine and fine wines in Kazimierz
Also located at Plac Nowy, right in the heart of the historic Jewish Quarter, you’ll find Folga. Outside, the square can feel lively and slightly raw at times, but once you step inside the restaurant, you enter a completely refined world. The interior is modern and warm, with a calm and relaxed atmosphere that instantly sets the tone for the evening. At Folga, everything revolves around sharing food, with beautifully plated small dishes meant to be enjoyed together. They are especially known for their fish dishes, always combined with Mediterranean influences. Wine lovers are also in for a treat, as Folga doubles as a wine bar with an exceptional selection. And one final tip: don’t skip dessert. We ended our meal with a pavlova you think you won’t be able to finish… but somehow, you still do.
5. Mleczarnia Ogródek: great beer garden in the heart of Kazimierz
While wandering through Kazimierz, you’ll almost inevitably stumble upon the beer garden of Mleczarnia Ogródek. It’s the kind of place where you naturally sink down with a drink and simply watch the world go by. This is also one of those spots where you truly feel what Kazimierz is all about: soaking up the atmosphere. Visit during the day and it feels quiet, almost a bit rough around the edges. Come in the evening, however, and the place transforms into a buzzing, lively hangout. It’s fascinating to experience that contrast for yourself. What we especially loved is how effortless and unpretentious it feels. You’re surrounded by locals here, and you notice that immediately.
6. Hedwig's Stradom House: cocktails and appetizers between Old Town and Kazimierz
For a cocktail night with some bites, Hedwig’s Stradom House is a great tip. This spot is perfectly located between Krakow’s Old Town and Kazimierz. The interior is warm, blending historic and modern design elements. With high ceilings and cosy seating areas, it has a distinctly boutique feel. We grabbed a seat at the bar for cocktails and a bite to eat, and were especially impressed by the drinks. Alongside the classic cocktails, they offer an extensive menu of creative signature creations. Our favourites? The Pornstar Inferno and the Antique Riviera.
You'll find Hedwig's Stradom House in the beautiful 5-star hotel Stradom House Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection. Highly recommended if you like a touch of luxury and want to stay between the Old Town and Kazimierz.
7. Eat a traditional zapiekanka on Plac Nowy
In the heart of Kazimierz you’ll find Plac Nowy. A sight in itself, the square is filled with small stalls selling souvenirs and other quirky finds. But it’s also one of the neighborhood’s most popular food hotspots, and for good reason. This is where locals and visitors gather en masse to grab a zapiekanka. A true Polish street food classic, a zapiekanka is a long baguette topped with ingredients like mushrooms and cheese. But it doesn’t stop there, you can go as wild as you like with different toppings and sauces. It’s the perfect quick bite while exploring the city, and an absolute must-try when you’re in Kazimierz.
8. Alchemia: cool cocktail bar in Kazimierz
If the classic zapiekanka has left you thirsty, you can easily head straight to our next hotspot in Kazimierz (which is also right next to Plac Nowy): cocktail bar Alchemia. From the outside, it might not immediately catch your attention, but once you step inside, you enter a completely different world. Think candlelight, alchemy-inspired objects hanging on the walls and ceilings, and a series of rooms filled with cozy corners where you can settle in. It’s the kind of place where you enjoy a drink surrounded by locals, soaking up the atmosphere.
Good to know: on weekends there is sometimes live music. Make sure to explore the other rooms while you’re there, and don’t miss the cellar if it’s open.
9. Once Upon a Time: step back in time at this hotspot in the Kazimierz Jewish Quarter
Once Upon a Time is a bar that consists of a series of conjoined, old Jewish stores. Not only because of the interior with antique furniture and decoration, but especially because of the facades at the front it seems as if you go back in time. It is a cozy bar where you can go for a drink, of course, but the real reason to step in is to see the details for yourself. On the wall outside by the facades you will find an information board about the former stores that once sat here. This suddenly makes you look at Kazimierz differently. It is not only a hip neighborhood full of hotspots, but also a place where history is still present in the streetscape.
Spending the night in Kazimierz: these are the best places to stay
Because there is so much to experience in this neighbourhood (with the best restaurants and bars just around the corner), Kazimierz is, in our opinion, an ideal base for your stay. You’ll be surrounded by locals in a characterful and authentic setting. Looking for a nice place to stay? Check out the best hotels and places to stay in the trendy Kazimierz district.
Still hesitating between different neighborhoods? Then also read our article on the best neighborhoods to stay in Krakow, including tips for luxury hotels, budget options and travel with children.
Craving more? Discover more culinary surprises in Poland
Krakow is just the beginning of your journey through Polish cuisine. Every city in Poland has its own unique character and hidden culinary gems waiting to be discovered. After exploring Kazimierz, curious to find out where else you can eat and drink your way through the country? We’ve also gathered our favourite hotspots and travel tips for other cities. Discover the trendy coffee spots in colourful Poznań, the lively terraces on the charming market square of Wrocław, or enjoy fresh seafood in the coastal cities of Gdańsk and Sopot.
These are the best restaurants in Gdańsk (personally tested by us!)
A city trip to Poznań: the St. Martin's Croissant and more culinary delights
City break Wrocław: this is what you want to see, do and eat in the Polish city
8x great tips and tasty restaurants in Sopot: a popular seaside resort in Poland
