Top 5 Places to Eat in Zakopane

Written by Chloe Davies, Ian Walker
06/09/2025
Discover stunning views and adventure on hiking trails in Zakopane, Poland's majestic Tatra Mountains.
Krista Glīzdeniece, Pexels

Zakopane's dining landscape offers a vibrant blend of traditional Highlander cuisine, alongside diverse international options, catering to families, couples, and food enthusiasts exploring the mountain resort.

1. Bar Mleczny

Cuisine: Traditional Polish, Milk Bar

This classic milk bar provides a simple and authentic Polish dining experience, ideal for an affordable, hearty meal. One can expect well-prepared pierogi, which are highly regarded here, among other local dishes. It is a no-frills spot for a quick and satisfying taste of Polish home cooking.

Price: Around 20 PLN (approx. $5 USD) for a plate of pierogi.

Getting There: Located on Zamoyskiego Street 5, it is easily accessible by foot from the main areas of Zakopane.

2. Karczma Zapiecek

Cuisine: Traditional Polish Highlander

Situated directly on Krupówki Street, this popular tavern immerses diners in a traditional highland atmosphere with its charming decor. It is particularly renowned for its extensive selection of pierogi, including classic 'Ruskie' and unique highland smoked cheese varieties. The setting is cozy, but it can get quite busy, so early arrival is advisable for a relaxed experience.

Price: Mid-range, expect around 40-70 PLN (approx. $10-18 USD) per person for a main course and a drink.

Getting There: Found on Krupówki Street, it is within easy walking distance from the main promenade.

3. Góralska Tradycja

Cuisine: Authentic Highlander and Polish cuisine with a modern twist

This restaurant offers an elegant yet authentic Highlander culinary journey, blending traditional recipes with modern cooking techniques. The spacious interior features a distinct highland style, and a terrace provides a pleasant dining option during warmer weather. One can savor dishes like sour cabbage soup, goulash with potato pancakes, and duck with dumplings, making it suitable for both romantic dinners and family gatherings.

Price: Mid-to-high range, typically 70-120 PLN (approx. $18-30 USD) per person for a main course.

Getting There: Located on Ulica Krupówki, it is just a few steps from the bustling main street and easily reachable on foot.

4. Drukarnia Smaku Cristina

Cuisine: Refined Polish and European

Housed in a historic printing house, this establishment provides a more sophisticated dining experience, elevating local Polish cuisine with creative flair. The menu showcases regional cheese platters, innovative pierogi, and refined dishes such as veal tongues or truffle pasta. Its interior combines traditional mountain aesthetics with sleek, modern design, creating an ideal setting for a special occasion.

Price: High-end, typically 100-200+ PLN (approx. $25-50+ USD) per person for a full meal.

Getting There: Located at Plac Niepodległości 7, it is central and walkable. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity.

5. Bąkowo Zohylina Wyźnio

Cuisine: Traditional Highlander, family-friendly

This regional inn offers an authentic taste of Polish Highlander flavors in a warm, hunting lodge-style environment. It is well-regarded for its mixed platters, which are perfect for sharing, featuring dishes like skewered meats, moskol, oscypek, and mutton sausages. The restaurant provides a genuine local experience and, when covered in snow, transforms into a picturesque, fairytale-like setting.

Price: Mid-range, around 50-90 PLN (approx. $12-23 USD) per person for a main meal.

Getting There: Found at Piłsudskiego 28a, it is a short, pleasant walk from the main Krupówki area.

Check out our other pages on Zakopane

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