Bar Mleczny Krakus Krakow
A true cultural experience
You might have heard of Polish milk bars. To put it briefly, these are cheap establishments usually associated with the communist period, serving home-style food (a lot of dishes are dairy-based, that’s where the name comes from). In Kraków, there are several milk bars in the centre, usually packed with tourists. If you’re looking for something more authentic and off the beaten path (not too far, though), Bar Krakus is where you should go.
I’m really lucky to be working close-by and I head there whenever I feel like eating authentic Polish food for lunch. There are two dishes I usually order: pierogi ruskie, famous Polish dumplings (even though they’re called “Russian”) with cheese, potatoes and onions. The best part? This proper main dish costs just 4.70 PLN – yes, that’s just one euro! For roughly the same price you can get naleśniki zielone (spinach crepes) or several versions of barszcz, Polish beetroot soup (I always recommend it to my friends from abroad). Meaty mains (including side dishes) cost an estimated 10-15 PLN, which is still extremely cheap.
There’s more to Bar Krakus than just affordable and delicious food. The interior is very basic and milk bar-ish (so don’t expect anything fancy), and finally, it’s a great place for people-watching. Every social group goes there, from middle-class workers to elders (most of them being regulars). If you want a true Polish experience, in terms of food and getting to know the society a bit more, Bar Krakus is the place.
About this spot
Find your way with 116 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Krakow
Turlaj Klopsa
Come to the vegan side
"Turlaj Klopsa" in Krakow makes vegan meatballs and has a nice mix-and-match menu. Also try their signature yerba mate-based drinks...
by
Katarzyna
Hausner
China Palace
It hits the spot
"China Palace" in Krakow has massive portions, good quality food and is beloved by the neighbors! It consistently hits the spot...
by
Katarzyna
Hausner
Tiffany
Iranian ice cream wonder
"Tiffany" in Krakow is an Iranian ice cream shop! Their flavours are super-unique. My favorites include rose, sunflower, and my top one: saffron! Divine...
by
Kalina
Tyrkiel
Fornir
Cafe at the townhouse courtyard
"Fornir" in Krakow is a peaceful bistro that is just two minutes from Main Square! It's the best for lovers of quality bread & pastries...
by
Aleksandra
Dyl
Czyżyk Κawiarnia
Αn uptown, dog-friendly cafe
"Czyżyk Κawiarnia" in Krakow is a cozy dog-friendly cafe with amazing positive energy! You should try their lunch...
by
Aleksandra
Dyl
Mercy Brown
Art deco speakeasy
"Mercy Brown" in Krakow is not that easy to find, but once I stepped into this art deco speakeasy bar (alone!), I knew I wouldn't regret the hunt.
by
Greg
Ryzio
Glonojad
A vegetarian classic
"Glonojad" is one of Krakow's cult vegetarian restaurants with a few bonuses! I recommend the pierogis & pancakes. Protip: come for breakfast before noon.
by
Kalina
Tyrkiel
Srebrna Góra
Winery in the city
"Srebrna Góra" outside Krakow, on the grounds of a 17th-century monastery, is a great place to experience the growing wine-making scene in Poland...
by
Greg
Ryzio
Klub Kombinator
Nowa Huta style
"Klub Kombinator" is located at Theatre Łaźnia Nowa in Krakow and is probably my favorite pub in this part of the city. Good before or after a performance.
by
Zuzanna
Dziurda
Pod Wawelem - Kompania Kuflowa
Little Bavaria
"Pod Wawelem - Kompania Kuflowa" is a Krakow Bavarian-style restaurant that serves famously huge portions. I can guarantee that you'll leave satisfied!
by
Zuzanna
Dziurda
Pan tu nie stał
Original souvenirs from Krakow
"Pan tu nie stał" in Krakow is a throwback to communist times, but in style. It's one of my favorite shops for souvenir ideas, accessories and clothes.
by
Zuzanna
Dziurda
Heading to Krakow?
116 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Krakow?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 116 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Krakow
Our team loves Krakow
Get to know our other Spotters from Krakow
As featured on:
